Places To Visit In Kashmir

Epitomizing heavenly beauty on earth, Kashmir takes you closer to Nature’s magic through its pleasant weather, snow-capped mountains, gorgeous meadows, lush green gardens, stunning water bodies, traditional houseboats, scrumptious food, quaint valleys, magnificent architecture, world-famous pashmina, and sheer natural beauty. The more you explore the Kashmir tourist destinations, the more you get mesmerized. It is also a gateway to several other beautiful valleys of Kashmir.

Whether you are a nature lover or an adventure enthusiast, Kashmir Tourism has a lot to keep you spellbound. How about a Kashmir honeymoon tour? Ahh, what can be more romantic than this? This paradisiacal land attracts honeymooners just like a magnet attracts iron nails. The popular tourist places in Kashmir have something to offer to every kind of traveler. So whether you are planning holidays with your family, friends, or even alone, Kashmir is the best bet!

So, are you ready to make your holidays once in a lifetime experience? Here are some of the top places to visit in Kashmir that offer experiential journeys to its travelers:

1. Srinagar

If you have not visited Srinagar, you have not visited Kashmir! Synonymous with natural beauty, Srinagar is the capital city of Jammu & Kashmir ideally located along the banks of the Jhelum River. The word Srinagar originated from the Sanskrit words ‘Sri’ meaning ‘wealth’ and ‘Nagar’ meaning ‘city’, denoting its historic significance as a prosperous trading hub.

Surrounded by the Himalayas, the city boasts amazing landscapes, sheer natural beauty, mesmerizing gardens, Shikara ride, houseboats, and much more. You can spend a night on a houseboat while enjoying the sound of sprinkling water under a moonlit night.

Popular Attractions of Srinagar

• Dal Lake

  It is an enthralling lake famous for its Shikara ride. Enveloped in astounding natural beauty, the lake is a big hit with travellers as well as locals for spending evenings capturing heart-warming hues of sunset on the waters against the mountainous backdrop. Anybody visiting Srinagar looks forward to this experience. The floating markets on Dal Lake make the shopping experience interesting and exciting!

• Tulip Garden

  Promise, you will gape in awe at the sight of the colourful tulips spread across 30 hectares in this world-famous garden. You will feel as if you have landed in paradise! Surrounded by mountains, it is the largest Tulip garden in Asia which opens from March to April. The garden is dotted with 15 lakh tulips with 68 different varieties of tulips. The garden has Dal Lake on one side and the Zabarwan Hills on the other.

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• Shalimar Bagh

  Established in 1619 by the Mughal emperor Jehangir, the Shalimar Bagh is a must-visit attraction of Srinagar. Its fountains, gorgeous trees, variety of flowers that blossom in spring and autumn and plenty of tranquillity make it a famous garden of Kashmir.

• Shankaracharya Temple

  According to the legends, it is the oldest temple in the valley. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The great saint Adi Shankaracharya attained spiritual enlightenment at this place and hence it attracts people from far and wide. Offering a bird’s eye view of the city, this temple is located on the Shankaracharya hill at a height of 1100 feet above sea level.

• Nishat Bagh

  Impeccably laid out against the mountain background, Nishat Bagh, also known as the ‘Garden of Bliss’, is one of the famous Mughal gardens. A visit to this garden located on the banks of the Dal Lake will treat your eyes with beautiful terraces, fruit & chinar trees, and colourful flowerbeds. Take a leisurely walk or just sit in one place and enjoy the natural beauty.

• Nigeen Lake

  Pristine deep blue water and mesmerizing ambiance are what await you at this lake! Just get onto a houseboat and explore its beauty. It is a perfect place to get engrossed in Nature. Also known as ‘The Jewel in the Ring’, this lake’s name is inspired by the plethora of tall trees surrounding it.

Srinagar Travel Tips

• April to October is the best time to visit Srinagar as it remains covered with blossoms and looks enchanting. It is advisable not to visit during extreme winters (December & January) as due to heavy snowfall the roads might get blocked.

• Plan a stay on iconic houseboats on the pristine Dal Lake for an enthralling accommodation experience.

• Rejuvenate yourself by visiting the world-famous Tulip Garden boasting of hundreds of varieties of colourful tulips. Open from March to April, it is the largest tulip garden in Asia.

