NEW DELHI: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday asserted that Jammu and Kashmir is poised to become a year-round global tourism destination, supported by renewed confidence, improved infrastructure and diversified tourism offerings.
He was addressing a major promotional event in New Delhi attended by Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister of Tourism, along with diplomats, travel trade representatives and key stakeholders from the hospitality sector.
Highlighting J&K’s spiritual legacy, scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage, the Chief Minister said the region warmly welcomes visitors from across India and abroad. He noted that the government is actively expanding tourism beyond traditional hotspots by developing new circuits and identifying nine emerging destinations to offer fresh experiences to travellers.
Referring to past challenges, Omar Abdullah said valuable lessons have been learned. “The fact that it took us so long to reopen several closed destinations reflects the lessons we have drawn,” he said, adding that the focus is now on building a more resilient and responsive tourism ecosystem.
The event was organised by the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Forum under the leadership of hotelier Mushtaq Chaya. Forum representatives described the gathering as a significant step in projecting J&K as a safe and vibrant all-season tourism destination.
Several senior officials, legislators, ambassadors, travel association leaders and tourism stakeholders were present, marking the occasion as a key milestone in promoting Jammu & Kashmir’s tourism sector.
