Srinagar: Come summer, Kashmir is witnessing a surge in queries from solo travellers seeking to explore the Valley on their own.
According to a recent survey by Policybazaar, more than 76% of travellers in 2026 are choosing to travel independently, making solo travel one of the dominant tourism trends globally.
Tourism stakeholders in Kashmir said the Valley has steadily emerged as a preferred destination for such travellers, particularly among young tourists, women travellers, content creators, and adventure enthusiasts.
Travel agents said they are receiving an increased number of queries from solo travellers again after a year-long hiatus following the Pahalgam terror attack.
“Though the number is not big, we are receiving queries from solo travellers. Last year, we didn’t receive such tourists after the Pahalgam terror attack. Now, steadily, solo travellers, including women, content creators and professionals, are willing to explore Kashmir, particularly its offbeat places on their own,” said Farah Rashid, a travel agent.
President Travel Agents Association of Kashmir (TAAK) Farooq Ahmad Kuthoo said Kashmir’s improving tourism infrastructure, rise in homestays, and better internet connectivity have made the Valley more accessible for independent travellers.
“We have definitely seen a major increase in queries from solo travellers over the last three to four years. Earlier, most bookings came from families or large groups, but now many tourists are contacting travel agents individually and looking for customised itineraries, trekking experiences, and offbeat destinations,” he said.
Kuthoo said solo travellers are showing increasing interest in destinations beyond traditional tourist circuits, including Gurez Valley, Bangus Valley, Yusmarg, and remote trekking routes across the Valley.
“Social media has played a huge role in this trend. Many solo travellers discover Kashmir through travel reels, photography blogs, and online recommendations. They are looking for authentic experiences and peaceful destinations connected with nature,” he added.
Pertinently, a recent research conducted by travel fintech SanKash also found that almost 35 percent of solo travellers preferred Jammu and Kashmir to go on a vacation.