PUNE: A year after a devastating terrorist attack in Pahalgam claimed the lives of 26 people, including several tourists, a sense of apprehension continues to deter visitors from the popular destinations in Jammu and Kashmir. Despite efforts to enhance security and restore confidence, many potential travelers, particularly from cities like Pune, remain hesitant to plan trips to the region.
The attack, which occurred on April 22, 2025, in the scenic Baisaran meadow near Pahalgam, was one of the deadliest assaults on civilians in recent years. Investigations indicated the involvement of terrorists linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, with Indian agencies pointing to Pakistani nationals as perpetrators. The incident sent shockwaves across the country, leading to immediate flight cancellations and a significant drop in tourist arrivals.
Official data revealed a substantial impact on Kashmir’s tourism sector, with arrivals reportedly dropping by over 50 percent in 2025 compared to the previous year. Hoteliers, guides, transporters, and other stakeholders dependent on tourism faced severe economic losses. Many locals, whose livelihoods are intrinsically tied to the influx of visitors, were left facing an uncertain future. The attack not only shattered the local economy but also had a profound psychological effect, discouraging both domestic and international travel to the Valley.
In the aftermath of the attack, the Jammu and Kashmir government acknowledged the severe impact on tourism and stakeholders. Measures were implemented to bolster security, including increased police presence and the establishment of 24/7 helplines in tourist areas like Srinagar, Pahalgam, and Gulmarg. The Ministry of Tourism has also reported enhanced safety protocols to ensure a secure experience for visitors.
Despite these assurances and a general increase in overall tourist numbers to Jammu and Kashmir in the post-2019 period, the Pahalgam attack remains a significant scar. While official figures indicate a surge in visitor numbers between 2023 and 2025, a decline was noted in the Kashmir division in 2025, directly attributed to the security concerns following the attack. The economic survey for 2025-26 highlighted that while the tourism sector contributes significantly to the region’s Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP), security incidents continue to affect travel sentiment.
International travel advisories from countries like the United States and the UK continue to caution against travel to Jammu and Kashmir, citing the risk of terrorism, civil unrest, and sporadic violence. These advisories highlight that even popular tourist spots like Pahalgam, Gulmarg, and Srinagar are not exempt from potential risks.
For residents of cities like Pune, where victims of the Pahalgam attack originated, the lingering fear is palpable. Anecdotal evidence suggests that potential travelers are reassessing their plans, with many opting for alternative destinations. Soaring airfares and hotel tariffs in Srinagar, as reported in the days following the attack, further compounded the difficulties for those trying to return home, adding another layer of apprehension for future travel.
Security forces have heightened their presence across Kashmir’s tourist destinations, especially in anticipation of the first anniversary of the Pahalgam attack. New safety measures, including QR code identification for service providers, have been implemented to enhance the security environment for visitors. Authorities have emphasized that while incidents may be isolated, the focus remains on ensuring a secure and welcoming experience for tourists.
The long-term impact of the Pahalgam attack continues to be monitored, with stakeholders emphasizing the need for sustained efforts to rebuild confidence and ensure the safety and security of all visitors to the region.
The Chenab Times News Desk