Shock in the Valley: Gunmen Open Fire at Pahalgam Resort
Terrorism in Kashmir 2025 On April 22, a serene evening in Pahalgam turned into a nightmare when armed assailants opened fire at a local resort, sending shockwaves through Jammu and Kashmir’s bustling tourism sector. Known for its snow-capped mountains, pine forests, and tranquil rivers, Pahalgam has long been a favorite among domestic and international tourists. But the attack has now cast a shadow over the region’s hard-earned reputation as a safe travel destination.
Tourists Hit Pause: Cancellations Surge Across Kashmir
The aftermath of the attack has been swift. Travel agencies have reported a flood of cancellations from worried tourists. Kirti Agarwal, Operations Head at Chalo Ghumne Tours & Travel, expressed deep concern about the growing number of pullouts.
Hotels in Pahalgam and surrounding areas are also seeing a sharp drop in bookings, with travellers now choosing alternative destinations. Agarwal added, “The fear is real. Tourists don’t want to take a chance.”
Dream Vacations Turn into Disappointments
Terrorism in Kashmir 2025 For many families, the situation is more than just a change of plans — it’s an emotional setback. Sanjay Dang, Managing Director of Le Travelworld, recalled one such instance.A client had blocked 14 rooms for a grand family holiday in Kashmir, celebrating their mother’s 75th birthday. She had fond memories of visiting Kashmir as a child. But now, everything’s been cancelled,”Terrorism in Kashmir 2025 he said.Dang added that even people who have already booked flights and accommodations are now reconsidering, hesitant to visit a place once again under the spotlight for violence.
A Sudden Blow to Kashmir’s Tourism Boom
Kashmir has seen a remarkable tourism revival in the past few years. In 2024, the region welcomed a record 2.3 crore tourists, including over 65,000 foreign travellers, according to an economic survey. The months from April to July are considered peak season for tourism in the valleyLast year, hotel rooms were nearly impossible to find during this time,” Dang said. “New hotels were popping up, infrastructure was improving. Things were looking up.But the optimism has been replaced with uncertainty. Travel agents now face mass cancellations, and tourists with other options are choosing to travel elsewhere.
Foreign Tourists Spooked, More Advisories Expected
Terrorism in Kashmir 2025 While domestic tourists are most active during summer, foreign tourist arrivals — mainly from October to March — are also expected to take a hit. Countries that had previously issued travel advisories for Jammu and Kashmir may now revise them or add new restrictions.“Terrorism in Kashmir 2025 This incident is being reported internationally. Tourists were targeted for the first time, and that sends a very dangerous message,” said Jyoti Mayal, Chairperson of the Tourism and Hospitality Skill Council (THSC).
A Threat to the Local Economy
Kashmir’s economy relies heavily on tourism, especially in the summer. The tourism sector had played a key role in the Union Territory’s 7.06% economic growth in FY2024–25.
Heightened Security, But Tourists Still Anxious
Terrorism in Kashmir 2025 In response to the attack, security forces have been placed on high alert. Checkpoints have increased across key tourist routes, and patrols have been intensified. However, industry experts believe that merely boosting security won’t be enough to restore confidence.
A Test of Resilience for Kashmir’s Tourism
Terrorism in Kashmir 2025 The Pahalgam attack has undoubtedly shaken the confidence of tourists and travel operators alike. But it has also triggered a broader conversation about safety, perception, and the future of tourism in the Valley. As the people of Kashmir rally together, the hope remains that peace will prevail — and that the land once known as “Paradise on Earth” will soon reclaim its place on every traveller’s bucket list.
