J&K Plans 9 New Tourist Spots to Revive Travel Sector
Chief Minister of J&K announced plans to develop nine new tourist destinations in collaboration with the Government of India. Addressing a delegation from the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) in Srinagar on Tuesday, he expressed confidence in the sector’s revival following a slump earlier this year triggered by a terror attack in Baisaran.
Acknowledging the resilience of the tourism industry, the Chief Minister said, “We’ve seen growing tourist traffic since 2022, and Srinagar’s activity this season has been encouraging. Taxis packed with luggage heading to Pahalgam and Gulmarg signal recovery.” The interactive session included senior tourism officials and key stakeholders, reflecting the administration’s effort to rebuild trust and restore traveller confidence.
“This is not just about attracting first-time visitors,” Omar added. “We want them to keep coming back—and that means we must continuously improve infrastructure, safety, and the overall visitor experience.” The Chief Minister said the upcoming nine tourist spots are being identified across both Jammu and Kashmir regions, and the government is working closely with central authorities to operationalise them.
The move is aimed at decongesting popular sites while unlocking the potential of lesser-known destinations. Adventure tourism was highlighted as a major growth area. “We are exploring new possibilities in Betab Valley and Gulmarg—such as zip-lining, mountain biking, and summer trekking,” Omar said, confirming that national-level adventure tourism providers are being roped in to upgrade the region’s offerings.
Tourism connectivity remains vital for Kashmir’s revival. With growing demand, the state plans to address rail capacity constraints and boost train services. The visiting IATO delegation, after touring multiple Valley sites, praised the government’s swift stabilisation efforts and pledged promotional support. A tragic April 22 attack remains a concern, but officials are focused on reopening affected areas and rebuilding trust through security upgrades and collaborative tourism initiatives.
The J&K government’s proactive steps, including rail enhancements, new tourist spots, and adventure travel initiatives, signal a strong commitment to reviving its tourism economy. Backed by IATO support and a proposed national-level promotional event, Kashmir aims to reposition itself as a safe, diverse, and welcoming destination.
