Big Decision by Manoj Sinha: 12 Tourist Spots in J&K to Reopen – Full List Here
Srinagar, September 26: In a big boost for tourism in Jammu and Kashmir, the administration has decided to reopen 12 popular tourist destinations that were closed earlier this year due to security concerns. The decision was taken after a detailed security review and a high-level meeting chaired by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha.
According to officials, seven of these locations are in Kashmir Division and five are in Jammu Division. They will officially welcome visitors again from September 29, 2025.
This marks the first large-scale reopening of tourist spots since April, when an attack on a group of travellers in Pahalgam prompted authorities to shut several destinations as a precaution.
Which Places Will Open Again
In Kashmir Division, visitors can now plan trips to:
- Aru Valley
- Rafting Point Yanner
- Akkad Park
- Padshahi Park, Bijbehara
- Dara Shikoh Garden, Anantnag
- Kaman Post
- Eco-Park Khadniyar, Baramulla
In Jammu Division, the following places will reopen:
- Dagan Top, Ramban
- Dhaggar, Kathua
- Chinkah, Reasi
- Shiv Cave, Salal
- Padri, Doda
Tourism officials said local administrations have been instructed to make sure facilities and safety measures are in place before visitors arrive.
High-Level Meeting Cleared the Move
The decision came after a meeting of the Unified Headquarters (UHQ), the top security coordination body in J&K. It included the Northern Army Commander Lt Gen Pratik Sharma, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, DGP Nalin Prabhat, senior army corps commanders, and representatives of central armed police forces, intelligence agencies, and the civil administration.
Sources say the meeting reviewed ground reports from security forces, district officials and tourism departments before giving the green signal.
Government Praises Security Forces
During the meeting, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha praised the security forces, J&K Police and intelligence agencies for their recent counter-terrorism successes across the Union Territory. He stressed that the fight against terrorism is not over and urged all agencies to keep up both “kinetic” (on-ground action) and “non-kinetic” (community outreach, de-radicalisation) efforts.
Sinha also highlighted the need to tackle radicalisation and drug abuse together, calling for a “whole-of-government approach” to maintain peace and stability.
Focus on Safety and Tourism Together
Officials said the administration is working to strike a balance between security and economic revival. Tourism is a lifeline for thousands of families in J&K, and the reopening of these destinations is expected to provide relief to local businesses, hoteliers, guides, and transport operators who suffered losses during the closures.
The Lieutenant Governor has directed security and civil departments to continuously update their plans, adopt new measures to handle emerging threats and ensure the safety of both residents and visitors.
What This Means for Tourists and Locals
With these reopenings, Kashmir and Jammu are set to see an increase in visitor numbers as the autumn season begins. Local shopkeepers and tour operators say they are preparing for a fresh influx of travellers and are hopeful that the improved security environment will help rebuild confidence among tourists.
Authorities, however, have urged travellers to remain alert and follow official advisories even as restrictions are lifted.
FAQs About the Reopening of Tourist Destinations
1. Why were these tourist spots closed earlier?
They were closed as a safety precaution after the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025, and other security concerns.
2. When will the destinations reopen for the public?
All 12 locations are set to reopen from September 29, 2025.
3. How many spots are in each division?
Seven in Kashmir Division and five in Jammu Division.
4. Will there be special security measures for tourists?
Yes. Local police, security forces, and district administrations have been told to strengthen safety checks and facilities at all reopened sites.
5. How will this reopening help locals?
Tour guides, shop owners, transporters, and hoteliers in these areas depend on tourism for their livelihood. The reopening is expected to revive local economies.
6. Is it completely safe to travel to these places now?
Security agencies have assessed the ground situation and cleared the sites, but visitors are advised to follow government advisories for their own safety.
7. Will more destinations reopen soon?
Officials say other locations may be reopened later depending on fresh security reviews and ground conditions.
