KCCI Welcomes Reopening of 12 Tourist Destinations Across Jammu Kashmir

SRINAGAR: The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) has welcomed the Government of Jammu and Kashmir’s decision to reopen 12 key tourist destinations across the Union Territory from Monday, September 29. The move, announced following a high-level review meeting chaired by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, has been hailed by the Chamber as a timely step towards reviving the tourism sector, which has been facing a prolonged slowdown.

According to official information, seven destinations in the Kashmir Division, including Aru Valley, Rafting Point Yanner, Akkad Park, Padshahi Park, and Kaman Post, along with five in the Jammu Division, such as Dagan Top in Ramban, Dhaggar in Kathua, and Shiv Cave in Salal, Reasi, will be reopened for visitors starting Monday.

KCCI expressed gratitude to the Lieutenant Governor for acknowledging the concerns of the industry and initiating measures to support the tourism ecosystem. However, the Chamber urged that the remaining tourist sites, which have been closed since April 22 following the Pahalgam attack, be reopened immediately.

The Chamber highlighted that the extended closure of major tourist destinations has caused significant economic losses. The hospitality sector—including hotels, houseboats, and guest houses—has been experiencing very low occupancy, with many units reporting minimal bookings. Allied sectors such as transport operators, travel agents, ponywalas, shikarawalas, guides, artisans, and local traders have also been severely affected.

“Kashmir’s tourism potential is vast and diverse. Reopening all tourist destinations will not only boost business sentiment but also restore confidence among stakeholders and reassure visitors about the region’s safety and readiness,” KCCI said in a statement.

While appreciating the proactive approach of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and his administration, the Chamber called for a comprehensive tourism revival plan. This, they said, should include targeted marketing campaigns and special incentives for tourism-linked businesses to help recover from recent setbacks.

KCCI reaffirmed its commitment to cooperate with the administration and all stakeholders to strengthen the tourism sector, which remains a vital pillar of Jammu and Kashmir’s economy and a source of livelihood for thousands of people.