A Call to Reopen Kashmir’s Heart By: Javid Amin | 18 September 2025 In a sharp intervention on Kashmir’s tourism policy, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has called on the Lieutenant Governor’s administration to immediately reopen tourist destinations that have remained closed since the Pahalgam terror attack in April 2025. “Either stop promoting tourism altogether, or compensate those who’ve suffered losses,” Abdullah said while addressing a gathering of tourism stakeholders in Gulmarg. Destinations Still Under Lockdown Despite five months passing since the attack, many iconic spots remain off-limits: Drang Doodhpathri Yusmarg…
Read MoreTag: #TravelKashmir
GoI Launches Multi-Pronged Campaign to Revive Kashmir Tourism After April Tragedy
Tourism Revival Strategy Includes Security Upgrades, Discounted Packages, and Cultural Outreach By: Javid Amin | 13 September 2025 A Valley in Shock, A Nation Responds On April 22, 2025, Pahalgam—a serene town known for its meadows and the starting point of the Amarnath Yatra—was struck by tragedy. A terror attack claimed the lives of 26 civilians, sending ripples of grief across the Valley and shaking the foundations of its most vital lifeline: tourism. For weeks after, hotels sat half-empty, shikaras glided on Dal Lake without passengers, and local guides waited…
Read MoreRestoration of Statehood Key to Tourism Growth in Jammu and Kashmir | Revive Kashmir’s Economy
Restoration of Statehood: A Prerequisite for Tourism Growth in Jammu and Kashmir By: Javid Amin | 12 September 2025 The Fragile Pulse of Kashmir’s Tourism Sector For decades, tourism in Jammu and Kashmir has been more than an economic activity—it has been a lifeline, a cultural bridge, and a symbol of resilience. From the snow-laden slopes of Gulmarg to the spiritual serenity of Hazratbal, the region has drawn travelers, pilgrims, and seekers from across the globe. But beneath the postcard beauty lies a reality that is increasingly difficult to ignore:…
Read MoreFrom Kashmir to Canada: Jamawar Sarees Weaving Heritage Into Global Glam
From Kashmir to Canada: Jamawar Sarees | Heritage Fashion | Kashmir Store & Kashmir Bazar By: Javid Amin | 11 Sep 2025 When Kashmir Meets Global Glamour Fashion often travels faster than people. It has the power to carry a story, a culture, and a legacy across continents. Recently, when Bollywood actress Janhvi Kapoor graced an international stage wearing a hand-embroidered Jamawar saree, the world wasn’t just admiring her style—it was celebrating Kashmir’s centuries-old artistry. This moment became more than a fashion statement. It was a cultural bridge between Kashmir…
Read MoreOmar Abdullah Champions Kashmir Tourism Revival at SKICC: Project SPREAD, MICE Tourism, and Infrastructure Expansion Highlighted
Omar Abdullah Unveils Bold Tourism Revival Vision for Kashmir By: Javid Amin | Srinagar In a landmark address at the Jammu & Kashmir Tourism Revival Dialogue held at SKICC Srinagar, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah delivered a rousing call to action, reaffirming his government’s commitment to making Kashmir India’s premier tourist destination. With the serene Dal Lake in the backdrop and SKICC brimming with hoteliers, tour operators, travel influencers, and international delegates, Omar reflected on the emotional turbulence the region has weathered—particularly the tragic Pahalgam attack in April that disrupted tourism…
Read MoreKashmir Tourism Revival 2025: Tour Operators Unite for a New Beginning
Tragedy and Resilience – The Pahalgam Attack and Its Aftermath On April 22, 2025, a brutal terror attack in the picturesque town of Pahalgam claimed the lives of 26 innocent people, sending shockwaves through the travel and tourism industry in Jammu and Kashmir. Known for its lush meadows, gushing rivers, and serene ambiance, Pahalgam had long been a favorite among Indian and international tourists alike. But in the blink of an eye, fear replaced fascination. Tourism—a vital lifeline for the Valley’s economy—came to a standstill. Hoteliers saw cancellations skyrocket. Shikara…
Read MoreThe Undying Spirit of Kashmir: Tourists Embrace Pahalgam’s Beauty, Undeterred by Shadows
A Story of Resilience, Solidarity, and the Enduring Allure of Kashmir Javid Amin Srinagar 27 April 2025: In the wake of the recent, deeply regrettable terror attack in Pahalgam, a narrative of fear and apprehension might have been expected to grip the region and deter visitors. However, the reality unfolding in the valleys of Kashmir paints a different, and profoundly inspiring, picture. Instead of succumbing to fear, tourists are demonstrating remarkable resilience and an unwavering love for Kashmir’s unparalleled beauty, choosing to continue their journeys and, in doing so, sending…
Read More₹40 for 6 Minutes: The Hidden Toll of Srinagar Airport’s Parking Predicament – A Kashmir-Specific Crisis?
A Gateway Marred by Exploitation By: Javid Amin Srinagar’s Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport, the primary aerial gateway to Kashmir’s stunning valleys and lakes, has become synonymous with frustration for travelers. Beyond its scenic vistas lies a growing scandal: systemic overcharging and harassment in its parking zones. While airports across India follow transparent, regulated fee structures, Srinagar stands out for allegations of arbitrary toll collection, sparking outrage among locals, tourists, and activists. This investigation uncovers the layers of exploitation, compares it to national standards, and proposes actionable solutions. 01. “My ₹2,000…
Read MoreGulmarg, Sonamarg, and Pahalgam Receive Fresh Snowfall, Delight Tourists
Tourist Destinations in Kashmir Receive Fresh Snowfall, Bringing Joy to Visitors Srinagar 28 Feb 2025: Kashmir, often referred to as “Paradise on Earth,” is a mesmerizing land of breathtaking landscapes, picturesque valleys, and majestic snow-covered mountains. This winter, the region’s beauty has been further enhanced by fresh snowfall in its higher reaches, transforming it into a winter wonderland and attracting visitors from around the globe. A Blanket of Snow Transforms Kashmir On Thursday, Kashmir’s higher altitudes received moderate to heavy snowfall, draping the valleys in pristine white and amplifying the…
Read MoreTourists Flock to Dal Lake for Shikara Rides and Houseboat Stays
Surge in Tourist Influx at Dal Lake Srinagar, February 22, 2025 – The iconic Dal Lake in Srinagar is witnessing a significant surge in tourist footfall. Travellers from across the country and beyond are flocking to experience its enchanting charm. Tourists are enjoying shikara rides to explore the inner parts of Dal Lake. The rise in tourism is boosting local businesses, benefiting houseboat owners, shikara operators, and handicraft sellers. Cozy houseboats, with their intricate woodwork and charming interiors, provide visitors with a memorable stay, while shikara operators guide them through the lake’s…
Read More