Is Kashmir Safe for Tourists?

This is the question we hear most, and it deserves a straight answer. Kashmir is visited by millions of domestic tourists, and the main tourist circuit of Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg operates through the season. At the same time, the region has had serious security incidents, and anyone who tells you it is risk-free is not being honest. This guide sets out what we know, what we check, and what you can do yourself.

What happened in 2025

In April 2025, an attack on tourists in the Pahalgam area shocked the country and had a strong effect on tourism. Visitor numbers fell sharply, authorities closed dozens of tourist sites for security reviews, and many travellers cancelled plans. Over the following months, the administration reopened most of these locations in phases. By February 2026, reports said the great majority of the closed destinations had reopened, with a handful still awaiting clearance. Tourist numbers have been recovering in 2026, though reports suggest they are still below earlier peaks.

Some places in the Pahalgam area, including the Baisaran meadow, have remained subject to restrictions at different points since then. We confirm the status of every stop before including it in a plan.

Overseas advisories

Some foreign governments publish cautionary advisories for travel to Jammu and Kashmir. These are separate from the experience of domestic tourists, but they are a reminder to follow current guidance and to buy travel insurance where appropriate. Indian travellers can check official updates from the Ministry of Home Affairs, J&K Police and J&K Tourism.

What we check when we plan

• Current official guidance and any restrictions on destinations or routes.
• Road and weather conditions, especially on the Jammu highway, Sonamarg and Gulmarg roads in winter.
• Hotels and drivers with a track record and local registration.
• Alternatives, so that if a site is closed or a road is blocked, the day still works.
• Timing, so that you are not driving mountain roads in the dark.

We do not offer guarantees about safety, and we would be wary of any operator who does. We plan carefully, tell you plainly what we know, and will adjust or postpone if conditions require.

What you can do yourself

1. Check news and advisories a few days before departure and again on arrival.
2. Carry ID. You will be asked for it at hotels and checkpoints.
3. Follow local instructions. If a driver or officer says a road is closed or a site is shut, accept it without argument.
4. Stay on well-used routes. Treks and offbeat areas need local guides and permissions.
5. Keep your phone and power bank charged, and know that prepaid SIMs from outside the Union Territory may not work.
6. Tell someone your plan, and share your location with family.
7. Respect local customs. Dress modestly at religious places and ask before photographing people.
8. Buy travel insurance if it suits you.

Health and altitude

Gulmarg and Sonamarg are at 2,650 to 2,800 metres, which is high enough for some people to feel breathless, tired or headachy on the first day. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol and heavy meals on arrival, and take it slowly. People with heart or lung conditions, pregnant travellers and those taking regular medicines should speak to their doctor beforehand. Carry any prescribed medicines in hand luggage with a copy of the prescription, along with basic remedies for upset stomachs, colds and motion sickness. Pharmacies are available in Srinagar and the main towns, but stocks in smaller places are limited.

In an emergency

Knowing what to do before you need it helps. India's single emergency number is 112, which connects to police, fire and ambulance services. The Ministry of Tourism also runs a national tourist helpline, 1363. Save your hotel's, driver's and planner's numbers before you leave, and know the nearest hospital for each stop. Mobile coverage is patchy in some valleys, so tell someone your plan when you head into remote areas. If something goes wrong on a booked trip, call your planner first, and we will help coordinate with hotels and drivers.

Staying safe in the mountains

Never push on in poor weather. Stay on marked paths, keep children close near streams and ponies, and avoid unregulated activities such as unlicensed rafting or rides with untested equipment. Treks should be done only with registered local guides, with checks on weather and permissions. Wear good footwear and carry water, even for short walks.

Other risks that matter more than headlines

Most problems visitors face in Kashmir are ordinary and avoidable: mountain roads, weather, altitude, traffic on the Jammu highway, unclear bookings and unexpected local costs. Landslides and snow cause more disruption to itineraries than anything else. Leave buffer days, avoid tight onward connections and never push on if the driver advises against it.

Travelling as a woman, family or solo

Many families and groups of women travel to Kashmir each year. Use the same sensible habits as anywhere: choose well-reviewed hotels, avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas, and keep your driver's number saved. Solo travellers should share their daily plan with someone.

Should you go?

That is your decision, and it depends on your comfort level. If you are unsure, ask us for the current status of the places you want to visit, or choose a later date. Our Kashmir overview explains how we plan, and our Kashmir tour packages show typical routes. Send us your questions and we will answer honestly.

Practical tips

• Check the latest official advisories and local news close to your travel dates.
• Carry government photo ID for every adult and keep copies on your phone.
• Use registered hotels and experienced drivers, and share your plan with your hotel.
• Follow the instructions of local authorities and your driver, especially around checkpoints and weather.
• Avoid areas that are restricted, and confirm whether a site is open before going.