From January 2022 to February 2023, the total number of tourists who visited Kashmir during this period was recorded at 1.88 crore. It was a record-breaking year for the valley regarding tourist inflow. The year 2023 started with the hope that guests not only come from the country but from other countries as well. Kashmir valley has been the main attraction for foreign tourists but due to some unfortunate incidents involving foreigners during the time when gun-wielding terrorists hold sway for about three decades of turmoil and conflict thanks to our neighboring country.

It was during those tumultuous years. when most of the countries had to impose restrictions for their citizens to tour the then turbulent valley. Since New Delhi started asserting the government’s will for the benefit of beleaguered Kashmiris, things have begun to take a positive turn which is quite evident, particularly since August 2019.

Domestic tourists came out of fear and throughout world-famous beautiful destinations of the valley but the foreign tourists still remained the notable absentee. Lt Governor Manoj Sinha along with his team and able guidance from the Modi Government succeeded in turning the tables for good.

The historic G20 summit was a landmark in wooing foreign tourists back to paradise on Earth.

This year till date some 15000 odd foreigners have come to enjoy the serene atmosphere again after three decades of the smell of tear smoke and bullets.

The best is yet to come as future months should see the increasing number of foreign tourists which not only will boost the local economy but the positive image of Kashmir would change the negative perspective in the world and hence counter the propaganda of our adversary.