Pahalgam terror attack: Calls for cancellation of hotel & flight bookings flood tour-travel operators
Pahalgam Terror Attack Fallout: Travel Cancellations Hit Kashmir’s Tourism Industry
April 23, 2025 | Srinagar: The peaceful town of Pahalgam turned tense after a recent terror attack that left several injured and claimed lives. The tragedy has now triggered a wave of travel cancellations, leaving Kashmir’s tourism industry in distress.
Tour operators across India are reporting heavy losses. Many travelers are canceling hotel and flight bookings due to rising safety concerns. This comes just as the summer season was expected to boost local tourism.
Panic Leads to Massive Cancellations
Since the attack, travel agents have received a flood of cancellation requests. Clients from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru are scrapping their Kashmir plans. Some travelers are not just canceling Pahalgam visits — they’re avoiding the entire valley.
Ravi Malik, a Delhi-based travel agent, said, “We had over 100 bookings for Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam in the next two months. After the incident, more than 70% have either canceled or shifted to Himachal and Uttarakhand.”
Tour operators, who hoped for a strong travel season, are now counting losses.
Local Economy Faces a Crisis
Tourism is a lifeline for many in Pahalgam and nearby areas. Now, hotel owners, transport unions, and local artisans are watching their earnings vanish. Most rely heavily on summer tourism.
Mehraj Ahmad, a hotelier in Pahalgam, said, “April and May usually bring the highest number of guests. This year, people are canceling or leaving mid-stay. It’s heartbreaking.”
In 2024, Jammu and Kashmir saw over two million tourists. That number may drop sharply in 2025 unless traveler confidence returns.
Airlines and Hotels Show Flexibility
To ease the situation, many airlines and hotels are offering flexible policies. Some are waiving cancellation charges and letting travelers reschedule at no extra cost.
IndiGo and Vistara are offering one free date change for Kashmir-bound flights between April 20 and May 10. Several hotels in Pahalgam and Srinagar are giving full refunds or open-date vouchers.
These steps aim to protect travelers financially and maintain trust in Kashmir as a destination.
Security Measures Tightened
Security forces have responded quickly. Police have increased patrolling, added checkpoints, and enhanced surveillance in tourist areas.
Inspector General V.K. Bhat said, “We’re on high alert. Tourists’ safety is our top priority. Kashmir remains a warm and welcoming place.”
Despite the security measures, fear lingers. Past incidents still influence travelers’ decisions, especially among families and older tourists.
Industry Leaders Urge Calm
Tourism professionals are urging travelers not to panic. They say the attack happened in a remote area, far from the main tourist zones.
Faisal Shah, President of the Kashmir Travel Operators Association, said, “Please don’t cancel out of fear. These cancellations worsen the situation for locals who depend on tourism.”
He called for government support and a public awareness campaign. He believes it’s vital to show people that Kashmir is still safe to visit with proper precautions.
Government Support Awaited
The Union Tourism Ministry has condemned the attack and promised support. However, industry leaders await a detailed plan. They are hoping for economic relief and promotional campaigns to revive tourism.
Sources say the J&K administration may soon launch a “Visit Kashmir Safely” campaign. The aim is to rebuild confidence and attract travelers once the situation settles.
Conclusion
The Pahalgam terror attack has shaken Kashmir’s image and tourism economy. Travel cancellations continue to rise. But with strong security, supportive policies, and clear communication, the valley can recover. For the locals whose lives depend on tourism, the return of travelers means the return of hope.
