J&K shuts 48 tourist sites amid security fears after Pahalgam terror attack

Amid heightened security concerns following a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam that left 26 civilians dead, security forces in Jammu and Kashmir have closed 48 of the 87 tourist sites.

“Most of the sites that remain open are lesser-known destinations. There is no clarity yet on how long the closures at major tourist spots will continue,” said Rahul Raina, one of the officials from the Tourist Reception Centre, Srinagar, Directorate of Tourism, told Fortune India.

Locals and lower-rung tourism officials have not, however, been given any clarity on whether the closures are aimed at restricting tourist movement or are part of a broader security review.

Most of the affected sites are located in the Kashmir division, known for its scenic valleys and snow-capped mountains. Picturesque spots like Aharbal, Aru Valley, Betaab Valley, Doodhpatri, Chandanwari, Gurez, Bangus Valley, and Verinag are part of the list of the sites closed for visitors for now. The decision has added to growing panic among tourists, many of whom have started fleeing the Valley, while several upcoming travel bookings have been abruptly cancelled.

Interestingly, key destinations such as Pahalgam, Daksum, and Gulmarg remain open, though footfall has plummeted dramatically.

Residents, whose livelihoods heavily depend on tourism, fear a prolonged slump. In response to the massacre, they have taken to the streets in rare public protests, condemning the terror attack and expressing solidarity with the victims.

In a powerful address during a special assembly session yesterday, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah noted that it was the first time in over two decades that the people of Jammu and Kashmir had protested so openly against terrorism.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also promised a strong response, vowing that Indian forces would pursue the perpetrators "to the ends of the earth."

The security clampdown follows a series of measures taken by the authorities, including the J&K forest department’s decision to close all trekking routes just days after the attack.