Kashmir is like heaven on earth, offering a magical connection with nature. Enjoy the pleasant weather, snow-covered mountains, beautiful meadows, and lush green gardens. Discover stunning lakes, traditional houseboats, delicious food, charming valleys, and magnificent architecture. Don’t forget the famous pashmina shawls and the incredible natural beauty all around. The more you explore, the more you’ll be amazed by Kashmir. It’s also the starting point for visiting many other beautiful valleys in the region.
Whether you love nature or crave adventure, Kashmir has something special for everyone. The popular tourist spots in Kashmir cater to all kinds of travelers. Whether you’re planning a trip with family, friends, or even by yourself, Kashmir is the perfect choice! Explore the diverse Kashmir tour packages to find the one that suits your interests and ensures a memorable journey.
Get ready for an unforgettable holiday in Kashmir! Here are some top places to visit that promise amazing experiences:
Srinagar
If you haven’t visited Srinagar, you haven’t truly seen Kashmir! Known for its stunning natural beauty, Srinagar is the capital of Jammu & Kashmir and is perfectly situated along the banks of the Jhelum River. The name Srinagar comes from the Sanskrit words ‘Sri’ (meaning wealth) and ‘Nagar’ (meaning city), highlighting its historical significance as a prosperous trading hub.
Surrounded by the Himalayas, Srinagar is filled with breathtaking landscapes and natural beauty. Enjoy mesmerizing gardens, take a Shikara ride, and stay on charming houseboats. Spending a night on a houseboat under a moonlit sky, listening to the gentle sounds of the water, is an experience you’ll never forget.
Popular Attractions of Srinagar
Dal Lake
Dal Lake is famous for its enchanting Shikara rides. Surrounded by stunning natural beauty, it’s a favorite spot for both travelers and locals to spend evenings watching the heartwarming sunset over the water with a mountainous backdrop. Anyone visiting Srinagar looks forward to this magical experience. The floating markets on Dal Lake also offer a unique and exciting shopping experience!
Tulip Garden
You’ll be amazed at the sight of colorful tulips spread across 30 hectares in this world-famous garden. It feels like stepping into paradise! Surrounded by mountains, this is the largest tulip garden in Asia and is open from March to April. The garden features 1.5 million tulips in 68 different varieties, with Dal Lake on one side and the Zabarwan Hills on the other.
Shalimar Bagh
Established in 1619 by the Mughal emperor Jehangir, Shalimar Bagh is a must-visit in Srinagar. With its beautiful fountains, stunning trees, and a variety of flowers that bloom in spring and autumn, this garden offers plenty of tranquility and is one of Kashmir’s most famous gardens.
Shankaracharya Temple
This is said to be the oldest temple in the valley, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The saint Adi Shankaracharya found spiritual enlightenment here, so many people visit from far away. The temple is on Shankaracharya Hill, 1100 feet above sea level, and offers amazing views of the city.
Nishat Bagh
Nishat Bagh, also known as the ‘Garden of Bliss’, is a beautiful Mughal garden set against a stunning mountain backdrop. Located on the banks of Dal Lake, this garden features lovely terraces, fruit and chinar trees, and colorful flowerbeds. You can take a leisurely walk or just sit and enjoy the natural beauty.
Nigeen Lake
Pristine deep blue water and a mesmerizing ambiance await you at this lake! Hop onto a houseboat and explore its beauty. It’s the perfect spot to immerse yourself in nature. Known as ‘The Jewel in the Ring,’ this lake is named for the tall trees that surround it.
Srinagar Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Srinagar is from April to October when the city is covered in beautiful blossoms. Try to avoid December and January, as heavy snowfall can block the roads.
Houseboat Stay: For a unique experience, stay on one of the iconic houseboats on Dal Lake. It’s an unforgettable way to enjoy the pristine waters.
Tulip Garden: Rejuvenate yourself by visiting the world-famous Tulip Garden, open from March to April. With hundreds of colorful tulip varieties, it’s the largest tulip garden in Asia.
