The Impact of the Pahalgam Attack on Tourism in Doodhpathri: A Case Study of Security Induced Closure and Economic Consequences

Javaid SJ and Varshney D

Published on: 2026-02-14

Abstract

This research paper examines the profound impact of the April 22, 2025 Pahalgam terrorist attack on the tourism industry of Doodhpathri, a premier tourist destination in Budgam district, Kashmir. The attack, which claimed 26 lives, resulted in the immediate closure of 48 tourist destinations across Kashmir Valley, including Doodhpathri, which has remained closed for approximately nine months as of February 2026. Through analysis of official data, stakeholder testimonies, and economic indicators, this study demonstrates that the security-induced closure has devastated the local economy, eliminating livelihoods for thousands of tourism-dependent workers, and reversed years of developmental progress. The findings reveal a 100% reduction in tourist arrivals to Doodhpathri, affecting ATV operators, pony owners, hoteliers, guides, and ancillary service providers who had invested heavily in tourism infrastructure. This paper contributes to understanding the cascading effects of targeted terrorist violence on regional tourism economies and the vulnerability of emerging tourist destinations to security disruptions.