With a beautiful Landscape, apple orchards, saffron fields, glittering lakes & breathtaking meadows, Kashmir, in the union territory of India, famously known as paradise on earth, draws the attention of tourists from across the world. With tranquil settings, magnificent views, and pristine nature, Kashmir is a perfect holiday destination that should be visited once in a lifetime.
Kashmir is heaven for nature lovers, It is ideal for planning a family tour and honeymoon holiday in India. The picturesque Gulmarg, Srinagar, Pahalgam, or Sonmarg, make a holiday with family, or a honeymoon in Kashmir a wonderful experience. Kashmir is even home to the popular Amarnath Cave which calls the ardent devotees of Lord Shiva from across the world.
While the fascinating Dal and Nigeen lakes in Srinagar offer an opportunity to relish a stay at the houseboat and enjoy a Shikara Ride; the alpine lakes like Tarsar Marsar, Vishnasar, and Gadsar Lakes call out the adventure lovers for the best trekking experience. For more adrenaline-pumping adventures, nothing can beat the experience of skiing in Gulmarg during the winter season.
In our travel guide to Kashmir, we tried to provide you with the best information on the must-visit places, things to do, where to stay, the best time to visit, affordable Kashmir tour packages, and other aspects of Kashmir Tourism. To make your Kasmir Trip memorable
Kashmir is even home to the famous Amarnath Cave which calls the ardent devotees of Lord Shiva from across the world.
What to Expect in Kashmir
- Language: The primary language used to speak in Kashmir is Koshur, Hindi, Urdu, and English you will easily find some locals conversing in English.
- Currency: Indian Rupees is the Currency used in Kashmir which is around 1 USD = 74 Rupees.
- Credit Cards and ATMs: There are many ATMs in Kashmir, Credit cards are widely accepted in Kasmir but carrying some extra cash with you is recommended.
- Safety: Safety is a concern for many tourists in Kashmir, It’s been declared off-limits to tourists on a number of occasions. There have also been a few isolated incidents, with Srinagar and some other parts of the Kashmir Valley temporarily shut down for tourists. However, tourists always begin returning after peace is restored.
- Transport: Taxis are easily available for local sightseeing as well as trips and excursions out of Srinagar, Auto rickshaw is widely used as public transport and the cheapest way to get around in Kashmir. You can even book cabs by (Jugnoo) app here, Uber is not available in Kashmir.
Best time to visit Kashmir
Kashmir is the round-year destination. The best time to visit Kashmir depends on what you wish to experience, whether it is simply relaxing amidst the lush greenery of the summer or witnessing the white landscaped snow beauty of Kashmir during the winter season.
In Kashmir, the summer season (March to June) is the best time to visit Kashmir because the climate is perfect for visiting the best Kashmir tourist places. Whether you’re on an adventure trek in the mighty Pir Panjal range, or on a honeymoon to enjoy quality time around Dal Lake, summer is the best season to visit Kashmir.
In the winter season (October to February), Kashmir appears to be a real treat to the eyes. Tourists who wish to witness snowfall can make the most of it during the winters. You will find surreal white landscapes, the entire Kashmir Valley appears to be covered with a cold blanket of snow, and temperature ranges from -2°C to 12°C. Also, it is the best time to indulge in some winter sports like skiing, and snowboarding.
How to Reach Kashmir
By Air
Srinagar Airport International Airport, also known as Sheikh-ul-Alam Airport. The airport in Srinagar is well connected with all the major cities in India including Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Bangalore.
By Train
Jammu Tawi, located in Srinagar, is the busiest railway station in Kashmir. It serves as the northern terminal of major trains connecting the urban areas with the rest of India.
By Road
Kashmir has both state and private bus facilities with good road connectivity in several nearby towns and cities. To reach Kashmir follow the NH1(A) that passes through the city of Jammu to Srinagar in Kashmir Valley, NH1 is a major highway that handles the primary traffic coming in and out of Kashmir.
Places to visit in Kashmir
- Gulmarg
- Pahalgam
- Sonmarg
- Srinagar
Kashmir is renowned worldwide for its pristine natural beauty. Explore the surreal landscape of its top travel destinations, rich culture, rare wildlife, and various adventure activities. Kashmir has an endless list of best places to visit, some of which are popular amongst tourists and some, are yet to be discovered. Here we tried to give you detailed information about some of the beautiful places in Kashmir to Visit.
Gulmarg
Located in the Pir Panjal Range in a cup-shaped valley, Gulmarg has been especially touched by nature’s splendid hand and is a place that the gods would also love to visit. This is an extremely beautiful tourist destination in the valley of Kashmir, great for both a family, honeymoon, and snow adventure sports lovers.
