Road Trips to Kashmir Surge as Airfares Soar

Srinagar, July 4: As airfares to Kashmir skyrocket, an increasing number of tourists are opting for road trips to explore the picturesque valley, turning a challenge into an opportunity for adventure.
Rahul Sharma, a 25-year-old software engineer from Bangalore, had been dreaming of a Kashmir vacation for years. However, with one-way airfares from Bangalore to Srinagar touching Rs 12,000 per person, his savings fell short. Undeterred, Sharma chose an alternative route.

“I took a train to Jammu and then a cab to Srinagar. The journey was unexpectedly delightful,” Sharma enthused. “We discovered breathtaking locations along the way that we would have missed flying. It was like getting two vacations in one!”
This trend is becoming increasingly common, according to Sameer Mir, Tourism Operator representative. “We’ve seen a 50% increase in road trip inquiries over the past quarter. With round-trip airfares from major cities exceeding Rs 20,000 per person, tourists are seeking more economical options.”
Mir added, “The improved road conditions between Jammu and Srinagar have been a game-changer. What was once a grueling journey is now a scenic drive that many tourists are eager to experience.”
The shift is not just about cost-saving. Priya Gupta, a travel blogger who recently drove from Delhi to Srinagar, shared her experience: “The road trip allowed us to explore hidden gems like the Patnitop hill station and the ancient Martand Sun Temple. These unplanned stops became the highlights of our trip.”
Local businesses are adapting to this trend. Imran Khan, owner of Kashmir Valley Tours, reported a surge in demand for rental vehicles and motorcycles. “We’ve increased our fleet by 30% to meet the growing demand for road trips. Tourists are increasingly requesting customized itineraries that include stops at lesser-known locations between Jammu and Srinagar.”
The trend is expected to gain further momentum with the upcoming launch of train services between Jammu and Srinagar. Dr Nasreen Fatima, a tourism expert, explained, “The introduction of train services will provide another affordable option for tourists. This multi-modal approach to reaching Kashmir could revolutionize the tourism industry here.”
However, Dr. Fatima also cautioned about the potential environmental impact of increased road traffic. “While this trend is economically beneficial, we need to ensure it’s managed sustainably. Encouraging electric vehicles and promoting responsible tourism practices will be crucial.”