Closed after 2025 Pahalgam attack, 14 tourist spots reopen in J&K

Srinagar,UPDATED: Feb 17, 2026 10:30 IST

Tourist destinations in Jammu and Kashmir that were shut following last year’s Pahalgam terror attack, including Asia’s largest tulip garden in Srinagar, have now been reopened to locals, as well as tourists.

On Monday, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha directed the immediate reopening of 14 prominent tourist locations across the Union Territory. The sites, which were shut down after the April 2023 Pahalgam attack, also include the alpine meadow of Yousmarg. The decision comes as security assessments indicate improved conditions for visitors.

Authorities closed nearly 50 tourist spots following the April 22, 2025, attack at Baisaran meadow in Pahalgam, which left 26 people dead, most of them tourists. The subsequent closure of these destinations was ordered as a precautionary measure while a security review was conducted.

"After a thorough security review and discussions, I have ordered the reopening of more tourist spots in the Kashmir and Jammu divisions, which were temporarily closed as a precautionary measure," the L-G's office said on X.

Manoj Sinha confirmed that eleven destinations in Kashmir -- 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, and the tulip garden in Srinagar -- are now open to visitors.

He also stated that three locations in the Jammu Division -- Devi Pindi in Reasi, Mahu Mangat in Ramban, and Mughal Maidan in Kishtwar -- would also receive tourists again.

Some sites remain closed due to snow and will be accessible once conditions allow. "Three sites in the Kashmir Division -- Gurez, Athwatoo and Bangus -- and one site in the Jammu Division – Ramkund in Ramban – will be reopened once the snow is cleared," Sinha added.

With this announcement, a total of 42 tourist spots in Jammu and Kashmir have reopened for public activity. These measures are part of a phased reopening, with 12 sites permitted for tourism in September 2023, and 16 in June of the same year.

The Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden in Srinagar, known as Asia's largest, features millions of blooming tulips against the Zabarwan hills and overlooks Dal Lake. This scenic destination typically attracts large numbers of visitors each spring.

Yousmarg, situated in Badgam district, is popular for its tranquil alpine meadows surrounded by pine forests. Doodhpathri, or the Valley of Milk, is another highlight, known for its pastures and clear streams, especially vibrant in summer.

In a recent Assembly session, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed concern over ongoing closures, especially as the UT is promoting tourism. He also vowed to take up the issue with Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

The Pahalgam attack initially caused a significant reduction in tourist numbers, but officials note that improved security, new transport links, and the successful Amarnath Yatra have encouraged visitors to return. Tourist arrivals have set new records in Kashmir over the last three years.

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