Offbeat spots likely to be out of bounds for tourists

In the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack, authorities in the Valley are likely to temporarily restrict tourist access to remote destinations lacking adequate security, sources said on Friday.

The attack took place at Baisaran, located approximately 6 km from the main Pahalgam resort town. Accessible only by foot or ponies, the meadow is surrounded by dense forests and currently has no security presence.

A senior official familiar with the developments said that authorities are considering restricting tourist access to such “offbeat” locations until security measures are established. “These locations are being identified on the ground, and decisions will be taken accordingly,” the official stated.

Last year, the Union Territory recorded its highest-ever tourist influx, with 2.36 crore visitors, including foreign tourists and pilgrims to Amarnath and Mata Vaishno Devi. Apart from traditional destinations, many tourists have been exploring newly opened and lesser-known areas in Kashmir. Mountain lakes and remote trekking routes have emerged as major attractions.

In South Kashmir, the number of trekkers from across the country has seen a recent increase, according to tour operators.

However, officials believe it is currently impractical to provide immediate security coverage to all such remote areas near forests. “Until these regions are secured, it would be inappropriate to allow tourist activity in light of the recent attack in Pahalgam,” sources said.

On Thursday, the administration in north Kashmir’s Kupwara district issued a public advisory urging visitors to obtain prior permission before traveling to border areas such as Karnah, Keran, Machil, and Bungus Valley.

Meanwhile, officials confirmed that they are offering full assistance to tourists wishing to leave the Valley. A dedicated divisional-level helpline has been established in Srinagar by the Divisional Commissioner of Kashmir to support tourists currently in the region or planning future visits.

Following the attack, many tourists have curtailed their trips and returned home. The tourist helpline has reportedly received over 3,000 calls from visitors seeking assistance in leaving the Valley.

Despite the panic, officials noted that the popular destination of Gulmarg has not been significantly affected, and they remain hopeful that the situation will stabilise soon.

Rauf Tramboo, president of the Travel Agents Association of Kashmir, said initial feedback from the ground indicates around 30 percent of bookings have been cancelled following the Pahalgam attack.