50 Tourist Sites Closed In Jammu And Kashmir After Pahalgam Terror Attack Over Security Concerns, Gulmarg Remains Open

Following the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26, the government of Jammu and Kashmir has decided to close approximately 50 tourist sites and hiking trails in the Valley, citing security concerns.

Famous resorts such as the Gurez Valley, Dodapathri, Verinag, the Bangus Valley, and Yusmarg are among the destinations that have been closed due to insufficient security measures, Indian Express reported.

The government has decided to shut down certain tourist spots for the "safety of the tourists," following last Tuesday's assault in Pahalgam which resulted in the death of 25 tourists and a local, according to officials. They stated that tourist locations with sufficient security measures will continue to operate.

Gurez, a valley located on the Line of Control (LoC) in the Bandipora district, has transformed into a popular tourist destination over the past 10 years despite being one of the restricted areas.

Dodapathri, a meadow gaining popularity as a tourist spot due to its close distance to Srinagar city — merely 45 km away — has also been closed.

Tourist access has also been restricted in the Bangus Valley located in Kupwara, North Kashmir, and Verinag in Anantnag, South Kashmir.

The Kaman post in Uri, located on the LoC, which had previously been accessible to tourists, is now shut down. This location was popular among picnickers, both local and from outside of Kashmir.

The government has additionally resolved to shut down Kousarnag, a lofty lake located in Shopian, south Kashmir, to visitors. Notably, Kousarnag is a popular trekking trail among adventure tourists and trekkers.

The government in Srinagar city has made the decision to prohibit tourists from visiting Jamia Masjid, the grand mosque located in the center of the Old City.

Authorities announced that law enforcement and paramilitary units will establish checkpoints around these tourist sites, ensuring visitors do not stray beyond specified zones.

Pahalgam, along with other popular locations such as Gulmarg, continues to welcome tourists, although certain zones within these areas are off-limits, according to officials.