Srinagar, Feb 16: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has directed authorities to reopen 14 tourist destinations across the Union Territory following a comprehensive security assessment conducted by the administration.
According to a statement shared by the Lt Governor on X and reported by Kashmir News Service, visitor access has been restored with immediate effect to 11 locations in the Kashmir division and three in the Jammu region that had remained shut for nearly a year as a precautionary measure.
In the Kashmir division, sites cleared for tourists include Yousmarg and Doodhpathri in Budgam, Dandipora Park in Kokernag, Peer Ki Gali, Dubjan and Padpawan in Shopian, Astanpora and the Tulip Garden in Srinagar, Thajwas Glacier and Hung Park in Ganderbal, and Wullar Lake in Baramulla.
In the Jammu division, restrictions have been lifted at Devi Pindi in Reasi, Mahu Mangat in Ramban, and Mughal Maidan in Kishtwar.
Officials added that four destinations, Gurez, Athwatoo, Bangus, and Ramkund will be opened later once snow is cleared from approach roads, as these high-altitude areas remain inaccessible due to winter conditions. Authorities said travel will only be allowed after routes are declared safe.
Locals associated with tourism industry welcomed the move and said that the decision will boost local businesses dependent on visitor inflow, many of which had voiced concern over the prolonged closure and its economic impact.
