Picnic Spots In Kashmir
Overview
Arranging an enjoyable picnic in the valley of Kashmir is an ideal decision to witness its breathtaking beauty. Be it in a meadow or by the shores of a lake, the sights in front of you are unparalleled. There are many specific gardens and parks where people from nearby regions come for a weekend getaway. Picnics give you the perfect opportunity to spend some time with your loved ones. If you are in Kashmir with your partner on your honeymoon or you are in the company of your family, do reserve a day for a picnic here. Kashmir has abundant picnic spots which are as picturesque as it gets.
The majestic mountains in the backdrop are just the right thing to enhance the overall beauty. Along with picnics, the spots of Kashmir also offer a plethora of activities that you can do. It will be a time-saver decision and some unforgettable memories will be created there. Don’t forget to carry a cotton blanket and basket full of your favourite snacks and beverages and you will have the time of your life. Carry a camera too to click some postcard perfect pictures of yourself and the view facing you.
Plan a much-awaited Kashmir trip with Cliffhangers India where you will be in the best hands with our skilled tour guides and the entire team. Below, we have arranged essential information about some top picnic spots of Kashmir. You can choose any of them for a memorable experience.
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Top Picnic Spots In Kashmir
01. Pahalgam
Pahalgam is one of the popular tourist attractions of Kashmir and is always included in the itineraries even if you are here just for the weekends. Pahalgam, which means” Valley of Shepherds” is also an ideal choice for your picnic arrangement. With its vast and lush valleys and meadows like Baisaran meadow where you can see cattles grazing creating a mindblowing setting, it should be your first pick. Lidder river also flows through the valley and it is every traveller’s favourite destination for adventurous activities like white water rafting where there are beginner friendly grades and fishing and angling.
You can carry a book or some games to play there. Nature walks and photography should be done too for a mesmerising time over there. Some nearby Pahalgam Sightseeing attractions include the Sheshnag Lake, Pahalgam Golf Course, Lidder River, Betaab Valley, Aru Valley etc. The best time to visit Pahalgam is in the summer season when there is balmy weather.
Enjoy the beauty of Kashmir: Places to Visit in Pahalgam
02. Gulmarg
Gulmarg, famous for offering some world class adventures like skiing, snowboarding, Gondola rides and much more, is also a favourite tourist spot among nature lovers. As much as you would love these activities, you can also give a chance to spend some time in the tranquillity that this place holds. Some of the best locations here for a picnic trip are the Gulmarg meadows, Kashmir Valley viewpoint and Ningle Nallah. The last one is also convenient for fishing and angling. Bring the gears and you will have a fun time here. There are a bunch of other activities that you are must-to-do here like nature walks, trekking, pony rides, horseback rides, photography, sightseeing etc.
You can just relax and enjoy the view in front of you. Some nearby attractions that you can explore if you have extra time are Gulmarg Gondola, Gulmarg Golf Course, Gulmarg biosphere Reserve, Gulmarg Skiing etc.
03. Dal Lake
The most iconic place of Kashmir and the first attraction that you should visit as soon as you land in Srinagar is Dal Lake. The entire lake, its banks and nearby parks all look like a painting on a big canvas. You will be shocked to see that it is much more beautiful in reality than it seems in pictures. To be honest, Dal Lake is a bit crowded but you can always find a place to get your picnic setup done and enjoy. Other than picnics, some other outdoor activities include Shikara rides.
The prime highlight is this ride where you hop on a wooden boat and just relax as it takes you to some surreal locations. Visit the floating fruits and vegetable market located on the island. You can also go paragliding that is accessible in the nearby parks. Another unmissable thing at Dal Lake are the houseboats. You can even have your picnic on the balconies of one of those or you can pick it to stay at night.
04. Yusmarg
The Meadow of Jesus, Yusmarg is a remotely located hidden gem of Kashmir with its lakes and lush grasslands. You just can’t miss this place when in the Valley of Kashmir. Situated at a distance of about 70-75 kilometres, you can easily reach here through a cab or private vehicle. Remember to keep everything you need for a picnic trip in Yusmarg and once you reach there, you can just sit anywhere. Nilnag Lake, Doodh Ganga River are major highlights of this region and also some of the nice spots for your picnic. Enjoy fishing and angling here.
Other famous activities here are pony rides which you can book to travel distances. There are many short trekking trails here as well which you can undertake to add some adventure to this trip. The best time to visit Yusmarg is in Spring and summer when the routes are clear and weather is favourable as well.
05. Doodhpathri
Doodhpathri is a retired gem of Kashmir valley. A popular offbeat location known for its valleys can definitely be your spot for the picnic. Like others, an excellent time to visit Doodhpathri and experience all the activities that it has to offer is in summers and maybe autumn too if the winters did not come early. Some of the breathtaking locations here include Doodhpathri Meadows, Palmaidan Valley, Tangnar Valley and others. They have areas where the towering trees give you a soothing shadow to get some rest and relax in the lap of nature. Apart from picnics, some other things to do in Doodhpathri are trekking, horseback riding, pony rides, bird watching, photography etc.
Visiting the nearby villages that are totally cut off from the rest of the world and living a peaceful traditional life gives you a sneak peek into the history of the valley.
06. Betaab Valley
Betaab Valley was earlier known as Hagan Valley. When the superhit movie “Betaab” Starring Sunny Deol and Amrita Singh was shot here, the place gained immense fame and popularity. It was renamed to Betaab Valley and since then, people come here for a serene time. This is one of those specific places in Kashmir when you can relive your childhood bollywood moments with your partner and click some beautiful images. Arrange a picnic here either in the lush meadows or nearby hills and valleys.
