Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, is slowly regaining normalcy just days after a horrific terror attack claimed 26 lives, mostly tourists. The picturesque valley has started welcoming travelers again, though tourist footfall remains lower than usual.
Visitors from Kolkata and Bangalore, speaking to Media, expressed confidence in the region’s safety. Despite initial concerns, many have chosen to continue with their plans to visit Pahalgam.
“Kashmir is completely safe. Everything is open and secure. Tourists are visiting, so if you’re planning to come, don’t hesitate,” said a tourist from Kolkata, standing next to a fully-loaded van.
Mohammad Anas, a tourist from Surat, Gujarat, echoed this sentiment while speaking to ANI, adding that normal activities and business operations in Pahalgam continue uninterrupted.
“There’s no need to worry. The Army, local authorities, and residents are supporting us and ensuring our safety. Initially, we were scared and thought of leaving, but the Army and locals encouraged us to stay,” Anas shared.
Foreign visitors also reported feeling safe despite the recent violence. A tourist from Croatia, who has been in Kashmir for a few days, told ANI that the region’s warmth and hospitality remained unchanged.
“We have felt very secure here. Kashmir is incredibly beautiful, and the people are kind. We were aware of the attack before arriving but still chose to come. We have had no problems,” she said.
Another Croatian tourist highlighted that such incidents can happen anywhere in the world.
“I made many friends here. People are welcoming. It’s tough hearing about such violence, but I never felt fear or discomfort. These things happen everywhere occasionally; no place is completely safe,” he explained.
On April 22, terrorists affiliated with a Pakistan-based group opened fire at tourists in Baisaran, a popular meadow in Pahalgam, triggering panic and leading to a mass exodus from the valley.
In response to concerns over the potential impact on Kashmir’s tourism sector, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah urged visitors not to abandon their travel plans.
“I understand tourists’ fears. No one wants to experience fear on a vacation. But leaving now would only serve the terrorists’ objectives. They attacked tourists to drive them away from Kashmir,” Abdullah stated.
Meanwhile, actor Atul Kulkarni arrived in Kashmir on Sunday to encourage tourism. After landing in Srinagar, he traveled straight to Pahalgam and appealed to tourists to continue visiting.
“The purpose of the attack was to discourage tourism. Canceling our trips would mean letting terrorists achieve their goal,” Kulkarni told PTI.
He also noted that his Mumbai-Srinagar flight, which is usually packed, was almost empty.