Srinagar: In a major development that has stirred concerns in both the tourism and security sectors, the Government of India has temporarily shut down over 50% of tourist spots in Jammu and Kashmir, citing an urgent need to reassess security vulnerabilities. The decision comes amid an intelligence-based alert warning of possible terror threats in high-footfall areas.
This move, announced late Monday evening (April 28, 2025), affects hundreds of tourists and local businesses across Kashmir Valley, especially in regions such as Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonmarg, and Doodhpathri — all traditionally thriving tourist hotspots.
The Ministry of Home Affairs, in collaboration with the Union Territory administration and intelligence agencies, has initiated a full-scale review of safety measures in public gathering spaces. While the closure is termed “temporary,” no definitive timeline has been provided for reopening.
Key Tourist Areas Affected
The order impacts major travel circuits in the Kashmir Valley, particularly:
1. Gulmarg
Once buzzing with skiers and adventure seekers, Gulmarg is now under high-security surveillance. Hotels and cable car services (Gondola) have been suspended until further notice. Military patrols have intensified across the ski slopes and meadows.
2. Pahalgam
Known for its tranquil rivers and base camp for the Amarnath Yatra, Pahalgam has seen a complete halt in commercial activities. Checkpoints have been increased, and all tourist movement has been restricted.
3. Sonmarg
The golden meadow of Sonmarg, another favorite for summer travelers, has been sealed off due to concerns about infiltration attempts near the Line of Control (LoC).
4. Doodhpathri, Yusmarg, and Betaab Valley
These emerging eco-tourism destinations have also been shut down, and forest departments have been instructed to suspend all permissions for trekking and camping.
5. Srinagar Dal Lake Area
Though partially operational, the famous Dal Lake has seen curbed Shikara rides and heavy security presence. Mughal Gardens are under review for visitor restrictions.
Government Statement and Rationale
According to a joint statement from the Ministry of Home Affairs and Jammu and Kashmir Police:
“This preventive measure has been initiated following specific intelligence inputs indicating potential threats targeting tourists and public infrastructure. A detailed on-ground assessment is being carried out in collaboration with local authorities.”
The government emphasized that the safety of Indian citizens and foreign tourists remains paramount, and all steps are being taken to neutralize any threat perception.
Key Objectives of the Security Review:
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Assessment of vulnerabilities at high-tourist-footfall zones.
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Temporary deployment of additional security personnel.
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Installation of surveillance systems and drones.
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Mapping of escape routes and medical evacuation plans.
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Screening of hotel and transport staff for possible affiliations with subversive elements.
Impact on Local Economy and Employment
The closure of these tourist destinations is expected to severely impact the local economy, especially in the valley where over 70% of the population in these areas relies on tourism, directly or indirectly.
Stakeholders Affected:
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Hotel and houseboat owners
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Tourist guides and ponywallahs
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Local handicraft vendors
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Transport providers (taxis, buses, auto-rickshaws)
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Adventure tour operators and trekking agencies
Local trader unions estimate a potential daily loss of ₹10-15 crore due to the shutdown. April to June is considered the peak tourist season, and this sudden halt has left thousands jobless, even if temporarily.
“We were expecting one of the best seasons post-pandemic, but now it feels like 2019 all over again,” said Rafiq Ahmad, a hotelier in Gulmarg.
Tourism Industry and Opposition React
J&K Hoteliers Club:
The body has urged the administration to “ensure balance between security and livelihoods,” requesting selective closures instead of blanket bans.
Travel Operators for Kashmir (TOK):
They have demanded a clear roadmap for reopening, claiming they were not consulted before the decision. Many tourists had to cancel or cut short their trips, leading to a flood of refund claims.
Opposition Leaders Weigh In:
Former J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah tweeted:
“Security is important, no doubt. But what about the thousands of families who depend on tourism? Blanket shutdowns are not the answer. We must find smarter, more strategic solutions.”
Congress Party’s Tourism Cell:
They accused the government of “failing to anticipate seasonal threats and making reactionary decisions that harm civilian livelihoods.”
Intelligence Sources and Security Alerts
As per top-level intelligence inputs accessed by media sources:
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There is a high probability of cross-border terror activities being planned to destabilize the return of tourism in Kashmir.
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Social media chatter and intercepts point to a deliberate attempt to target public places.
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There have been increased drone sightings and unusual movement across LoC sectors, especially in Kupwara and Uri regions.
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Certain sleeper cells may be planning attacks disguised as civilians or tourists.
These alerts are what prompted this immediate, no-warning response from the center.
What’s Open and Operational?
Not all of Kashmir is locked down. The following areas are still accessible, albeit with limited tourist capacity:
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Srinagar city hotels and some gardens
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Jammu region tourist spots like Vaishno Devi and Patnitop
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Airport and railway services are running normally
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Essential goods markets and pharmacies remain open
The government has assured that travelers currently staying in Kashmir will be assisted in safe departure or relocation.
What Tourists Should Know
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Travel Advisory: Check with your tour operator or state tourism website before planning your trip.
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Refund Policies: Most platforms like IRCTC, MakeMyTrip, and GoIbibo have activated full refund clauses for affected regions.
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Emergency Helpline: A 24×7 helpline has been established by the Tourism Department at 0194-2481752.
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Safe Zones: Jammu, Katra, and Srinagar airport vicinity are deemed green zones currently.
Conclusion: A Testing Time for Kashmir’s Resurgence
Kashmir, which has been witnessing a gradual resurgence in tourism over the last two years, faces yet another challenge that tests its resilience. While the security of visitors is a top priority, it is equally crucial to devise sustainable policies that balance risk mitigation with economic sustenance.
The government’s decision, though preventive, highlights the fragile nature of peace in the region, where even one alert can derail months of progress. As tourists seek clarity, and locals fear unemployment, all eyes are on how soon this temporary freeze can thaw into normalcy.
For official updates and information, please refer to the Ministry of Home Affairs’ official website:
🔗 Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India
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