Srinagar, Feb 16: In a significant move aimed at restoring confidence and reviving tourism in the Union Territory, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday announced the reopening of 14 tourist destinations across Jammu and Kashmir that had been temporarily closed following last year’s terror attack in Pahalgam. After an extensive security review and consultations with senior officials, the administration has cleared the reopening of several prominent tourist spots in both Kashmir and Jammu divisions.
The Office of the Lieutenant Governor, in a statement posted on X, said the decision was taken after a “thorough security review and discussion,” and that the sites had earlier been shut as precautionary measures.
In the Kashmir Division, 11 destinations will reopen with immediate effect. These include the scenic meadows of Yousmarg and Doodhpathri in Budgam district; Dandipora Park in Kokernag; Peer Ki Gali, Dubjan and Padpawan in Shopian; Astanpora and the iconic Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden in Srinagar; Thajwas Glacier and Hung Park in Ganderbal; and the picturesque Wullar/Watlab area in Baramulla.
In the Jammu Division, three destinations — Devi Pindi in Reasi, Mahu Mangat in Ramban, and Mughal Maidan in Kishtwar — have also been cleared for immediate reopening.
Additionally, four more locations will resume operations once snow clearance operations are completed. These include Gurez, Athwatoo and Bangus in the Kashmir Division, and Ramkund in Ramban district of Jammu Division.
The tourist spots had been closed across Jammu and Kashmir following the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22, 2025, in which 26 people, mostly tourists, lost their lives. The incident had dealt a severe blow to the Union Territory’s tourism sector at the peak of the travel season.
The reopening of these destinations is being viewed as a confidence-building measure aimed at restoring normalcy and sending a strong message about improved security preparedness. Tourism stakeholders have welcomed the move, expressing hope that it will rejuvenate visitor footfall and revive economic activity linked to the sector.
With security reassurances in place and key attractions once again accessible, the administration is signalling a renewed push to position Jammu and Kashmir as a safe and vibrant destination for travelers.
