Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is spearheading a campaign to revive tourism in the Valley, following the April 22 terror attack that claimed the lives of 26 people, severely impacted the industry and forcing tourists to cancel bookings due to fears of similar attacks.In a symbolic move to counter the perception of insecurity, Abdullah convened a meeting of his council of ministers and senior bureaucrats at a resort in Gulmarg, Baramulla district, on Wednesday (May 28). This followed a similar gathering held the previous day at a resort in Pahalgam, South Kashmir — both key tourist attractions.
In Pahalgam, the Jammu CM went on a bicycle ride with his children and was later seen by a scenic river taking selfies. The visits are being seen as a confidence-building measure aimed at reassuring tourists and industry stakeholders that Kashmir remains a safe and welcoming destination.
Also read | In pics: Jammu and Kashmir CM Omar Abdullah goes cycling with his children, hiking to showcase region is safeAfter chairing the meeting at the Gulmarg Club amid lush meadows, tall pine trees, and snow-dusted peaks, Abdullah took a Gondola ride up to Kongdori, a bowl-shaped stretch between Gulmarg and the Apharwat peak. The chief minister’s presence attracted attention from tourists visiting from Gujarat and Mumbai, some of whom requested a meeting through his security team.
Abdullah readily obliged, greeting the tourists warmly with handshakes and smiles, and personally asking them about their experiences in the Valley. He commended their spirit and happily posed for selfies and group photos.The enthusiasm with which the tourists received the chief minister was echoed by members of his delegation. Among those particularly moved by the encounter was Maviya, a 15-year-old from Mumbai, who was celebrating his birthday. Visibly thrilled, he recalled, “It was very cool of him to wish me. It was a great experience to meet the chief minister.” Abdullah had asked him, “How old are you?” before shaking his hand and offering birthday wishes.The chief minister also extended anniversary greetings to a couple from Gujarat celebrating their special day. He used the occasion to encourage all visiting tourists to share their positive experiences and help reshape the narrative around Kashmir.
Took advantage of being in Pahalgam to cycle around town for a little while this evening. pic.twitter.com/sB7ggqKxsr
— Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) May 27, 2025Many visitors expressed deep appreciation for the region’s hospitality and security arrangements. Mohammad Aftab, from Gandhinagar in Gujarat, said the atmosphere in the Valley was far removed from the negative perceptions often presented. “People are very loving. They are so helpful. The facilities in hotels are also commendable and the beauty of the places is unmatched,” he said.Posting on X , Abdullah shared his impressions: “Met tourists at Gulmarg and was pleased to hear their encouraging feedback. Their joy and appreciation reflect the growing confidence in Kashmir as a welcoming and vibrant destination.”The chief minister’s outreach, blending governance with grassroots engagement, has rekindled optimism among tourism stakeholders and signalled the government’s intent to restore confidence in the Valley as a peaceful, premier travel destination.
