Pahalgam (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], April 27 (ANI): Just five days after the tragic terrorist attack shook the peaceful town of Pahalgam, a renewed wave of resilience and optimism is sweeping across the Valley. Once a bustling destination that welcomed 5,000 to 7,000 visitors daily, the tourist numbers had dwindled sharply to just 50–100 following the incident. However, on Sunday, the streets of Pahalgam witnessed a heartening revival, as both foreign and domestic tourists strolled through the town, breathing life and hope back into the region.
Among the visitors were tourists from Croatia and Serbia, who explored the town’s scenic streets with ease and enthusiasm, lauding the region’s unparalleled natural beauty and the warmth of its people.
Ljiljana from Croatia shared her experience with ANI, saying, “We have been in Kashmir for three or four days now, and we feel completely safe. Your country is extraordinarily beautiful, and we have had no issues staying here. Kashmir is truly magnificent. We are very impressed with the nature and the kindness of the people. Our group consists of 12 people—two from Serbia and the rest from Croatia—and we are all very happy to be here.”
Reflecting on the recent attack, she added, “We heard about the incident a day before arriving, but we had already decided to come. We feel very safe here. It was terrible what happened, and I hope that those responsible are held accountable, not just here but across the world. Violence must end everywhere.”
Vlatko, another visitor from Croatia, expressed similar sentiments. “This is my tenth visit to Kashmir, and every time, it feels fantastic. For me, Kashmir is number one in the world for its natural beauty and the softness of its people. Our group, consisting of Croatian and Serbian tourists, is extremely happy. Despite the recent attack, I feel completely safe. There is absolutely no fear here; everywhere we go, people greet us warmly,” he said.
Admir Jahic, also from Croatia, shared his admiration for Kashmir and its people. Speaking to ANI, he remarked, “I feel wonderful here in Kashmir. I have made many friends, and the people are incredibly welcoming. The incident was distressing, but fear should not prevent us from traveling. Such events can happen anywhere—in Europe or elsewhere. This should not overshadow the fact that Kashmir is full of wonderful people who deserve peace and prosperity, not fear. It hurts to see such a beautiful place suffer.”
Ivana from Serbia also expressed her gratitude. “We are now setting off to explore more of this beautiful valley and country. Thank you very much for welcoming us. We had heard about the incident before leaving our countries, but despite that, we chose to come. This journey was long planned, and we knew we would find beauty here. We are grateful for the opportunity to visit Kashmir,” she told ANI.
Adding a perspective from within India, Mohammad Anas from Surat, Gujarat, spoke about his experiences. “We are truly enjoying our time here in Kashmir, especially in Pahalgam. We were deeply saddened by the loss of fellow tourists, but life here continues. Markets are open, and the atmosphere is safe. The Indian Army, the government, and the local people have provided immense support. Since arriving, we have felt no fear.”
He continued, “Initially, we were quite frightened upon hearing about the incident and even considered returning home. However, the local people and the army reassured us, encouraging us to experience Pahalgam. What happened was tragic and should never have occurred, but the support here is overwhelming.”
Today, the spirit of unity and resilience was on full display as the people of Pahalgam organized a protest march, carrying the national flag in a powerful stand against terror.
Despite recent events, the timeless charm of Kashmir, the unwavering hospitality of its people, and the indomitable spirit of the Valley are gradually restoring confidence among travelers, one step at a time. (ANI)
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