2025 TOURISM INFLUX: Kashmir sees 21,361 foreign, 10.47 lakh domestic tourists

sameer
Comments 0
19 Dec 2025

Srinagar, Dec 19: Despite periodic disruptions, Kashmir’s tourism sector posted a positive performance in 2025, welcoming 21,361 international tourists and over 10.47 lakh domestic visitors, official data revealed on Thursday. The total tourist footfall during the year stood at 10,68,811, reflecting sustained interest in the Valley, particularly among overseas travellers. Tourism officials described the foreign tourist turnout as “encouraging,” noting that international arrivals remained relatively stable even during months when domestic tourism fluctuated sharply. Month wise data for 2025 shows that January recorded 1,48,438 domestic tourists and 3,385 foreign tourists. February saw 1,43,444 domestic and 4,116 international visitors. March recorded 1,74,349 domestic tourists and 2,006 foreign arrivals. April witnessed 1,75,197 domestic tourists and 4,145 foreign visitors. May saw a sharp decline with 18,246 domestic tourists and 607 international visitors. June recorded 57,458 domestic tourists and 844 foreign arrivals. July saw 98,424 domestic tourists and 1,172 foreign visitors. August recorded 62,430 domestic tourists and 1,399 international arrivals. September saw 31,878 domestic tourists and 1,302 foreign visitors. October recorded 58,853 domestic tourists and 1,017 international arrivals. November saw 55,904 domestic tourists and 849 foreign visitors. December, till the 15th, recorded 22,829 domestic tourists and 519 international visitors. Officials said the sustained presence of foreign tourists throughout the year is a strong indicator of improving perception and stability. They said international visitors continue to show interest in Kashmir’s natural beauty, heritage sites, and winter tourism offerings. To build on this momentum, the government is planning a focused tourism promotion campaign. Officials said promotional activities will be carried out at major airports, travel hubs, and key tourism fairs within the country and abroad. The aim is to project Kashmir as a safe, welcoming, and year round destination. Providing background, officials said tourism in Kashmir has been on a recovery path over the last two years. In 2024, the valley witnessed a strong rebound after the pandemic period, driven largely by domestic tourists. Officials expressed confidence that targeted promotion, improved infrastructure, and positive feedback from international tourists will help boost arrivals further. They said the 2025 figures clearly show that Kashmir continues to attract both domestic and global travellers despite challenges.