Top 10 Tourist Places to visit in Kashmir

Explore the Heaven on Earth: Top 10 best Visit Places in Kashmir

Kashmir

Kashmir is heaven on earth with its alpine peaks and snow-clad ranges. From trekking to solo trips to leisurely family vacations, Kashmir is a complete package. An unbelievably beautiful landscape, valley of flowers, serene lakes and amazing trekking trails, Kashmir has a little of everything to offer to its visitors. Looking to decode Kashmir for your next trip? Here is a complete list of places you must visit during your tour:

Srinagar – The Jewel of Kashmir

Dal Lake- Srinagar

Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, perfectly blends natural beauty, cultural heritage, and vibrant traditions. Its most iconic feature is Dal Lake, where picturesque houseboats and Shikara rides provide a magical experience. The city is also home to stunning Mughal Gardens, such as Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh, showcasing Persian-inspired landscaping with terraced lawns, fountains, and colorful flowers. Srinagar’s bustling markets, like Lal Chowk, offer a chance to shop for traditional Kashmiri crafts, pashmina shawls, and saffron.

How to reach Srinagar: Take a train to either Jammu Tavi or Udhampur Railway Station. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to this beautiful place. 

Must Do: Stay in a Houseboat.

Best time to visit: February to July

Activities: Boating, shopping, sightseeing, and enjoying Kashmiri cuisine.

Gulmarg – The Skiing Paradise

Gulmarg

Known for its pristine white slopes, Gulmarg is a hotspot for winter sports enthusiasts. The Gulmarg Gondola, one of the highest cable cars in the world, takes you to the snow-clad peaks, offering stunning panoramic views. During summers, the meadows of Gulmarg bloom with wildflowers, creating a picturesque setting perfect for trekking and picnics. For golf lovers, Gulmarg boasts one of the world’s highest golf courses.

How to reach: By air – The nearest airport is Srinagar which is 56 kilometers away.

By bus – Gulmarg is well connected by bus from Srinagar, Sonmarg, and other neighboring towns in Kashmir.

By train: Jammu is the nearest Railway Station at a distance of 290 kilometers.

Must Do: Ski with the help of professionals at 14000 feet above sea level.

Best time to visit: March to June

Pahalgam – Valley of Shepherds

Pahalgam

Pahalgam is a tranquil valley that offers a mix of adventure and relaxation. Surrounded by dense forests and meandering rivers, it is a favorite spot for honeymooners and nature lovers. The Lidder River offers opportunities for river rafting, while the Aru and Betaab Valleys are perfect for camping and trekking. Pahalgam also serves as the starting point for the sacred Amarnath Yatra.

How to reach: You can take a train to Jammu which is about 255 kilometers from Pahalgam. You can then rent a taxi to Pahalgam. You can reach there by air by boarding a flight to Srinagar which is at a distance of 95 kilometers from Pahalgam.

Must Do: Visit Mini Switzerland on ponies

Best time to visit: February to June.

Sonamarg – Meadow of Gold

Sonamarg

Sonamarg is aptly named “Meadow of Gold” for its golden meadows set against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks. A haven for adventure seekers, Sonamarg offers trekking trails to the Thajiwas Glacier and river rafting on the Sindh River. Zoji La Pass, a gateway to Ladakh, is also nearby, making it a strategic spot for travelers.

How to reach: By air – You can take a flight to Srinagar and then take a bus or a taxi to Sonmarg.

By road – Sonmarg can be reached by Pahalgam which is well connected by roads from all the major cities in the north.

Must Do: Trek to the Thajiwas Glacier.

Best time to visit: February to March

Betaab Valley – Bollywood’s Favorite Spot

Betaab Valley

Betaab Valley, named after the hit Bollywood movie “Betaab”, is a lush valley surrounded by tall pine and deodar forests. This picturesque spot, with its crystal-clear streams and serene environment, attracts photographers and nature lovers. The valley is an excellent picnic spot and a gateway for trekking expeditions.

How to reach: 15 km from Pahalgam by road.

Must Do: Nature walks, picnics by the river, and photography.

The best time to visit: is March to June for greenery.

Where to stay: Resorts in Pahalgam or nearby lodges

Activities: Camping, trekking, and stargazing.

