Title: Tourists Coming Back to Kashmir in Good Numbers: J&K CM Omar
The picturesque state of Jammu and Kashmir has been a favorite destination for tourists from across the globe, known for its breathtaking natural beauty, vibrant culture, and rich history. However, the recent attacks on tourists in Pahalgam, which left 26 civilians dead, had raised concerns about the safety of visitors to the valley. But, despite these concerns, the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, has announced that the tourism sector in the state is witnessing a surge, with pilgrims arriving in large numbers for the Amarnath Yatra.
Speaking at a tourism fair in Kolkata, Omar Abdullah emphasized that he wants tourists from West Bengal to visit J&K in good numbers. This statement comes as a positive sign for the tourism industry in Kashmir, which has been struggling to regain its footing after the Pahalgam attack.
The Amarnath Yatra, which is one of the most revered pilgrimages in Hinduism, has been a major draw for tourists to Kashmir. The yatra, which takes place every year in the month of July and August, attracts thousands of pilgrims from across the country. The surge in pilgrims this year is a welcome development for the tourism industry in Kashmir, which has been facing a decline in recent years.
The Pahalgam attack, which was carried out by militants, had left the tourism industry in Kashmir reeling. The attack had led to a significant decline in the number of tourists visiting the valley, with many tour operators reporting a significant drop in bookings. However, with the Amarnath Yatra in full swing, the tourism industry is finally showing signs of recovery.
The Chief Minister’s statement is a clear indication that the government is committed to promoting tourism in Kashmir and ensuring the safety of tourists. The government has been working tirelessly to provide a secure environment for tourists, with a focus on improving infrastructure and increasing the deployment of security personnel.
Kashmir’s tourism sector has been a major contributor to the state’s economy, with millions of rupees generated every year. However, the recent decline in tourist arrivals had put a significant strain on the economy, with many businesses struggling to stay afloat. The surge in pilgrims this year is a welcome development for the economy, which is expected to receive a significant boost.
The Amarnath Yatra is not the only attraction that Kashmir has to offer. The state is home to some of the most beautiful and pristine natural landscapes in the country, with the Himalayas, the Pir Panjal range, and the Valley of Kashmir offering breathtaking views. The state is also home to many ancient temples, shrines, and mosques, which attract pilgrims and tourists from across the country.
The government has been working to promote tourism in Kashmir, with a focus on developing infrastructure and improving the overall tourist experience. The state has seen significant investment in tourism infrastructure, with many new hotels, resorts, and tourist facilities being built. The government has also been working to promote cultural tourism, with a focus on showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the state.
The surge in pilgrims this year is a testament to the efforts being made by the government to promote tourism in Kashmir. The Chief Minister’s statement is a clear indication that the government is committed to ensuring the safety and security of tourists, and to promoting the tourism industry in the state.
In conclusion, the surge in pilgrims this year is a welcome development for the tourism industry in Kashmir, which has been struggling to regain its footing after the Pahalgam attack. The Chief Minister’s statement is a clear indication that the government is committed to promoting tourism in Kashmir and ensuring the safety of tourists. With its breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and ancient temples and shrines, Kashmir is a destination that has something to offer for everyone.
