The Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir reopened 14 tourist spots that were closed after the 2025 Pahalgam terror attack.The decision came after the review of the security by the administration to strengthen safety and encourage tourism once again. The Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha ordered the reopening of these spots. The spots were shut after the Pahalgam attack which claimed 26 lives of tourists.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said he had recently raised the issue with the Home Minister and got an assurance that these tourist sites will be thrown open and now the orders have been issued.Omar Abdullah thanked Amit Shah as tourist sites are reopened In J&K.

“I’m thankful to the Home Minister for reopening these tourist places. Recently, I spoke to Home Minister in Jammu and before that I met him in Delhi as well. I was assured by the Home Minister that these tourist spots will be thrown open and orders for the same have now been issued,” said Abdullah.

The prominent spots reopened are the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden in Srinagar, Yousmarg and Doodhpathri in Budgam, Thajwas Glacier in Ganderbal, Wullar Lake in Baramulla, and several scenic locations in Shopian, Reasi, Ramban, and Kishtwar districts. These spots are known for their natural beauty and attract thousands of tourists every year.

The temporary closures had impacted local business significantly, including vendor owners, hotels, transport operators, guides, and small traders. It is hoped that tourist inflow will in the coming months increase as the spring and summer seasons approach.

Authorities assured security measures are in place to ensure safety of visitors. Surveillance, coordination among security forces and improved monitoring systems have reportedly been strengthened to prevent any untoward incidents. Tourism is one of the most important sectors of Jammu & Kashmir economy. The Jammu and Kashmir region has seen a new peak in tourists numbers, underscoring it as a destination of great repute for travellers.

The reopening of these sites is a positive message that the administration is ready to strike a balance between security and economic development. Through this latest decision, the administration has shown a renewed effort towards re-instating J&K’s tourism landscape.

Hamza Khan is a media student at the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC)

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