Aharbal – Kashmir’s Niagara Falls

Aharbal Waterfall

Known as Kashmir’s Niagara Falls, Aharbal Waterfall is a breathtaking sight amidst pine forests. The gushing waters of the Veshu River cascading down rocky cliffs create an enchanting ambiance. It’s an ideal spot for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

How to reach: 75 km from Srinagar by road.

Must Do: Picnic near the falls, and hike to the surrounding trails.

The best time to visit: is September to April for clear skies.

Where to stay: Guesthouses in nearby villages.

Activities: Hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching.

Yusmarg – A Serene Escape

Yusmarg

Yusmarg is a hidden gem that offers unmatched tranquility. Surrounded by lush meadows, dense forests, and streams, it’s perfect for those seeking solitude. Activities like horse riding and fishing add to its charm while trekking trails lead to enchanting vistas.

How to reach: 47 km from Srinagar by road.

Must Do: Picnic by the Doodh Ganga River, and short treks.

The best time to visit: is March to October.

Where to stay: Tourist bungalows or huts managed by JKTDC.

Activities: Horse riding, trekking, and camping.

Kupwara

Bungas Valley

The alpine mountains, fresh gushing clear water, and thriving meadows best describe this beautiful city of Kupwara. Known as the Crown of Kashmir, Kupwara is one of the world’s best tourist destinations. You must visit Lolab Valley and Bungas Valley as they hold a special significance among the citizens of Kopwara. Imagine springs and lakes with water pulsating like quicksilver and the morning birds fluttering about about the sky, restless, Yes! Kupwara is a place where you will experience this tranquility and serenity.

How to reach: No direct flights or buses are available to Kupwara, one has to book a taxi from Srinagar or Jammu to reach Kupwara

To do: visit to Lolab Valley, Qamar Reshi Sahib shrine, Sheikh Baba Behram

When to visit: April to October

Where to stay: there are several hotels to stay in Kupwara.

Shankaracharya Temple – A Spiritual Retreat

Shankaracharya Temple

Perched on Shankaracharya Hill, this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva offers panoramic views of Dal Lake and Srinagar. Its serene ambiance makes it an ideal spot for meditation and spirituality.

How to reach: Easily accessible by road within Srinagar.

Must Do: Enjoy the scenic views and meditate in peace.

Best time to visit: Year-round.

Where to stay: Hotels and guesthouses in Srinagar.

Activities: Sightseeing, spiritual retreat, and photography.

 Hemis

Hemis- Leh

It is the region of Rarity, an unexplored land with tons of monasteries and national parks. A must-visit in Kashmir in summer if you are a wildlife enthusiast. Species like Snow leopards and Bharals find shelter in these national parks. Located in Leh district, around 40 kilometers southeast of Leh town, in Ladakh, Hemis is mostly famous for the Hemis festival, a festival donned with a multitude of colors and masks followed by monks wearing long horns and dancing to music. 

How to reach: By air –  Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Airport in Leh is the closest airport to Hemis

​By train – The nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi railway station. One can take a bus from Jammu to Hemis

By road – One can reach Hemis in two ways, first through Srinagar- Kargil- Leh highway or through Leh- Manali highway

What to do: Visit the Hemis Monastery and Hemis National Park. Take a chance to visit Hemis in July and enjoy the Hemis Festival

Best time to visit: May to July

Where to stay: There are no hotels in Hemis, so one has to book a stay in Leh.

Best Time to Visit Kashmir

The best time to visit the breathtaking region of Kashmir is during the spring season, which spans from March to May when the valley comes alive with a vibrant burst of blooming flowers, lush greenery, and pleasant weather that creates a picturesque and serene ambiance. Additionally, the summer months from June to August are perfect for enjoying Kashmir’s cool, comfortable climate, making it an ideal escape from the scorching heat of the plains while offering ample opportunities for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

FAQ 

1. What is the best time to visit Kashmir?

Spring and summer are the best times for a pleasant experience.

2. Are these destinations safe for travelers?

Yes, most tourist areas in Kashmir are safe. Always follow local guidelines.

3. How many days are ideal for exploring Kashmir?

A 6-7 day trip is ideal for covering major attractions.

Plan Your Dream Kashmir Vacation Today.

Embark on an unforgettable journey to the “Paradise on Earth.” Whether it’s the pristine lakes, majestic valleys, or cultural wonders, Kashmir awaits you with open arms.

 Start planning your trip now! Book your stay and make memories that last a lifetime.

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