Srinagar, Feb 26: Tourist activity has gathered pace across Kashmir after the administration reopened several destinations that were shut following last year’s Pahalgam attack. The move has brought visible relief to local businesses and signalled a steady return of confidence among visitors.
Travel operators in Srinagar said inquiries have risen sharply over the past ten days. Advance bookings for the coming weeks show an upward trend, particularly for weekend trips. “We are receiving regular calls from tourists within J&K and outside. Many are planning short breaks to explore lesser-known places,” said Fayaz Ahmad, a hotel manager in Srinagar. He added that room occupancy has improved compared to the winter slump.
On the ground, the change is clear.
At Yousmarg, shopkeeper Mushtaq Ahmad said daily footfall has nearly doubled compared to previous weeks. “For months, we had very few customers. Now families are visiting again. Sales of tea, snacks and local items have improved,” he said.
In Doodhpathri, pony owner Tariq Ahmad said tourists are staying longer and hiring services. “Visitors are relaxed. They are enjoying the open spaces. Our income has started coming back,” he said.
In Shopian, local guide Aijaz Mir said destinations like Peer Ki Gali and Dubjan are drawing interest from travellers seeking quieter locations. “People are asking about Padpawan and other scenic spots. They want something new and less crowded,” he said.
At Hung Park in Ganderbal, vendor Shabnam Bano said weekends are now busy with families and students. Boat operator Ghulam Nabi at Wular Lake said the reopening has restored hope. “Our livelihood depends on tourists. The movement has improved, and we expect more visitors in spring,” he said.
A senior Tourism Department official described the trend as positive. “There is a consistent and healthy flow to the reopened destinations. The response is encouraging. Once the Tulip Garden opens fully and more high altitude areas become accessible, tourist arrivals are expected to double,” the official said. He added that security arrangements and better coordination have helped rebuild trust.
In Kashmir, the cleared destinations include Yousmarg and Doodhpathri in Budgam, Dandipora Park in Kokernag, Peer Ki Gali, Dubjan and Padpawan in Shopian, Astanpora and the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden in Srinagar, Thajwas Glacier and Hung Park in Ganderbal, and Wular Lake in Baramulla. Over the past several days, these spots have witnessed a steady flow of visitors, especially families and young travellers.
