Tourists visiting Srinagar have reported feeling safe and welcomed, indicating a return to normalcy in the Valley nearly one year after the Pahalgam terror attack.
Visitors from various parts of India shared their experiences, expressing confidence in the security and atmosphere during their stay in Kashmir.
Sureshbhai Patel, a tourist from Gandhinagar, Gujarat, said, “I have come from Gandhinagar (Gujarat). The atmosphere here felt great. It felt like home. People should come here and enjoy.” He added, “It has been a year since the terrorist attack (in Pahalgam). But now the atmosphere here is not scary. We felt safe everywhere. People here are good and cooperative.”
Another visitor, Dr Piyush Panchal from Ahmedabad, also emphasised the peaceful conditions and hospitality of the locals, stating, “I have come here from Ahmedabad (Gujarat). The weather is so good here. Locals are good too. We do not feel any fear here; it feels good. People should come here for a visit.”
The statements come as Srinagar experiences a steady flow of tourists while marking the first anniversary of the April 22, 2025 Baisaran terror attack in Pahalgam. Security forces remain deployed in key locations, maintaining vigilance to ensure a secure environment for both visitors and residents.
The increase in tourist activity is seen as a sign of gradual recovery following last year’s attack. Earlier, the Indian Army reaffirmed its commitment to combat terrorism, recalling the decisive ‘Operation Sindoor’ and warning of assured retaliation against any acts of terror.
On April 22, 2025, terrorists attacked the tourist town of Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir, killing 26 civilians in a nearby village. Known for its scenic beauty, Pahalgam experienced a devastating loss as Pakistan-backed terrorists targeted innocent civilians.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to the victims on the anniversary, reiterating India’s firm resolve to fight terrorism. In a post on X, he expressed solidarity with the bereaved families and affirmed national unity, stating: “Remembering the innocent lives lost in the gruesome Pahalgam terror attack on this day last year. They will never be forgotten. My thoughts are also with the bereaved families as they cope with this loss. As a nation, we stand united in grief and resolve. India will never bow to any form of terror. The heinous designs of terrorists will never succeed.”
Following the attack, India launched ‘Operation Sindoor’ on May 7, 2025, targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). Official reports state that Indian armed forces destroyed nine major terror launchpads linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed, and Hizbul Mujahideen, eliminating over 100 terrorists.
Subsequent drone attacks and shelling by Pakistan led to a four-day conflict between the two countries. India responded with strong defence and retaliatory strikes, destroying radar installations in Lahore and facilities near Gurjanwala.