Tourists Return, Say Valley is ‘Safe and Spectacular
SUHAIL KHAN
Srinagar, August 01 ; Months after the deadly terrorist attack in Kashmir’s “Switzerland,” Pahalgam is back to life, with tourists from across the country returning to its mesmerizing beauty to spend a great time.
With heightened security measures, the valley is buzzing with tourists once again. Ahead of the autumn and winter months, the number of visitors is expected to rise significantly.
The heart of Kashmir’s tourism industry is beating again, with tourist flow gaining momentum. From Gulmarg to other parts of the region, visitors are returning—even to Kashmir’s “Switzerland,” Pahalgam—and recommending others to visit, assuring that it is absolutely safe.
Security has been stepped up in all major tourist destinations, with additional personnel monitoring every situation and ensuring a smooth and successful visit for tourists across the valley.
Ranjan, who visited Pahalgam after completing the Amarnath Yatra, said, “The Pahalgam incident was tragic, but I am sure it will never happen again. The security here is excellent, protecting and safeguarding every Indian at this place.”
He added, “After completing the Shri Amarnath Yatra, I visited Gulmarg and Pahalgam, where I spent two days. It is absolutely safe to visit. I appeal to my fellow countrymen—let’s return to this valley; it is heaven.”
Nayab, a tourist from Gujarat, shared, “I visited Pahalgam with my family, and everything was absolutely fine. It was a great time, especially in this weather. It feels so peaceful—I truly felt like I was in Switzerland.”
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed hope for a new beginning in J&K, with tourism “bouncing back” after the terror attack.
He assured, “I understand everyone’s concerns following the Pahalgam incident. However, please rest assured that all necessary steps have been taken for the safety of tourists. Listen to those who have recently returned from Pahalgam—they will tell you how safe it is.”
The April 22 attack occurred just as Pahalgam—and Jammu & Kashmir as a whole—was preparing for its peak tourist season. The summer months (April-May-June) usually see a steady influx of tourists, but this year, the season remained lukewarm due to the attack, leading to widespread cancellations and leaving the tourism industry struggling.
Notably, earlier this week, security forces eliminated three terrorists responsible for the Pahalgam attack in Operation Mahadev, an encounter in Srinagar district.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah, reacting to the operation, expressed condolences to the families of the innocent civilians killed in the attack. He stated that India’s security forces have upheld the nation’s honor through Operation Sindoor and Operation Mahadev. He also commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi for demonstrating the political will to deliver a strong response to Pakistan, in line with the wishes of the country’s 140 crore people.
Shah confirmed that on July 28, under Operation Mahadev, security forces killed three Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists—Suleman, Afghan, and Jibran—proving Lashkar’s involvement in the Pahalgam attack.
He emphasized that through Operation Sindoor and Operation Mahadev, India’s security forces, under PM Modi’s leadership, delivered the most precise and prompt response to terrorism ever seen globally. He noted that TRF (The Resistance Front), a Lashkar affiliate, had claimed responsibility for the attack. Shah personally visited the site immediately afterward, reviewing security measures to prevent the terrorists from escaping.
