Travellers have a reason to smile again. After months of waiting, 12 tourist destinations in Jammu and Kashmir have been reopened to visitors. These places were closed to the public after the tragic terror attack in Pahalgam’s Baisaran Valley on April 22. Now, with the security situation improving, the administration has decided to throw open some of the region’s most loved spots once again, starting September 29.
12 Tourist Destinations In Jammu & Kashmir Reopen
The announcement was made by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha after a high-level Unified Headquarters (UHQ) meeting at Raj Bhavan in Srinagar. The meeting was attended by top officials from the Army, police, paramilitary forces, intelligence agencies, and the administration, the Indian Express reported. After reviewing the situation on the ground, the L-G gave the green signal to reopen these tourist destinations, calling it a step towards restoring normalcy and boosting local tourism.
Seven of the reopened spots are in the Kashmir Valley, many of which are favourite getaways for both locals and travellers from across the country:
- Aru Valley in Pahalgam
- Yanner Rafting Point in Pahalgam
- Akkad Park, on the way to Pahalgam
- Padshahi Park in Anantnag
- Kaman Post in Uri, at the LoC
Five destinations in the Jammu region have also been reopened, offering a mix of spirituality and nature:
- Dhaggar in Kathua
- Dagan Top in Ramban
- Shiv Cave in Salal
Local Tourism And Economy Are Set For A Boost
It’s important to note that nearly 50 destinations were shut after the Pahalgam attack earlier this year. As per the Indian Express reports, in June, authorities reopened 16 of them, and now another 12 are back on the tourism map. The reopening has given fresh hope to locals, especially those whose livelihoods depend on tourism, hotels, and adventure activities.
Even as these places reopen, Lt Governor Sinha made it clear that safety remains the top priority. On the occasion of World Tourism Day, he also repositioned Jammu & Kashmir as the pristine tourist spot it has always been known for. “Blessed with stunning landscapes, a rich cultural heritage & unmatched hospitality, the crown jewel of India is a cherished year-round destination, offering breathtaking beauty & spiritual experience,” he posted on X (previously Twitter).
For travellers, this announcement is exciting because it brings back access to some of the most breathtaking locations in India. For locals, it’s equally important because tourism is the heartbeat of Jammu and Kashmir’s economy.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva/ARTQU
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