The recent Pahalgam attack in Jammu and Kashmir has sent ripples across India’s travel community. On April 22, armed men opened fire at a resort in Pahalgam, sparking widespread fear and leading many tourists to cancel their plans to visit the region.
Tourism Hit Hard by Pahalgam Attack
Travel agents across India report a sudden surge in cancellations. Kirti Agarwal, Operations Head of Chalo Ghumne Tours & Travel, confirmed that upcoming bookings for the next 4–5 months have been withdrawn, leading to heavy financial losses.
“Clients are backing out due to safety concerns. This has impacted not just hotels, but the local economy too,” said Agarwal.
Emotional Losses and Rewritten Plans
Sanjay Dang, Managing Director of Le Travelworld, shared how one family had to cancel a long-awaited trip to celebrate their mother’s 75th birthday in Kashmir. “They had blocked 14 rooms. But now, fear has overshadowed excitement,” he said. “Even those with confirmed bookings are reconsidering.”
Rising Cancellations Across Kashmir
According to Jyoti Mayal, Chairperson of the Tourism and Hospitality Skill Council (THSC), hotel cancellations have increased not only in Pahalgam but also in other parts of Kashmir.
“Tourists are reassessing the risk of travel. Hotel owners and residents are now deeply concerned about the impact on their livelihoods,” she noted.
A Blow to Kashmir’s Peak Tourism Season
Traditionally, April to July marks the peak travel period for Kashmir. Last year, booking a room was a challenge due to high tourist traffic. Srinagar saw a boom in hotel development to meet rising demand. However, the recent Pahalgam attack may undo much of this progress.
“Such incidents remind people of Kashmir’s turbulent past. Despite recent improvements, fear makes travelers rethink,” Dang observed.
International Tourism Also Affected
Although foreign tourist numbers remain lower in summer, the attack could result in renewed global travel advisories. Mayal explained, “Countries that hadn’t lifted their advisories may now issue new warnings. The attack will impact sentiments worldwide.”
Over 65,452 foreign tourists visited Jammu & Kashmir in 2024, and many may now change their plans due to safety concerns.
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Domestic Tourism Faces Immediate Impact
Domestic travelers, who form the bulk of visitors during this season, are especially affected. Dang believes that the cancellations will keep rising in the coming days. “This attack specifically targeted tourists, which is unprecedented and alarming,” he said.
A Region Once Rebounding Now Faces Setback
Before the attack, tourism in Kashmir was booming. According to an economic survey, the Union Territory witnessed a record 2.3 crore tourists in 2024, up from 2.1 crore in 2023. The region had also welcomed 5.12 lakh Amarnath pilgrims and 94.56 lakh Vaishno Devi yatris.
“Kashmir had become a favorite destination post-COVID, and this revival was bringing in revenue and employment,” Mayal highlighted.
Security Forces on High Alert
Authorities have ramped up security measures across the region. Checkpoints have increased near major tourist spots, including Srinagar and Gulmarg, to prevent further incidents.
“Tourism thrives on peace and trust,” said Mayal. “This is the first time tourists were directly targeted. We must stand together and show resilience.”