Despite a recent terror attack that claimed 26 lives, Pahalgam in Kashmir Valley is slowly bouncing back. Many tourists, determined to enjoy their summer vacations, chose to stick to their travel plans. Their common sentiment was, “We thought about it and decided to come.”
Known as “Little Switzerland” for its stunning beauty, Pahalgam reopened to tourists just a few days after the tragic incident. However, Baisaran meadow, the site of the attack, remains closed.
In the immediate aftermath, the usually lively town almost emptied. Where 5,000 to 7,000 tourists once visited daily, only around 100 were seen, causing fears of job losses among locals who heavily rely on tourism for their livelihood.
Tourists Return to Pahalgam After Terror Attack
Days after a terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which tragically claimed 26 lives, the peaceful valley is slowly returning to normal. The region is once again welcoming domestic and international tourists, although the overall number of visitors has slightly dropped.
Speaking to India Today, tourists from Kolkata and Bangalore shared that they feel safe in the area. Despite earlier concerns, many travelers are sticking to their plans to visit Pahalgam.
“Kashmir is safe now, everything is open, tourists are safe, everyone is coming, so please do come if you have plans,” said a tourist from Kolkata, standing next to a fully packed van.
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Tourists Share Confidence in Pahalgam’s Safety
Mohammad Anas, a tourist from Surat, Gujarat, expressed his reassurance about Pahalgam’s safety when speaking to news agency ANI. He mentioned that business in the region is continuing as usual, and he felt secure thanks to the combined efforts of the army, government, and local residents.
“There is nothing to worry about. The army, government, and locals are ensuring our safety,” Anas said. “We were scared after the incident and thought about leaving immediately, but the locals and army motivated us to stay and continue with our trip.”
Foreign tourists also reported feeling safe and comfortable in the region. A Croatian woman, who has been visiting for a few days, shared her positive experience. “We’ve been here for 3-4 days and feel very safe. Kashmir is beautiful and safe, and people are very kind. We heard about the incident a day before arriving, but we decided to come anyway, and we have had no problems.”
Another Croatian tourist also shared her thoughts on the incident in Pahalgam, emphasizing that such events can occur anywhere. Speaking to ANI, she explained her positive experience in the region despite the recent attack.
“I felt wonderful here. I’ve made so many friends. The people are very welcoming,” she said. “It’s hard to hear about such an incident, but I didn’t feel any fear or discomfort. Events like this don’t happen often—they occur occasionally and everywhere. There’s no completely safe place in the world.”
Kashmir Chief Minister Urges Tourists to Return
On April 22, terrorists linked to a Pakistan-based group opened fire on tourists at the popular Baisaran meadow in Pahalgam, leading to a mass exodus of visitors from Kashmir.
Concerned about the potential impact on the state’s tourism industry, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah urged tourists not to abandon their travel plans. He reassured them of their safety and highlighted the importance of not letting the attackers succeed in their mission.
“I understand the fear tourists feel. Vacationers don’t want to experience such events, but if they leave Kashmir now, it will mean our enemies have won. They targeted tourists to drive them out of Kashmir,” Abdullah stated.
Actor Atul Kulkarni also showed his support by arriving in Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday. After reaching Srinagar, he drove directly to Pahalgam, calling on people to visit the state in large numbers.
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FAQs
Q.1. Is Pahalgam safe for tourists after the recent terror attack?
Ans. Yes, many tourists have returned to Pahalgam, reassured by local safety measures and the presence of the army and government.
Q.2. Why is Baisaran meadow still closed?
Ans. Baisaran meadow remains closed as it was the site of the recent terror attack, ensuring safety for visitors.
Q.3. What did Kashmir’s Chief Minister say about the situation?
Ans. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah urged tourists not to leave Kashmir, emphasizing that such attacks aim to drive visitors away and that the region is safe for travel.
Q.4. How do tourists feel about visiting Pahalgam after the attack?
Ans. Tourists, including those from Kolkata, Surat, and abroad, feel safe in Pahalgam and continue to visit despite earlier fears.
Q.5. What role did actor Atul Kulkarni play after the attack?
Ans. Actor Atul Kulkarni visited Jammu and Kashmir, urging people to visit the state and show support for its tourism industry.
