Kashmir is witnessing a new phase of tourism development. Protecting groundwater recharge zones, wetlands and forests must therefore become a central component of tourism planning rather than an afterthought. Tourism development should therefore be based on scientific assessments of carrying capacity rather than short-term commercial considerations. Rainwater harvesting, sewage treatment plants, wastewater recycling, solar energy, energy-efficient buildings and scientific solid waste management should become standard requirements instead of optional features. Unfortunately, many tourist destinations continue to struggle with littering, plastic waste, overflowing dustbins and inadequate sanitation during peak tourist seasons.