As tensions escalate along the India-Pakistan border, tourism in Kashmir has seen a sharp decline — but the hill station of Patnitop in Jammu’s Udhampur district has emerged as an unexpected safe haven for travelers and a lifeline for the local hospitality industry.
With many visitors cutting short their trips to Kashmir following the recent Pahalgam terror attack, towns like Patnitop and Batote have experienced a surge in tourist footfall. Perceived as a safer destination amid the unrest, these areas are now seeing increased bookings from travelers, particularly from Gujarat, Delhi, and nearby Jammu regions.
“Ever since the situation in Pahalgam worsened, our business was down to zero. But now people are leaving Jammu and coming here. We finally see vehicles arriving and guests returning — it’s a big relief,” said Rajesh Kumar, a local hotelier.
Tourist Kiran Patel, visiting from Gujarat, shared her experience: “We went to Srinagar, but everything was shut due to the tensions. We only managed to see Sonamarg. Then we came to Patnitop, and we’ve been here for two nights. It’s peaceful, and we feel safe.”
Though initially affected by the broader regional instability, Patnitop has begun to recover in recent days, offering not only respite for wary tourists but also a vital economic boost for residents whose livelihoods depend on tourism.
