Kashmir, which has been called “the paradise”, is located in northern India and belongs to the Union Territories of India. It has natural beauty in terms of its mountains, valleys, lakes, gardens, and meadows. This beautifully mesmerizing place should be visited by all individuals at least once in their lifetime. The chilly weather along with snow-capped mountains provides wonderful scenery to watch. Its culture, hospitality, and atmosphere are totally welcoming.
No matter whether you are a solo traveller or a couple who wants to spend some good time together; this place offers all that is needed. Many people visit this place during summers along with their family members to spend their summer vacations.
If you have made up your mind to travel to Kashmir, then read this blog till the end to know everything about this tour. The following guide covers many questions like the best time to travel, the best places to cover and accommodation options as well.
Why Visit Kashmir?
There are many locations which when you visit them, you will definitely get fascinated with the beauty of the place and get enchanted by them. Kashmir is such a location which can definitely enchant you with its wonderful snow-capped mountains, glittering lakes, green valleys and beautiful gardens. The culture of Kashmir along with its handmade items and hospitality will definitely make your stay worth remembering. If you are an adventure lover, then there are many adventurous activities available for you in Kashmir like skiing, trekking, river rafting and camping. If you want to relax, then you just need to relax at the peaceful location of Kashmir.
Best Destinations in Kashmir
Some of the best destinations in India are found in Kashmir, where visitors can find plenty of adventure and attractions to choose from. You can consider these places as part of your Kashmir tour.
Srinagar
Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu & Kashmir, holds the reputation of being the major attraction point in Kashmir on account of its location amidst the magnificent Himalayan ranges of Zabarwan, lakes, Mughal Gardens and rich culture.
-
Dal Lake
Take an enjoyable boat ride on a shikara and explore the floating markets and allow yourself to get captivated by the beauty of the famous lake of Kashmir.
-
Nigeen Lake
If you find yourself feeling overcrowded at Dal Lake, there is a more peaceful place for you – Nigeen Lake.
-
Mughal Gardens
There are numerous beautiful gardens built in Srinagar in the Mughal style of architecture. There is flower viewing and fountain viewing available in Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh and Chashme Shahi.
-
Stay at Houseboats
Take a night’s stay in the houseboats on Dal Lake and wake up to mesmerizing views of the lake with its surroundings being the Himalayan Mountains.
Gulmarg
It is also referred to as “meadow of flowers” and is among the popular hill stations in Kashmir as well as the paradise for adventure seekers.
-
Gulmarg Gondola
Gulmarg gondola gives you the opportunity to experience one of the highest gondolas of the world providing magnificent view of snow covered mountain peaks and valleys.
-
Skiing
In winter season, Gulmarg becomes one of the best skiing destinations in whole of India.
-
Golf Course
At the time of summers, you get to play golf in Gulmarg’s own golf course, which is one of the highest golf courses of the world.
-
Apharwat Peak
By taking the help of a gondola, you can reach the Apharwat Peak which is snow-laden throughout the year.
Pahalgam
This beautiful place of adventure is set amidst pine forests and rivers. There are valleys as well as sports adventure options in the town of Pahalgam.
-
Betaab Valley
This valley gets its name from the Bollywood movie Betaab. The valley is enclosed with green pastures and mountains along with clear streams.
-
Aru Valley
Aru Valley, one of the famous valleys in Kashmir, which is known for its serene beauty, is also an important starting point for many treks.
-
Lidder River
This famous river is characterized by crystal clear water. Here you can engage in river rafting, trout fishing and picnic at the river bank.
-
Pony Rides
Yet another activity that can be done in the region of Pahalgam is pony riding.
Top Activities To Have Fun In Kashmir
Some of the best activities you can indulge in when in Kashmir are:
Tour in Shikara Boats Across Dal Lake
Taking a tour in Shikara boats is certainly one of the most interesting activities for any traveler. Going across Dal Lake that is full of floating markets and beautiful gardens will make you remember this tour for all your life.
Live in House Boats
This is an excellent opportunity for you to have some relaxation in traditional house boats on a scenic lake. You will get the pleasure of being hospitably entertained by locals.
Ride in Gulmarg Gondola
Gondola ride provides you an excellent view of the mountain as well as lush greenery of Gulmarg. It is the best activity to enjoy while visiting Gulmarg.
Skiing And Snowboarding
The activities such as skiing and snowboarding may be practiced in winter in Gulmarg.
River Rafting
Lidder River and Sindh River are offering an activity of river rafting. It is definitely worth trying if you like adventures and water sports.
Best Time to Visit Kashmir
You can visit Kashmir anytime since every season has its own charm.
Spring (March - May)
This season is considered one of the most beautiful in Kashmir since it features blooming of tulips, beautiful climate and many flowering plants around.
Summer (June - August)
Summer in Kashmir offers very pleasant climate to enjoy holidays and shikara rides in the Dal lake. It also is the perfect time for trips to Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonmarg.
Autumn (September - November)
This season is called golden-red season in Kashmir because of red leaves of Chinar trees. This is the favourite time for many photographers.
Winters (December – February)
Kashmir is a snowy destination in winter season and the skiing and snowboarding can be done in Gulmarg at this season.
How to Reach Kashmir?
The access to Kashmir is very easy by air, rail and roadways.
Via Air
The fastest mode of transportation to Kashmir from any part of the world is by Air. There are several places which have direct flights for Srinagar like Delhi, Bangalore, and Kolkata.
Via Rail
One can board trains and get down at Jammu tawi railway station and then travel to Srinagar either through private taxis or cabs.
