Jammu and Kashmir celebrates a major milestone as Drung welcomes tourists again. The destination stayed closed for eight months after the tragic Pahalgam terror attack. That closure forced authorities to suspend 48 key tourist sites across the Valley. The long pause damaged the region’s economy and affected thousands of families. Drung’s reopening now marks a hopeful return for the community and the wider tourism sector.
Drung sits in the foothills near Gulmarg and offers a calm escape into nature. Its meadows, waterfalls, and mountain views attract visitors seeking quiet moments away from busy travel hubs. The return of tourists brings life back to local markets, hotels, and transport services. The community now regains confidence as the region moves toward stability and growth.
Tourism Supports Thousands of Local Livelihoods
Tourism supports a large portion of Jammu and Kashmir’s population. Families depend on hotel stays, transport bookings, handicraft sales, and guiding services. The closure of Drung and other major locations disrupted the entire chain. Many businesses struggled without daily visitors. Markets lost income, drivers waited for work, and artisans had no buyers for their crafts.
Drung’s reopening offers a powerful economic boost. Visitors now return to enjoy the beauty of the Valley. Their arrival helps revive hotels, cafés, homestays, and craft shops. This comeback also supports farmers who supply fresh produce to tourist areas. The energy in local markets grows as travel demand rises once again.
Strong Security Measures Build Visitor Confidence
Safety remains a top priority for the administration. The region now follows a detailed security plan to protect both residents and tourists. Officers patrol key routes, and surveillance systems cover important entry points. Security checkpoints operate with strict monitoring to reassure visitors. These actions build trust and encourage travelers to return without fear.
The administration has worked closely with community leaders to strengthen communication. This teamwork helps guide tourists and improves coordination during emergencies. Tourists now see a safer environment and feel more confident while planning their trips.
Drung Offers Peaceful Landscapes and Quiet Travel Moments
Drung offers a different pace from Gulmarg’s busy slopes. Travelers visit for slow walks, soothing waterfalls, and clean mountain air. The calm valleys bring relief from crowded cities. Families enjoy picnics near the water, while nature lovers explore forest paths for short hikes. Photographers capture scenic cliffs, clear streams, and shifting mountain light.
Many visitors choose Drung for its peaceful atmosphere. The area stays cooler than the plains and gives travelers a refreshing break. Small tea stalls, local food, and warm hospitality make the experience even richer. Every visit supports local families who work hard to serve guests with care.
Handicrafts and Local Markets See Fresh Opportunity
The return of visitors boosts Kashmir’s vibrant craft culture. Local artisans create intricate shawls, handwoven carpets, wood carvings, and papier-mâché art. These crafts represent generations of skill and tradition. When tourists return, artisans gain new income and fresh appreciation for their work.
Markets around Gulmarg and nearby towns now expect strong business as Drung draws more visitors. Restaurants prepare traditional dishes. Hotels welcome guests with improved services. Transport operators gear up for higher demand. The entire region benefits from this renewed flow of travelers.
More Tourist Sites Begin Phased Reopening
The administration plans to reopen 28 more important tourist destinations across Jammu and Kashmir. This phased strategy keeps safety as the main focus. Authorities want to revive travel while protecting both visitors and residents. More openings will bring wider economic relief and help the Valley recover faster.
This strategy also aims to restore the region’s global tourism appeal. Kashmir has long been one of India’s top travel destinations. Its mountains, rivers, and cultural heritage attract travelers from many countries. The reopening of Drung shows that the region continues to move forward with determination and hope.
Drung Symbolizes Strength and Resilience
The reopening represents more than economic recovery. It symbolizes the strength of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The local community has faced hardships yet continues to support tourism with warmth and pride. Their resilience shines through as visitors return.
Kashmir’s landscapes remain unmatched. Travelers continue to seek its snow peaks, green valleys, and peaceful lakes. Drung adds to this charm with its unique blend of nature and serenity. Its return highlights the region’s ability to recover and grow stronger.
A Bright Future for Tourism in the Valley
Drung now stands as a beacon of revival. Tourists gain access to untouched scenery. Locals regain stable income and job security. The region gains renewed global attention.
The administration works to ensure safe travel, responsible tourism, and steady growth. With strong planning and community support, Kashmir moves toward a promising future. Drung’s reopening marks a powerful step in that direction.
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