SRINAGAR, November 2 — Jammu and Kashmir Tourism has received the Best Tourist Destination Award at the India Travel Mart (ITM) Goa–2026, adding to the Union Territory's recognition in India's domestic tourism market.
The award was received on behalf of the Tourism Department by Rashid Raina, Deputy Director Tourism Publicity, Kashmir, and Pankaj Sasan, Deputy Director Tourism Publicity, Jammu.
The Jammu and Kashmir pavilion at the travel mart attracted visitors and generated enquiries from members of Goa's travel trade. Tourism officials interacted with travel professionals and showcased the region's tourism offerings, including its scenic destinations, cultural heritage, adventure activities and emerging travel experiences.
The participation was aimed at expanding the Union Territory's visibility among domestic travellers and strengthening partnerships with tour operators and other industry stakeholders.
On the sidelines of the event, the two tourism officials also visited the National Institute of Water Sports in Goa to explore possibilities for institutional collaboration and identify opportunities to expand water sports and adventure tourism in Jammu and Kashmir.
The recognition comes amid the Tourism Department's efforts to promote the Union Territory as a year-round destination and diversify its tourism offerings beyond conventional sightseeing.
In a separate recognition at the India International Travel Mart in Mumbai, Jammu and Kashmir was adjudged the Best Adventure Tourism Destination and Best Experiential Tourism Destination. The awards were received by Joint Director Tourism Kashmir Waseem Raja on behalf of the department.
The latest honours are expected to strengthen Jammu and Kashmir's presence in the domestic tourism market and provide further opportunities for engagement with travel operators and tourism stakeholders across the country.
