Srinagar, SEP 26: The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) has welcomed the decision of the Government of Jammu and Kashmir to reopen 12 tourist destinations across the Union Territory from Monday, 29th September 2025. The decision, taken under the chairmanship of the Hon'ble Lieutenant Governor, Shri Manoj Sinha, during a high-level review meeting, has been hailed by the Chamber as a timely step towards restoring vibrancy in the tourism sector, which has been facing a prolonged period of slowdown.
As announced, seven destinations in the Kashmir Division — including Aru Valley, Rafting Point Yanner, Akkad Park, Padshahi Park, and Kaman Post — and five in the Jammu Division — including Dagan Top in Ramban, Dhaggar in Kathua, and Shiv Cave in Salal, Reasi — will be reopened for visitors starting Monday.
The KCCI expressed gratitude to the Lieutenant Governor for taking note of the industry’s concerns and for initiating measures to support the tourism ecosystem. The Chamber, however, strongly urged that the remaining tourist destinations, which have been closed since April 22 following the unfortunate Pahalgam attack, be reopened immediately.
The Chamber pointed out that the prolonged closure of key tourist destinations has resulted in substantial economic losses. The hospitality sector, particularly hotels, houseboats, and guest houses, is experiencing very low occupancy levels, with many units reporting negligible bookings. Allied sectors, including transport operators, travel agents, ponywalas, shikarawalas, guides, artisans, and traders associated with tourism, are also bearing the brunt of the downturn.
KCCI emphasised that reopening all tourist destinations across Kashmir will help revive confidence among stakeholders, improve business sentiment, and send a positive message to intending visitors about the region’s readiness to welcome tourists. The Chamber noted that Kashmir’s tourism potential is vast and diverse, and sustained efforts are needed to maintain its image as a safe, welcoming, and attractive destination.
While appreciating the proactive approach of Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha and his administration, KCCI appealed for a comprehensive tourism revival plan that includes marketing campaigns and special incentives for tourism-linked businesses to recover from recent setbacks.
The Chamber reaffirmed its commitment to cooperate with the administration and all stakeholders to strengthen the tourism sector, which remains one of the key pillars of Jammu and Kashmir’s economy and a source of livelihood for thousands of people.