Srinagar, March 20, 2026: Around 250 stakeholders from over 20 states will participate in the Kashmir Travel Mart 2026, scheduled to be held on April 14–15, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said on Friday.
The event is being organised by the Jammu and Kashmir government to promote the Union Territory as a premier global tourism destination.
Platform to Promote Culture, Heritage and Tourism
According to the Chief Minister’s Office, the event will feature:
- Craft safaris showcasing local artisanship
- Curated destination tours across key locations
- B2B engagements with tourism stakeholders
The initiative aims to offer participants an immersive experience of Kashmir’s culture, heritage, and hospitality.
Strengthening Tourism Linkages
The Travel Mart is expected to:
- Strengthen tourism linkages across states
- Promote investment and partnerships
- Enhance Kashmir’s global tourism positioning
Officials described it as a significant step towards boosting the region’s tourism ecosystem.
Tourism Sector Shows Strong Recovery
The tourism sector in Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed strong growth:
- 1.77 crore tourists visited in 2025
- Including over 36,000 foreign tourists
The surge reflects improved infrastructure, better connectivity, and proactive government initiatives.
Govt Eyes Higher Tourist Footfall in 2026
Encouraged by the response, the government expects a further rise in tourist numbers this year, driven by:
- Opening of new tourist destinations
- Improved infrastructure and transport
- Enhanced ease of travel and visitor facilities
Kashmir Emerging as Global Tourism Hub
With sustained efforts by the government and the resilience of local communities, Kashmir continues to strengthen its position as a top travel destination, attracting both domestic and international tourists.
