Jammu, Feb 16: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday announced the reopening of 14 tourist destinations across the Union Territory, including Asia’s largest tulip garden in Srinagar and the scenic meadow of Yousmarg. The sites had been temporarily shut following the Pahalgam terror attack in April last year.
The administration had closed nearly 50 tourist locations after the attack at the Baisaran meadow in Pahalgam on April 22, which claimed 26 lives, most of them tourists.
Following a comprehensive security review, the Lieutenant Governor directed authorities to reopen additional destinations in both the Kashmir and Jammu divisions. In a statement shared on X, the LG’s office said the decision was taken after detailed discussions and assessment of the prevailing security situation.
Tourist Spots Reopened in Kashmir Division
Eleven destinations in the Kashmir Valley have been reopened with immediate effect. These include:
- Yousmarg
- Doodhpathri
- Dandipora Park in Kokernag
- Peer Ki Gali
- Dubjan and Padpawan in Shopian
- Astanpora
- Thajwas Glacier
- Hung Park in Ganderbal
- Wullar and Watlab in Baramulla
- Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden
The tulip garden, located at the foothills of the Zabarwan range and overlooking the iconic Dal Lake, attracts thousands of visitors every spring with its vibrant display of millions of tulips.
Yousmarg, situated in Budgam district, is known for its tranquil alpine meadows and dense pine forests, while Doodhpathri — often referred to as the “Valley of Milk” — draws tourists with its lush pastures and sparkling streams.
Tourist Spots Reopened in Jammu Division
Three sites in the Jammu region have also been reopened:
- Devi Pindi in Reasi
- Mahu Mangat in Ramban
- Mughal Maidan in Kishtwar
Additionally, Gurez, Athwatoo and Bangus in Kashmir, along with Ramkund in Ramban district, will be reopened once snow clearance operations are completed.
With this latest move, a total of 42 tourist destinations have now resumed operations across Jammu and Kashmir.
Tourism Revival After Security Setback
The reopening comes amid efforts to revive tourism in the Union Territory after the Pahalgam attack triggered a temporary exodus of visitors. Gradual restoration of security, phased reopening of tourist sites, successful conduct of the Amarnath Yatra, and improved connectivity have contributed to a steady return of tourists.
Earlier, the administration had reopened 16 destinations in June and 12 more in September last year.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah had recently raised concerns in the Assembly over the prolonged closure of tourist spots, emphasizing the importance of tourism to the region’s economy. He also said he would take up the matter with Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
Kashmir has witnessed record tourist arrivals over the past three years, and authorities are hopeful that the reopening of more attractions will further boost visitor numbers ahead of the peak season.
