J&K govt will promote religious, border tourism: Omar

SRINAGAR: Stressing his plan to transform Srinagar into a major tourist hub, Jammu and Kashmir CM Omar Abdullah on Thursday said his govt will promote religious tourism in the capital city and explore lesser-known destinations along the border for tourism development.

“Our focus remains on strengthening tourism infrastructure, enhancing visitor experience, and ensuring sustained growth in the sector,” Omar told the assembly.

He highlighted that landmarks such as Dal Lake, Nishat, Shalimar, Chashma Shahi, Pari Mahal, shrines, temples, and gurudwaras define Srinagar’s uniqueness as a tourist destination.

Omar said his govt is working to promote lesser-known destinations along the border, such as Gurez and Keran in north Kashmir, and Machail, Bhaderwah, Sukrala Mata, and Pancheri in Jammu.

The state has witnessed a rise in tourist footfall, reaching 2.36 crore in 2024, up from 2.12 crore in 2023, Omar said. He added that 1,057 of the 1,914 tourism infrastructure projects initiated in 2024-25 have already been completed.
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