Site was among several tourist destinations shut in April last year after Pahagalm attack
Kashmir Impulse Desk
Srinagar, June 20
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday ordered the reopening of the Naranag tourist destination and temple complex in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district, more than a year after authorities closed the area following the deadly Pahalgam terror attack that triggered heightened security restrictions across the Valley.
Announcing the decision in a post on X, Sinha said the reopening followed a comprehensive security assessment and would allow devotees and tourists to visit the historic eighth-century Naranag temple complex and surrounding areas.
The site was among several tourist destinations shut in April last year after militants killed 26 people, most of them tourists, in the Baisaran meadows area of Pahalgam in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district. Authorities described the closures as precautionary measures amid security concerns.
The reopening marks the latest step in the administration’s phased restoration of tourist activities at previously restricted locations. Officials said security arrangements had been strengthened to facilitate the safe return of visitors.
The decision is expected to revive tourism-linked economic activity in the region, where local residents, pony operators, guides and small business owners have reported substantial losses during the closure.
The issue had been repeatedly raised by local stakeholders and political representatives, including Kangan legislator Mian Mehar Ali, who recently met the Lieutenant Governor and sought the reopening of the destination.
Ali welcomed the decision, describing it as a positive development for residents and businesses dependent on tourism. He thanked the Lieutenant Governor and district administration for responding to public demands.
Local tourism operators said the reopening would provide much-needed relief after months of reduced economic activity.
Naranag, located about 54 km northeast of Srinagar, serves as the base camp for the Harmukh-Gangabal trek and is known for its ancient temple complex, alpine landscapes and trekking routes.
