Pahalgam attack won’t shake our faith in Kashmir: Tourists

SRINAGAR — Amidst the shadow of recent tragedy at Pahalgam, which claimed 26 lives and left several others injured, hope and resilience are still echoing at the world’s famous ski-resort—Gulmarg as tourists continue to find warmth, safety and solidarity.

Tourists, currently in Gulmarg, while speaking with the news agency KNO, said that they feel secure and supported, while many urged fellow travellers not to give in to fear.

“Yes, the day of the incident was very frightening, but now there is nothing to worry about. Locals and security agencies are cooperating very well and we feel absolutely safe here,” said Rupali, a tourist from Mumbai.

Echoing similar sentiments, Jagnesh Mishra, another visitor, appealed to the travellers not to cancel their bookings. He said the Kashmiri people are incredibly supportive—from drivers to hoteliers, everyone has been welcoming.

“The Pahalgam incident was tragic and did cause fear but the way we have been treated here has motivated us to stay. There is no reason to panic,” Mishra added.

While the tragedy in Pahalgam left a deep scar, it has also united Kashmiris and tourists alike in collective grief and resilience, even as the Valley, often painted with narratives of fear, continues to reveal its true colours of hospitality, unity and undeterred hope.

The atmosphere in Gulmarg is calm, with enhanced security presence and visible efforts by locals to make visitors feel comfortable. “We are overwhelmed with the love and safety we have felt here. Those who attacked wanted to disturb peace, but it won’t work. People here are treating us like their own,” said another tourist, moved by the solidarity shown by the locals.

Similarly, a tourist from Karnataka, who expressed grief over the attack but at the same time stood firm in his decision to continue the visit, said that the attack at Pahalgam was painful. “We are sorry for the lives lost.”

“We hope the government works to ensure such incidents don’t repeat, but we never felt like leaving the Valley out of fear. People here stood with us at every step,” he said, adding that they have been to Kashmir with a dream because it’s a paradise on earth.

Earlier, a wave of concern gripped Kashmir’s tourism industry post-Pahalgam attack, leading to cancellations and fear among incoming tourists, however, the tourists here in the valley reassure the world of their safety and locals extend their unwavering warmth.

Over 15,000 visitors enjoy Gulmarg Gondola ride in 48 hours

In a strong message of resilience and unity, over 15,000 tourists took the iconic Gulmarg Gondola ride in the last 48 hours, days after the tragic attack in Pahalgam claimed 26 lives.

Amid shock and grief, the Valley is witnessing a return of faith from travellers, with many of whom continue to enjoy the beauty and warmth that Kashmir is known for.

Official data, accessed by the news agency KNO, revealed that over 15,000 tourists availed the Gondola ride in the past 48 hours including 7,299 on Wednesday and 7,616 on Thursday.

“10,398 tourists took the Gondola Phase-I ride while 4,517 went up through Phase-II,” the data revealed.

Meanwhile, the tourists, while praising the region’s safety, hospitality and the proactive support from both locals and authorities, said that the incident at Pahalgam was indeed unfortunate, but what they have seen on the ground is completely different from what some media reports suggest.

As a gesture of goodwill, tourists at the Gondola base station were served traditional Kashmiri Kahwa, which many described as touching and thoughtful.

Officials say these efforts are a reflection of the Valley’s determination to uphold its legacy of hospitality, even in times of sorrow.

Anita, a tourist from Delhi, said that they have been treated with warmth, served Kahwa, and made to feel safe and welcome. “This is the Kashmir we always heard about — kind, welcoming and beautiful. The locals and security personnel have been outstanding,” she said.

“We never felt any sense of fear or threat,” another tourist said.

Managing Director of Jammu and Kashmir Cable Car Corporation, Syed Qamar Sajjad, acknowledged the spirit of the visiting tourists. “We are grateful they haven’t lost faith. The surge in Gondola rides is proof that tourism in Kashmir cannot be derailed by acts like Pahalgam,” he said.

He said their teams, security forces and locals are working together to ensure that every visitor leaves with unforgettable memories.

The top JKCCC official also announced the introduction of relaxation in its refund policy to further support tourists.

“Full refunds will be issued for all no-show or un-scanned tickets, with visit dates from April 22 to 30. Additionally, full refunds will also apply to all online cancellations initiated during the same period,” he said.

Meanwhile, in a parallel initiative aimed at ensuring smooth and secure travel for visitors, the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir has established a dedicated 24/7 tourist helpline to assist those currently in the Valley or intending to visit in the coming days.

According to an official communiqué, the tourists can reach out to the divisional-level helpline through the following round-the-clock contact numbers: +911942-740003, 8899931010, and 8899941010.

To further enhance regional assistance, area-wise contact persons have also been designated to provide on-ground support. These include Mr. Rahul Raina at the Tourist Reception Centre Srinagar – 9596311771, Ms Mehnaz Khan, Srinagar – 9622484772, Mr Irfan Bini – 9419013335, Mr Sandeep Pandita, Srinagar International Airport – 6005892772, Mr Rafiq Ahmad – 7006154329, Mr Gohar Rafiee, for Mughal Road status (Shopian) – 7006580763 and Mr Shafaqat Itoo, Budgam/Doodpathri – 7006823575.

For broader regional facilitation, tourists can also contact: South Kashmir (Anantnag, Kulgam, Shopian & Pulwama) – 9906663868 and Central Kashmir (Srinagar, Budgam & Ganderbal) – 9906906115.

The help desk will operate under the overall supervision of the Director of Tourism Kashmir, Raja Yaqoob Farooq, ensuring coordination at every level to make tourists feel welcomed, supported, and safe during their stay in the Valley.

This move comes in the wake of heightened concerns following the recent Pahalgam incident and is part of broader efforts to reassure and facilitate tourists.