On April, the mountains of Kashmir and this valley in particular heard gunshots and screams of innocent tourists who lost their lives in a terror attack. Allegedly, 6 terrorists open fired on tourists who’d come for site-seeing. According to reports, 26 tourists were shot dead, including a newly married couple and several were left injured. A sunny afternoon meadow tour turned into a pool of blood within minutes.
#baisaranvalley. Kashmir. Had been there 2 years before with family. Can’t imagine today this tragic incidence has happened at the same place. My heart goes out to the victims, their families and all those tourist civilians who lost their life pic.twitter.com/MabmrYmG5F
— Rakesh Banerjee (@RakeshB41201077) April 22, 2025
In this case, the question arises, how could this happen given the recent growth and security measures in Kashmir? Pahalgam stands as one of the most visited sites in Kashmir, yet how were terrorists able to walk the land freely and open fire on tourists?
This attack took place in Baisaran Valley of Pahalgam. As reports arise, more information about this valley which is called as Kashmir’s ‘Mini Switzerland’ surfaces.
Baisaran Valley, Pahalgam pic.twitter.com/fXAU0vG17K
— cunty little sushi (@sparklemidi) June 4, 2024
Where is Baisaran Valley located?
Apart from several breath-taking views in Pahalgam, Baisaran is one of Pahalgam’s crown jewels.
About 5 kilometers uphill from Pahalgam town lies Baisaran, a breathtaking meadow often referred to as ‘Mini Switzerland.’ With its vast green pastures surrounded by pine forests and framed by snow-dusted peaks, the landscape strikingly resembles the alpine valleys of Europe.
Most people refer to Baisaran Valley in Pahalgam as “Mini Switzerland” but I prefer to call it by its own name Baisaran. After all, it’s Kashmir, not Switzerland. Why would I compare such a breathtaking place in Kashmir to another country? Baisaran has its own unique charm.. pic.twitter.com/MDLDXl41L7
— batukh (@Samaandar_) March 13, 2025
According to the Pahalgam Development Authority, the lush greenery of Baisaran offers an ’emerald’ appearance during summers and transforms into a serene, snow-covered paradise in winter. The picturesque setting makes it an ideal spot for photography, picnics, and camping. Baisaran is also a base for trekkers heading toward Tulian Lake, further enhancing its appeal for adventure seekers.
Brilliant! This is how @JandKTourism deptt has developed #Pahalgam. These pictures are from Baisaran Valley. Located just 5 kilometers away from Pahalgam, It is also called Mini-#Switzerland. Every tourist spends Rs 1500 to 2000 to reach this place only to get stuck in mud! pic.twitter.com/Gm4U2dy2yr
— Saahil Suhail (@SaahilSuhail) October 19, 2021
Baisaran can be only accessed by Ponies and Pedestrians
Reaching Baisaran is an adventure in itself. No motor vehicles are allowed on the trail leading to the meadow, preserving its raw, untouched beauty. Tourists must either walk the steep path or hire ponies for the roughly 5-kilometer uphill journey. This lack of vehicle access, while helping maintain ecological balance, also means the area becomes isolated, particularly during emergencies or unexpected events. This led to the advantage of the attackers on April 22, 2025.
On Tuesday afternoon, between 2:45 and 3:00 PM, this peaceful valley was shaken by a sudden and violent incident. Eyewitnesses reported that a group of 2 to 3 gunmen, dressed in military fatigues, emerged from the surrounding forest and opened fire on tourists visiting Baisaran.
I visited Baisaran Valley exactly a year ago. It’s a popular tourist destination, but it’s also less secure. The area requires the presence of the J&K Police or Indian Army. Difficult to climb but most beautiful place in Kashmir. #Pahalgam pic.twitter.com/iwCZwLt8qJ
— Unmesh (@upgundecha) April 22, 2025
At least 26 people were killed in the brutal attack, with several others injured. The isolation of the location, due to the absence of nearby vehicles, amplified the chaos and made swift evacuation difficult.
Security forces have launched a manhunt in the nearby forests, while local authorities are investigating how such an attack was carried out in one of the region’s most visited tourist spots. The incident has cast a shadow over what is typically considered one of Kashmir’s most peaceful destinations.
