Srinagar, June 9 -- Srinagar- Kashmir witnessed a heavy tourist rush during the first week of June this year with stakeholders exuding hope that Valley could record one of its highest tourist arrivals this year amid improved connectivity and growing footfall at both established and offbeat destinations.

According to official data, more than six lakh tourists have visited Jammu and Kashmir so far this year.

Officials attributed the increase in tourist arrivals to improved mobility and easier access to the Valley through road, rail and air connectivity.

The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway via Banihal continued to witness the highest tourist movement, while rail travel registered a significant increase this year.

The recently launched Ja...