A recent attack by suspected militants in Kashmir’s scenic Pahalgam area has shattered the region’s emergence as India’s new tourism hotspot, killing at least 26 tourists and wounding many more.
The Indian government had promoted Kashmir as a destination for tourists, citing its beautiful mountains, valleys, and Mughal-era gardens. However, the attack by the militant group “Kashmir Resistance” has left panicked tourists seeking an early exit, with some even canceling bookings due to safety concerns.
Tourism is a significant contributor to the Kashmir valley’s economy, and the industry has seen a surge in arrivals after years of relative stability. However, the attack is expected to have a major impact on the tourism sector, with many businesses reporting mass cancellations at the start of the peak season.
The Indian government has issued an advisory to airlines to increase the number of flights, but flight tickets briefly rose sharply before being controlled by the authorities. The attack also dealt a blow to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s efforts to attract foreign investments into the region.
Local lawmakers have called for a one-day protest against the deadliest attack in Kashmir in decades, while tourism operators are facing significant losses due to the sudden drop in arrivals.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/india/kashmir-killings-shatter-modis-tourism-success-troubled-region-2025-04-23