After the shocking terror attack in Pahalgam that left the entire Valley shaken, the Jammu and Kashmir administration has swung into action. Over 50 tourist destinations and trekking spots across the Union Territory have now been shut to the public, all in the interest of safety.
If you’re someone planning a trip to Kashmir in the coming days, this list is something you really need to take note of. Authorities have cited security concerns as the reason behind the sudden closures. The decision might sound harsh, especially in peak tourist season, but given the circumstances, it’s being seen as a necessary step to avoid any more tragedies.
Why This Sudden Clampdown?
Let’s be real—tourism is one of the lifelines of Kashmir. After years of struggle, the region was slowly getting back on track, welcoming travellers from across the country and even abroad. But the recent attack on a tourist vehicle near Pahalgam has once again stirred anxiety and raised alarm bells.
In response, the government is now playing it safe. Trekking trails, picnic spots, famous gardens, scenic valleys, and even some well-known hotels and cafes have been put on a temporary “off-limits” list. Officials say this is a precautionary measure while they reassess and beef up security at these locations.
Areas That Are Now Out of Bounds
Here’s a quick look at the major districts and spots where tourist access has been stopped:
Bandipora
- Gurez Valley
Budgam
- Yousmarg
- Tousimaidan
- Doodpathri
Kulgam
- Aharbal
- Kousarnag
Kupwara
- Bangus
- Kariwan Diver
- Chandigam
- Handwara
- Bangus Valley
Baramulla
- Habba Khatoon Point Kawnar
- Babareshi Tangmarg
- Ringawali Tangmarg
- Gogaldara Tangmarg
- Baderkote Tangmarg
- Shrunz Waterfall
- Kamanpost Uri
- Namblan Waterfall
- Eco Park Khadniyar
Pulwama
- Sangarwani
Sopore
- Wular / Watlab
- Rampora and Rajpora
Budgam
- Chearhar
- Mundij-Hamam-Markoot Waterfall
- Khampoo, Bosnia, Vijitop
Anantnag
- Sun Temple Kheribal
- Verinag Garden
- Sinthan Top
- Margantop
- Akad Park
Srinagar
- Jamia Masjid
- Badamwari
- Rajori Kadal Hotel Kanaaz
- Aali Kadal JJ Food Restaurant
- IVORY Hotel Gandtal (Theed)
- Padshapal Resorts & Restaurant (Faqir Gujri)
- Cherry Tree Resort (Faqir Gujri)
- North Cliff Cafe & Retreat (Astanmarg Paragliding Point)
- Forest Hill Cottage (Astan Mohalla, Dara)
- Eco Village Resort (Dara)
- Astanmarg View Point
- Astanmarg Paragliding Spot
- Mamneth and Mahadev Hills (via Faqir Gujri)
- Buddhist Monastery, Harwan
- Dachigam – Beyond Trout Farm / Fisheries Farm
- Astanpora (especially Qayam Gah Resort)
Ganderbal
- Lachpatri Lateral
- Hung Park
- Naranag
