Exclusive Report | Srinagar | February 17, 2026
LG Manoj Sinha Orders Reopening of 14 Vital Tourist Spots; A Decisive Step Toward Normalcy
SRINAGAR: In a landmark decision that has sent a wave of optimism across the Union Territory, the Jammu and Kashmir administration, led by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, has officially ordered the reopening of 14 significant tourist destinations. The move is strategically timed ahead of the spring season and is aimed at sending a clear message of “normalcy and security” to the global travel community.
Immediate Reopening: The Full List
Following a comprehensive security audit and discussions with various stakeholders, the LG’s office announced that 11 spots in the Kashmir Division and 3 in the Jammu Division are to be thrown open to the public with immediate effect.
Kashmir Division (11 Spots)
- Srinagar: Asia’s largest Tulip Garden (Indira Gandhi Memorial) and Astanpora.
- Budgam: The meadows of Yousmarg and Doodhpathri.
- Anantnag: Dandipora Park in Kokernag.
- Shopian: Peer Ki Gali, Dubjan, and Padpawan.
- Ganderbal: Thajwas Glacier and Hung Park.
- Baramulla: Wullar Lake and Watlab.
Jammu Division (3 Spots)
- Reasi: Devi Pindi.
- Ramban: Mahu Mangat.
- Kishtwar: Mughal Maidan.
Boost to Economy and Livelihoods
The tourism sector is the lifeline of J&K’s economy, supporting over 70% of the local population directly or indirectly. The temporary closure of these spots following the 2025 Pahalgam incident had impacted winter footfall. With this reopening, thousands of pony wallas, tour operators, shikara owners, and hotel staff are expecting a robust recovery.
Strategic Security Review
The decision wasn’t made in isolation. It follows a high-level meeting chaired by Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Jammu earlier this month. The Home Minister had advocated for “aggressive marketing” of J&K’s destinations. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also recently voiced the need for reopening these spots in the State Assembly, emphasizing that restored access is vital for “confidence building.”
Destinations Opening Soon (Post Snow Clearance)
| Region | Spot Name | Current Status |
|---|---|---|
| Kashmir | Gurez Valley, Athwatoo, Bangus | Awaiting Snow Clearance |
| Jammu | Ramkund (Ramban) | Awaiting Snow Clearance |
Voice of the Stakeholders
“This is the best news we have received in months. Reopening Peer Ki Gali and Tulip Garden specifically will act as a catalyst for the 2026 spring season. We are ready to welcome the world.” — Member, Travel Agents Association of Kashmir (TAAK).
