Amid grief, a glimmer of hope: Tourists trickle back to Pahalgam after terror attack

Srinagar: Five days after terrorists turned the scenic Baisaran meadow in Pahalgam into a scene of bloodshed, killing 25 tourists and a local pony handler, a faint but firm sign of resilience is emerging across Kashmir.

Against all odds, some tourists are sticking to their original itineraries — visiting not just Kashmir, but Pahalgam itself — refusing to let terror dictate their lives. Those visiting Pahalgam may be small in number; barely enough to count on fingers, but their presence speaks volumes.

“The incident was tragic and we deeply mourn the loss of lives. But we want to tell people across the country — don’t cancel your travel plans. Terrorists can’t dictate us, and we have to show them that our resolve is stronger to face any challenges,” said a tourist from Bangalore, who visited Pahalgam on Saturday with his family. “Initially, there was fear, but now, with the way locals have embraced us, we feel completely at home.”

Beyond the businesses that depend on tourism, residents across Kashmir have stepped up. Locals are offering free guidance to sightseeing spots, gifting visitors traditional souvenirs, and serving steaming cups of Kashmiri kehwa with a smile — small gestures that carry the weight of a community determined to reclaim its image from the shadow of violence.

“You can feel it in every interaction here — the hospitality is genuine, heartfelt,” said Neha Chowdhary, another tourist. “We didn’t expect this warmth, especially after what happened. I appeal to fellow countrymen to treat Kashmiris across India the same way as they are treating us here, and not allow hate to win.”

For the people of Pahalgam, every visiting tourist is a message of hope, a declaration that hate has not won. “We want the world to know that Kashmiris are known for their hospitality. Violence is not who we are. Our hearts and homes are open for all,” said Umar, a shopkeeper, as he handed a tourist a small embroidered pouch as a gift.

Even as security forces continue their hunt for the perpetrators and the Valley grapples with grief and fear, the return of even a handful of visitors has given the people of Pahalgam a reason to believe that peace is possible — and that terror, however brutal, cannot break the bond between Kashmir and the rest of the country.