Srinagar, Apr 10: Kashmir is experiencing an unprecedented surge in tourism this year, with over five lakh visitors flocking to the Valley in the first three months of 2025. This influx of both domestic and foreign tourists has significantly boosted the local economy and reignited hopes for a vibrant season ahead.
According to official data, January 2025 recorded 1,48,439 domestic tourists and 3,585 foreign tourists, totaling 1,51,023. February saw 1,43,444 domestic and 4,116 foreign tourists, amounting to 1,47,560. March saw the highest footfall with 1,74,349 domestic and 2,006 foreign tourists, bringing the total to 1,76,355. From April 1 to 7, an additional 48,614 domestic and 930 foreign tourists visited, pushing the cumulative total to 5,25,272, with 5,14,845 domestic and 10,427 foreign visitors.
Officials from the Tourism Department have termed 2025 as one of the most promising years for the sector. A key factor contributing to the surge was the successful hosting of the Khelo India Winter Games in March, which had been postponed earlier. “The Winter Games attracted national attention and brought adventure enthusiasts to Gulmarg in large numbers,” said a tourism official.
The Tulip Garden in Srinagar is currently a major attraction, drawing thousands of visitors daily. “This place feels like heaven on earth— the flowers, the breeze, and the Zabarwan Hills view are simply mesmerizing,” said Rakesh Sharma, a tourist from Delhi.
Madiha, a visitor from Mumbai, expressed her awe: “I had heard so much about Kashmir’s beauty, but being here is a dream come true. The people are warm and welcoming.”
Local stakeholders are equally thrilled. Tariq Ahmad, a houseboat owner, shared, “After a long time, we are seeing high occupancy in our houseboats. Tourists are coming back, and it feels like the old days.” Mohammad Yousuf, a shikara owner at Dal Lake, added, “There’s life on the lake again. Tourists are enjoying shikara rides and clicking pictures. It’s a good sign for all of us who depend on tourism.”
Cab drivers like Mushtaq Ahmad are also feeling the positive shift. “We’ve been busy since January. My bookings have doubled compared to last year. I’m hopeful this trend will continue,” he said.
The Director of Tourism announced plans to organize various cultural programs and local festivals across tourist spots to enhance the visitor experience. “Our goal is to make Kashmir a top international tourist destination,” he said.
Local businesses, including hoteliers, restaurant owners, and shopkeepers, are equally optimistic. Aijaz, a restaurant owner in Pahalgam, noted, “Last year, we struggled with low snowfall and poor tourist flow. This year, things have changed dramatically.”
With the Valley thriving on tourism, stakeholders are hopeful that the momentum will continue well into the year, ensuring that Kashmir remains a top destination for global travelers.
