Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Sees its Record Growth with More than Two Crore Visitors, Driving Their Economic Boost and New Infrastructure Development in the Region

Published on December 16, 2025

This year, 2024, has seen an unprecedented growth in the tourism industry in Jammu and Kashmir, with 2.30 crore visitors, a record for the region. The Union Government, in its recent report to Lok Sabha, said this increase comprises 65,452 foreign tourists. This not only underlines the growing international appeal of the Republic but also showcases how vital tourism has now become in the region’s economy.

Tourism has long been the cornerstone of Jammu and Kashmir’s economy, as far as employment and the growth of infrastructure are concerned. The milestone beholds in 2024 is likely to bring long-term economic and development impacts in the region, making it one of the most sought-after tourism destinations in India.

Increased Tourism Footfall Driving Economic Growth

The surge in tourist visits has had a substantial positive impact on the local economy. Jammu and Kashmir’s diverse tourism offerings, including spiritual, adventure, and cultural tourism, attract millions of domestic and international visitors each year. The influx of visitors not only supports local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, transport services, and tour operators, but it also leads to job creation across various sectors, particularly in hospitality and local crafts.

As the region sees growing demand for tourism infrastructure, such as accommodations, transport, and recreational facilities, there is an increasing need for investments in sustainable infrastructure to meet these demands. This growth fosters economic development and enhances the livelihoods of local communities while making Jammu and Kashmir an increasingly important player in the national tourism market.

Government Support and Infrastructure Development Boosting Tourism Impact

In response to this growth, the Ministry of Tourism has been actively supporting tourism infrastructure development in Jammu and Kashmir through various schemes such as Swadesh Darshan, Swadesh Darshan 2.0, PRASHAD, and others. The Union Government’s financial backing has enabled the region to build and upgrade tourism-related facilities, including better roads, improved healthcare infrastructure, and expanded public services. These developments are essential to ensuring that Jammu and Kashmir can continue to offer world-class experiences to an increasing number of visitors.

As the region’s infrastructure improves, its tourism appeal grows, creating a positive cycle of economic growth and infrastructure development that benefits both tourists and residents. This commitment to improving tourism facilities ensures that Jammu and Kashmir can support a sustainable tourism ecosystem, meeting the needs of both local communities and the influx of visitors.

Cultural and Heritage Tourism Playing a Key Role

Cultural tourism continues to be a key driver of tourism growth in Jammu and Kashmir. The region’s rich history, diverse heritage, and religious significance make it a top destination for pilgrims and culture enthusiasts. The development of cultural tourism sites, coupled with government-backed initiatives to preserve and promote heritage, is providing tourists with access to the region’s rich cultural offerings.

The increase in tourism has also led to the growth of heritage tours, traditional handicraft sales, and local experiences that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the culture of Jammu and Kashmir. The region’s unique blend of spiritual, natural, and cultural tourism offerings enhances its appeal to both domestic and international visitors, further contributing to the local economy.

Spiritual Tourism’s Significant Contribution to Regional Growth

Spiritual tourism remains one of the most significant sectors driving visitor numbers to Jammu and Kashmir. The region’s iconic temples, shrines, and pilgrimage sites—such as Vaishno Devi, Amarnath, and Hemis Monastery—attract millions of religious travelers every year. This segment of the market is growing rapidly, with pilgrims coming not just from across India but from abroad, including Pakistan and the Middle East.

As spiritual tourism continues to expand, it has a profound impact on the local economy. The increased flow of pilgrims supports local businesses, particularly those offering accommodation, food, and transport services. Furthermore, religious tourism has led to the development of tourist-friendly infrastructure, such as better road access to pilgrimage sites, new hotels, and transportation options that meet the demand for safety and comfort.

A Promising Future for Jammu and Kashmir’s Tourism Sector

With the tourism industry in Jammu and Kashmir continuing to expand, the future looks bright for the region’s economic growth. The increase in both domestic and international tourist arrivals indicates a rising demand for high-quality tourism services and luxury accommodations. As tourism infrastructure improves and the region becomes a more accessible and attractive destination, the economic impact of tourism is likely to become even more significant.

The Jammu and Kashmir government’s support for tourism development, coupled with its growing global appeal, suggests that the region is poised to become a key player in the global tourism market. With continued investments in sustainable tourism infrastructure, Jammu and Kashmir will not only preserve its cultural heritage but also benefit from a stronger economy driven by tourism.

Strengthening the Regional Economy Through Tourism

Jammu and Kashmir attract record-breaking numbers of tourists in 2024, testifying to the fact that it has really transformed itself into a powerhouse for global tourism. The government’s continued investment in infrastructure development and the promotion of tourism will further enhance the impact of tourism on the region’s economy. Through embracing the State’s unique cultural, spiritual, and natural heritage, Jammu and Kashmir is now on the path to being accepted as a world-class destination by global travelers.

This booming tourism not only provides the locals with business opportunities, thus giving them employment, but also contributes to the regional development process in the long run, placing Jammu and Kashmir as a throbbing focus of world tourism in the times to come.