Tourists Coming Back to Kashmir in Good Numbers: J&K CM Omar
In a heartening development, the tourism sector in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) is witnessing a surge, with pilgrims arriving in large numbers for the Amarnath Yatra. This comes as a welcome respite after the Pahalgam attack, which saw the loss of 26 innocent lives. The Chief Minister of J&K, Omar Abdullah, was recently in Kolkata attending a tourism fair, where he expressed his desire to see tourists from West Bengal visiting the valley in good numbers.
The Amarnath Yatra, which is one of the most revered pilgrimages in Hinduism, has seen a significant increase in the number of devotees visiting the cave shrine of Lord Shiva. This year, over 700,000 pilgrims have already registered for the yatra, which is expected to attract over a million devotees by the time it concludes. The yatra, which begins in mid-June and lasts for 40 days, is a testament to the spiritual significance of the valley and its ability to attract tourists from all over the world.
The tourism industry in J&K has faced several challenges in recent years, including security concerns and the economic downturn. However, with the government’s efforts to promote tourism and the valley’s natural beauty, the sector is slowly but surely recovering. The valley is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world, with the majestic Himalayas forming its backdrop. The picturesque valleys, meadows, and forests of J&K offer a unique and unforgettable experience to tourists.
The Pahalgam attack, which occurred in May, was a devastating blow to the tourism industry in J&K. The attack, which was carried out by terrorists, resulted in the loss of 26 innocent lives and left many more injured. The incident sent shockwaves across the country, with many tourists cancelling their plans to visit the valley. However, in the aftermath of the attack, the government and tourism industry stakeholders have come together to promote tourism in the valley and reassure tourists of their safety.
The Chief Minister’s visit to Kolkata, where he attended a tourism fair, was a significant step in this direction. Omar Abdullah met with tourism industry stakeholders and highlighted the opportunities that exist in J&K for tourists. He also emphasized the importance of tourism in the valley’s economy and the need to promote it to create jobs and opportunities for the local people.
Abdullah’s visit to Kolkata was also seen as a move to promote tourism in the valley among tourists from West Bengal. The state has a significant number of tourists who visit J&K every year, and Abdullah’s visit was aimed at encouraging more tourists from West Bengal to visit the valley. The Chief Minister also met with travel agents and tour operators from West Bengal and emphasized the need to promote tourism in J&K.
In recent years, J&K has seen a significant increase in the number of tourists visiting the valley from West Bengal. The state’s proximity to J&K and the availability of frequent bus and train services have made it easier for tourists from West Bengal to visit the valley. The valley’s natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and spiritual significance have also made it a popular destination for tourists from West Bengal.
The Chief Minister’s visit to Kolkata was also seen as a move to promote the Amarnath Yatra among tourists from West Bengal. The yatra, which is one of the most revered pilgrimages in Hinduism, attracts tourists from all over the world. The valley’s natural beauty, spiritual significance, and the opportunity to witness the yatra make it a unique and unforgettable experience for tourists.
In conclusion, the tourism sector in Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a surge, with pilgrims arriving in large numbers for the Amarnath Yatra. The Chief Minister’s visit to Kolkata was a significant step in promoting tourism in the valley and reassuring tourists of their safety. The valley’s natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and spiritual significance make it a popular destination for tourists from all over the world, including West Bengal.
With the government’s efforts to promote tourism and the valley’s natural beauty, the sector is slowly but surely recovering. The Amarnath Yatra, which is expected to attract over a million devotees by the time it concludes, is a testament to the spiritual significance of the valley and its ability to attract tourists from all over the world.
