Pahalgam Terror Attack Kashmir 2025: Travel Industry in Bengal Faces Massive Fallout

KOLKATA: The recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, has sent shockwaves through the travel industry. What was once a bustling and optimistic summer season is now overshadowed by mass cancellations and rising fear among tourists. In response, travel agents in West Bengal have called for a protest march in Kolkata on Thursday.

“This is not just a terror attack on humanity but also a direct blow to tourism,” said a member of the Travel Agents’ Federation of India (TAFI). The protest will begin from the West Bengal Youth Hostel and continue to the State Assembly.

Kashmir Tourism Crippled as Bengal Withdraws

Anil Punjabi, national committee member of TAFI, stressed that West Bengal contributes up to 30% of Kashmir’s total tourism footfall. “We built Kashmir’s reputation as a peaceful, tourist-friendly region. That image has now shattered in seconds,” he said in a statement to The Indian Express.

Kolkata-based travel agency owner Akash Kundu explained that his current clients in Kashmir have opted to skip Pahalgam. “We’ve removed it from the itinerary, and will refund one day’s cost,” he added. “They are all safe, but the psychological impact is strong.”

Kashmir to Himachal: Travellers Reroute Plans

Kundu revealed that 17 Kashmir trips planned for 2026 were already booked. But after the attack, cancellations have become widespread. “Many tourists now prefer Himachal Pradesh, Shimla, or Spiti instead. Even Gulmarg and Vaishno Devi are being reconsidered,” he said.

While Kashmir had previously experienced “over-tourism,” trust in the region’s safety is now deeply shaken. Many travellers are opting for Ladakh as an alternative — a place that offers similar scenic beauty but is perceived as safer.

Economic Consequences for Local Communities

Tour operators also voiced concern for Kashmir’s local economy. “If tourists stop coming, the people of Kashmir lose their livelihood. That could push some toward extremism. The government should’ve prioritized security,” said one tour planner.

The tourism industry in Kashmir supports thousands of families, from hotel staff to drivers and artisans. A disruption of this scale, say experts, is not just an industry crisis but a humanitarian and social one.

100% Cancellations Post-Attack

Anil Punjabi confirmed a complete halt in Kashmir bookings. “Post-pandemic, domestic travel boomed. But after this, we are seeing a 100% cancellation rate. We’re now advising clients to consider Himachal Pradesh, Jim Corbett, and other alternatives.”

Punjabi explained that Rajasthan, Kerala, and Kashmir were previously the top three travel picks for Indian tourists. The current disruption may change that hierarchy for the foreseeable future.

Tourism Industry Awaits Government Response

As the travel industry reels from the shock, it now awaits decisive action from the government. Tour operators believe that restoring faith in Kashmir as a safe travel destination will take time, policy-level changes, and strong security measures.

Airlines and online travel platforms have started offering waivers on cancellation and rescheduling fees for affected trips. However, stakeholders stress that the deeper concern is rebuilding Kashmir’s image — something that took years to establish.