J&K Reopens 14 Tourist Spots After Security Review Post-Pahalgam Attack

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has ordered the reopening of 14 tourist destinations across the Union Territory, marking another step toward restoring normalcy and reviving tourism after last year’s deadly Pahalgam terror attack . The sites were among nearly 50 locations shut in April 2025 after militants opened fire on tourists at Baisaran meadow near Pahalgam , killing 26 civilians, most of them visitors. The closures were imposed as a precautionary security measure to prevent further incidents and reassure travellers.

According to the Lieutenant Governor’s office, the decision follows a comprehensive security review conducted in consultation with police, intelligence and civil authorities. With the latest order, the total number of reopened tourist sites has risen to 26, following earlier phases of reopening in 2025 aimed at restoring visitor confidence and reviving economic activity. Officials said 11 destinations in the Kashmir Division including Yousmarg, Doodhpathri, Thajwas Glacier, Tulip Garden in Srinagar and Wullar Lake have reopened immediately, while three sites in the Jammu Division Devi Pindi in Reasi, Mahu Mangat in Ramban and Mughal Maidan in Kishtwar are also open to visitors. Remote and high-altitude areas such as Gurez, Bangus Valley, Athwatoo and Ramkund will reopen once snow clearance operations are completed.

The April 2025 attack dealt a severe blow to Kashmir’s tourism-dependent economy, triggering cancellations, reducing arrivals and tightening security across popular resorts and trekking routes. Tourism is a crucial economic pillar in Jammu and Kashmir, sustaining hotels, transport operators, guides, pony handlers, handicraft sellers and small food businesses. Authorities believe reopening scenic meadows, alpine valleys and garden attractions ahead of the spring and summer travel season will help rebuild tourist confidence, revive livelihoods and signal improved security conditions. The move is widely seen as part of a broader effort to restore Kashmir’s image as a safe travel destination while balancing security preparedness with economic recovery.