In response to the recent terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives, including 25 tourists and one local, the Jammu and Kashmir administration has ordered the closure of around 50 tourist destinations and trekking routes across the Valley, citing security concerns.
Authorities said the decision was taken to prioritize the safety of tourists in the wake of last week’s attack. Locations lacking adequate security presence are being temporarily shut down, while popular tourist sites with strong security arrangements remain open.
Among the prominent destinations now off-limits are the picturesque Gurez Valley in Bandipora, the meadows of Dodapathri near Srinagar, Bangus Valley in Kupwara, Yusmarg, and Verinag in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district.
Gurez, situated along the Line of Control (LoC), has gained significant popularity with tourists over the past decade. Dodapathri, just 45 km from Srinagar, had also emerged as a favorite getaway for locals and visitors alike.
Other affected locations include the Kaman Post in Uri, which had recently been opened to the public and was drawing crowds from both within and outside the Valley.
Adventure tourism spots such as the high-altitude Kousarnag Lake in Shopian, known for its trekking routes, have also been closed for the time being.
In Srinagar, authorities have decided to bar tourist access to the historic Jamia Masjid, located in the heart of the Old City, as part of broader security measures.
Security forces, including police and paramilitary units, will establish checkpoints near the closed destinations to prevent unauthorized access beyond designated safe zones.
While Pahalgam and other major tourist hubs such as Gulmarg will remain open, movement within certain sections of these areas will be restricted as a precautionary measure.