Doodhpathri Throws Open Its Meadows to Tourists
Reopening follows LG’s push to revive destinations shut after Pahalgam attack Visitors, stakeholders welcome renewed access
Srinagar: After months of winter silence and a prolonged spell of restricted access, the lush meadows of Dodhpathri have once again been opened to tourists, marking a renewed push to revive Kashmir’s tourism sector ahead of the spring season.
Nestled amid rolling green pastures and dense forests in central Kashmir’s Budgam district, Dodhpathri—popularly known as the “Valley of Milk” for its milky streams—has started witnessing a steady inflow of visitors eager to experience its untouched beauty.
The reopening comes in the backdrop of a broader decision by the Jammu and Kashmir administration led by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to gradually reopen several tourist destinations that had been shut or saw restricted access following the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack. The move aims to restore confidence among travellers and ensure that the tourism season picks up momentum after a period of uncertainty.
Officials said a number of offbeat and high-footfall destinations across the Valley had remained closed as a precautionary measure, impacting tourist movement as well as local livelihoods. “The administration has reviewed the situation and is reopening tourist spots in a phased manner with adequate security and facilities in place,” an official said.
The renewed focus is also part of the government’s larger strategy to promote year-round tourism, improve infrastructure, and diversify travel circuits beyond traditional hubs.
Tourists arriving at Dodhpathri expressed joy at the reopening, describing the destination as serene and refreshing.
“It feels like stepping into a hidden paradise. The natural beauty here is unmatched, and it’s far less crowded,” said Aamir Khan, a visitor from Delhi.
Another tourist, Rahul Sharma from Jaipur, said the reopening has given travellers more options. “We had heard that many places were shut earlier, so this is a welcome move. Dodhpathri is peaceful, clean, and perfect for those looking to escape the rush,” he said.
Local stakeholders have also welcomed the decision, saying it brings much-needed relief after a lean period. Ghulam Nabi, a pony owner, said, “For months, there was hardly any work. With tourists returning, we are hopeful of a better season. Our livelihood depends on such destinations staying open.”
In recent years, the administration has been actively promoting lesser-explored destinations to reduce pressure on traditional tourist hotspots like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg, while also bringing scenic locations such as Dodhpathri into the tourism mainstream.
With spring setting in and the Valley preparing for the peak travel season, the reopening of Dodhpathri is being seen as a significant step towards restoring normalcy, boosting tourist confidence, and revitalising the local economy dependent on the sector.
