Reopen Baisaran for full tourism revival: Ponywalas urge LG, CM

Abid Bashir
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23 Apr 2026

Say ‘Mini Switzerland’ is every traveller’s dream

Srinagar, Apr 22: A year after the deadly terror attack at Baisaran meadow in Pahalgam, the local tourism industry is recovering - slowly, cautiously, and quietly. Ponywalas, who depend entirely on tourist footfall, say the continued closure of the popular meadow, often called ‘Mini Switzerland’, is preventing a full revival.

For ponywalas like Rouf Wani, the journey from despair to renewed optimism has been shaped by both tragedy and reform.

Recalling the aftermath of the deadly attack at Baisaran last year, Wani said the shock had nearly paralysed tourism in the region. “For a moment, we thought there would be no tourism in Pahalgam at all,” he said, his voice tinged with memory. “But after the Amarnath Yatra (last year), hope slowly returned. We realised things are changing.”

One of the most visible changes has been the introduction of a QR code system for ponywalas—an administrative move aimed at streamlining services and enhancing tourist safety. “The administration told us clearly that no ponywalla can operate without a QR code,” Rouf said. “It carries all our details—phone number and Aadhaar information. Tourists can scan it and know exactly who they are travelling with and where they are going. It’s a good step. It has made visitors feel more secure.”

Yet, beneath this layer of improved trust lies a lingering challenge. Tourist footfall, though returning, remains below expectations. The continued closure of Baisaran has dealt a significant blow to local livelihoods.

“Even today, the number of tourists is less,” Wani said. “Baisaran remains closed. If this spot is reopened, we believe tourism will bounce back fully. Most tourists come here with the dream of visiting Baisaran.”

He pointed out that while other destinations such as Chandanwari and the scenic Danav Valley offer alternatives, they do not quite replace the allure of Baisaran. “We request Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to reopen these points so that we can sustain our livelihood again,” he said.

Another ponywalla, Reyaz Ahmad, echoed similar sentiments, saying the QR system has brought discipline to the trade, but economic recovery remains incomplete. “There is more order now, no doubt. Tourists trust us more because of this system,” he said. “But our earnings depend on the number of places open. Without Baisaran, it feels like something vital is missing.”

Despite the challenges, signs of resilience are visible not just among service providers but also among tourists trickling back into the valley.

Ritika Sharma, a visitor from Delhi, said the new measures had reassured her. “Initially, my family was hesitant because of what happened last year,” she admitted. “But seeing the QR system and security arrangements on the ground, we felt more confident. The beauty of Pahalgam is unmatched.”

From Maharashtra, traveller Aditya Kulkarni shared a similar view. “Yes, there was fear, but it has reduced significantly. The locals are very welcoming, and everything seems more organised now,” he said, adding that he hoped Baisaran would reopen soon. “We have heard so much about it—it’s on every traveller’s list,” he said.

Meanwhile, a family from Gujarat described their visit as both emotional and uplifting. “We were aware of the incident, but we didn’t want fear to stop us from experiencing this place,” said Mehul Patel. “Kashmir needs tourists, and tourists need to see Kashmir.”

Back in Pahalgam, as the Lidder river flows steadily and the mountains stand unchanged, people like Rouf Wani continue to wait—for more visitors, for fuller days, and for the reopening of the meadow that once defined their trade. “The fear has gone down to a large extent,” Wani said, looking toward the hills. “Now, it is time people come back to Pahalgam.”