J&K Targets Southeast Asian Market to Revive Tourism: CM Omar Abdullah

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has announced that the government is now focusing on Southeast Asian countries to revive the state’s tourism industry. He said nations like Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam could become promising markets for Jammu and Kashmir in the near future, given their growing interest in nature, culture, and spirituality.

“We must present Kashmir to the world in a new light. It’s not just snow-clad mountains and Dal Lake it’s a land of culture, heritage, craftsmanship, and unmatched hospitality. We believe travelers from Southeast Asia will be drawn to this diversity,” said Abdullah.

As part of the plan, the state government has sent a delegation to Singapore to build stronger ties with tourism stakeholders and promote Kashmir as a global travel destination. The delegation has already held talks with travel agencies, tour operators, and media representatives to boost collaboration.

“Our team in Singapore received an encouraging response. Southeast Asian travelers are fond of hill destinations, and we want them to experience the beauty of Kashmir the crown of the Himalayas,” Abdullah said.

Alongside the international push, the government is also emphasizing domestic tourism. Special campaigns are being conducted in Bengaluru, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, and Delhi through posters, television ads, digital promotions, and travel fairs to showcase Jammu and Kashmir as the “Crown of India.”

“People in southern and eastern India have always seen Kashmir as a dream destination. We want to turn that dream into reality. A rise in domestic tourism will directly strengthen our local economy,” Abdullah added.

The Chief Minister acknowledged that the tourism industry has faced several challenges recently terror attacks in Pahalgam, border tensions, and floods have all taken a toll. These incidents led to cancellations by tourists, causing financial hardship for hotel owners, guides, transporters, and artisans dependent on tourism.