Suhail Khan
SRINAGAR, FEBRUARY 8: Jammu and Kashmir has been named the ‘Best Adventure Tourism Destination’ at the Outbound Travel Mart (OTM) 2026 in Mumbai, providing a boost to the Union Territory’s efforts to reposition itself as a leading travel hub after a difficult previous season.
The award was announced on the final day of the three-day exhibition, one of Asia’s largest travel trade fairs, which concluded on February 7 at the Jio World Convention Centre Mumbai.
J&K’s tourism pavilion at the event highlighted the region’s diverse offerings—from pilgrim circuits and leisure travel to film tourism and adventure sports—amid a push to assure visitors of improved safety and infrastructure.
Speaking to The Web Story/The Varmul Post, Director Tourism Kashmir Syed Qamar Sajad said, “This recognition comes at an important time. It reinforces that Jammu and Kashmir is not only open for tourism but is also a compelling, safe, and varied destination for travellers across interests.”
Officials used the platform to detail enhancements in regional connectivity and hospitality infrastructure, including upgraded road networks, increased flight links, and a rise in hotel inventory aimed at improving tourist comfort.
Sajad linked the award to a broader recovery narrative. “Considering the challenges last season, this is a positive start to 2026. We are already seeing an uptick in arrivals, aided by good snowfall this winter,” he said.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Gulmarg Development Authority (GDA), Tariq Hussain Naik, said, “This is not just an award but also a sign of relief. Given the downturn the tourism sector saw last year, a great strategy has resulted in a boom for the industry this year.”
He stated that with these positive developments, the tourism revival is setting the stage for 2026, which will prove to be a prosperous year.
He added that tourism in Gulmarg will increase further, and the department has arranged every facility for tourists and travelers to ensure a better and safer journey for them.
Tourism stakeholders in Kashmir view the award as a timely endorsement that could help shift market perception and draw more adventure travellers—a segment that includes trekkers, skiers, paragliders, and river rafting enthusiasts.
The Outbound Travel Mart attracts tour operators, destination management companies, and travel media from across the world.