Lidder river is the prime highlight of this place and you can surely choose it as the banks of the river present some amazing sights. You can do activities like water rafting, fishing and angling, trekking, sightseeing, birdwatching etc. Have a thrilling experience of pony rides. Visit the nearby remote villages and get to know about their culture and lifestyle. 120 kilometres separate Betaab Valley and Srinagar and there are cabs and taxis available easily.
07. Nishat Bagh
One of the oldest and most popular Mughal Gardens, located in the capital City of Srinagar is Nishat Garden. It is another masterpiece of the Mughal Era, built as a space for summer retreats for the royal family. Later, it was opened for the public and since then, lots of tourists come here for some fresh and ethereal sights. Moreover, it is another spot that will be an ideal option for your picnic. Go on a nature walk in the gardens of the Bagh. One more recreational activity to do here is photography.
Explore it thoroughly in an hour or two and you will be amazed to see the intrinsic designs that are seen on the walls and pillars here. The most efficient time to visit the Nishat Garden is either in spring or summer. Autumn is crowded here too. You can either hire a cab or taxi to go there or a more fun choice is Shikara Ride which takes you on a ferry through some scenic villages and mountains overlooking the valley.
08. Shalimar Bagh
Shalimar Bagh situated on the banks of Dal Lake is another awesome option you have for a picnic. Built in the Mughal Era, this Garden has served its purpose as a recreational park since ages. Nobody misses this attraction on their Kashmir trip and neither should you. Accessorised with waterfalls, terraces and parks blooming and bursting, March to September can be some excellent months to come to the Bagh.
Some sweet spots in Shalimar Bagh are the Shalimar Bagh Gardens, the area near the Dal Lake and some other viewpoints. Spend some time strolling through the garden and taking photos of the panoramas found here. Some similar attractions include Nishat Garden, Chashme Shahi located in Srinagar itself. With moderate temperature and pleasant weather, the best time to make a visit here is in the summers, especially June to September.
09. Verinag
Another area of Kashmir filled with numerous picnic spots is Verinag. It is a popular tourist destination where the main highlights are the giggling waterfalls and Verinag Spring. They are so beautiful that people often come here to spend some time in nature. When coming to Verinag, bring everything that you need for a picnic and you will have a good time here. You will be confused between which spot to choose as each and every area is every nature lover’s delight. There are many scenic viewpoints from where you get a stunning view of the entire Kashmir Valley.
Those springs also are home to trout fishes and you can even enjoy fishing and angling here with required permission from the Jammu and Kashmir Fisheries Department. Engage in some nature photography here. Some nearby places to visit include Achabal Spring and Kokernag Spring. Summer lasting from May to September is the best time to be here.
10. Sonamarg
The place signifies its name as Valley of Gold. One of the most gorgeous places to exist on earth, Sonamarg can be the perfect choice for a wholesome picnic. Located just 80 kilometres from the city of Srinagar, a two hour road trip takes you there. There are so many spots here where you can set up a small arrangement. The most popular ones are the banks of Sindh river, the meadows of the valley and smaller valleys. You can spread your carpet and other things and the blooming flowers, gushing lakes nearby and snow-laden mountains in the backdrop will form the perfect setting.
For such an atmosphere, the best time to visit Sonamarg is from March when the entire region is filled with vibrant wildflowers till September when different shades of hues cast over everything. Other than picnics, you can do activities like horseback riding, trekking, water rafting, photography etc.
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Tips For Exploring Picnic Spots In Kashmir
- Before going to any random place, you should research beforehand for the best picnic spots to have a memorable time. You should be properly informed about the accessibility of that particular place.
- Remain updated about the current weather condition as the extremely unpredictable climate of the valley has the potential to ruin your plans.
- You must be wearing suitable clothes according to the weather. It is mostly cold here so layer yourself well with some woollen clothes and accessories.
- Carry all the essentials like a big carpet to relax on, some snacks and drinks. Keep a moisturiser and sunscreen and sunglasses.
- Wherever you go, make sure you are not spoiling that place by leaving garbage behind. Keep all the wrappers in a polythene and put it in a dustbin when seen. Practise environmental sustainability.
- Follow all the rules and regulations of that particular area and be aware of any restrictions there.
- You can also choose any local guide tour if you have no idea what to do and you are here for the first time.
- Enjoy the most no matter which place you choose.
Read about here: Kashmir Trip Plan | Kashmir Trip Cost
Best Time To Visit Picnic Spots In Kashmir
Starting from the spring season when all you can see are the array of vibrant wildflowers dotting the valleys. The winter has just gone and places in Kashmir come alive after being stagnant for some months. It can be the perfect time for a picnic in Kashmir. The routes also start to be declared open and easily accessible. It is also not the peak season so you will have a peaceful time in the valley.
Then comes the bright sunny days of summer lasting from May to August. The clear skies and moderate temperature forms just the right climate for some serenity amidst the meadows. Summer is also the peak season of Kashmir tourism. It would be best to choose some remote places for a tranquil picnic spot as most of the popular places are too congested. The prime pros of visiting picnic spots in Kashmir in summer is that all the tourist attractions are open for the public on their timing. It is also not very chilly out there, especially during daytime.
After the balmy weather of summer, autumn comes with some crispiness in the air. Leaves start to fall and form a carpet. The weather is also enjoyable with little to no signs of snowfall. The regions are clear and perfect for picnics. It is also that time of the year where you won’t see many people, especially in the offbeat locations.
Last but not the least, it really depends on you. Choose according to your preferences and likings.
Read here: Places to Visit in Kashmir
FAQ's
Which is the most beautiful location to visit in Kashmir?
Which place is best for a picnic in Kashmir?
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Kashmir is beautiful from all sides. It depend on your preference to choose the best destination to enjoy the vacations.
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