Nearly 50% Of Chardham Yatra Bookings From Gujarat Cancelled After Kashmir Terror Attack

Ahmedabad: The recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, which claimed 26 lives, most of them tourists, has had far-reaching consequences beyond the region. While it has triggered political and national security debates, its impact on the tourism sector has been especially significant. Northern destinations, including the sacred Chardham circuit, are now witnessing a wave of cancellations and reconsideration as fear grips potential travelers.

One of the most noticeable effects is in Gujarat, where nearly 50% of the Chardham Yatra bookings have been cancelled following the attack. Traditionally, around 25,000 pilgrims from Gujarat participate in the Chardham Yatra every year. However, this year, tour operators estimate that only 4,000 to 5,000 people may undertake the pilgrimage. Notably, the yatra starts from tomorrow, April 30. 

Preparations for the annual pilgrimage, which usually begins in May or June, are underway, but the atmosphere of uncertainty, fueled by fears of war or further unrest, has caused many to postpone or cancel their plans. Some travelers have shifted their focus to destinations like Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, or Kerala instead.

Tour operators report that new bookings for Chardham have completely stopped over the past five to six days. People are hesitant to travel to the northern Himalayan region due to the tense situation. “There’s a growing fear that they may have to cut their trip short or face safety issues mid-journey,” said one operator.

Typical Chardham packages from Delhi cost between ₹45,000 and ₹50,000 for a 12-day trip. With demand plummeting, Gujarat-based travel businesses are now bracing for financial losses. Compared to last year, a significant drop in the number of pilgrims is expected, marking a major setback for the religious tourism sector in the region.