The Biz Reporter
Srinagar, Sep 26: The Jammu and Kashmir Hotel and Restaurant Association (JKHARA) has welcomed the decision of the Government of Jammu and Kashmir, led by Lieutenant Governor, Shri Manoj Sinha, to reopen 12 tourist destinations across the Union Territory from Monday, 29th September 2025. The decision, announced after a detailed security review and discussion in the Unified Headquarters (UHQ) meeting, has been described by the Association as a positive step toward the revival of the tourism and hospitality sectors, which have been severely affected since April this year.
According to the order, seven tourist destinations in the Kashmir Division — Aru Valley, Rafting Point Yanner, Akkad Park, Padshahi Park Bijbehara, Dara Shikoh Garden in Anantnag, Kaman Post, and Eco-Park Khadniyar in Baramulla — along with five in the Jammu Division — Dagan Top in Ramban, Dhaggar in Kathua, Chinkah in Reasi, Shiv Cave in Salal (Reasi), and Padri in Doda — will reopen for visitors starting Monday.
President, JKHARA, Babar Chowdhary, expressed gratitude to Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha and his administration for taking into consideration the demands of the hospitality sector and initiating this much-needed step. He said that the reopening will bring some relief to the struggling tourism industry, which has been witnessing one of its lowest phases in recent years due to the temporary closure of several destinations and the decline in tourist footfall following the unfortunate Pahalgam terror attack on April 22.
Chowdhary, however, pointed out that the sector continues to face acute challenges, with hotel occupancy rates dropping to less than 20 percent across major destinations such as Srinagar, Pahalgam, Gulmarg, and Sonamarg. “The extended closure of key tourist destinations since April has led to massive revenue losses for hoteliers, restaurant owners, travel operators, and other stakeholders. Many units are struggling to manage operational costs, salaries, and maintenance,” he said.
The Association urged the administration to expedite the reopening of all remaining tourist spots and religious destinations that are still closed. “Reopening all tourist locations will not only restore confidence among stakeholders but also send a strong and positive message to domestic and international tourists about the safety and readiness of Jammu and Kashmir to welcome visitors,” Chowdhary added.
He further appealed to the government to roll out special revival packages for the hospitality sector, including promotional campaigns, tax relaxations, and financial support schemes to help offset the heavy losses incurred over the past few months.
The JKHARA reaffirmed its commitment to work in close coordination with the government and tourism department to ensure quality hospitality services and enhance the overall experience of visitors.
