By Kavita Mistry 
A recent survey by LocalCircles has revealed the devastating impact of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack on Kashmir’s booming tourism sector. The militant strike, which claimed at least 28 lives, has led to mass cancellations and growing uncertainty, just as the region was gearing up for a record-breaking travel season.
Kashmir Tourism in Crisis
According to the survey, 62% of families with bookings to Kashmir between May and December 2025 have now cancelled their plans. Conducted across 361 districts, the survey received over 21,000 verified responses, reflecting a wide demographic spectrum from both urban and rural India.
The attack, believed to be carried out by militants of The Resistance Front, has shaken traveler confidence, with domestic airlines receiving more than 15,000 flight cancellation or rescheduling requests for routes to Srinagar.
From Record Tourism to Rapid Decline
Kashmir had recorded 2.3 crore tourist arrivals in 2025, indicating a potential all-time high for tourism. However, the Pahalgam incident has cast a long shadow, threatening not only general tourism but also key religious events like the Amarnath Yatra.
Tour operators are concerned that if the government fails to restore confidence quickly, the long-term consequences for Kashmir’s economy could be severe.
Travel Sentiments Across India
The survey also shows a dramatic shift in travel intentions:
- Only 29% of respondents say they still plan to visit Kashmir within the next three years.
- 33% say their decision will depend on how effectively the government improves the security situation.
- Meanwhile, 38% of those originally planning a trip say they will still go ahead, showing some resilience amid fear.
What Leaders Are Saying
Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the attack, vowing that the perpetrators would face unprecedented consequences. “The willpower of 140 crore Indians will now break the back of the masters of terror,” he declared.
J&K MLA Sajad Lone added that the motive behind the terror strike was to “economically disempower Kashmir.”
Unless security measures are swiftly reinforced and confidence restored, the once-thriving tourism sector in Kashmir may take years to recover from this blow.