Kashmir tourism sets new records with over 11 lakh visitors in six months

Srinagar:The Kashmir Valley has welcomed an impressive influx of over eleven lakh tourists in the first six months of this year, according to officials from the tourism department. Data shows that among the 1,155,289 visitors, 22,612 were foreign tourists. Officials anticipate a further increase in international tourist arrivals from June onwards.

With the country currently grappling with a severe heatwave, several states and union territories have announced summer vacations, leading to a significant expected influx of tourists. Presently, all hotels in major tourist destinations are fully occupied until June 15.

Sharing the statistics, an official stated that the current year has seen 11.5 million tourists so far. In comparison, 21.1 million tourists visited the valley in 2023, 18.8 million in 2022, 11.3 million in 2021, and 3.4 million in 2020.

The commencement of the AmarnathYatra at the end of June is expected to further boost tourist numbers. Many devotees enjoy visiting various sites in Kashmir, and officials are hopeful that this year’s figures will surpass those of last year.

Bilal Ahmad, a Shikara rower, remarked on the positive impact of tourism on his business over the past three years. “Tourism has been thriving, and so have earnings. This year, festivals like kayaking and car racing have boosted tourism. However, the government should address inflation. Air tickets are very expensive; if trains start running from Kashmir, it will help significantly. Currently, 95% of the law and order situation is stable,” he noted.

In recent years, record-breaking numbers of tourists have visited the Tulip Garden, and a similar trend is expected during this peak summer season. The Department of Tourism is making every effort to assist tourists and tourism stakeholders to attract more visitors to the Kashmir Valley.

Mohammad Faizan, 23, a tourist from Surat, shared his experience with *Rising Kashmir*. “Kashmir is truly heaven. In our city, the temperature can reach up to 47 degrees, which is unbearable. In Kashmir, we haven’t experienced temperatures higher than 32 degrees, which makes it heaven on earth,” he said.

A hotel owner in Srinagar noted the notable improvement in law and order, marked by a decline in incidents like stone-pelting. “Tourists feel safe. The government has taken many initiatives, such as hosting the G-20 event, F4 race, and major launches, and has been promoting the region globally. We are also opening offbeat destinations like the border villages of Keran, Gurez, and Bangus. Additionally, we are witnessing a rise in religious tourism,” he said.