• 353
• 2023-03-20 05:33 PM

Kashmir

1.Srinagar

The capital of J&K, Srinagar is one of the most beautiful places in Kashmir. Take a shikara ride on the peaceful Dal Lake, view the city from the top of Shankaracharya Temple and stay in the iconic house boats on your next trip. You'll definitely fall in love with Kashmir! Srinagar is home to the Shalimar Gardens that are on the back of the Rs. 10 Indian Currency Note.

How to reach: To reach Srinagar by train, one could 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

Where to stay: Batra Hotel, Regenta Central Point Srinagar, Four Points by Sheraton Srinagar

2. Pahalgam

Amidst the Liddar Valley sits a picturesque destination in Kashmir – Pahalgam. It is located in the Anantnag district in Jammu at an elevation of 2740 metres above sea level. Popularly it is called the Valley of Shepherds. Also, it is one of the most sumptuous destinations in India and it must be on your bucket list when you chalk down the places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir.

In the middle of tranquillity, you will surely find many out-of-the-world destinations too. Some of the stunning lakes such as Sheshnag Lake will surely take your breath away and beauteous pine trees will follow you wherever you go. If you are waiting for an adrenaline pump, you have plenty to look forward to on your trip to Pahalgam. Initiate trekking on a hill or climbing the Himalayas from a suitable summit and unleash all the adrenaline. If you visit this place in the right season, you will have one of the most remarkable skiing experiences as well. 

Apart from this, if you are looking to spend some quality time with your family on a holiday, you could not choose a better domestic destination than Pahalgam. It offers everything for all age groups, especially kids who have a gala time moving around this beautiful place a lot. You might want to indulge in various activities with them too by zorbing, sitting in various rides at famous amusements parks and what not! Traversing in and around Pahalgam is devoid of any fuss as you can easily find local transport means and not waste much time hovering around on your holiday. 

The weather is quite chilly from November to February with plenty of snow around. In the later months until April, it gets a bit warmer, albeit the minimum temperature hovers around 2-3 Degrees Celsius. The monsoon stretches from July till September. The autumn stretches until November and is quite dry with strong winds.

3. Gulmarg

​

Gulmarg is the snow paradise of Kashmir. This skier’s paradise is popular for having one of world's highest and largest ropeways with an aerial distance of approx. 5kms. The view from top of the mountains at 3979 metres above sea level is bewildering. Snow falls are regular even during summer, giving every tourist a fair chance to enjoy the fall!

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 neighbouring towns in Kashmir

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

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

Best time to visit: March to June

Places to stay: The Vintage Gulmarg, The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa

4. Sonmarg

Sonmarg or ‘the meadow of gold’ has one of the most picturesque views in Kashmir. Snow-clad mountains, green grasslands and ponies to ride on, this place is what they call, 'Jannat’ or heaven. Sonmarg is also one of the base points for starting the Amarnath Yatra. River rafting, zorbing, trekking are the various events conducted around the popular tourist spots. Sonmarg is inaccessible in winters due to heavy snowfall and avalanches.

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 weel connected by roads from all the major cities in north

Must Do: Trek to the Thajiwas Glacier

Best time to visit: February to March

5. Dal Lake

Known to be “The Jewel of Srinagar”, Dal Lake spreads across an area of around 26 square kilometers. Popular as one of the most spellbinding places to see in Srinagar, this hillside lake flaunts colorful Shikaras, traditional wooden houseboats, and floating markets. Tourists visiting Dal Lake love to take a ride in the beautiful Shikaras, which are basically wooden boats decorated beautifully with canopies overhead.

They also enjoy shopping authentic Kashmiri items from the floating market or lake market. These markets lay amidst the lake and sell a number of items like saffron and handicrafts. The houseboats on Dal Lake feature floral motifs and intricate carvings and offer breathtaking sights of the majestic lake. These boats are equipped with single rooms and luxury suites and offer comfortable accomodation to the visitors. During the winter season, the visitors also enjoy ice skating on the frozen lake.

Location: Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir.

Timings: Anytime.

Best Time to Visit: May to November.

6. Nishat Garden

Established by the elder brother of Nur Jahan, Asif Khan in 1633, Nishat Garden happens to be the second largest Mughal garden. Nicknamed as "Garden of Bliss", the Nishant Garden is a spectacular 12 terraced garden encompassed by lofty Chinar trees. The garden is home to a central water channel and a number of beautiful fountains.

While the design of the Nishat Garden is based on Persian architecture, the landscaping is based of Kashmiri water patterns and terrain. The Nishant Garden also offers breathtaking panoramic views of the stunning Dal Lake, with the magnificent Zabarwan Mountains serving as the perfect backdrop.

Location: Bagh Hussain, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, India

Highlights: Watching flowers, nature walks, chinar trees, water fountains

7. Shalimar Garden

The beautifully laid Shalimar Bagh happens to be the largest amongst the three iconic Mughal gardens in Srinagar. The Shalimar Garden was constructed back in 1619 under the orders of Mughal Emperor Jahangir, who dedicated it to his wife Nur Jahan. Nicknamed as the “Crown of Srinagar”, this public park is set overlooking the shimmering waters of the picturesque Dal Lake.

