Jammu & Kashmir Government Enveils to Attract Religious Travellers

Srinagar, September 1, 2023: In a bid to further enhance tourism in the region and capitalize on the recent surge in tourist arrivals, the government of Jammu & Kashmir has announced a comprehensive strategy to attract religious tourists. The decision comes on the heels of a record-breaking year for tourism in the picturesque region, with over 1 crore visitors flocking to Kashmir in 2022.

Syed Abid Rashid Shah, the Tourism Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir, expressed optimism about the future of tourism in the region after the successful conclusion of the “Jashn-e-Adab—Cultural Karavaan” event. “We are bypassing last year’s tourist influx this year by leaps and bounds,” Shah stated, exuding confidence in the region’s growing appeal to travellers.

Attributing the remarkable growth in tourism to multiple factors, Shah underscored the impact of the recent G-20 Tourism Working Group meeting held in Srinagar. He labeled this event as a “game changer,” emphasizing its role in boosting foreign tourist arrivals and celebrating it as a significant achievement for the valley.

Highlighting the government’s endeavors to promote lesser-known destinations, Shah revealed that a total of 75 offbeat locales in the valley had been highlighted to showcase local culture. Not stopping there, the government has also earmarked an additional 75 destinations to foster spiritual experiences and augment religious tourism within Jammu and Kashmir.

Shah’s dedication to promoting the unique allure of Jammu and Kashmir was palpable. He stated, “We are unwavering in our commitment to spreading the charm of our region far and wide.” In a proactive effort to entice visitors, a dedicated team from the Tourism Department recently embarked on a promotional trip to Ahmedabad, following the success of similar campaigns in Cochin and Chennai.

As the region continues to unveil its hidden gems and open up new offbeat destinations, the future of the tourism industry in Jammu & Kashmir looks promising. The government’s multifaceted approach, bolstered by the allure of cultural events and strategic international partnerships, is poised to breathe new life into the already stunning landscape.

The decision to focus on religious tourism is a testament to the diversity and richness of the region’s offerings, presenting travellers with a multifarious palette of experiences to savor and explore. With its breathtaking natural beauty, historical significance, and newfound efforts to engage visitors on a spiritual level, Jammu & Kashmir is poised to capture the hearts and imaginations of tourists from across the globe.