Tourism in Kashmir hit; travellers move on to Ladakh, Himachal and Northeast

There are reports of increasing cancellations for those intending to visit Kashmir in the upcoming months, especially the Independence Day long weekend. While Ladakh has stayed stable in the ongoing situation, declared as a separate union territory, Kashmir is still in a flux. The development has led to closure of road to Ladakh from Kashmir, leaving travellers with the option of either flying to Leh or taking up the road route via Manali in Himachal Pradesh.

The situation in Kashmir has led to a majority of travellers diverting their plans to Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh and the northeastern states. As the situation in Kashmir remains vague for now, tourism industry insiders expect bookings to decline for the Durga Puja and Diwali vacations as well. Reportedly, 30 percent of such bookings, for Srinagar and Gulmarg, have already been put on hold. Apart from domestic tourists, countries including Australia, the UK and the USA have issued travel advisories against visiting the valley for now.


Sheikh Ashiq, President Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industries (KCCI) opined that "Various sectors such as handicrafts, transport associated with the tourism industry will also suffer huge losses. There are lakhs of people directly or indirectly associated with tourism and handicrafts sector."
As of now, the tourism industry is hoping for a de-escalation of the current situation to get back on its feet.