The very term ‘Shalimar’ translates to ‘Abode of Love’ in Sanskrit and is also referred to as Farah Baksh and Faiz Baksh. The exquisite Shalimar Garden offers an amazing amalgamation of stunning man-made structures, brilliant architecture, natural allure, and well-manicured gardens.

Location: Chinar chowk, Shalimar, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 191121

Highlights: Picnicking, bird watching, chinar trees

8. Chasmashahi

Among its many attractions, the city’s Mughal Gardens stand out as some of the most beautiful places to visit in Kashmir. And the Chashma Shahi Gardens are only one of them. Dating back to the early 17th century, this historic garden was built under the command of Emperor Shah Jahan for his elder son, Prince Dara Shikoh. At the centre of the garden is a freshwater spring which flows in terraces.

The garden also has a number of little springs discovered by the saint Rupa Bahini, who was also known as Sahibi, thus giving the garden its name. The lush flowering lawns exhibit a striking display of Iranian designs, and stand testament to the architectural brilliance of the erstwhile Kashmir, making it one of the most sought after of historical Kashmir places.

Location: 7, Boulevard Rd, Chashma Shahi, Rainawari, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190001

Highlights: Freshwater spring, traditional Persian architecture, Chinar orchards

9. Jama Masjid

Nestled in Downtown Kashmir, Jama Masjid is the biggest mosque in the city and one of the most important of Kashmir tourist places. Renowned for its historic importance, the inception of the Masjid dates back to the early 15th century, when it was constructed by Emperor Sultan Sukder.

Since then, the Masjid has suffered several fire breakouts and undergone several reconstructions, with its existing construction taking place under the reign of Aurangzeb in 1672. The grandiose Masjid stands out in its Indo-Saronic style of architecture.

A vast courtyard flanks its entrance, and is dotted by 370 wooden pillars. The expansive halls here can accommodate up to 33,333 people at once, and is thronged by devotees on each Friday of the week.

Location: Nowhatta Kathi Darwaza Road, Nowhatta, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190003

Highlights: Deodar pillars, black marble mehrab, Chaar-Bagh style courtyard

10. Yusmarg

A short drive outside Srinagar Main, the ethereal beauty of Yusmarg has earned it the title of the ‘Meadow of Jesus’. With its long stretches of vast green pastures stretched across the horizon, Yusmarg is a little paradise of its own, and is one of the most sought after Kashmir places for weekend getaways.

The Meadow is home to some of Pir Panjal’s highest peaks, such as Tattakutti and Sunset Point, which command unparalleled views of the valleys below. A few Hindu shrines and temples can be found scattered across the meadow as well. During winters, Yusmarg remains covered in unbroken blankets of snow, and can be a great place for snow sports like skiing.

Highlights: River sports, snow sports, temples, trekking trails

11. Dachigam National Park

Popular as the only home to the now endangered Kashmir stag, Dachigam National Park nestles a little outside main Srinagar. Formerly a game reserve for the Emperor of Kashmir, the National Park has been a protected area since 1910. Brimming with carpets of grassland that bloom in spring and freeze in winter, Dachigam is among the most beautiful places to visit in Kashmir.

Apart from the Kashmir stag, herds of musk deer, langurs, black bears and much more. The sheer strength of its bird population makes it one of the best Kashmir famous places for birdwatchers as well.

Location: Near Harwan, Dachigam Rd, Jammu and Kashmir 191202

Highlights: Jeep safaris, birdwatching tours, trekking, Valley of Flowers

12. Verinag

Nestled in the laps of the Pir Panjal mountains, this natural spring stands out in its stunning blue hue. A beautiful Mughal Garden and arcade sprawls around the spring, built by the 17th century Emperors who were bewitched by Verinag’s beauty. The Jhelum River, which flows through Kashmir, is also said to originate at the Verinag spring.

The flowers in the garden change color with every season, making it one of the most picturesque places to visit in Kashmir. The tank at Verinag is usually teeming with a variety of colorful fish, and can be a great place to enjoy a casual evening stroll as well.

Location: Anantnag, Jammu and Kashmir

Highlights: Guided tours, spring, gardens and picnic areas

13. Aharbal Waterfall

Also known as the Niagara Falls of Kashmir, Aharbal flows in seclusion. Among the least known of Kashmir's famous places, the beauty of Aharbal is largely untouched. Here, the thunderous river Vishav tumbles down over 25 feet to create the mighty waterfall. Although the height is not much, the sheer volume of Aharbal’s water creates a roar so majestic that it can be heard from quite some distance.

Reaching Aharbal is quite easy; one can trek right till the edge of the ridge here and enjoy the view without any interruptions. One can also try fishing in its waters, although they’d need a permit for the same.

Location: Jammu and Kashmir, Sedew - Aharbal Rd, Aharbal, 192303

14. Drung Waterfall

One of the best tourist places in Kashmir, this unique waterfall attracts tourists to Drung throughout the year. During summers, the gushing waters of the waterfall merges seamlessly with the green river below, and is quite a sight to behold in winters, however, when the land is steeped in snow, the Drung Waterfall too, freezes over- like a moment stuck in time, the water here clings to the rocks in massive pieces of ice.

