J&K's beauty on lockdown: 48 tourist sites closed, Srinagar hit hardest

India Today

29-04-2025

In the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian government launched a series of diplomatic moves against Pakistan. At the same time, it also implemented strong security measures, including shutting down 48 popular tourist spots across the Kashmir Valley.This move reportedly came after intercepted communication indicated that multiple sleeper cells in the Valley were activated following the Pahalgam attack. There was also chatter about Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence planning targeted attacks on non-local individuals, CID personnel, and Kashmiri Pandits in the Srinagar and Ganderbal districts.advertisementThese restrictions were imposed even as travellers began returning to Jammu and Kashmir. Notably, actor Atul Kulkarni visited Pahalgam just days after the terrorist incident. Kulkarni remarked that the attackers intended to send a message discouraging people from visiting Kashmir. He said, 'Kashmir humara hai (Kashmir is ours),' and urged fellow Indians not to cancel their travel plans to the region.AFFECTED DESTINATIONS
The ban affects 55 per cent of tourist destinations in Jammu and Kashmir, including several iconic and much-loved spots such as Yousmarg, the Kaman post in Uri, the Astanmarg paragliding spot, Naranag, the Jamia Masjid, the Martand Sun Temple in Kheribal, and the Bangus Valley. While the restrictions are temporary, authorities have confirmed that the Gurez Valley will also soon be added to the list, bringing the total number of restricted tourist spots to 49.WHICH DISTRICTS ARE MOST AFFECTED?advertisementTourism is a key driver of the economy in Jammu and Kashmir, and the recent restrictions will significantly impact its people. Srinagar has the highest number of banned tourist spots, accounting for 33 per cent of the total, with 16 locations closed. Baramulla follows with nine prohibited spots.Other affected districts include Anantnag and Sopore, each with five banned places, while Budgam, Ganderbal, and Kupwara each have three locations on the list. Kulgam, Handwara, and Pulwama have fewer restrictions, with one or two spots closed in each district.SECURITY STEPSHowever, the ban is temporary for tourist places, and security agencies have launched a large-scale anti-terror operation across the state, conducting coordinated raids and detaining hundreds of suspects. In addition, authorities have demolished several homes linked to allegedly active terrorists in the Valley as part of the crackdown. Meanwhile, the National Investigation Agency, leading the probe into the Pahalgam terror attack, has initiated an on-site investigation and recreated the crime scene.