Srinagar, July 15: In a significant boost to tourism in north Kashmir, the Jammu and Kashmir administration has lifted the travel restriction on non-local tourists visiting Gurez Valley, opening the doors to renewed economic activity in the region.
The development was confirmed on Monday by local MLA Nazir Ahmad Gurezi, who expressed gratitude to the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir for the decision.
“Most of the tourism season has already passed without major arrivals due to the restrictions, but we still have nearly three good months left until October. We hope to make the most of this time,” Gurezi told Rising Kashmir.
He said that the restriction—originally imposed in the wake of the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam—had formally been withdrawn following his direct communication with the Divisional Commissioner.
Gurezi said that due to the restrictions, which had prevented non-local tourists from entering the valley, have now been formally withdrawn. “I personally spoke to the Divisional Commissioner, and he informed me that the ban has been lifted,” he added.
The ban had initially been imposed due to security concerns following the recent deadly Pahalgam terror attack. Many stakeholders in Gurez’s tourism sector, including homestay owners and hospitality investors, were affected by the delay.
“A number of people had invested in infrastructure, and due to the security situation, their business suffered. Now, there is hope for some compensation through revived tourism,” Gurezi said.
Regarding camping activities, he clarified that while local residents are permitted to set up tents for tourists, non-locals are still not allowed to erect camps in the area.
In an effort to boost tourism further, Gurez is also set to host a Gurez Festival in early August. “We are planning the Gurez Festival tentatively on August 6–7 to showcase the valley’s unique culture, traditions, and hospitality. All necessary arrangements for accommodation and logistics will be made,” he said.
Gurez, located in north Kashmir’s Bandipora is known for its natural beauty and cultural richness but remains relatively unexplored due to past restrictions and logistical challenges.
