Srinagar: Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir are set to host Kashmir Travel Mart 2026, a major tourism industry event aimed at strengthening business connections and promoting the region as a leading international travel destination.
The two-day event is scheduled for April 14–15, 2026, at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre, located on the scenic banks of Dal Lake in Srinagar.
Officials say the initiative is part of broader efforts to highlight Kashmir’s tourism potential and rebuild industry confidence following recent challenges faced by the sector.
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According to the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department, the event will bring together approximately 250 stakeholders from more than 20 states.
Participants are expected to include tour operators, travel companies, hospitality representatives, and industry experts, creating opportunities for business collaboration and long-term partnerships.
In a statement shared via social media, the Chief Minister’s Office described the event as a key initiative designed to showcase the region’s tourism strengths and reinforce its position in the global travel market.
Organisers say the event will feature B2B (business-to-business) networking sessions, curated destination tours, and cultural experiences aimed at giving industry participants a deeper understanding of the region’s heritage and hospitality.
Craft-based tourism experiences and guided tours are also planned to highlight Kashmir’s traditional arts and cultural identity.
Tourism stakeholders believe such initiatives can help diversify the visitor economy while promoting sustainable travel opportunities across the region.
The upcoming travel mart comes at a critical time for the tourism industry in India-administered Kashmir, which experienced disruptions following last year’s attack in the Pahalgam area.
The incident, which resulted in the deaths of 25 tourists and one local tour guide, significantly impacted visitor confidence, leading to widespread booking cancellations and a sharp decline in tourist arrivals.
As a precautionary measure, several tourist destinations across the region were temporarily closed. Many of these locations have since reopened in phases as authorities attempt to revive tourism activity.
Officials say Kashmir Travel Mart 2026 is part of a broader strategy to strengthen tourism linkages and reposition the region as a competitive global destination.
Industry observers note that tourism plays a vital role in the local economy, supporting thousands of livelihoods across hospitality, handicrafts, transport, and cultural sectors.
By bringing together stakeholders from across the country, authorities hope the event will contribute to rebuilding trust among travel operators and encourage greater visitor engagement in the coming seasons.
