Jammu and Kashmir recorded over 95 lakh domestic tourist visits in the first half of 2025, according to recent government data.
Tourism Thrives in Jammu & Kashmir
Jammu and Kashmir continues to be a top destination for domestic travelers. Government data reveals that over 95.92 lakh domestic tourists visited the region between January and June of 2025.
In addition to this impressive domestic footfall, J&K also welcomed 19,570 foreign tourists during the same six-month period. These figures underscore the region’s strong appeal to visitors.
Addressing Recent Concerns
The positive tourism numbers come amidst queries regarding potential declines in footfall following a recent terror attack in Pahalgam. Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat provided the data in response to questions from AIMIM MP Asaduddin Owaisi.
Owaisi had also inquired if the government had assessed the economic impact of such incidents on local tourism-dependent businesses. Minister Shekhawat clarified that the Ministry of Tourism had not conducted such an assessment.
The Pahalgam attack occurred on April 22, resulting in civilian casualties. India responded with “Operation Sindoor” in early May, targeting terror infrastructure. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh later highlighted this action in the Lok Sabha, emphasizing India’s resolve against terrorism.
A Look at Past and Present Numbers
The Ministry of Tourism shared detailed year-wise data for both domestic and foreign tourist visits, supplied by the J&K tourism department. The latest numbers show a consistent rise in domestic tourism over recent years.
- Domestic Tourist Visits (DTVs) for Jan-June 2025: 95,92,664
- Domestic Tourist Visits (DTVs) for Full Years:
- 2024: 2,35,24,629
- 2023: 2,06,79,336
- 2022: 1,84,99,332
- 2021: 1,13,14,920
- 2020: 25,19,524
- Foreign Tourist Visits (FTVs) for Jan-June 2025: 19,570
- Foreign Tourist Visits (FTVs) for Full Years:
- 2024: 65,452
- 2023: 55,337
- 2022: 19,985
- 2021: 1,650
- 2020: 5,317
Government Initiatives for Tourism
The Ministry of Tourism has been actively implementing various initiatives to boost the tourism sector across India, with a special focus on regions like Jammu and Kashmir.
Following the Pahalgam attack, Minister Shekhawat had acknowledged attempts by “nefarious intentions” to disrupt peace and tourism in the Valley. He affirmed his ministry’s commitment to minimize any negative impact on J&K’s tourism industry.
