The Sharp Decline of Kashmir’s Tourism Amidst Epic Conflict

Picture the shimmering Dal Lake, filled with colorful shikaras, and the lush mountains that once drew millions — now, these iconic sights stand silent, haunted by the shadow of violence. A recent brutal attack that claimed 26 lives, mostly tourists enjoying Kashmir’s natural wonders, proved to be a turning point. This tragic incident, followed by intense cross-border skirmishes, has transformed vibrant markets and cheerful guesthouses into abandoned relics of better days. For example, hotels that once overflowed with visitors now sit empty, and guides lament that bookings have dropped by an astonishing 90%. The ongoing missile exchanges, along with military buildup, give off a sense that peace is a fragile illusion. The locals, whose livelihoods depend on tourism—such as rickshaw drivers, shop owners, and hotel workers—are locked in a desperate struggle to survive amid mounting uncertainty. This brutal reality vividly illustrates how geopolitical tension can amputate the heartbeat of a region, turning a paradise into a symbol of despair and fear.