Trekking Suspended in Kashmir After Pahalgam Attack: What Travellers Need to Know
Following the tragic terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22, 2025, the Jammu and Kashmir government has announced the suspension of all trekking activities across the Union Territory. In addition, nearly 50 public parks and remote tourist destinations will remain closed until further notice as part of heightened security measures.
This decision, while precautionary, has had an immediate impact on Kashmir’s spring-summer tourism season, especially trekking and nature-based travel that typically peaks from May to September.
What’s Closed?
The Jammu & Kashmir Forest Department has ordered the closure of all trekking routes, including both popular and lesser-known forest and highland trails. Law enforcement agencies have been tasked with monitoring these areas to ensure strict compliance.
Alongside trekking trails, public parks and tourist hubs have also been temporarily closed. These include:
- Doodhpathri
- Bangus Valley
- Kokernag
- Sinthan Top
- Acchabal
- Margan Top
- Tosamaidan
- Duksum
More locations may be added as the situation evolves.
Impact on Local Communities
Kashmir’s trekking season isn’t just a recreational window—it’s an economic lifeline. Local guides, porters, homestay owners, transport providers, and small eateries all depend heavily on the seasonal influx of trekkers and eco-tourists.
According to Sheikh Yameen from Srinagar, quoted in Outlook Traveller, “Visitors continue to explore the Valley, though there are no new tourists so far.” The ripple effect is being felt across all tourism verticals—from tour operators and shikara owners to hotel chains and mountain gear rental services.
What Tourism Leaders Are Saying
Tourism stakeholders are urging visitors to reschedule, not cancel, their Kashmir plans.
Altaf Chapri, Managing Director of ABChapri Retreats, said:
“Rather than canceling holidays or requesting refunds, we urge you to accept credit notes, valid for several months. In doing so, we can show the world that Kashmir’s resilience is not just in its mountains, but in the hearts of its people.”
The broader travel community is echoing this sentiment. Even members of the Hindi film industry have shown solidarity by continuing to visit Kashmir and encouraging others to do the same.
What Travellers Should Do
- Stay Informed: Follow updates from the J&K Tourism Department or credible travel portals.
- Respect Closures: Do not attempt to trek in closed or restricted areas.
- Support Responsibly: If you had a trip planned, consider accepting a credit note instead of a refund to support local businesses.
- Don’t Panic Book: Wait for official reassessments before making new plans.
In Solidarity with Kashmir
As the travel and trekking community, it’s important we respond with empathy and resilience. The suspension is temporary, and officials have assured that a review will take place once the security situation is under control.
Let’s continue to support sustainable tourism—not just in Kerala, but across India’s incredible trekking destinations. #TourismOverTerrorism
