Pahalgam, Apr 26: Despite the terror attack in the Baisaran meadows, which claimed the lives of 25 tourists and one local pony handler, tourists are slowly beginning to return to the scenic south Kashmir resort of Pahalgam, bringing a much-needed glimmer of hope.
Barat Varaij, 60, from Bangalore, was seen sitting by the banks of the Lidder River near Pahalgamís main market, listening to the soothing rush of water, seemingly unfazed by the violence that unfolded just days ago.
We were already in Srinagar when we heard about the attack. Despite that, we decided to stick to our original itinerary and visit Pahalgam, Varaij said as he relaxed with his wife and family members.
ìThis is our first time in Pahalgam. From our cab driver to the hotel staff and even the shopkeepers, we have received immense warmth and kindness. Everywhere we go, people check on us ñ asking if we are comfortable, if we need directions, and even offering us tea, he said.
Varaijs family members echoed his views.
ìThe hospitality here is heartfelt. One can feel it in every interaction,î one of his relatives said.
A few meters away, a group of tourists from Chennai were seen strolling and chatting with pony handlers.
ìThe weather here is beautiful, the cool breeze and snow-clad mountains are simply mesmerising, said Shelly, 64.
ìYes, the incident was tragic and we deeply mourn the loss of lives. But we want to tell people across the country: donít cancel your travel plans. Kashmir in general and Pahalgam in particular need our support now more than ever. Initially, there was fear, but now, with the way locals have embraced us, we feel completely at home, she said.
Several pony handlers, who were among the worst affected by the sudden drop in tourist numbers, now greet visitors with warm smiles and courteous offers for rides.
Till yesterday, this place was completely deserted. But seeing tourists coming back today, even though very few, has given us hope, said a pony handler, adjusting the reins of his pony.
Restaurant owners and hoteliers are equally eager to welcome guests.
Sabzar Ahmad, who manages a local restaurant, said he and his staff have prepared free tea and snacks for tourists.
They are welcome to enjoy meals here. We wont even charge them, Ahmad said.
He said that many locals had also opened their homes to tourists in case they felt unsafe or needed shelter.
Muhammad Yousuf, a local hotelier, said the past few days had been devastating, with empty rooms and cancellations pouring in after the attack.
For the first time since the tragedy, one room in my hotel has been booked. We are leaving no stone unturned to make our guests feel secure, he said.
Beyond the businesses, ordinary residents have stepped up, offering free guidance to nearby sightseeing places, others gifting visitors with souvenirs and offering traditional Kashmiri Kehwa.
We want the world to know that Kashmiris are known for their hospitality. Violence is not who we are. Our hearts and homes are open for all, said Umar Wani, a local.
He said the number of tourists who visited Pahalgam on Saturday could be counted on fingers but it felt like the beginning of healing.