• Do visit Polo View market for handicrafts like pheren, pashmina shawls, saffron, wood crafts, carpets, papier mache artefacts, kahwa (Kashmiri tea), and walnuts. Also, while shopping at Polo View, you can check out some bakeries where you will find amazing delicacies of walnut.

• Treat your taste buds with Wazawan, the traditional Kashmiri food.

Srinagar Main Highlights

• Srinagar is home to mesmerizing lakes such as Dal Lake which is famous for its scenic beauty & Shikara ride and Nigeen Lake which boasts pristine deep blue water and a captivating ambiance.

• It is the perfect place to experience the rich cultural heritage of Kashmir.

• Srinagar experiences a pleasant climate throughout the year, with mild summers and chilly winters. One can visit Srinagar any time throughout the year.

• Take blessings at the Shankaracharya Temple, the oldest temple in Kashmir named after the great Indian philosopher Shankaracharya. Located on a hill at 1100 feet, it is dedicated to Lord Shiva and it is the place where he attained enlightenment.

Srinagar Facts

• Srinagar is a gateway to the famous pilgrimage of Hindus, Amar Nath Yatra, and other beautiful valleys like Gulmarg, Sonamarg and Pahalgam.

• The famous Dal Lake freezes in winter during the ‘Chilla-i-Kalan’, a 40-day harshest winter period.

• The Dal Lake floating market is India’s first floating market established in 1854. Here you can buy fresh vegetables and lovely flowers.

• Srinagar has its own international airport offering flights to major cities in India like Delhi, Mumbai, Chandigarh, Bangalore, Amritsar, etc.

2. Gulmarg

Gulmarg is a snow paradise, a cup-shaped valley ideally nestled in the Pir Panjal range of the western Himalayas. One of the best skiing destinations in India, Gulmarg offers adventure in plenty. The word Gulmarg is derived from two Persian words ‘Gul’ meaning flowers and ‘Marg’ meaning meadow.

The breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, gardens blossoming with flowers of varied hues, and pine vegetation make this valley a treat for the senses. It is popularly known as the ‘Meadow of Flowers’ because it boasts a variety of wild mountain flowers. From sheer natural beauty to snow adventure, this valley has a lot to offer to every kind of tourist. So, whether you are a honeymooner, adventure enthusiast, or willing to spend some quality time with your family, Gulmarg tour is waiting for you!

Popular attractions of Gulmarg

• Gulmarg Gondola Ride

  Synonymous with Gulmarg, Gondola Ride is Asia’s largest & highest and the world’s second-largest & highest cable car ride. It is the top attraction of Gulmarg where travellers come from far and wide. During the gondola ride, you can experience the adventure as well as the scenic views of the mountains. The gondola can ferry 6 people at a time. It is open from 10 am to 5 pm. The ride takes place in two phases:

  First phase: Begins from the Gulmarg resort to Kongdori Station (2600 m), which takes 9 minutes.

  Second phase: It starts from Kongdori Station to Kongdori Mountain (3747 m) to Apharwat Peak, which takes 12 minutes.

  Third Phase:It begins from Kongdori to Mary’s Shoulder (Chairlift phase).

  Note:Children below 11 years of age are not allowed for the third phase of Gondola ride.

• Skiing

  Skiing is on your mind? Head to Gulmarg, the world’s third-highest ski resort popular for its powdery snow runs. The majestic Apharwat Peak in Gulmarg is the longest ski slope in Asia, at an altitude of 4390 m. One can reach this peak through a 12-minute ropeway ride. If you are uncomfortable with skiing, you can enjoy snow through sleighing and snowboarding. There are opportunities for both experienced as well as amateur skiing enthusiasts.

• Gulmarg Golf Course

  Established in 1911 amidst alpine mountains, Gulmarg Golf Course is known to be the world’s highest green golf course at an altitude of 9000 feet. Come summer and golf lovers head to Gulmarg for golfing holidays! It is an 18-hole golf course located on an arresting meadow offering a variety of blooming flowers. It is aptly famed as the best summer golfing destination in the world.

Gulmarg Travel Tips

• Gulmarg is a winter wonderland so the best time to visit Gulmarg is winter i.e. from October to March when it is covered with snow and perfect for adventure activities. In winter the temperature reaches to sub-zero range. And if you wish to enjoy the lush greenery and picturesque scenery, then visit during summer i.e. from May to August.