One of the best skiing destinations in India, Gulmarg is adorned with lofty snow-capped mountains, lush greenery, small lakes, and a large variety of flowers.
Gulmarg also offers its fair share of thrill & adventure to the tourists. The most popular adventure activity in Gulmarg is skiing, which can be enjoyed by both amateur & experienced skiers. Other than that, tourists can also enjoy a Gondola cable car ride, enjoy trekking & trout fishing.
A holiday in Gulmarg promises to be memorable with several sightseeing opportunities, attractions like Gulmarg Gandola, Shark Fin, and Gulmarg Golf club
Gulmarg is extremely beautiful during winters, with skiing becoming a favorite activity for many amateur & experienced skiers. Sightseeing is also quite enjoyable during winter in Gulmarg with pristine views.
A holiday in Gulmarg will not be complete without enjoying a Gondola ride, the second-highest & second longest cable car in the world which takes you almost up to the peak of Mt. Apharwat.
You can look out for the Gulmarg Tours from Klook for your vacations in Kashmir.
Where to Stay in Gulmarg
Gulmarg receives a large number of tourists every year because it is a famous skiing destination in India and other tourist attractions. To cater to such a large number of tourists, there are several staying options, from budget & luxury hotels to resorts that ensure visitors have a comfortable time during their vacations.
Some of the popular resorts and properties in Gulmarg for your stay
Heevan Retreat Gulmarg
Featuring ski-to-door access and a restaurant, Heevan Retreat Gulmarg is located in Gulmarg. The accommodation provides a shuttle service, while a car rental service is also available.
OYO 70684 Gulmarg Inn
Located in Gulmarg, OYO 22464 Hotel Poshwan offers 3-star accommodation with a garden. The nearest airport is Srinagar Airport, 58 km from the accommodation
Pahalgam
Pahalgam Kashmir is a must-visit destination for anybody visiting Kashmir, Located at 2,470 meters above sea level, Pahalgam is home to some exotic flora and fauna, from the rare and much-valued saffron strands to the huge musk deers.
A family holiday to Pahalgam is very exciting and you can do a lot of things to make your vacation fun-filled here. You can spend time by the bank of the Lidder River & enjoy the blissful company of Mother Nature. Other places where you can see the awe-inspiring beauty of Pahalgam are Aru & Betaab valleys along with Bainsaran, which are dotted with meadows, lakes & streams.
Pahalgam is a haven for adventure enthusiasts as they can enjoy camping at Tarsar Lake, Lidderwat, Kolahoi Glacier & Panchtarni. An ultimate adrenaline rush awaits you with white water rafting at Lidder River, which is also famous for fun-filled activities like trout fishing.
It is a good place to visit with friends, family, or solo, since it has something or the other to offer everybody from shopaholics to nature enthusiasts, from thrill-seekers to those seeking peace!
Pahalgam is also popular as a spiritual destination for being the starting point of the Amarnath Yatra, which is undertaken by Hindu pilgrims during June & August
The best time to visit Pahalgam is during March and November when the region experiences pleasant weather which is ideal for a plethora of outdoor activities. The best snowfall month in Pahalgam is December.
Best places to visit in Pahalgam
- Aru Valley
- Betaab Valley
- Baisaran
- Sheshnag Lake
- Chandanwari
Where to Stay in Pahalgam
Pahalgam receives plenty of tourists every year since it is a perfect place for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. Pahalgam has several staying options, from budget & luxury hotels to resorts that ensure visitors have a comfortable time during their vacations.
Heevan Pahalgam
Located in Pahalgām, Heevan Pahalgam offers 4-star accommodations with a garden. Srinagar is 30 mi from Heevan Pahalgam, while Sonāmarg is 19 mi away. The nearest airport is Srinagar, 31 mi from the hotel, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
Forest Hill Resorts
Forest Hill Resorts is set in Pahalgām and features a garden. Srinagar is 30 mi from the accommodations, while Sonāmarg is 19 mi away. The nearest airport is Srinagar Airport, 32 mi from Forest Hill Resorts.
Sonmarg
Sonamarg is a magnificent hill station in Kashmir, located 80km northeast of Srinagar. At an elevation of around 2800 km from sea level, Sonamarg is known for its snow-covered fields, surrounded by majestic glaciers and serene lakes which costs subtle spells on the travelers.
Also Known as the Meadows of Gold, Sonmarg is the destination of sparkling lakes and glaciers. Its two major landmarks; the Thajiwas Glacier and the Zojila Pass contribute largely to its popularity. The various options of camping, and trekking makes Sonmarg one of the best places to visit in Kashmir.