Shopping at Polo View Market: Don’t miss Polo View Market for amazing handicrafts like pherans, pashmina shawls, saffron, wood crafts, carpets, papier-mâché artifacts, kahwa (Kashmiri tea), and walnuts. Also, check out the local bakeries for delicious walnut treats.
Kashmiri Cuisine: Treat your taste buds to Wazwan, the traditional Kashmiri cuisine, for a memorable culinary experience.
Checkout Tailormade Journey’s Srinagar Tour Packages
Gulmarg
Gulmarg is a snowy wonderland, perfectly nestled in the Pir Panjal range of the western Himalayas. Known as one of India’s top skiing spots, it’s a haven for adventure enthusiasts. The name “Gulmarg” comes from Persian, where “Gul” means flowers and “Marg” means meadow.
The stunning views of snow-capped mountains, vibrant gardens full of colorful flowers, and lush pine trees make Gulmarg a feast for the senses. Often called the ‘Meadow of Flowers’ because of its diverse wild mountain blooms, this valley offers something for everyone. From its natural beauty to thrilling snow adventures, Gulmarg has it all. Whether you’re on a honeymoon, seeking adventure, or looking to spend quality time with your family, a trip to Gulmarg is just what you need!
Gulmarg Gondola Ride
A highlight of Gulmarg is the Gondola Ride, Asia’s largest and highest, and the world’s second-largest and highest cable car ride. It’s a must-do experience that draws travelers from all over. During the ride, you’ll get both an adrenaline rush and stunning mountain views. Each gondola can carry up to six people and operates from 10 am to 5 pm. The ride consists of three phases:
First phase: This starts at the Gulmarg resort and goes to Kongdori Station (2,600 m), taking about 9 minutes.
Second phase: From Kongdori Station, it continues to Kongdori Mountain (3,747 m) and Apharwat Peak, taking about 12 minutes.
Third phase: This phase goes from Kongdori to Mary’s Shoulder (chairlift phase).
Note: Children below 11 years old are not allowed on the third phase of the Gondola ride.
Skiing
Thinking about skiing? Gulmarg is the place to be! Known for its powdery snow runs, it’s the world’s third-highest ski resort. The stunning Apharwat Peak in Gulmarg offers the longest ski slope in Asia, sitting at an altitude of 4,390 meters. You can reach this peak with a scenic 12-minute ropeway ride. If skiing isn’t your thing, you can still enjoy the snow by sleighing or snowboarding. Gulmarg caters to both seasoned skiers and beginners, ensuring everyone has a great time.
Gulmarg Golf Course
Established in 1911 among the alpine mountains, Gulmarg Golf Course holds the title of the world’s highest green golf course at an altitude of 9,000 feet. Every summer, golf enthusiasts flock to Gulmarg for a unique golfing experience. This 18-hole golf course is set on a picturesque meadow filled with blooming flowers, making it a stunning summer destination for golfers. Rightly so, it’s renowned as the best summer golfing spot in the world.
Gulmarg Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit: Gulmarg is a winter wonderland, making the best time to visit from October to March when the area is blanketed in snow, perfect for adventure activities. During winter, temperatures can drop to sub-zero levels. If you prefer lush greenery and beautiful scenery, plan your visit from May to August.
Gondola Ride: Don’t miss the world-famous Gondola Ride in winter.
Altitude Caution: Children and the elderly may experience mountain sickness during Phase II of the Gondola Ride, which is at an altitude of almost 4,000 meters. The first phase of the ride is generally suitable for everyone.
Advance Booking: Book your Gondola Ride tickets online in advance to avoid any last-minute hassle.
Footwear: Bring gumboots to protect your feet from the cold and ensure easy mobility on snow during activities. Avoid wearing regular shoes.
Warm Clothing: Pack very warm jackets, lowers, mufflers, gloves, and shoes to handle the extreme cold in Gulmarg during winter.
