Kashmir Set to Host Prominent Business Event in April with Participation from 20 States

Key Takeaways

Kashmir Travel Mart-2026 to be held on April 14-15.

Participation expected from 250 stakeholders across 20 states.

Event focused on showcasing Kashmir's tourism potential.

Recent recovery efforts following a terrorist attack.

Jammu and Kashmir welcomed over 1.77 crore tourists in 2025.

Srinagar, March 20 (NationPress) Approximately 250 participants, representing 20 states from across India, will converge for the Kashmir Travel Mart-2026, organized by the Jammu and Kashmir government on April 14-15, announced Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.

The Chief Minister's Office stated on X, “J&K Tourism is thrilled to present the Kashmir Travel Mart-2026 on April 14-15, gathering around 250 stakeholders from over 20 states nationwide.”

“This event aims to showcase the region’s vast tourism possibilities through craft safaris, specially curated destination tours, and B2B engagements, providing participants with a profound and immersive experience of Kashmir’s rich culture, heritage, and renowned hospitality. This significant initiative seeks to enhance tourism connections and establish Kashmir as a leading global travel hotspot,” the Chief Minister's Office emphasized.

The resilience of the tourism sector in Kashmir was tested following the tragic April 22 terror attack in Baisaran, Pahalgam, which resulted in the loss of 26 innocent lives, including 25 tourists and a local pony owner, due to attacks by Pakistan-backed Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists.

This incident initially deterred tourists from visiting the valley. However, more than a month later, CM Omar Abdullah convened a special cabinet meeting on May 27, 2025, in Pahalgam to reinforce the security measures in the area. The attack faced widespread condemnation from all corners of the union territory.

Thanks to the relentless efforts of the government and the unwavering spirit of the local populace, the tourism sector began its swift recovery, with tourists returning to the valley.

In 2025, over 1.77 crore tourists visited Jammu and Kashmir, reflecting sustained growth in the tourism sector, supported by a structured development roadmap. Among last year’s visitors were more than 36,000 foreign tourists.

Encouraged by the remarkable turnout, the J&K government anticipates an even greater influx of tourists this year, as more destinations are being opened, and proactive measures are being taken to enhance infrastructure, transportation, and overall visitor experience in the Union Territory.

Point of View

The Kashmir Travel Mart-2026 signifies a pivotal moment for tourism in the region. The participation of 20 states underscores the collaborative effort to bolster Kashmir's image as a premier travel destination, particularly in light of recent challenges that have tested its tourism resilience.

NationPress

20 Jun 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Kashmir Travel Mart-2026?

The Kashmir Travel Mart-2026 is a significant business event organized by the Jammu and Kashmir government, aimed at showcasing the region's tourism potential, taking place on April 14-15.

How many stakeholders are expected to participate?

Around 250 stakeholders, including representatives from 20 states across India, are expected to participate in the event.

What is the goal of the event?

The event aims to highlight Kashmir's immense tourism opportunities and strengthen tourism linkages, promoting it as a leading global travel destination.

What recent challenges has Kashmir's tourism faced?

Kashmir's tourism industry faced challenges due to a tragic terror attack in April 2025, which initially deterred tourists but has since seen recovery efforts.

How many tourists visited Jammu and Kashmir in 2025?

In 2025, over 1.77 crore tourists visited Jammu and Kashmir, which includes more than 36,000 foreign visitors.