This seasonally inhabited hill station is situated within the alpine area of Kashmir Valley surrounded by the glacial summits of the Himalayas including the peaks of Sirbal, Kolhoi and Machoi. Day walks around the Himalayan foothills are matched by opportunities to meet nomadic people who move lock, stock, and flock up and down the mountain slopes in time with summer and winter.
Best Places to Visit in Sonmarg
- Thajiwas Glacier
- Zojila Pass
- Vishansar Lake
- Nilagrad River
- Krishna Nagar Lake
Where to stay in Sonmarg
Mount view Sonmarg
The magnificent view from its deluxe suits makes sure that you are very close to nature. Crafted with perfection and with the sole purpose of pampering its guests with the ultimate luxury and facilities in the lap of the Himalayas, the rooms of the hotel are both modern yet comfortable and also offer the warmth of being surrounded by mountains.
Pine Spring Sonmarg
Conveniently situated in the Sonmarg, this property puts you close to many attractions and interesting dining options. This 4-star property is packed with in-house facilities to improve the quality and joy of your stay.
Hotel Glacier heights Sonmarg
Furnished with all amenities and luxuries, Hotel Glacier Heights Sonamarg is the picture of quality & comfort. They have 36 Deluxe rooms with a magnificent view of River Sindh from one side & Thajwas Glacier from another.
Srinagar
Srinagar is the largest city and the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir in India. It lies in the Kashmir Valley on the banks of the Jhelum River, a tributary of the Indus, and Dal and Anchar lakes.
Srinagar is named after a city of lakes and Eastern Venice, centuries-long with many tourist attractions and Himalayan backyard, glistening lakes surrounded by houseboats and Shikaras, and the beauty of Mughal architecture. The lack of order in the area of houses and their collapse add to the strange beauty of the area.
Kashmiri cuisine or Wazwan is famous all over the world. So when you are in Srinagar, trying local dishes, rich in unique aromatic spices, is a must. Srinagar is also famous for Kashmiri shawls, Kashmiri apples, and dried fruits (almonds and walnuts) from the Lal Chowk Market.
Heavy snowfall affects Srinagar connections during the winter months of December to February. Social tensions also lead to frequent homecoming in other parts of the city; however, things have improved over the past few years. Therefore, be sure to check the condition before the visit.
Best Places to Visit in Kashmir
- Dal Lake
- Shalimar Bagh
- Nagin Lake
- Badshah Tomb
- Hari Parbat Fort
- Nishat Bagh
- Pari Mahal
Where to Stay in Kashmir
Lalit Srinagar
Conveniently located in the Dal Lake, this property is close to many attractions and interesting dining options. Rated 5 stars, this high-quality property offers guests access to on-site massage, restaurant, and fitness center.
Taj Vivanta Srinagar
Enjoy your stay in Srinagar by staying at the Vivanta Hotel with Taj-Dal View. Keep your options open! Whatever your interests are in Srinagar, you will easily reach them by staying at the Vivanta Hotel, just 15.6 km from Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport.
Radisson Srinagar
Extend your trip to Srinagar by staying in Radisson Srinagar. Wherever you want to go, it is easy to travel by staying in Radisson Srinagar, just 9.9 kilometers from Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport.
Travelers are guaranteed a seamless stay with all the services and services offered by Radisson Srinagar. You can get connected to the world with free Wifi.
Travel is a wonderful way to broaden your horizons, experience different cultures, and make memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re exploring a new city or immersing yourself in a different way of life, travel can be a truly enriching experience.
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Hello there! I just finished reading your travel guide to Kashmir, and I must say, it’s an exceptional resource for anyone planning a visit to this breathtaking region. Your article provides a comprehensive guide that highlights the best of Kashmir, making it an invaluable tool for travelers.
I appreciate how you’ve curated a list of the top attractions and experiences in Kashmir. From the serene Dal Lake and the magnificent Mughal Gardens to the awe-inspiring valleys of Gulmarg and Sonamarg, your guide captures the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region. The inclusion of practical tips, such as transportation options and recommended accommodations, adds immense value to the article.
Furthermore, your descriptions and insights about each place provide a vivid picture of what visitors can expect in Kashmir. It’s evident that you have a deep appreciation for the region’s beauty and have taken the time to explore its hidden gems. The stunning photographs accompanying the post further enhance the visual experience and ignite the desire to immerse oneself in Kashmir’s wonders.
Thank you for sharing this exceptional travel guide to Kashmir. Your article has not only educated me about the region but has also inspired me to add it to my travel bucket list. Keep up the fantastic work, and I’ll be eagerly waiting for more of your insightful travel guides and recommendations.
thank you