Over 9,600 ride Gulmarg Gondola in just two days as visitors praise Kashmiris for compassion, care, and courage amid crisis
Diplomat Correspondent
Srinagar, (DD): In the wake of the recent tragic attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir’s tourism industry has displayed remarkable strength and unity. Rather than seeing a tourist exodus, the Valley continues to bustle with visitors exploring its snow-kissed peaks and blooming meadows.
From the serene slopes of Sonamarg to the pristine beauty of Doodhpathri and the ever-popular Gulmarg, tourist activity remains robust. According to Director Tourism Raja Yaqoob, fears of mass cancellations are greatly exaggerated.
“Over 1,300 tourists are currently in Srinagar. Just yesterday, more than 5,000 people enjoyed the Gondola ride in Gulmarg, and today, 4,683 tickets were booked,” he said. “The confidence in Kashmir’s tourism circuit remains solid.”
Tour operators across the Valley echo this sentiment. “Cabs are running as usual, and visitors are still heading to all the major destinations. The narrative of panic-driven departures is simply untrue,” said one prominent travel stakeholder.
What’s truly stood out during this difficult time is the compassion of the local community. In the face of tragedy, Kashmiris have embraced visitors with open arms, offering warmth and reassurance.
“I’ve never felt so looked after in any tourist destination,” said Prerna Rajput, a tourist from Pune enjoying her time in Sonamarg. “People constantly ask if we’re fine or need anything. It’s heartwarming.”
Rahul Sharma, who stayed on in Gulmarg despite the incident, shared a similar experience. “Yes, the Pahalgam attack was shocking, but the way locals cared for us made all the difference. We never felt unsafe.”
Other tourists recalled stories of shopkeepers, hotel staff, and guides reaching out just to check in. “Our hotel called us just to make sure we were okay. That kind of thoughtfulness defines Kashmir,” said Karan Mehta, currently vacationing in Srinagar.
Officials say the Valley’s resilience, paired with the unwavering hospitality of its people, has sent a powerful message to the world. “Tourists aren’t just safe here—they’re cherished,” said an officer from the tourism department.
As spring paints the Valley in vibrant colors, tourists continue to arrive, drawn not just by nature’s beauty, but by the unmatched spirit of its people.(DD)