• Must go for world famous Gandola Ride in winter.

• Children and elderly may face mountain sickness at phase II of the Gulmarg Gondola Ride as it is almost at an altitude of 4000 m. The first phase of the ride is almost suitable for all.

• Book tickets for Gondola Ride online in advance to avoid last-minute hassle.

• Take gumboots to protect your feet from cold and easily accessibility on snow when you go for snow activities and avoid wearing your own normal shoes.

• Carry really warm jackets, lowers, mufflers, gloves, and shoes when in Gulmarg to face extreme cold in winter.

Gulmarg Main Highlights

• The Gondola Ride in Gulmarg is a star attraction that one must experience. Although cable car is operational throughout the year, the perfect time to experience a Gandola ride is in winter.

• Gulmarg can be visited throughout the year as it offers different hues and charms in different seasons.

Gulmarg Facts

• It is a popular honeymoon destination.

• Gulmarg’s ski slopes are considered among the best ski destinations in the world.

• Gulmarg Golf Course (2,650 m above sea level) is the most elevated green golf course in the world and is the longest in India measuring 7505 yards.

• The nearest airport is in Srinagar, at a distance of 56 km.

• Gulmarg mostly experiences a cold climate throughout the year so always carry some woolens while travelling to this valley.

• Gulmarg enjoys a literacy rate of 99.24 %.

3. Sonamarg

Famous as the ‘Meadow of Golden Light’, Sonamarg is a popular tourist destination in Kashmir. It is derived from two Hindi words, ‘Sona’ meaning gold and ‘Marg’ meaning meadow. As you travel through this wonderful hill station through its winding roads you will be greeted with changes in its landscape. Its green meadows, scenic beauty, lovely streams, gushing rivers, glaciers, and majestic mountains will surely adorn your Kashmir holidays with great memories. For adventure lovers, it offers activities such as trekking, skiing, hiking, fishing, river rafting, etc. Visit walnut orchards for their beauty.

Popular Attractions of Sonamarg

• Thajiwas Glacier

  Located at an altitude of 9,186 feet, Thajiwas Glacier is a must-visit tourist attraction of Sonamarg. Surrounded by meadows, frozen lakes and conifer trees, and overlooked by Thajiwas mountain, this glacier leaves the visitors spellbound with its natural beauty. There are several lovely waterfalls surrounding this glacier. You can enjoy a sledging ride here to add some more adventure to your trip. April to October is the best time to visit this glacier. It is so much fun to take a pony ride to reach the glacier.

• Baltal Valley

  Perched at an altitude of 2,743 m, Baltal Valley offers spectacular natural beauty through its snow-capped mountain peaks, glaciers, waterfalls and the Sindh river that flows through it. It is perfect for clicking some picture-perfect photographs and soaking in Nature’s bliss. It also offers mind-blowing views of the Zoji La Pass and camping opportunities. It serves as a base camp for pilgrims going for the Amarnath Yatra. It is open only for six months starting from April to September as it enjoys a pleasant climate during this period.

• Zoji La Pass

  Famed for its extraordinary beauty, Zoji La Pass is located at an altitude of 11,575 ft connecting Kashmir to Dras and Suru valley. It experiences heavy snowfall during winter and remains closed on Fridays for maintenance work. While traveling to this pass it is better to start around 7 am to avoid traffic which increases by 10 am. May to October is the best time to visit Zoji La Pass.

• Gadsar Lake

  Beautifully located at 5,000 m above sea level, Gadsar Lake is also called the Lake of flowers. Surrounded by Alpine meadow, this lake is home to some rare and endangered fishes like brown trout fish. Other attractions include floating icebergs and a variety of wildflowers.

Sonamarg Travel Tips

• In summer, the best time to visit Sonamarg is from April to June as the weather remains pleasant and the valley gets beautified with flowers and greenery. If you wish to enjoy snowfall and snow activities, the October to March (winter season) is perfect.

Sonamarg Main Highlights

• Visit Thajiwas Glacier for adventure and scenic beauty. A pony ride to this glacier is an added attraction.

• Zoji La Pass beckons you to explore sheer adventure and stunning mountain beauty.

