Pahalgam, Jun 14:Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday announced the phased reopening of 16 tourist destinations across Jammu and Kashmir that were temporarily closed as a precautionary measure following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam.
After thorough reviews by both Jammu and Kashmir divisional administrations, it was decided to reopen selected locations for tourist movement from June 17, starting with eight spots in each division.
“In terms of security, after April 22, some places were closed. Following assessments by Divisional Commissioners and IGs from both Jammu and Kashmir, and based on reports from all districts, it has been decided to reopen several tourist spots in a phased manner,” LG Sinha said during a visit to Pahalgam.
“Eight places have been considered and decided for reopening. Tourists will be able to visit these places after two days,” he said.
The LG stated that this is only the first phase. A committee comprising the Divisional Commissioner and IG will continue reviewing district reports and work with the tourism department to identify more places for reopening.
The LG also met delegations of MLAs, DDC Chairpersons and Vice Chairpersons, tour and travel operators, the Ponywala Association, and hoteliers’ associations at Pahalgam. He assured them that restrictions on other tourist spots would be lifted following security evaluations.
Speaking about the upcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra, which begins on July 3, LG Sinha said: “I urge people to come forward and make the annual Shri Amarnath Ji pilgrimage successful. This Yatra is not just the responsibility of the administration or security forces—it is the people’s Yatra. Everyone should feel proud to contribute to it.”
He emphasised the need for pilgrims to travel in designated convoys, noting that security agencies have prepared a comprehensive plan. He also said the government has improved infrastructure for the Yatra, including roads, telecom, power supply, and accommodation.
“I feel this will create an environment of trust. Security arrangements are in place, and the government is committed to instilling confidence among tourists,” he said.
LG Sinha also visited the Nunwan Base Camp, where he reviewed the progress of the Disaster Management Centre, Yatri Niwas, and other arrangements related to the Yatra. He emphasised that in recent years, significant improvements have been made in infrastructure, including better roads, power and telecom connectivity, accommodation, and overall security.
He said, “The Government of India and visiting delegations are increasingly holding meetings in Srinagar, which reflects a growing environment of trust and stability. Our commitment is to ensure safety while fostering tourism and economic revival.”
LG Sinha also noted a rising interest among tourists, with Vande Bharat train tickets fully booked for 10–12 days, and highlighted that parliamentary delegations and official meetings are now regularly held in Srinagar.
“Railway officials have informed me that all tickets have been booked for the next 10–12 days. The number of tourists is gradually increasing,” he said.
Among others the LG was accompanied by Dr. Mandeep K. Bhandari, CEO, Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board & Principal Secretary to the LG; Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir; V. K. Birdi, IGP Kashmir; Syeed Fakhrudin Hamid, Deputy Commissioner Anantnag and other senior officers from the Shrine Board, Armed Forces, Civil and Police administration
Phase 1 Reopening:
Kashmir Division:
Betab Valley
Parks in Pahalgam Market
Verinag Garden
Kokernag Garden
Achabal Garden
Badamwari Park (Srinagar)
Duck Park near Nigeen
Taqdeer Park near Hazratbal
Jammu Division:
Sarthal and Dhaggar (Kathua)
Devi Pindi, Siyad Baba, and Sula Park (Reasi)
Guldanda and Jai Valley (Doda)
Pancheri (Udhampur)
