7 Tourist Destinations Reopened After Pahalgam Terror Attack
Aru Valley, Yannar Rafting Point Among Sites Reopened as Security Situation Improves; 50 Locations Had Been Closed Following April Assault
SRINAGAR — The Jammu and Kashmir administration reopened seven tourist destinations in the Kashmir Valley on Monday, five months after they were closed in the aftermath of the devastating Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives.
The reopening comes under direct orders from Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, signaling improved security conditions in the region. Among the destinations now accessible to visitors are the scenic Aru Valley, the popular Yannar rafting point, Akkad Park, Padshahi Park, and Kaman Post.
The closures were implemented on April 22 following a terrorist attack in Baisaran, located in the Pahalgam area, where militants opened fire on tourists, killing 26 people. In response to the attack, the LG administration had shut down approximately 50 tourist spots across the region as a security precaution.
The phased reopening began in June when 16 tourist locations, including portions of Pahalgam, were made accessible to visitors again. Monday’s announcement marks the continuation of efforts to restore normalcy to Kashmir’s crucial tourism sector.
In addition to the Kashmir Valley sites, Lieutenant Governor Sinha has also ordered the reopening of five tourist destinations in the Jammu division. These include Dagan Top in Ramban, Dhajar in Kathua, and the Shiva Cave in Salal, Reasi district.
Aru Valley, located in Anantnag district, is renowned for its picturesque meadows, pristine lakes, and majestic mountain landscapes. The Yannar rafting point, situated near Pahalgam, offers white-water rafting experiences on the Lidder River and has been a favourite among adventure tourists.
The gradual reopening of these destinations is expected to provide much-needed relief to the local tourism industry, which forms the economic backbone of the region. However, security arrangements remain heightened across all reopened sites to ensure visitor safety.
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