Following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, tourism in Kashmir momentarily slowed, but with the situation stabilizing, tourists have started returning to the Valley. Locals have strongly condemned the attack and continue to reaffirm their commitment to providing a safe and welcoming environment for visitors.
Tourists currently in the region reported being warmly received by the local population, who urged others not to be swayed by fear or misinformation.
“We visited Katra, Srinagar, Gulmarg, Dal Lake, and Pahalgam. Everywhere we went, locals were supportive and cooperative. The situation felt completely normal,” said a tourist from Kolkata.
Another tourist, also from Kolkata and traveling with a group of around 30 people, shared, “We were initially anxious, but after arriving, we didn’t face any issues. The locals treated us like guests.”
With visible security measures in place, tourists expressed confidence in the government’s efforts to maintain safety.
A young female tourist addressed concerns among travelers: “What we saw here is very different from what’s often portrayed in the news. I would tell anyone planning to cancel their trip—don’t. Come and see the real Kashmir. The people are incredibly welcoming.”
Ankana, another visitor staying with relatives in the Valley, said she was warmly received and felt comfortable and safe throughout her sightseeing.
Locals from Anantnag and nearby areas strongly denounced the Pahalgam attack. “There is no reason for tourists to be afraid,” one resident said. “To those who cancelled their plans—we urge you to visit. Kashmir is open and welcoming. Whoever carried out this attack must be brought to justice. Our livelihoods depend on tourism, and its revival is crucial.”
On Tuesday, residents across Jammu and Kashmir condemned the attack, calling it an affront to peace and humanity. They emphasized Kashmir’s long-standing reputation for hospitality, saying the violence went against the values and traditions of the region.
Locals described the attack as both a tragedy and a betrayal of human values, urging unity and resilience in the face of such incidents.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a high-level security meeting on Tuesday, attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, and Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan. Chiefs of the Army, Navy, and Air Force also participated.
Earlier, Defence Minister Singh met with PM Modi, following a detailed briefing by the Chief of Defence Staff on decisions taken after the attack that left 26 people dead.
The government has vowed strict action against those behind the attack, including both the perpetrators and their conspirators. An all-party meeting was also held, where opposition parties extended full support to any government response to the incident.
The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) was briefed the day after the attack, with officials highlighting cross-border involvement. It was also noted that the attack came shortly after successful elections in Jammu and Kashmir and amid its steady progress toward economic growth and development.
