All-season vision :J&K bets big on tourism push with over 1,300 projects
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By Ovaise Gul
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- 02 Apr 2026
Srinagar, Apr 01: Jammu and Kashmir is steadily scripting a new tourism narrative that blends infrastructure expansion, cultural vibrancy and all-season accessibility, as indicated by the latest reply of the Tourism Department in the Legislative Assembly.
Responding to a question raised by MLA Ghulam Ahmad Mir, the government outlined an ambitious and multi-layered strategy to transform the Union Territory into a premier, year-round tourist destination.
At the heart of this push lies a massive infrastructure upgrade. The department revealed that more than 1,500 works have been taken up under the Capex Budget 2025-26, with 1,314 projects targeted for completion within the current financial year. These include construction of tourist facilities, renovation of existing assets, wayside amenities, tourist bungalows, parks, restaurants, and sewerage treatment plants, aimed at elevating both visitor comfort and environmental sustainability.
Efforts are also underway to improve accessibility and navigation, with installation of wayfinding signages and digital information systems across major tourist destinations. The government emphasised that these initiatives are being executed with a focus on sustainable tourism, subject to funding availability and statutory clearances.
The impact of these measures is already visible. Jammu and Kashmir recorded an impressive 2.35 crore tourist visits in 2024, a sharp rise from 1.88 crore in 2022, signalling renewed confidence among travellers and a revival of the region’s tourism economy.
Beyond infrastructure, the government is banking on events and experiences to boost tourist engagement. High-profile events such as marathons, music festivals and auto shows have been instrumental in enhancing J&K’s tourism profile.
In south Kashmir’s Verinag, the department has rolled out a calendar of seasonal festivals such as spring, autumn and winter, to ensure steady tourist inflow throughout the year.
While proposals for Light and Sound Shows at Verinag and Dooru are under consideration, officials noted that such projects require advanced technology and significant funding, and will be examined for feasibility.
The government has also turned its focus to emerging destinations like Sarbal and Braid Gali in Dooru constituency, which are being explored for their winter tourism potential. With snow-based recreational activities on the horizon, these lesser-known spots could soon find a place on the tourism map.
Religious and cultural tourism form another key pillar of this strategy. Several shrines and heritage sites across Dooru are being upgraded, including Hazrat Sultan Kapran, Mahmood Gami Ziyarat and Malikpora Masjid Sharief. Parallelly, cultural initiatives such as mushairas and literary festivals are being organised to promote local language, heritage and traditions.
Additionally, heritage conservation efforts are underway, with projects like the development of Lokhbhawani Shrine and the restoration of historic sites in Anantnag gaining momentum under dedicated schemes.
Taken together, the government’s approach signals a shift towards integrated tourism development that not only enhances infrastructure but also preserves culture, promotes sustainability and unlocks the potential of offbeat destinations.
As Jammu and Kashmir positions itself as a dynamic, all-season destination, the coming years could well see tourism emerge as a cornerstone of its economic revival.
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