Srinagar: In a significant move aimed at reviving tourism and facilitating visitor access ahead of the upcoming season, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday announced the immediate reopening of 14 tourist destinations across Jammu and Kashmir.
In a series of posts on X, the Lieutenant Governor said that 11 tourist spots in the Kashmir Division and three in the Jammu Division have been ordered to reopen with immediate effect. He added that four additional destinations will be thrown open once snow clearance operations are completed and road connectivity is fully restored.
According to the announcement, the tourist destinations reopening in the Kashmir Division include Yousmarg, Doodhpathri in Budgam, Dandipora Park in Kokernag, Peer Ki Gali, Dubjan and Padpawan in Shopian, Astanpora, Tulip Garden in Srinagar, Thajwas Glacier, Hung Park in Ganderbal, and Wullar/Watlab in Baramulla.
In the Jammu Division, Devi Pindi in Reasi, Mahu Mangat in Ramban, and Mughal Maidan in Kishtwar have also been cleared for immediate reopening.
The Lieutenant Governor further stated that three high-altitude destinations in the Kashmir Division, Gurez, Athwatoo and Bangus, and Ramkund in Ramban district of the Jammu Division will be reopened once snow is cleared and the areas are deemed safe for visitors.
The decision is expected to provide a boost to the Union Territory’s tourism sector, which plays a pivotal role in the local economy and sustains thousands of livelihoods. Officials have been directed to ensure that necessary safety protocols, infrastructure readiness and public facilities are in place at all reopened sites.
With the phased reopening of key tourist destinations, the administration aims to enhance visitor confidence and further strengthen Jammu and Kashmir’s position as a premier travel destination.
