Travel – Pahalgam Sees Slow Tourist Return One Year After Attack
Travel – Pahalgam, one of Kashmir’s most picturesque destinations, is gradually welcoming visitors again nearly a year after a deadly terror attack that claimed the lives of 25 tourists and a local pony operator. While travelers have started returning, the town’s atmosphere reflects a quieter, more cautious phase rather than the lively energy it once enjoyed.
Visitor Numbers Slowly Picking Up
Tourist movement has resumed, though not at the levels seen before the incident. Visitors can be spotted walking through the valleys, pausing at scenic locations to take photos and record videos. Despite this renewed activity, the crowds remain thin, and the usual buzz associated with peak travel seasons is noticeably absent.
Local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, roadside eateries, and handicraft shops, have reopened their doors. However, many owners say that footfall is still limited and inconsistent, making it difficult to return to normal operations.
Businesses Struggle to Regain Momentum
Shopkeepers and traders who depend heavily on tourism continue to face financial strain. Latief Ahmad, who manages a handicrafts showroom, recalled how the season previously brought a steady stream of buyers. According to him, the past year has seen a sharp decline in customer visits, significantly affecting sales and overall income.
Restaurant owners echo similar concerns. Hilal Ahmed, who runs a local eatery, said that daily earnings have dropped drastically compared to the period before the attack. He noted that while business once flourished throughout the week, current revenues are only a fraction of earlier figures. A major reason, he added, is that many visitors now prefer short trips and avoid staying overnight.
Hospitality Sector Faces Setbacks
The impact on the hospitality industry has been particularly severe. Several hotels have reduced their workforce, while some have temporarily shut down due to low occupancy. Javed Burza, president of the local hoteliers’ association, stated that room tariffs have been slashed by more than half in an effort to attract guests. Despite these efforts, hesitation among tourists continues to affect overnight bookings.
Authorities have taken steps to revive tourism by reopening several popular sites in and around Pahalgam. These measures are aimed at restoring confidence among travelers and encouraging longer stays.
Key Attractions Yet to Fully Reopen
One of the region’s well-known spots, Baisaran Meadows—often referred to as a scenic highlight—remains closed. Its continued shutdown has also impacted those who rely on related services, particularly pony operators who transport visitors to elevated areas.
According to Abdul Waheed, head of the local pony operators’ association, earnings have fallen sharply. Where incomes once supported families comfortably during peak seasons, current daily earnings are modest and unpredictable.
Tourists Express Confidence in Safety
Despite the challenges, visitors who have returned to Pahalgam report feeling safe and satisfied with their experience. Many describe the destination as peaceful and scenic, with no immediate concerns about security during their stay.
Their positive feedback offers some reassurance to local stakeholders, who hope that word-of-mouth and improved conditions will gradually bring back larger crowds in the coming months.
Road to Full Recovery Still Ahead
While the return of tourists signals a positive shift, Pahalgam’s tourism sector is still in a recovery phase. Business owners and residents remain hopeful but cautious, acknowledging that rebuilding confidence will take time.
Efforts by local authorities, combined with consistent visitor experiences, are expected to play a key role in restoring the destination’s reputation as a vibrant travel hub. For now, Pahalgam stands at a turning point—welcoming back travelers, yet still waiting to regain its former rhythm.