Tourism Looks Up in J&K, Trekkers Keep Away
What Happened
Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed a notable resurgence in overall tourism numbers following improved security conditions and infrastructure development. However, this uptick in visitor arrivals has not translated into increased participation in adventure trekking, particularly on signature routes like the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek. The paradox suggests that whilst casual tourists are returning to the region, serious trekkers remain hesitant about committing to multi-day high-altitude expeditions.
Industry observers attribute this discrepancy to lingering concerns amongst the trekking community regarding permit procedures, logistics coordination, and the availability of experienced local guides. Additionally, alternative trekking destinations in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand continue to attract Indian adventurers who perceive these regions as more established and accessible.
Impact on Trekkers
For those planning the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek, this development presents a mixed opportunity. Reduced trekker volumes mean less crowding on trails and improved access to camping sites. However, the lower demand has also impacted the availability of dedicated trekking operators and experienced porters, potentially affecting expedition quality and safety standards.
The trek's reputation has suffered partly due to inconsistent information channels and bureaucratic delays in permit issuance. Trekkers should expect variable standards of infrastructure and support services depending on which operators they select, as the sector has not uniformly recovered.
What Trekkers Should Do
- Contact the Jammu & Kashmir Tourism Department directly to confirm current permit requirements and processing timelines before booking
- Book exclusively with established, verified trekking operators who maintain active presence on recognised platforms and provide documented safety records
- Plan your trek during peak season (July to September) when operator availability and local support services are most reliable
- Join trekking communities and forums to gather recent first-hand experiences from others who have completed the route recently
Source: The New Indian Express