Srinagar May 08 (KINS): In Kashmir, concerns are rising among tourism players as visiting the region becomes notably pricier compared to other South Asian destinations. Airfare from Delhi to Srinagar has surged by up to 300%, now ranging from Rs 10,000 to Rs 15,000, while tickets to destinations like Colombo and Dubai remain relatively cheaper. This spike in airfare is affecting travelers like Mahesh Bhat, who found it more expensive to fly to Srinagar from Mumbai than to Dubai. With tourism being a vital economic pillar for Kashmir, generating around Rs 8,000 crore annually, the increased airfare is concerning for stakeholders. Despite the surge, popular destinations like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Dal Lake are seeing high occupancy rates. Mohammad Altaf, a hotelier, emphasizes the need for government intervention to address the escalating airfare, which is impacting various categories of travelers and hindering tourism footfall.