Anantnag: Following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam that left 26 people dead, tourism in Kashmir briefly slowed down. However, with heightened security and calls for calm, visitors are once again returning to the valley. Locals have strongly condemned the attack and reaffirmed their commitment to welcoming tourists with warmth and ensuring their safety.
Tourists currently in the region report feeling safe and welcomed. “We visited Katra, Srinagar, Gulmarg, Dal Lake, and Pahalgam. Everywhere, people were kind and cooperative. The situation felt absolutely normal,” said a tourist from Kolkata. Another traveller, also from Kolkata and part of a group of 30, shared similar sentiments: “We were a bit anxious at first, but everything has been peaceful. Locals are treating us like guests.”
A young woman tourist highlighted the gap between perception and reality. “What we experienced here is nothing like what the news portrays. Kashmiris have been incredibly supportive and welcoming,” she said. Ankana, a visitor staying with relatives, added that she felt completely at ease during her stay and sightseeing.
Residents across Anantnag and surrounding areas have united in denouncing the attack. “We want tourists to know they are welcome and safe. The attackers must be brought to justice. Our livelihood depends on tourism, and we are determined to rebuild confidence,” said a local resident.
Condemning the violence, many Kashmiris described it as an attack on humanity and on the centuries-old tradition of hospitality in the valley.
In response to the attack, Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a high-level security meeting with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, and top military officials. The government has vowed that those responsible, including the conspirators, will face strict punishment.
An all-party meeting was also convened, where opposition leaders expressed their full support for decisive action against terrorism. The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) was briefed on cross-border links to the attack, which comes amid successful elections and signs of economic growth in the region.
As part of its response, the government has announced several measures, including a review of the Indus Water Treaty, to signal strong disapproval of Pakistan’s alleged support for cross-border terrorism.
Despite the recent violence, the return of tourists signals resilience and a collective desire for peace in Kashmir.
