Pahalgam terror attack: Mangalureans cancel J&K trips, opt for alternatives

Mangaluru: Mangalureans planning a summer trip to Jammu and Kashmir with their families and loved ones are reportedly cancelling their bookings due to a recent terror attack in Pahalgam that resulted in several fatalities. Travel operators in the city are receiving requests from people who booked Jammu and Kashmir holidays to cancel their bookings and explore alternative destinations such as Shimla and Kullu-Manali in Himachal Pradesh, or other domestic destinations with hill stations or scenic locations.
Eulalia D'Souza, the proprietor of Lia Travels and Tours, expressed concern about the apprehension among travellers despite assurances that Jammu and Kashmir is now safe. She mentioned that four cancellations were already made, and one booking scheduled for May 12 is also being cancelled.
D'Souza highlighted the challenges faced by tour operators, hotels, and transporters, as while full refunds may be provided, airline ticket cancellations incur significant charges, and new air tickets to alternative destinations are extremely expensive.
William D'Souza, MD of Globe Travels, also received similar requests for cancellations from those who booked Jammu and Kashmir tours in the coming weeks. He stated that a total of 32 people in different slots booked the tour, but it is now cancelled. Globe Travels has received full refunds from airlines, hotels, and other operators. Some travellers are following a wait-and-watch approach to assess the situation and decide their travel plans.
Vikram Travels and Resorts India Pvt Ltd, with its office in Mangaluru, reported that nearly 250 people, primarily families, have cancelled their bookings. The company's regional in-charge, Subrahmanya HP, said that approximately 99% of bookings for Jammu and Kashmir have been cancelled to date.
Tours and travel operators shared that many travellers prefer destinations like Kullu, Manali, and Sikkim or other hill stations. However, this shift has led to increased costs for alternative options, as many are exploring them. Travel agent Eulalia explained that rooms in Himachal Pradesh that normally cost Rs 6,500 are now charging Rs 10,000 or more. Similarly, airline ticket fares to these destinations have also skyrocketed.
On the other hand, the flight fares to Jammu and Kashmir have reduced as demand has decreased.