Tourists Return in Numbers as Kashmir’s Tourism Shows Signs of Revival
BuzzBytes News Desk
Pahalgam, : A memorial has been erected in the picturesque hill resort of Pahalgam to honour the 25 tourists and a local ponywallah who lost their lives in last year’s devastating terror attack, as authorities stepped up security arrangements across Kashmir ahead of its first anniversary.
The black marble memorial, built along the banks of the Lidder River, bears the names of all 26 victims and stands as a solemn reminder of the tragic attack that took place in the meadows of Baisaran Valley on April 22 last year.
The incident had sent shockwaves across Jammu and Kashmir and dealt a severe blow to the region’s tourism sector—one of the main pillars of its economy. However, the industry is now witnessing gradual recovery, supported by sustained efforts of the government led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.
Officials said security has been significantly tightened in and around Pahalgam, with additional deployment of police and paramilitary forces, intensified checking at multiple points and enhanced surveillance to ensure peaceful observance of the anniversary.
Investigations into the attack have progressed, with the National Investigation Agency filing a chargesheet against seven accused, including Pakistan-based terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba and its proxy The Resistance Front (TRF), along with a cross-border handler.
All three terrorists involved in the attack were neutralised by security forces in an encounter in the Srinagar hills three months after the incident.
In the aftermath of the attack, Kashmir witnessed rare and widespread public protests against terrorism, marking one of the largest such demonstrations in over three decades. The Jammu and Kashmir government had also convened a special Assembly session on April 28, 2025, passing a unanimous resolution condemning the attack and reaffirming commitment to peace and communal harmony.
A year later, the memorial site has become a point of reflection and resilience, attracting a steady stream of visitors.
Tourists from across the country said they were not deterred by the past incident and expressed confidence in the prevailing security arrangements.
“What had to happen has already happened. But if we choose not to visit this place now, that would be wrong… we too share the dream of visiting Kashmir,” said Navojit Sarkar, a tourist from Assam.
Visitors also praised the warmth and hospitality of locals.
“We did not face any issues at all… the people of Kashmir have been exceptionally warm and helpful,” said Ankur Maheshwari from Punjab.
Another tourist, Dropadi Rawat from Lucknow, said she felt safe and encouraged others to visit.
“We felt very comfortable throughout our stay, with strong security arrangements and a pleasant environment,” she said.
Officials said the anniversary event is expected to be attended by political leaders, civil society members, families of victims and local representatives.
Tourism stakeholders noted that despite the shadow of last year’s tragedy, visitor numbers have steadily increased in recent months, reflecting renewed confidence and the region’s enduring appeal.
