With nearly 15,000 visitors to the Valley since the year’s commencement, Kashmir is once again brimming with international visitors after years of decline.
In recent years, Kashmir appeared to be desolate, with vacant houseboats, abandoned hotels, and shuttered shutters. However, the revival of the tourism industry has restored the smiles on every individual’s face working in the sector.
Thousands of domestic tourists have been visiting Kashmir, and the growing number of foreign tourists has also boosted the morale of people working in the tourism sector. 15,161 foreign visitors have already visited the Valley this year, compared to 4,028 in 2022, and that figure is anticipated to increase by the end of the year.
The resurgence of foreign tourists is really assisting us, and it’s a good omen, according to Yawar Rashid, an owner of Camping Avenue, who reported having more foreign tourist reservations than domestic ones. He added.
The successful G-20 tourism working group meeting changed the game for Jammu and Kashmir’s tourism industry by showcasing Kashmir’s natural splendor and warm hospitality to a worldwide audience. The foreign delegates were satisfied with the remainder of the parameters as well as the improvised security situation, which led to the relaxation of the travel restrictions for Kashmir.
The Ministry of Tourism and the Jammu and Kashmir government advocated for restoration of not only tourism but also filmmaking in the Valley at the third G20 Tourism Working Group meeting, which was held in Srinagar in May.
A businessman from Kashmir Zeeshan Farooq claimed that the G-20 Summit held there gave us a chance to show off our hospitality and support the fact that people from Kashmir value peace. The delegates served as ambassadors for Kashmir, promoting its stunning beauty, friendliness, and tranquility. As a result, the negative travel advisory against Kashmir was lifted, and the valley’s tourism industry is currently experiencing a boom from foreign visitors. He added.
The development of the infrastructure is just one of many obstacles facing Kashmir’s resurgent tourism. However, the government of Jammu and Kashmir is steadfastly pursuing the same goal. Recently, 75 villages in this region were classified as tourism villages, and the government is supporting the locals in establishing homestays and other tourist amenities.
“Since tourism is the only source of income for us, anything that could harm it would be unacceptable. A taxi fills the bellies of numerous people, according to cab owner Sheeraz Fayaz. He complimented the administration for taking the effort to revive Kashmir’s tourism industry.
During the 1970s and 1980s, Kashmir was paradise for tourists, with a considerable influx of both domestic and foreign visitors. However, after the 1989 terrorism outbreak, tourism experienced a significant setback.
