The Jammu and Kashmir administration, led by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, has announced the phased reopening of tourist destinations in the Kashmir Valley starting June 17, 2025, following a gradual increase in tourist footfall spurred by the recent launch of the Vande Bharat Express.
The move aims to revive the region’s vital tourism sector, which faced significant disruptions after the deadly April 22, 2025, terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives and led to the closure of 48 out of 87 tourist spots across the Valley.
Speaking to reporters after visiting the Nunwan Base Camp of the annual Amarnath Yatra in Pahalgam, located in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district, LG Sinha outlined the administration’s plan to gradually reopen tourist sites.
“Some places were closed after April 22, given security considerations. The divisional commissioners and Inspectors General of Police (IGPs) of Kashmir and Jammu have taken reports from every district, and it has been decided to reopen some destinations in a phased manner,” he said.
In the first phase, eight tourist destinations in the Kashmir region and eight in the Jammu region will be accessible to visitors starting June 17, 2025.
Referring to security challenges, Sinha expressed optimism about the gradual return of tourists. “The tourists are coming. There is a new enthusiasm among people after the launch of Vande Bharat (train). Railway people have told me that all tickets have been booked for the next 10-12 days. The number of tourists is increasing gradually,” he said. The introduction of the Vande Bharat train, a high-speed rail service, has boosted connectivity and accessibility, encouraging visitors to return.
In Kashmir, the UT administration has decided to reopen Betab Valley and parks near Pahalgam market in Anantnag district, a popular tourist hub often referred to as the “Switzerland of India.”
Verinag, Kokernag, and Achabal gardens in Anantnag, known for their scenic beauty and historical significance.
Badamwari Park, Duck Park near Nigeen, and Taqdeer Park near Hazratbal in Srinagar, offering serene urban recreational spaces.
In the Jammu region, the following destinations will reopen: Sarthal and Dhaggar in Kathua district. Devipindi, Siyad Baba and Sula Park in Reasi district. Guldanda and Jai Valley in Doda district. Pancheri in Udhampur district.
The decision follows a comprehensive security audit conducted by a committee comprising the divisional commissioners and IGPs of both Kashmir and Jammu regions.
The committee reviewed reports from all districts to assess the feasibility of reopening tourist sites while ensuring robust security measures. “The committee will continue to take reports from districts, and in consultation with the Tourism Department, more places will be reopened,” Sinha said.
Security forces, including the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and paramilitary units, have been redeployed to secure access to these destinations. Checkpoints have been established, and anti-fidayeen squads from the Special Operations Group of the Jammu and Kashmir Police are stationed at sensitive locations such as Gulmarg, Sonamarg, and Dal Lake, which remain open to tourists.