JAMMU AND KASHMIR - Jammu and Kashmir is set to reopen a significant number of tourist destinations by May 2026, with officials stating that a majority of sites, particularly those closed after a past terrorist attack in Pahalgam, will be accessible. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced this plan, emphasizing efforts to revive the region's tourism sector. This move comes after several areas remained off-limits for an extended period, impacting local economies and livelihoods. The announcement follows a security review and discussions between the Jammu and Kashmir government and the central government.
Background and Timeline
The closure of tourist spots stemmed from a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which resulted in the deaths of 26 people, primarily tourists. Following this event in 2025, many tourist destinations, particularly in the Kashmir division, were shut down as a precautionary measure.
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2025: A terrorist attack in Pahalgam leads to the closure of numerous tourist sites across Jammu and Kashmir.
February 2026: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announces that all tourist destinations will reopen by May 2026.
February 16, 2026: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha orders the reopening of 14 tourist spots after a security review.
February 19, 2026: Multiple reports reiterate the Chief Minister's announcement of reopening all closed destinations by May 2026, confirming discussions with the Union Government.
Key Figures and Statements
Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, is the primary figure making the announcement regarding the reopening of tourist destinations.
Manoj Sinha, Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, has ordered the reopening of several sites following a security review.
Tourism Stakeholders have expressed relief and confidence in the rebound of the tourism industry following these announcements.
"I want to tell you all these destinations will reopen till May." - Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir
"Tourism stakeholders are hopeful that the revival of winter tourism would also lead to revival of tourism in the Valley post Pahalgam attack." - Article 6
Scope of Reopening
The announcement covers a broad range of tourist areas, including those in the Kashmir division and Jammu province.
Kashmir Division: At least 44 tourist destinations in Kashmir were closed after the Pahalgam attack. Eleven of these were specifically mentioned by Abdullah.
Jammu Province: Will also see new destinations opened.
New Destinations: Nine new tourist destinations are planned to be introduced across J&K under a Centrally sponsored scheme.
While the announcement aims for a full sector revival, the specifics of which sites remain closed due to unspecified reasons, possibly linked to central government decisions, are noted.
Security and Economic Considerations
The decision to reopen tourist sites follows a detailed security review. The prolonged closure has had a demonstrable negative effect on the local economy and the livelihoods of those dependent on tourism.
Economic Impact: The closure of resorts like Doodhpathri, Tosamaidan, and Yousmarg has adversely affected the local economy.
Stakeholder Relief: The reopening is seen as a significant confidence-building measure and a boost for the sector, restoring hope among stakeholders.
Winter Tourism Revival: Recent snowfall has revived winter tourism, adding to the optimism for a broader sector recovery.
Efforts and Coordination
The Jammu and Kashmir government has engaged in discussions with the central government to facilitate the reopening process.
Coordination with Central Government: Discussions have taken place regarding the matter, with assurances that efforts are being made in coordination with the Union Government.
Home Minister Visit: The Chief Minister indicated plans to discuss the closure of destinations with the Home Minister during an upcoming visit to J&K.
Areas Mentioned
Specific tourist locations that were closed and are expected to reopen include:
Doodhpathri
Yusmarg
Tulip Garden (Srinagar)
Astanpora (Srinagar)
Hung Park (Ganderbal)
Thajwas Glacier (Ganderbal)
Other areas, like Jammu Lake and the Jammu Riverfront, are also nearing completion as part of new tourism initiatives.
Future Outlook
The government intends to market new destinations, acknowledging the challenges involved. The prolonged tourism season is expected to benefit from these reopening efforts.
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Market New Destinations: Acknowledged as a difficult but necessary step for sector growth.
Prolonged Tourism Period: The reopening is timed to benefit from an extended tourism season.
Sources
Indian Express: https://indianexpress.com/article/india/tourist-sites-closed-pahalgam-open-may-2026-omar-abdullah-jk-10541252/
The Hindu: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/jammu-and-kashmir/all-closed-tourist-destinations-in-jk-to-reopen-by-may-cm-omar-abdullah/article70651994.ece
JK News Today: https://jknewstoday.com/all-tourist-spots-to-reopen-by-may-says-omar-abdullah/
Kashmir Age: https://kashmirage.net/2026/02/19/tourist-spots-shut-after-pahalgam-attack-to-reopen-by-may-cm/
Kashmir Observer: https://kashmirobserver.com/2026/02/16/jk-lg-clears-reopening-of-14-tourist-spots-closed-after-pahalgam-attack/
The New Indian Express: https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2026/Feb/06/prolonged-closure-of-tourist-destinations-after-pahalgam-attack-hit-kashmir-economy-tourism-cm-omar-abdullah
Varthabharati: https://english.varthabharati.in/index.php/india/all-tourist-spots-in-j-k-likely-to-reopen-by-may-9-new-sites-to-be-introduced-cm-abdullah
India TV: https://www.indiatvnews.com/lifestyle/travel/pahalgam-tourist-places-reopen-after-2025-terror-attack-full-list-of-14-valleys-and-parks-accessible-now-2026-02-17-1030608
Kashmir Frontier: https://www.kashmirfrontier.com/2026/02/19/all-tourist-destinations-shut-post-pahalgam-terror-attack-to-reopen-by-may-cm-omar/
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