• Sonamarg is very scenic and is perfect for family holidays, adventure lovers and honeymooners.

• Sonamarg attracts tourists in summer as well as in winter as it offers different charms in different seasons.

• It is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts with its rivers teeming with mahseer and trout.

Sonamarg Facts

• It is a heli base for the renowned Amarnath Yatra and a link that connects Srinagar and Kargil.

• The nearest airport is the Srinagar International Airport which is 70 km from Sonamarg.

• Sonamarg is a gateway to Ladakh.

• As per the records, Sonamarg was once a part of the famous Silk Route that connected India with Tibet.

4. Gurez Valley

Located at an altitude of 2,400 m and surrounded by snow-capped mountains, Gurez Valley is a destination with indescribable grandeur. It is an offbeat tourist attraction of Kashmir where Natural beauty and serenity are served in plenty. It is a perfect place to just rejuvenate your body and mind! Its charm is different from the rest of Kashmir. It boasts sparkling rivers, lakes and dense forests complemented with diverse species of flora and fauna including the rare Himalayan brown bear and snow leopard.

Popular Attractions of Gurez

• Kishanganga River

  It is a picturesque and fierce river flowing through the Gurez valley, finally merging into the Jhelum River near Muzaffarabad in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir. Lined with pebbles on its banks, the Kishanganga River is an ideal place for rafting. You can also enjoy camping near the river as there are several camping spots there. There is also a dam on this river where one can capture beautiful sunrise.

• Wular Lake

  You will find this mesmerizing lake on the way to Gurez in Bandipora district, and is one of the largest freshwater lakes in Asia. It sprawls across 24 km in length and 10 km in width. The source of water for this lake is the Jhelum River. The lake has a small island at its centre called ‘Zaina Lank’. Capture spectacular sunset views from this lake and indulge in boating, water skiing, etc.

• Razdan Pass

  Your journey between Srinagar and Gurez brings you to a high-altitude (3,300 m) Pass called Razdan Pass. You can take a break here to enjoy the scenic beauty.

• Habba Khatoon Peak

  It is a pyramid-shaped peak which is a dominant attraction of Gurez Valley. Named after the well-known Kashmiri poetess Habba Khatoon, this fascinating peak offers amazing sunset and sunrise views. There is a small stream of underground water emerging from the peak and flows down into the Kishanganga River. This stream is believed to have medicinal properties.

Gurez Travel Tips

• April to October is the best time to visit Gurez Valley as the weather remains cold yet pleasant. It is not accessible by road during January and February as it remains covered in snow and the temperature drops up to -10 degrees Celsius.

• The nearest airport is the Srinagar International Airport which is 133 km.

Gurez Highlights

• Gurez has a unique cultural heritage reflected beautifully through its Dard tribe.

• The charming Kishanganga River, lofty Hibba Khatoon Peak and huge Wular Lake are must-visit attractions of Gurez.

Gurez Facts

• Gurez remains cut off from the rest of the world due to heavy snowfall in winter.

• Razdan Pass remains closed in winter.

• Gurez Valley holds historic significance as it was once an important trade route connecting the Indian subcontinent with Central Asia and beyond.

• Come summer and Gurez valley blooms with vibrant wildflowers making the landscape picturesque.

5. Pahalgam

Pahalgam Valley boasts enchanting landscapes and the majestic Himalayan peaks. With sparkling rivers, soaring pines, apple orchards, and verdant forests, Pahalgam is a popular attraction of Kashmir. Located in the Anantnag district of Kashmir on the banks of the gushing Lidder River, Pahalgam is known as the ‘Valley of Shepherds’. Apart from getting soaked in the sheer natural beauty of Pahalgam, you can also indulge in river rafting and trout fishing at Lidder River. Many Bollywood movies have been shot in this valley.

Popular Attractions of Pahalgam

• Betaab Valley

  Earlier known as Hagan Valley or Hagoon, this captivating valley was later renamed Betaab Valley after the hit Bollywood movie Betaab which was shot here. Located 15 km away from Pahalgam, Betaab Valley lures travellers with its gorgeous green meadows, dense vegetation, winding streams, lofty mountains, and picturesque vistas. It also serves as a trekking base and camping area for travellers who desire to explore the nearby mountain routes. The Lidder River flows through this valley adding more charm to it.

