Aharbal, Doodhpathri, Yousmarg and Bangus are among the several destinations still closed
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IMRAN NISSAR

Nearly three months after a deadly attack in Pahalgam, several major tourist destinations in the Kashmir Valley remain closed, dealing a severe blow to the region’s tourism-relied economy.

The April 22 terror attack killed 26 tourists and a local pony operator. In response, authorities closed at least 48 tourist spots and parks across the Valley, given the serious security concerns. 

While Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha announced the reopening of 16 destinations last month, including Pahalgam, many others remain off-limits to visitors.

Hoteliers, shopkeepers and transporters say the extended closures have resulted in mounting losses during what is usually peak tourist season.

“I had leased a café in Aharbal, but ever since the site was shut following the Pahalgam attack, I haven’t been able to open it even once,” said Ovais Khan, a young entrepreneur. “Many invested heavily ahead of the tourist season, hoping for good footfall, but now they are staring at losses with no clarity on when the spot will reopen.”, he said.

Aharbal is among several destinations still closed to visitors. Others include Doodhpathri, Yousmarg and Bangus — all of which have seen development efforts in recent years aimed at easing pressure on traditional tourist hubs like Gulmarg and Pahalgam. 

“We have suffered heavily due to the closure of tourist spots. We are left almost with no work”, said a transporter. 

urge authorities

Industry bodies are urging authorities to strike a balance between security concerns and economic survival.

“The prolonged closure of key tourist destinations across the Valley is a matter of deep concern, with serious and widespread effects on local businesses — particularly those tied to tourism, such as handicrafts, hospitality, transport, restaurants and retail,” said Qazi Touseef, spokesperson for the Kashmir Economic Alliance (KEA).

He said the indefinite closures have not only led to financial losses but also shaken the confidence of stakeholders who rely on seasonal tourist inflows.

“We urge the authorities to address the issue with urgency — either by reopening these destinations in a phased and regulated manner or by providing a clear timeline and compensation mechanism for the losses incurred,” Touseef said.

An official said that the government had already begun reopening the tourist destinations in a phased manner. 

“The government is committed to the revival of tourism in the region. LG has already made it clear all the spots will be opened on phased manner”, he added. 

Published on July 16, 2025