J&K suspends all trekking activities following Pahalgam terror attack; key details here

In the wake of a devastating terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) has taken decisive action to safeguard both tourists and locals by suspending all trekking activities across the region. This measure underscores the government's commitment to ensuring the safety of visitors in the face of escalating security concerns.

On April 22, 2025, a terrorist assault in Pahalgam, a popular tourist destination in South Kashmir, resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals, including 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen. The attack occurred in Baisaran, an area renowned for its scenic meadows and dubbed "mini Switzerland." Gunmen opened fire on a group of tourists, leading to widespread panic and a subsequent exodus of visitors from the region .

In response to the tragedy, the J&K Forest Department has ordered the closure of all trekking routes within the Union Territory. This decision affects both short and long treks, particularly those that delve deep into forested areas. Authorities have directed district police to compile lists of these routes to facilitate the enforcement of the suspension.


Kashmir's trekking season, which usually lasts from May to September, draws a lot of adventure seekers. However, the government has said that trekking will continue to be suspended until a thorough evaluation of the security situation is carried out in light of recent events.

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Impact on tourismThe local economy, which is mostly dependent on tourism, will be significantly impacted if trekking is suspended. There has already been a dramatic drop in visitor arrivals and a spike in flight cancellations as a result of the Pahalgam incident. Significant financial losses are being suffered by local companies, including as lodging facilities, transportation providers, and trekking guides. These difficulties are made worse by the government's determination to block trekking routes, which raises doubts about the forthcoming travel season.

Broader security concernsSince the Pahalgam attack, security worries have grown throughout the region. The attackers, believed to be members of the "Kashmir Resistance" group, reportedly targeted tourists in an attempt to stop the influx of "outsiders" into the region. Among other punitive measures, India has retaliated by suspending the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan and imposing travel restrictions. These measures indicate the gravity of the situation and the government's resolve to address the security concerns directly.

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Long-term plans are the need of the hour to rebuild trust in Kashmir as a secure travel destination, even while the immediate focus is still on protecting locals and tourists. This also includes strengthening the infrastructure for security, encouraging community involvement, and reviving the tourism industry through focused projects.

For now, the suspension of trekking activities serves as a precautionary measure to prevent unfortunate incidents and to allow for a thorough evaluation of the security landscape in Jammu and Kashmir.