Check out Tailormade Journey’s Gulmarg Tour Packages
Sonamarg
Known as the ‘Meadow of Golden Light’, Sonamarg is a must-visit destination in Kashmir. The name comes from two Hindi words: ‘Sona’ meaning gold and ‘Marg’ meaning meadow. As you explore this charming hill station via its winding roads, you’ll notice the landscape constantly changing. The green meadows, stunning scenery, lovely streams, rushing rivers, glaciers, and majestic mountains will create unforgettable memories during your Kashmir holidays. Adventure enthusiasts can enjoy activities like trekking, skiing, hiking, fishing, and river rafting. Don’t miss a visit to the beautiful walnut orchards.
Popular Attractions of Sonamarg
Thajiwas Glacier
Situated at an altitude of 9,186 feet, Thajiwas Glacier is a must-see attraction in Sonamarg. Encircled by meadows, frozen lakes, and conifer trees, with the Thajiwas mountain towering above, this glacier captivates visitors with its stunning natural beauty. Numerous picturesque waterfalls surround the glacier, enhancing its charm. For an adventurous twist, try a sledging ride. The best time to visit is from April to October. Reaching the glacier by pony ride adds an extra layer of fun to your trip.
Baltal Valley
Perched at an altitude of 2,743 meters, Baltal Valley is a haven of natural beauty with its snow-capped mountain peaks, glaciers, waterfalls, and the flowing Sindh River. It’s an ideal spot for taking picture-perfect photos and immersing yourself in nature’s tranquility. The valley offers breathtaking views of the Zoji La Pass and excellent camping opportunities. Additionally, Baltal serves as a base camp for pilgrims embarking on the Amarnath Yatra. The valley is open from April to September, enjoying a pleasant climate during these months.
Zoji La Pass
Renowned for its stunning beauty, Zoji La Pass sits at an altitude of 11,575 feet, linking Kashmir with Dras and the Suru Valley. The pass experiences heavy snowfall in winter and is closed on Fridays for maintenance. When traveling to Zoji La Pass, it’s best to start around 7 am to avoid the traffic that builds up by 10 am. The ideal time to visit is from May to October.
Gadsar Lake
Nestled at an elevation of 5,000 meters above sea level, Gadsar Lake, also known as the Lake of Flowers, is a breathtaking destination. Encircled by alpine meadows, the lake is home to rare and endangered fish species like the brown trout. Visitors can also marvel at the floating icebergs and the diverse array of wildflowers that add to the lake’s charm.
Sonamarg Travel Tips
In summer, the ideal time to visit Sonamarg is from April to June when the weather is pleasant and the valley is adorned with blooming flowers and lush greenery. For those looking to enjoy snowfall and snow activities, the best time to visit is during the winter season, from October to March.
Checkout Tailormade Journey’s Sonamarg Tour Packages
Pahalgam
Pahalgam Valley, with its enchanting landscapes and majestic Himalayan peaks, is a must-visit destination in Kashmir. Known for its sparkling rivers, towering pines, apple orchards, and lush forests, Pahalgam is often called the ‘Valley of Shepherds’. Located in the Anantnag district along the banks of the gushing Lidder River, Pahalgam offers more than just breathtaking views. Visitors can enjoy activities like river rafting and trout fishing in the Lidder River. This picturesque valley has also been the backdrop for many Bollywood movies, adding to its charm and allure.
Betaab Valley
Previously known as Hagan Valley or Hagoon, this stunning valley was renamed Betaab Valley after the popular Bollywood movie “Betaab” was filmed here. Situated just 15 km from Pahalgam, Betaab Valley attracts visitors with its lush green meadows, dense forests, winding streams, towering mountains, and scenic views. It also serves as a trekking base and camping site for those looking to explore the nearby mountain trails. The Lidder River flowing through the valley adds to its enchanting beauty.
Chandanwari
Immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of Chandanwari, a stunning valley that serves as the gateway to the sacred Amarnath Yatra for Hindus. Situated at an altitude of 2,895 meters, Chandanwari is an offbeat tourist destination that remains covered in snow from November to May. Visitors can marvel at the glaciers melting into the Lidder River and enjoy sledging on the snowy slopes.
