1 / 9Following the terror attack in Pahalgam, Anantnag district on April 22, top tourist locations in northern India are facing a significant drop in visitors. This incident raised tensions at the India-Pakistan border as Indian forces conducted a strong response, targeting terrorist sites in Pakistan. Consequently, many tourists have canceled their plans to visit northern India. (Image: PTI)
2 / 9In a demonstration of resilience, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah cycled through the streets of Pahalgam on May 27, accompanied by his sons Zamir and Zahir. He engaged with locals, reassuring them about efforts to rejuvenate tourism swiftly. (Image: PTI)
3 / 9The family’s cycling expedition, covering 2.5 km, took place just over a month after a terrorist attack that resulted in 26 fatalities. This bike ride, starting from a hotel en route to the base camp for the approaching annual Amarnath Yatra, followed a special cabinet meeting led by the chief minister. (Image: PTI)
4 / 9This initiative conveyed the message that the government will not be intimidated by acts of terrorism. The Amarnath Yatra, a 38-day pilgrimage leading to the 3,880-meter-high holy cave where a naturally formed ice Shivlingam resides, is scheduled to begin on July 3. Pilgrims can choose between the traditional 48-km route from Pahalgam or the shorter, steeper 14-km Baltal route in Ganderbal district. (Image: PTI)
5 / 9Afterward, Abdullah had a meeting with Aman Mahajan, Vice President, Leisure Travel at Thomas Cook (India), Suzanne Pereria, Senior Vice President – Trade Relationships, Thomas Cook (India), Mohamed Akram Siah of Meena Travels Private Limited (Local DMC), and Rakesh Bawa, Senior Vice President and Head – Holidays, SOTC Travel Limited.
6 / 9In the wake of the tragic attack on April 22, the tourism sector in Kashmir is grappling with severe challenges, as visitor numbers in Pahalgam have plummeted drastically. Nevertheless, Abdullah’s cycling initiative has attracted positive feedback from local tourism stakeholders, who see it as a crucial step toward restoring trust among potential visitors. (Image: PTI)
7 / 9Local hotelier Amir remarked, "This gesture from the Abdullah family is heartening, and we are optimistic that the chief minister’s efforts will aid in reviving tourism in the valley." (Image: PTI)
8 / 9He pointed out that the recent attack has overshadowed the region, resulting in numerous cancellations by potential visitors. "Despite the challenges, we remain hopeful for a rebound in tourism in Pahalgam and surrounding areas in the months ahead," he concluded. (Image: PTI)
9 / 9During the cycling journey, the chief minister made various stops to engage with locals and tourists at the hill resort, even taking time for selfies. (Image: PTI)
