Jammu and Kashmir has been reopened to tourists from today, more than two months after the government asked tourists and pilgrims to leave the state before it made the big announcement of ending the special status for Jammu and Kashmir.

In an order dated October 9, Jammu and Kashmir’s Home Department lifted the travel advisory in the state following Governor Satya Pal Malik’s instructions. “The tourists desirous of undertaking visiting to the state shall be provided all necessary assistance and logistical support,” the order says.

Kashmir’s tourism sector – the backbone of its economy – is going through one of its worst phases since August. Since August, the valley is without tourists.
Sonamarg – considered the gateway to Ladakh region – is a picturesque resort in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district and usually remained crammed with visitors. However, the resort town looks deserted with most of the hotels, restaurants and shops closed for business.