Srinagar, August 2025 – The Kashmir trekking crisis has plunged the region’s vital tourism sector into uncertainty, bringing its post-COVID economic recovery to a sudden and devastating halt. The recent shutdown of major trekking routes, a direct consequence of security concerns, threatens not only the livelihoods of thousands but also the storied legacy of adventure tourism in this Himalayan paradise. For countless families who depend on the seasonal influx of trekkers, this crisis echoes the instability of the past while casting a long shadow over the future.
The immediate trigger for this industry-wide paralysis was the tragic attack in Pahalgam on April 22, 2025, which claimed the lives of 26 tourists. In response, authorities suspended all trekking permits and closed more than half of Kashmir’s tourist destinations. This decision, while aimed at ensuring safety, has had a catastrophic impact on an economy that was just regaining its strength.
The Economic Avalanche of the Kashmir Trekking Crisis
The financial fallout from the Kashmir trekking crisis has been swift and severe. Tourism operators report a staggering 95% collapse in visitor numbers, creating an economic vacuum. “This ban has severely impacted adventure stakeholders in Kashmir,” states Zeeshan Mushtaq, a local trekker and climber. “Everyone, from logistics providers and trek organizers to pony handlers and guides, has seen their work plummet.”
This isn’t just about canceled treks; it’s a systemic shock. Tour cancellations have resulted in millions in lost revenue, while new inquiries have plummeted by 20%. The impact ripples outward, affecting a vast network of interconnected livelihoods. Hoteliers face vacant rooms, with some reporting that only 2% of tourists remain in the valley. Shikara operators, houseboat owners, artisans, and embroidery craftsmen have all seen their businesses evaporate almost overnight.
One trekking guide from Pahalgam, facing a season with no income, captured the widespread despair: “Unemployment will rise. People are left to fend for themselves. In this part of Kashmir, there is total dependency on tourism. With these bans, everything is over for us.”
Key Takeaways:
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The Kashmir trekking crisis was triggered by a security incident in April 2025, leading to the closure of all major trekking routes.
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The shutdown has caused a 95% decline in tourism, devastating the local economy.
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This crisis disrupts a post-COVID boom fueled by domestic tourism and government projects like the Swadesh Darshan scheme.
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The economic fallout extends beyond trekking to hotels, transport, and local artisan communities.
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Industry leaders are calling for government intervention and enhanced security to resolve the Kashmir trekking crisis and revive the sector.
A Fragile Hope for Recovery
Despite the grim outlook, embers of hope remain. Julia Simpson, President & CEO of the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), asserts that the sector is resilient. “Kashmir’s recovery is not a question of ‘if’, but ‘when’ – and that ‘when’ is very soon,” she states, emphasizing the global travel community’s confidence in the destination’s enduring appeal.
Some domestic tourism has cautiously resumed, and travel agents see early signs of a potential rebound. Asif Burza, a prominent hotelier, confirms this trend: “After the cancellations, we’re now seeing re-bookings. There’s renewed interest, and people are not giving up on Kashmir.”
Efforts are underway to mitigate the Kashmir trekking crisis. The Travel Agents’ Association of India (TAAI) has launched promotional campaigns like ‘Chalo Kashmir’ to rebuild tourist confidence. However, a full recovery hinges on robust government support, including financial incentives and, most importantly, demonstrably enhanced safety protocols to assure travelers that the trails are safe once more.
The future of Kashmir’s trekking season hangs in the balance. The resilience of its people and the unparalleled beauty of its landscapes have helped it overcome immense challenges before. As the region confronts this latest crisis, a swift and sustainable revival is essential to preserve its heritage and safeguard the thousands of livelihoods dependent on its iconic trails.Â
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Author Bio: Mudasir Ismail Bhat is a adventure travel journalist, marketer and analyst specializing in trekking in Himalayas and adventure tourism developments.
