There is a reason that Jammu and Kashmir are considered to be heaven on earth. Kisi ne sahi kahan tha ki jannat yahi hai. The crown of India or India ka sartaaj because of its geographical location, it is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, with the majestic Himalayas running through it and the clear blue waters of the Dal Lake, among several other lakes and rivulets.
May is considered the best month to visit Kashmir, as the weather is pleasant and the landscape is at the peak of its magnificence with wildflowers in full bloom. If you’re targeting the winter months and are obsessed with experiencing snowfall, January is considered to be the best month to visit Kashmir.
11 Destinations In Kashmir You Can Pick From
Know more about the best places to visit in Kashmir, along with when you should visit, what to do, and the cuisine you should acquaint yourself with.
1. Srinagar
Srinagar is the capital of Jammu and Kashmir and is known for its picturesque location on the banks of Dal Lake. The city is surrounded by the Himalayan mountain range and is a popular destination for tourists looking to experience the beauty of the region.
- Best time to visit Srinagar: April and October is the best time to visit Srinagar.
- Things to do in Srinagar: Shikara ride on the Dal Lake, visit the Mughal gardens, and take a tour of the city are some fun things to do in Srinagar
- Local cuisine: It is one of the best places in Kashmir to enjoy Wazwan and authentic Kashmiri tea.
- How to reach: Srinagar is well-connected by air and road to other parts of the country.
2. Gulmarg
Gulmarg has been one of the most popular hill stations and quite rightly so! It is known for its ski slopes and beautiful meadows, which turn into a carpet of wildflowers in the summer months.
- Best time to visit Gulmarg: March to November is the best time to visit Gulmarg, as the weather is pleasant and conducive to skiing in the winter months and other outdoor activities.
- Things to do in Gulmarg: Skiing in the winter months, horse riding, and visiting the Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve are some things to do in Gulmarg. Alpather Lake, Khilanmarg, Ningle Nallah, and Baba Reshi Shrine are some places to visit in Gulmarg.Â
- Local cuisine: Rogan Josh, Yakhni.
- How to reach: Gulmarg is well-connected by road to Srinagar, which is the nearest airport. Also, places to visit in Gulmarg are easily accessible through local transport.
3. Pahalgam
Pahalgam is a small town in the Anantnag district. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, with the Lidder River flowing through it and the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas visible in the distance.
- Best time to visit Pahalgam: April to October.
- Things to do in Pahalgam: Some of the top things to do in Pahalgam include visiting the Aru Valley, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and taking a trek to the Kolahoi Glacier, which is the source of the Lidder River.
- Local cuisine: Mutton Korma, Kashmiri Pulao.
- How to reach: Pahalgam is well-connected by road to Srinagar, which is the nearest airport.
4. Leh
Leh is a high-altitude desert region located in the Ladakh region known for its stunning natural beauty, with the Himalayan mountain range running through it and the clear blue waters of the Indus River flowing through it.
- Best time to visit Leh: April to October.
- Things to do in Leh: Visit the Shanti Stupa, take a trek to the Markha Valley, and visit the Thiksey Monastery.
- Local cuisine: Momos, Thukpa.
- How to reach: Leh is well-connected by air to other parts of the country and is also accessible by road from Srinagar.
5. Kargil
Kargil is one of the famous places in Jammu and Kashmir known for its stunning natural beauty, with the Himalayan mountain range running through it and the clear blue waters of the Suru River flowing through it.
- Best time to visit Kargil: April to October.
- Things to do in Kargil: Visit the Mulbekh Monastery, take a trek to the Drang-Drung Glacier, and visit the Suru Valley.
- Local cuisine: Thukpa, Chutagi.
- How to reach: Kargil is well-connected by road to Leh, which is the nearest airport
6. Sonmarg
Sonmarg is a small town in the Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, with the Himalayan mountain range gracing it and the clear blue waters of the Sindh River flowing through its rugged terrains.
- Best time to visit Sonmarg: April to October, and Srinagar sightseeing is a must-do activity for any visitor to the region.
- Things to do in Sonmarg: Some of the top things to do in Sonmarg include visiting the Thajiwas Glacier, which offers a range of adventure activities such as ice skating and sledging, and taking a trek to the Nilagrad River, which is a popular spot for picnics.
