Srinagar, April 29 :-Authorities on Tuesday confirmed that all major tourist destinations across Kashmir—including Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Dal Lake, and the Mughal Gardens—remain fully operational and continue to welcome visitors without any restrictions.
M. Yaqoob Dunoo, Incharge of the Tourism Wing at IHRO and former General Secretary of the Kashmir Houseboat Owners Association, issued a statement assuring tourists that the region is safe and tourist activities are ongoing smoothly.
He said, “Destinations like Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Sonamarg, and other prominent sites are open and secure. Tourists are moving freely, and all necessary security arrangements are in place to ensure their safety and comfort.”
Dunoo further clarified that only a few lesser-known offbeat destinations—accounting for merely 4-5% of the total tourist footfall—have been closed temporarily as a precautionary measure. “There is no restriction on visiting any of the primary tourist circuits. Tourists are being warmly welcomed, and the local communities, along with the administration and tourism stakeholders, are fully facilitating their stay,” he added.
The statement comes in response to concerns raised after a recent isolated incident near Pahalgam. Yaqoob Dunoo strongly criticized certain national media channels for spreading misinformation, stating, “Some national media outlets, often referred to as ‘Godi Media,’ especially News 24, are falsely reporting that Dal lake, Gulmarg, Sonamarg and Pahalgam tourist destinations in Kashmir are closed. This is completely baseless and misleading. We urge these channels not to spread fake news, as it creates unnecessary panic and damages both the economy and the image of Kashmir.”
He added, “If Pahalgam is closed, then how did film industry actor Kulkarni visit Pahalgam and spend three days there? He even shared a message saying Kashmir is safe. If Dal Lake is closed, then how are tourists currently staying there in Houseboats and enjoying Shikara rides? Everything is normal in Kashmir. It’s unfortunate that News 24 is spreading false and baseless news.”
He emphasized that the situation is under control and that there is no cause for alarm. “Kashmir continues to be a safe, beautiful, and welcoming destination for travelers from across the country and beyond,” he further said.