The lake below remains crystal blue and clear, adding an ethereal charm to the place.

Location: Drung, Jammu and Kashmir 193402]

Highlights: Frozen waterfall, refreshment shops

15. Astanmarg

The paragliding experience is one shot to heavenly views. Astanmarg top overlooks scenic places like Dal Lake, Mahadev peak, Dachigam National Park, Mughal Gardens, Hariparbat fort and other iconic spots. Not just this, as per reports, the site also offers different adventure sports like mountain biking, trekking activities around Astanmarg, and cycling trail upto the upper belt of Dara. 

Last year, several snow activities were launched at Gulmarg like night skiing and water activities like rafting. Along with this, other activities like hot air balloons were also started from Zabarwan by the department. Other festivals and events are expected to be held at the location. Approximately 70 people are expected to participate in the event.

In an interview, Hem Raj, a trainer, said,” Glide in the clear blue sky into the fantastic and unbelievable view of the Zabarwan mountains, The tourists have been loving it.” The paragliding sport once in a lifetime opportunity for all mountain lovers out there and for people who are searching for some respite in this blazing hot weather.

16. Sanasar

One of the least visited of Kashmir places, Sanasar is a little cup shaped meadow in the Jammu region. Named after the two villages of Sana and Sar, the meadow is known for its Gulmarg-like beauty. Sanasar is one among the most popular of places to visit in Kashmir for trekking and camping; several hiking trails of moderate difficulty snake their way through the hills here, making it an ideal place for amateurs as well as experts in the sport.

A 5-hour long trek leads to the Shank Pal Temple here, a famed 400-year-old Temple dedicated to the snake-God Naga. The town is also home to one of the highest 9-hole golf courses in the country.

Highlights: Trekking, camping, Naga temple, snow sports

17. Harwan

Harwan Garden, situated in Harwan Village (19 km) from Srinagar is an impressive, large and admired tourist spot. A canal, beautifully bordered with Chinar trees and blossoming flower beds, starting from a lake just behind the garden, flows through the middle of the garden.

The major draw of the Harwan garden is its natural loveliness and charm. With greenery in the backdrop of snowy environment, this garden has big green grass lawns and attracts visitors virtually towards this place.

Reachable by taxis within half an hour, the garden is perfect place for picnics and excursions, also an ideal place for natures walk. It is the gateway to Dachi Gam Wildlife sanctuary.

18. Kokernag

This health resort lies in the South East of the District at a distance of 25 Kms. A famous spring called “Kokernag” gushes out from the foot of the nearby hill covered with evergreen pine trees. A terraced garden and a Botanical garden with delicately maintained flower beds of different varieties and hues covered and protected with beautifully pruned evergreen shrubs and the existence of lofty and majestic chinars is an enchanting sight to be imbibed. The music of the health giving, refreshing and appetizing running waters of the stream have left little chances of not to be enchanted and mesmerized by this heavenly touch. This beautiful garden has been developed during the rule of Bakhshi Ghulam Mohammad. Keeping this attraction and irresistible appeal of this tourist spot in view, Tourism infrastructure is also being developed through Tourist Development Corporation by way of construction of rest houses, tourist huts and expansion of other facilities. While enjoying the rejuvenating and invigorating feast of this destination one cannot miss to notice the Asia’s biggest trout rearing farm situated on the western side of this garden.

19. Achbal

Achabal Gardens, "the places of the princes", is a small Mughal garden located at the southeastern end of the Kashmir Valley in the town of Achabal, Anantnag district, India. Located near the Himalayan Mountains, the site may have been a Hindu sacred site known as "Akkshavala" previously.It was built about 1620 A.D. by Mughal Empire Emperor Jahangir's wife, Nur Jahan, called the "greatest garden lovers of them all." The garden was rebuilt on smaller scale by Gulab Singh and is now a public garden.A main feature of the garden is a waterfall that enters into a pool of water.

This place is also noted for its spring, which is finest in Kashmir and is supposed to be the re-appearance of a portion of the river Bringhi, whose waters suddenly disappear through a large fissure underneath a hill at the village Wani Divalgam in the Brang Pargana. It is said that in order to test this, a quantity of chaff was thrown in the Bringhi river at a place its water disappears at Wani Divalgam and that chaff came out of the Achabal spring.

The water of the spring issues from several places near the foot of a low spur which is densely covered with deodar trees and at one place it gushes out from an oblique fissure large enough to admit a man's body and forms a volume some 18 inches high and about a foot in diameter.

20. Pari Mahal

Pari Mahal or The Angels’ Abode is a seven terraced garden located at the top of Zabarwan mountain range over-looking city of Srinagar and south-west of Dal Lake The architecture depicts an example of Islamic architecture and patronage of art during the reign of the then Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan.
The Pari Mahal was built by Mughal Prince Dara Shikoh in the mid-1600s. It served as a library and an abode for him. Dara Shikoh was said to have lived in this area in the years 1640, 1645, and 1654. It was further used as an observatory, useful for teaching astrology and astronomy.
It is five-minute drive from Cheshmashahi Garden.