• Chandanwari

  Let loose in the enthralling charm of snow at Chandanwari, a stunning valley that is also a gateway to the holy Amarnath Yatra of Hindus. It is an offbeat tourist destination located at an altitude of 2,895 m. It remains enveloped in snow from November till May and offers amazing sights of glaciers melting down into the Lidder River and offers opportunities for sledging.

• Aru Valley

  Located 12 km from Pahalgam in the Anantnag district of Kashmir, at an altitude of 2,414 m, Aru Valley takes pride in its meadows sprawling far and wide, snow-capped mountains, charming lakes, and picture-perfect views. Come winter and this valley gets covered in snow offering great opportunities for skiing and heli skiing. It also serves as the base camp for trekking to the Tarsar Lake and Kolahoi Glacier. Other activities that you can enjoy here are horse riding, photography, and fishing.

• Baisaran Valley

  Located just 5 km from Pahalgam, it is a valley with extraordinary beauty where several Bollywood movies have been shot. Encircled with pine forests, this valley offers plenty of natural beauty to keep you spellbound. It is popularly known as the mini Switzerland of India. It is also a base for trekkers visiting Tulian Lake.

Pahalgam Travel Tips

• Pahalgam can be visited at any time of the year as it enjoys a pleasant climate. In winter it gets cold but it doesn’t experience harsh winter.

• Srinagar International Airport is the nearest airport to Pahalgam, located around 92 km from it.

Pahalgam Highlights

• A trip to Pahalgam is incomplete without visiting the enchanting Betaab Valley.

• Explore the valley on a pony ride for the ultimate thrill.

Pahalgam Facts

• Pahalgam serves as a base for the famous Amarnath Yatra taken by the Hindu pilgrims.

• Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam is famed as mini Switzerland of India.

• Enjoy snowfall in December

6. Yusmarg

Surrounded by lofty mountains and forests, Yusmarg is a beautiful lush green valley located at an altitude of 7861 feet in Budgam district of Kashmir. Known as the ‘Meadow of Jesus’, this valley is believed to be the place where Jesus once lived. Its gorgeous grassy pastures sprawl across acres of land, and the marvellous landscape beauty makes it look like a place straight out of a fairy tale land. A pony ride for exploring the valley would add fun to your expedition. There is also a wonderful trekking route from Yousmarg leading to a famous spot called Tosa Maidan, a lovely meadow where you will find nomads grazing their cattle.

Popular Attractions of Yusmarg

• Doodh Ganga

  Flowing through Yusmarg, Doodh Ganga is a lovely river known for its water that appears milky, and hence it was named Doodh Ganga. It is a starting point for several trekking expeditions and is also a wonderful camping site. The river teems with trout fishes and is perfect for angling and fishing.

• Tosa Maidan

  Surrounded by dense forest, Tosa Maidan is a gorgeous meadow located at an altitude of 3,000 m and sprawling across 100 sq. km. It inhabits a variety of flora and fauna including rare species such as musk deer and Himalayan black bear. It was once used as a firing range by the Indian Army. You can enjoy trekking and camping here.

• Nilnag Lake

  It is a captivating high-altitude lake, cradled by hills, located 4 km downhill from Yusmarg. Its blue water gives it the name Nilnag. It offers great trekking opportunity as a trek to this lake pass through a beautiful pine forest dotted with several water streams. It is a 13 km uphill trek and once you reach there you will be amazed with the sheer natural beauty.

Yusmarg Travel Tips

• The best time to travel to Yusmarg is from April to June, September, and October.

• Yusmarg offers great trekking trails, so try it out.

• Visit the Bobby hut at Yusmarg for it is the place where the super hit Bollywood movie Bobby was shot.

Yusmarg Highlights

• Trek to the famous Doodh Ganga River from Yusmarg (just 2 km) and you will be greeted with immense natural beauty.

• Explore the valley on a pony ride for thrill and fun.

Yusmarg Facts

• Yusmarg is an offbeat travel destination offering plenty of natural beauty and tranquillity.

• Srinagar International Airport is the nearest airport to Yusmarg, located around 44 km from it.

Choose from these top places to visit in Kashmir to make your Kashmir holidays memorable and pleasurable!