Pakistan on Monday strongly condemned the massacre of 24 Hindus in Nandimarg in Jammu and Kashmir as an 'act of terrorism'.

The foreign ministry, in a statement, said, "The blatant act of terrorism, reportedly carried out by persons wearing Indian army uniforms, is reprehensible."

Pakistan also offered its condolences to the bereaved families.

Meanwhile, Jammu and Kashmir Governor G C Saxena said the government was geared up to face any challenges thrown from across the border.

"The killing of 24 Kashmiri pundits is a gruesome act against humanity and an attempt by people across the border to whip up communal tension in the state," Saxena told reporters after the Amarnath Shrine Board meeting in New Delhi.

Britain strongly condemned the terrorist attacks and said it underpinned the need for continued action to eliminate the scourge of terrorism.

British Foreign Secretary Jack Straw telephoned External Affairs Minister Yashwant Sinha on Monday and expressed shock at the appalling murder of innocent civilians by terrorists in Nadimarg village.

"The UK strongly condemns such acts," he said adding, "our thoughts and sympathies are with the families of all killed and those injured."

United States Ambassador to India Robert D Blackwill has condemned the killing in a statement.

Extending heartfelt condolence to the bereaved families of the victims, Blackwill said, "The global war on terrorism will not be won until such atrocities end against all countries."

With inputs from Josy Joseph in New Delhi