Srinagar, June 6: Kashmir has witnessed a sharp rise in tourist arrivals since April this year, with the Valley recording a steady influx of visitors from across the country and abroad, marking a strong revival of the tourism sector ahead of the peak summer season.

Officials and stakeholders associated with the tourism industry said the surge began in early April and has continued into June, driven by improved weather conditions, better connectivity, and renewed interest in Kashmir as a travel destination. Popular destinations including Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg, and Doodhpathri have seen heavy tourist movement over the past several weeks.
Houseboat owners, hoteliers, and transport operators in Srinagar said occupancy levels have significantly improved compared to previous months, with many establishments reporting near-full bookings during weekends and holiday periods. Shikara rides on Dal Lake and visits to Mughal gardens have also seen increased footfall, adding momentum to local tourism-linked businesses.
Tour operators said both domestic and international tourists have shown greater confidence in travelling to Kashmir this season, with families, honeymoon couples, and adventure seekers contributing to the rise in bookings. The improved perception of safety and aggressive promotional campaigns by the tourism department are also being credited for the positive trend.
Officials said the administration has put in place arrangements to manage the growing tourist rush, including traffic regulation, deployment of tourist police, and coordination with local stakeholders to ensure smooth movement at major destinations. Efforts are also being made to maintain cleanliness and protect fragile tourist sites from overcrowding.
In Pahalgam and Gulmarg, hotels reported high occupancy rates, especially during weekends, while cab operators and ponywalas said they are witnessing consistent demand. Trekking routes and picnic spots are also attracting increased activity as the trekking season gains momentum.
Tourism stakeholders expressed optimism that the upward trend will continue through the summer months, potentially giving a significant boost to the local economy, which is heavily dependent on the sector. They, however, stressed the need for sustainable tourism practices to preserve the Valley’s natural beauty amid rising footfall.
Officials said they expect further growth in arrivals in the coming weeks as schools across the country close for summer vacations, traditionally the peak travel period for Kashmir.