Aru Valley
Located 12 km from Pahalgam in the Anantnag district of Kashmir, Aru Valley sits at an altitude of 2,414 meters. The valley is renowned for its expansive meadows, snow-capped mountains, charming lakes, and breathtaking views. In winter, Aru Valley is blanketed in snow, making it a perfect spot for skiing and heli-skiing. It also serves as the base camp for treks to Tarsar Lake and Kolahoi Glacier. Visitors can enjoy horse riding, photography, and fishing, making it a versatile destination for all kinds of travelers.
Baisaran Valley
Just 5 km from Pahalgam, this valley is a haven of extraordinary beauty where several Bollywood movies have been filmed. Surrounded by pine forests, it offers a stunning natural landscape that will leave you spellbound. Often referred to as the mini Switzerland of India, it also serves as a base for trekkers heading to Tulian Lake.
Pahalgam Travel Tips
• Best Time to Visit: Pahalgam can be visited year-round as it enjoys a pleasant climate. While it gets cold in winter, the conditions are not harsh, making it a comfortable destination even during the colder months.
• Nearest Airport: Srinagar International Airport is the closest airport to Pahalgam, situated approximately 92 km away.
Checkout Tailormade Journey’s Pahalgam Tour Packages
Frequently Asked Questions About Best Places to Visit in Kashmir
What is the most beautiful location in Kashmir?
Kashmir is filled with stunning places to explore. You can visit Srinagar, take a boat ride on Dal Lake, enjoy skiing in Gulmarg, and experience the beauty of Sonamarg and Pahalgam.
What are the top tourist attractions in the Kashmir region?
Kashmir is home to many breathtaking valleys. You can enjoy a ride on the Gulmarg Gondola, go skiing, visit the Gulmarg Golf Course, and explore the scenic Baltal Valley, Zoji La Pass, Betaab Valley, Aru Valley, and Baisaran Valley. There’s so much natural beauty to experience!
What are the best items to purchase in Kashmir?
Kashmir offers a variety of beautiful souvenirs to take home. You can find walnut wood items, papier-mâché artifacts, Kashmir pashminas, Kashmiri tea, copperware, and spices. These items are handcrafted by the locals and make wonderful keepsakes.
What is the ideal time to plan a visit to Kashmir?
To see the Tulip Gardens in full bloom, visit Kashmir in April. For the best scenic views and to explore the alpine meadows, plan your trip between March and October.
What are the top honeymoon destinations in Kashmir?
Srinagar, Pahalgam, and Gulmarg are top honeymoon destinations in Kashmir. These valleys are adorned with lakes and colorful flowers, especially in the Mughal Gardens, making them perfect for a romantic getaway.
Which places are best to visit in Kashmir during May?
If you’re planning to visit Kashmir in May, make sure to include Srinagar, Leh, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam in your sightseeing list. These destinations offer stunning views and a memorable experience.
What are the top restaurants to dine at in Kashmir?
Kashmir is known for its delicious local cuisine, and there are some fantastic restaurants you must try:
- Alchi Kitchen
- Stream Restaurant
- Dana Pani
What are the most famous hotels in Kashmir?
For a comfortable staycation in Kashmir, there are many great hotels to choose from. Here are some of the best:
- Hotel Heevan
- Hotel Kashmir Inn
- Welcome Hotel
- Old Likkir
These hotels offer excellent amenities and a cozy stay.
What activities are available to enjoy in Kashmir?
Kashmir is a dynamic destination offering a perfect mix of adventure and tranquility. You can experience the best of both worlds with activities like biking, paragliding, hiking, and trekking. For peaceful moments, enjoy a boathouse trip on Dal Lake, and then head to Nubra Valley for even more exciting activities.
What are some famous foods of Kashmir?
Kashmir is a paradise for food lovers, offering some of India’s most delicious delicacies. Be sure to try Aab Gosh, Goshtaba, Lyader Tschaman, Runwagan Tschaman, and many other authentic Kashmiri dishes.