- Local cuisine: Kanti, Modur Pulav.
- How to reach: Sonmarg is well-connected by road to Srinagar, which is the nearest airport.
7. Katra
Katra is a small town in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir. It is known for being the base camp for the Vaishno Devi Temple, one of the most popular pilgrimage sites in India.
- Best time to visit Katra: April to October.
- Things to do in Katra: Visit the Vaishno Devi Temple, take a trek to the Baba Dhansar Temple, and visit the Patnitop hill station.
- Local cuisine: Rajma Chawal, Kadi Chawal.
- How to reach: Katra is well-connected by road to Jammu, which is the nearest airport.
8. Patnitop
Patnitop is a small hill station located in the Udhampur district of Jammu and Kashmir. Be prepared to be mesmerised by the magnificence of the Himalayans surrounding it, complemented by the pristine waters of the Chenab River.
- Best time to visit Patnitop: April to October.
- Things to do in Patnitop: Visit the Nathatop viewpoint, take a trek to the Sanasar Lake, and go paragliding.
- Local cuisine: Madra, Kashmiri Pulao.
- How to reach: Patnitop is well-connected by road to Jammu, which is the nearest airport.
9. Kishtwar
Kishtwar is a small town located in the Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, with the Himalayan mountain range running through it and the clear blue waters of the Kishtwar Kailash peak visible in the distance.
- Best time to visit Kishtwar: April to October.
- Things to do in Kishtwar: Visit the Kishtwar National Park, take a trek to the Dhandal Temple, and visit the Kishtwar Kailash peak.
- Local cuisine: Gustaba, Modur Pulav.
- How to reach: Kishtwar is well-connected by road to Jammu, which is the nearest airport.
10. Doda
Doda is a small town located in the Doda district of Jammu and Kashmir. The quaint, non-commercialised hill station will leave you awe-struck with the splendour of the majestic Himalayas and the Chenab River passing through the landscape.
- Best time to visit Doda: April to October.
- Things to do in Doda: Visit the Bhaderwah Valley, take a trek to the Tosa Maidan meadow, and visit the Surinsar Lake.
- Local cuisine: Madra, Yakhni.
- How to reach: Doda is well-connected by road to Jammu, which is the nearest airport.
11. Rajouri
Yet another cute hill station in the state, located off the beaten track. No wonder, it still retains its rustic innocence. Situated in the Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir, you can laze by the banks of the Tawi River while treating your eyes to the splendid view of the mountains.
- Best time to visit Rajouri: April to October.
- Things to do in Rajouri: Visit the Rajouri Fort, take a trek to the Pir Panjal range, and visit the Nowshera War Memorial.
- Local cuisine: It is one of the best places in Kashmir to enjoy a mix of cuisines including Rajma Chawal, and Kadi Chawal.
- How to reach: Rajouri is well-connected by road to Jammu, which is the nearest airport.
In addition to these destinations, Udhampur, Anantnag, and Baramulla, each with its own unique charm and attractions are other best places to visit in Kashmir.
5 Smart Travel Tips To Follow While Travelling To Kashmir
Here are some additional travel tips and things to carry while travelling to Jammu and Kashmir:
- It is advisable to carry warm clothing, as the temperatures can get quite low in higher altitudes, even during summer.
- Make sure to carry good quality sunscreen and sunglasses to protect yourself from the strong UV rays.
- It is also a good idea to carry a first aid kit with basic and necessary prescription medications. Like you do for your other travails as well.
- Make sure to respect the local culture and traditions, and dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and other religious sites.
- It is advisable to avoid travelling alone, especially in remote areas, and to always inform someone of your itinerary.
Overall, the best time to visit Kashmir is between April and October, as the weather is pleasant and the region is at its most beautiful during this time. However, if you’re interested in skiing and snow sports, the best time to visit Kashmir is between December and March.
Whether you’re interested in sightseeing, adventure sports, or simply soaking in the natural beauty of the region, there are plenty of things to do in Kashmir that will cater to your interests. So, pack your bags and head to this stunning destination for an unforgettable vacation.
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