Will the Pahalgam Attack Affect Tourism in Kashmir and Leh?
In late April 2025, a tragic terrorist ambush near the scenic Baisaran meadows in Pahalgam, Kashmir, claimed the lives of at least 26 people—many of them tourists. This marked a disturbing shift in regional unrest, as it directly targeted holidaymakers. Since the incident, travel operators across India have reported a sharp spike in trip cancellations, especially among travelers bound for Jammu & Kashmir.
But what does this mean for the broader tourism season in Kashmir and Leh? Will travelers still feel confident exploring these stunning destinations?
Booking Cancellations and Industry Impact
Within hours of the attack, airlines like Air India and IndiGo added extra flights out of Srinagar and waived cancellation fees. Tour companies such as Cox & Kings offered full refunds for Kashmir-bound trips. According to Cleartrip, Kashmir flight cancellations rose sevenfold, and new bookings dropped by 40% in the immediate aftermath.
In cities like Kolkata and Mumbai—major hubs for outbound tourism—travel agents say 7 out of 10 summer holiday bookings are usually to Kashmir. Now, many of those travelers are scrambling to reroute or delay plans. Operators who had hundreds of bookings per week are seeing widespread uncertainty and deferrals.
What Are Governments Saying?
The Indian government responded by enhancing airport operations and offering logistical help to stranded travelers. Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat condemned the attack and promised ongoing support for the state's tourism sector.
Foreign governments updated their travel advisories shortly after. The U.S. State Department issued a “Level 4: Do Not Travel” warning for Jammu & Kashmir, citing the attack and regional instability. However, it specifically exempted Ladakh, including Leh, from the warning. The UK government echoed this by advising against all travel to Kashmir while clarifying that Ladakh remains safe.
Voices from the Ground
Despite the fear, many locals in Kashmir continue to urge travelers not to give in to panic. A Dal Lake shikara owner shared, “Most of the people have cancelled their trips… but we would like to urge people to come. This is our livelihood.”
Tour operators report about 80% cancellations, but also mention that 20% of their clients are still committed to their trips. One operator said: “Some even told us, ‘This is our country. We won’t let terrorists win.’”
Is Leh Affected?
Although Leh is politically part of the same union territory as Jammu & Kashmir, it’s geographically and culturally distinct. So far, there have been no incidents in Leh or Ladakh. But hotel operators in Ladakh report that many tourists are mistakenly canceling trips, thinking the entire region is unsafe.
According to local business owners, Ladakh’s calm and isolation from the Kashmir Valley’s unrest have not changed—but widespread panic and vague foreign travel advisories are hurting their bookings too.
What’s Next for Kashmir & Leh Tourism?
Kashmir welcomed over 23 million tourists in 2024. Many worry that this year’s season could be disrupted just as momentum was building. For now, travel portals are recommending caution for Kashmir Valley visits, but they also emphasize that Leh and Ladakh remain open, peaceful, and safe.
The coming weeks will show whether government efforts and local resilience can rebuild confidence. Until then, travelers are encouraged to stay informed, verify travel advisories, and support communities that depend on tourism.
