The Jammu and Kashmir government is focusing on enhancing religious and tourism sites in Srinagar to attract more visitors.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, addressing the legislative assembly on Thursday, said the city's key attractions, including Dal Lake, Nishat, Shalimar, Chashmashahi, Pari Mahal, shrines, temples and gurdwaras, contribute to Srinagar’s distinct identity. “We are dedicated to promoting these destinations to boost tourism,” he said.
Responding to a question from legislator Ali Mohammad Sagar about tourism’s role in the region’s economy and initiatives to increase tourist footfall, Abdullah described the sector as a vital economic driver, contributing hugely to GDP and employment.
“Tourism provides direct and indirect livelihood opportunities to a wide range of people, including hotel staff, tour operators, taxi drivers, souvenir vendors, and young entrepreneurs,” he said.
He outlined the government’s strategy to diversify tourism by encouraging adventure tourism, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism, golf tourism, eco-tourism, pilgrimage tourism, and cultural and heritage tourism.
“This approach is aimed at drawing a broader range of tourists to Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.
As minister overseeing the tourism department, Abdullah informed the house about ongoing promotional efforts at national and international levels. He also stressed the importance of developing lesser-known locations to extend tourism beyond traditional destinations.
"We are actively working on emerging tourist spots such as Gurez, Keran, Bungus, Tosamaidan, Aharbal, Doodhpathri, Machail, Bhaderwah, Sukrala Mata, and Pancheri to increase visitor interest,” he said.
He said tourist arrivals in Jammu and Kashmir have seen a notable rise over the past two years.
In 2023, the region welcomed 21.18 million tourists, with the number rising to 23.59 million in 2024.
Providing an update on tourism infrastructure, the chief minister revealed that in 2022-23, 984 projects were initiated, of which 549 were completed. In 2023-24, 1,191 projects were launched, with 516 completed.
For 2024-25, 1,914 projects have been started, with 1,057 already completed.
"Our priority remains strengthening tourism infrastructure, enhancing visitor experiences, and ensuring long-term growth in the sector," Abdullah noted.