Via Road
There are also several roadways to Kashmir. Travellers enjoy the natural beauty of mountains and valleys on the way to Kashmir from Jammu.
Where to Stay in Kashmir?
Kashmir has different options according to the traveller’s budget.
Luxury Hotels
There are luxurious hotels available in Srinagar, Gulmarg and Pahalgam which have good facilities along with excellent views and good dining.
Houseboats
The one-of-a-kind accommodation in Kashmir which is staying in a houseboat, can serve as a good chance to meet and enjoy the hospitality of Kashmiris.
Boutique Resorts
The boutique resorts are nice places to stay in with personal services, a pleasant environment and proximity to many attractions
Budget Hotels
There are budget hotels located in all the major tourists places in Kashmir, where you get clean and comfortable stay at an economical price.
Homestays
The homestay will allow you to get to experience Kashmir in the true sense by being in touch with the people of Kashmir and by experiencing the Kashmiri cuisine.
Food Items to try in Kashmir
The food items available in Kashmir are popular because of the wonderful tastes and aromas produced by the use of spices in the food, along with the traditional methods of preparation. It becomes very necessary to try out the cuisine of Kashmir when visiting the place.
Mutton Rogan Josh
This is a traditional dish in Kashmir that consists of mutton cooked in some delightful spices
Dum Aloo
It is a popular vegetarian dish including baby potatoes cooked in a spicy and thick gravy.
Gushtaba
It is usually the last food item of the Wazwan meal which contains mutton balls in a yogurt-based curry.
Kahwa Tea
Kahwa is a green tea drink which is prepared by adding the spices such as saffron, cinnamon, cardamom and almonds to it. It usually served as a welcome drink.
Wazwan Cuisine
Wazwan is an elaborate Kashmiri feast consisting of meat dishes and is the most delectable cuisine of Kashmir.
Explore Kashmir's Local Markets
Shopping in Kashmir can be a great way to take back the rich craftsmanship and culture of the place through various local souvenirs and products.
Pashmina Shawls
The most desired souvenirs that Kashmir is known for around the world are pashmina shawls, which are very soft and warm and made from the wool of Changthangi goat.
Kashmiri Carpets
The intricacy of design and high level of craftsmanship of hand-woven Kashmiri carpets have made these carpets a very desirable item.
Saffron
Kashmir produces some of the world’s best quality saffron which is very fragrant and colourful.
Dry Fruits
Some of the best quality dry fruits such as almonds, walnuts and dried apricots can make a very healthy gift to take back.
Paper-mache Products
There are a variety of beautiful, hand-painted paper-mache boxes, ornaments and decorative items that can be found in Kashmir.
Crafts Made of Walnut Wood
During your visit to Kashmir, you will be able to buy walnut wood crafts in the form of tables, trays, boxes, and many more.
Suggested Kashmir Itinerary
Kashmir Tour for 4 Nights / 5 Days
Discover the charm of Kashmir including Srinagar, Gulmarg, Sonamarg and Pahalgam with picturesque landscapes. Here is a detailed itinerary that you can follow.
Day 01
- Arrival and Sightseeing in Srinagar
- Arrival in Srinagar Airport
- Receive assistance from representative
- Travel to hotel for check-in
- Pay visit to Shankaracharya Temple
- Enjoy panoramic view of the Srinagar city
- Overnight stay in Srinagar
Day 02
- Srinagar – Gulmarg - Srinagar
- Breakfast at hotel
- Travel to Gulmarg (approx. 55 km / 2 hrs)
- Gondola cable car optional ride
- Pay visits to Khilanmarg & Affarwat
- Activities such as ATV ride, Pony ride etc.
- Pay a visit to Rani Temple & Golf Course
- Return to Srinagar
- Overnight stay in Srinagar
Day 03
- Srinagar – Sonamarg - Srinagar
- Breakfast at hotel
- Travel to Sonamarg (Meadow of Gold)
- Pleasant view of Himalayas
- Visit to Zero Point & Zoji La (Union vehicle basis)
- Option for ponies ride to Thajiwas Glacier
- Return to Srinagar
- Overnight stay in Srinagar
Day 04
- Srinagar – Pahalgam - Srinagar
- Breakfast at hotel
- Travel to Pahalgam
- Visit Pampore Saffron farms
- Visit Bat Factories
- Awantipura ruins visit (optional)
- Martand Sun Temple & Ashmuqam Dargah visit
- Aru valley, Betab Valley, Chandanwari visit
- Option for ponies ride to Baisaran (Mini Switzerland)
- Return to Srinagar
Day 05
- Departure
- Breakfast at hotel
- Hotel check-out
- Transfer to Srinagar Airport
- Departure with sweet memories
Important Travel Advice for Kashmir
-
Make sure that you are always dressed in warm clothes as there is always a possibility of sudden change in weather.
-
Make sure that you pre-book your lodging before going on tour in the peak tourist season.
- Always keep your government issued identification proof with you.
- Show respect towards local cultures and their religious places.
- Always carry some cash as sometimes, it may not be possible to make payment through online methods.
- Do not forget to check the weather forecast before going sightseeing or doing adventure sports.
Conclusion
There is no other destination that turns its visitors into those who appreciate their time there forever. Whether it is calmness of Dal Lake, magnificence of mountains in Gulmarg, spectacular valleys of Pahalgam, or amazing nature of Sonmarg – all these things contribute to making Kashmir an ultimate destination.
To make use of your vacation in the fullest way you should know how to organize your holiday properly choosing right season and destinations. This Kashmir Travel Guide will help you to organize your trip and prepare to the exploration of one of the most picturesque destinations in India.