SRINAGAR: More than 16 tourist destinations across Jammu and Kashmir were reopened on Tuesday, nearly two months after being closed following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, officials said.
Prominent tourist locations that are now open to visitors include Betab Valley and parks in Pahalgam Market, along with Verinag, Kokernag and Achabal Gardens in south Kashmir. In the Jammu division, tourist access has resumed at Sarthal and Dhaggar (Kathua), Devi Pindi, Siyad Baba, Sula Park (Reasi), Guldanda and Jai Valley (Doda), and Pancheri (Udhampur).
In Srinagar, sites such as Badamwari Park, Duck Park and Taqdeer Park have also reopened.
An official said that the reopening is being done in a phased manner, following thorough security assessments. “The reopening of these sites marks a step towards restoring normal tourist activities. Remaining destinations will be reopened in due course of time,” the official said.
Ahead of the annual Amarnath Yatra, senior administrative officers held meetings with key stakeholders in Pahalgam, including travel operators, hotel owners, and the Ponywala Association. They were assured of robust security measures for both tourists and pilgrims.
Local tourism stakeholders welcomed the move. “It is a relief for those whose livelihoods depend on tourism,” said Riyaz Ahmad, a hotelier in Pahalgam. “We hope the flow of tourists will now pick up.”
Shabir Hussain, a hotel owner in Srinagar, said the reopening is a boost to local businesses. “We are ready to support the upcoming Yatra and ensure a safe and pleasant experience for all visitors,” he added. (KNO)
