A Year After Attack: From Baisaran to Chandanwari, Pahalgam Demands Full Reopening
Tourists, locals and pony wallas call for access to key valleys and routes to restore livelihoods and signal complete revival
Our Special Correspondent
Pahalgam: On the first anniversary of the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, calls for reopening key tourist destinations—including Baisaran Valley, Kashmir Valley, Donwan Valley and the Chandanwari route—have grown louder, with stakeholders urging authorities to restore full access and revive the region’s tourism economy.
While tourist footfall has gradually improved over the past year, aided by heightened security arrangements and a successful Amarnath Yatra, several prime locations remain out of bounds, leaving visitors and locals alike feeling that the recovery is still incomplete.
Tourists visiting the hill resort said the visible security grid has helped rebuild confidence, but restricted access to scenic spots continues to dampen the overall experience.
“We feel safe here, and the atmosphere is welcoming,” said Rohan Mehta, a tourist from Delhi. “But when we hear that places like Baisaran or other valleys are closed, it feels like we are missing the real essence of Pahalgam. Reopening them will definitely attract more tourists.”
Ayesha Khan, visiting from Mumbai, echoed similar views. “Pahalgam is beautiful and peaceful, and the locals are very supportive. But reopening all the major spots will send a strong message that everything is back to normal.”
For local stakeholders, the demand is not just about tourism, but survival. Many say their livelihoods have been severely impacted due to restricted movement in these areas.
“We have waited patiently for a year,” said Ghulam Nabi, a hotel owner. “Business has improved compared to last year, but tourists are not staying long because many destinations are still closed. Opening Baisaran, Donwan and other valleys will make a big difference.”
Pony wallas, who depend heavily on tourist movement across these routes, say reopening the closed valleys is crucial for their earnings.
Imran Sheikh, a pony handler, said the attack had left them devastated. “After the incident, we thought our livelihood was finished. Slowly, things improved, especially after the Yatra, but we are still not back to normal,” he said. “If Baisaran, Kashmir Valley and Donwan Valley reopen fully, it will bring back our work.”
Another pony walla, Bashir Ahmad, said tourists often express disappointment when told certain routes are inaccessible. “People come here to explore nature. When they are told they cannot go to Baisaran or beyond Chandanwari, they feel let down. Reopening these places will benefit both tourists and locals.”
Locals also believe that reopening the Chandanwari route—an important gateway for both tourists and pilgrims—will further strengthen confidence and improve visitor flow.
Officials, however, have maintained that security considerations remain paramount and any decision on reopening additional sites will be taken after thorough assessment.
Even so, the anniversary has become a moment not just of remembrance, but of renewed hope and determination. Markets are lively, hotels report steady bookings, and the spirit of tourism has largely returned.
Yet, for many in Pahalgam, the message is clear: true recovery will only be achieved when every corner—from Baisaran to Chandanwari—is once again open to the world.
