Jammu and Kashmir government focuses on developing offbeat tourist destinations to boost local economy

KULGAM June 05,2026 — Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education Sakeena Itoo chaired a meeting at the Civil Secretariat to review the tourism potential of the picturesque Panchanpatri area in the Kulgam district.

During the session, the Minister conducted a detailed assessment of the measures required to put Panchanpatri on the tourism map of Jammu and Kashmir.

She directed officials to establish necessary basic amenities in the scenic area to attract maximum visitors and instructed the Tourism Department to assess the scope for strengthening infrastructure to cater to nature lovers, trekkers, and adventure tourists.

The Minister highlighted that the government is strategically focused on identifying and developing offbeat destinations to diversify the tourism landscape of Jammu and Kashmir while generating new livelihood opportunities for local communities.

She emphasized that promoting unexplored tourist spots enhances visitor experiences and significantly drives rural economic growth through employment generation and entrepreneurship.

Reaffirming the commitment to inclusive tourism development, she stated that emerging destinations like Panchanpatri will play a vital role in strengthening the region’s position as a premier tourist destination, while the Joint Director of Tourism for Kashmir briefed the meeting on the ongoing and proposed initiatives for the area.