Things To Do In Kashmir
Let's Find Out What Kashmir Has to Offer
While Kashmir is globally known for showcasing abundant natural beauty, the place is no less in offering a range of activities. No matter when you plan the trip, you will find something exciting to enjoy in the valley. Starting from the one that takes a long time. Trekking is undoubtedly one of the most exhilarating things to do in Kashmir. Various long treks like Kashmir Great Lakes Trek, Tarsar Marsar Trek and Warwan Valley trek start from different campsites in the valley.
It is obvious to camp at night as you traverse through forests, meadows and shores of rivers. Camping is less for relaxing and more for waking up to scenic sights. Even snow camping is possible in Kashmir.
Different valleys and lakes of Kashmir are reached and explored through pony rides. It acts both as an option of transportation and activity. Many water based activities are accessible in the valley at Lidder and Sindh river. Those include River rafting, Boating and fishing. Shikara rides at Dal lakes are unmissable. Most of these activities are done in Kashmir in Summer and autumn.
Now the question is what to do in Kashmir when visiting in winter. Well, you won’t be disappointed as a line of snow activities are available. Starting from skiing with different types such as Heli skiing and cross country skiing, snowboarding, sledding and snowmobiling. Gondola rides in Gulmarg presents a fun ferry to alpine regions like Kongdoori and Apharwat peak.
What makes Kashmir such a popular attraction for activities is that the range found here is an ideal place for both beginners and advanced adventure enthusiasts. Plan a fun Kashmir tour with Cliffhangers India, this year.
Kashmir Activities
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01. Shikara Ride on Dal Lake
Shikara boats which are only found in Jammu and Kashmir are made up of different sizes made for public use. Typically, a shikara may hold around six people, with the driver always seated at the bottom. Like Venetian gondolas in the US, shikaras are regarded as the cultural embodiment of Kashmir.
A Shikhara is a traditional light rowing boat, like a gondola, that is primarily seen on the Dal Lake popular among other lakes. It is regarded as a cultural emblem with the houseboats.
However, the shikhara is used by the residents for transportation, fishing, and seaweed harvesting in addition to pleasure and tourism. It is a visual joy to watch these exquisitely painted boats drift calmly across the lake, therefore you shouldn’t pass up this opportunity when visiting Jammu and Kashmir.
02. Skiing In Gulmarg
Gulmarg Ski Resort has quickly become one of the world’s premier skiing destinations since being discovered as a summer retreat for British nationalists a century ago.
Offering year-round powder snow conditions and ideal slope conditions for skiers of all levels – Gulmarg was recently named Asia’s fifth-best resort by Skiing Magazine! Additionally, there is something here suitable for beginner, intermediate, and expert levels of expertise alike!
Gulmarg offers some of the premier alpine backcountry cross-country slopes in America as well as one of the highest ski lifts globally, making Gulmarg one of the ideal places for learning skiing and snowboarding in Himalayan surroundings. To maximize learning potential enroll in one of their Basic Skiing Courses.
03. Visit Mughal Gardens
Visiting Mughal gardens is one of the top things to do in Kashmir, represent India’s Mughal empire and are famed for their breathtaking architecture, verdant surroundings, and breathtaking Himalayan views, thus making them world renowned.
Mughal kings were particularly fond of cultivating gardens like Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, Chashma Shahi Achabal Bagh Pari Mahal Nishat Bagh as they would soon become world renowned monuments.
Chashma Shahi, Nishat and Shalimar gardens were originally designed for the pleasure of Mughal rulers; today these three gardens offer tiered lawns, bubbling fountains, vibrant flower beds and panoramic vistas of Dal Lake.
Spring season is best time to visit Srinagar when all three gardens bloom with full-bloom flowers!
04. Gondola Ride in Gulmarg
The Gulmarg Gondola is one of the longest and tallest cable car ride in Asia. Being one of the prime attraction in Gulmarg, this attracts many tourists from all over the world every year.
The gondola ride is divided into two stages. The first section transports tourists from the town to the midway point of the mountain, Kungdoori station. The second phase brings the trek from Kungdoori to the vicinity of Apharwat Peak. It is one of the best things to do in Kashmir.
The two-stage ropeway can accommodate about 600 passengers per hour and reaches a height of around 14000 feet above the ground.
This Gulmarg must-do activity is ideal for romantic couples, families on vacation, and adventurers looking to summit the mountain for the best wintertime skiing.
Unmatched and unforgettable are the breathtaking views of the valley and mountains that one may see when riding the cable car.
05. Go On Treks
The feeling of trekking in Kashmir around the snow-capped peaks, lush meadows, and serene lakes offer hikers a breathtaking backdrop which give this place its unique beauty.
As you take every step of the way you will come along the warm hospitality of locals to know their customs and traditions as well. Famous trek routes like Kashmir Great Lakes Trek, Tarsar Marsar Trek, and Kolahoi Glacier Trek are among the most beautiful in the world which start in this region.
With the beautiful view of Himalayan mountains, the sound of flow of rivers, thick woods, high altitude lakes add a charm to the trek. You may also come across some uncommon species of flora and fauna.
06. Enjoy Camping
For those who enjoy the great outdoors and adventure camping is a popular pastime and one of the popular things to do in Kashmir.
Popular camping spots include the Lidderwat-Kolahoi Glacier trek, Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Pahalgam, Aru Valley. These places provide calm and pleasant environments that let visitors get in touch with nature.
Camping in Kashmir offers more than just setting up a tent and sleeping outside beneath the stars but also, it’s a chance to get a taste of the way of life and culture of the area.
Locals manage a lot of camping areas, offering meals, tents, and other necessities. Known for their warmth, these residents frequently share their traditional traditions and tales with the campers.
07. White Water Rafting in Lidder River
The river known as “Lidder ” (which means “turmeric”) rises from the Mt. Kolahoi glacier, Sheshnag lake, and other locations. It runs from the northwest to the southeast with great pleasure past Pahalgam and into the river Jhelum, one of the five Punjab rivers that eventually joins the Indus.
The 2.5 km lidder joy ride, 5 km lidder long ride, and 8 km lidder extra-long ride sections of the Lidder River, which flows from Pahalgam.
These sections are located at Varganpal Bridge and Langanbal Bridge, 12 km, 12 km, and 3 km from Pahalgam and 72 km, 72 km, and 88 km from Srinagar, respectively.
White water rafting gives an adrenaline rush as the flow of water is more rapid here in comparison to the Indus River.
08. Snowboarding in Gulmarg
Among the top things to do in Kashmir, the thrilling experience of snowboarding in Gulmarg involves riding down the snow-covered slopes while standing on a snowboard. All year long, Gulmarg provides the best powder snow and slope conditions, but more crowds are seen in the winter season.
For skilled snowboarders, Gulmarg offers steep alpine slopes, pillow lines and for intermediate and advanced riders, there are gentle open powder bowls.
The bowls provide breathtaking views of Nanga Parbat and the Valley of Kashmir. Even on days with severe weather, tree snowboarding is fantastic in the forests of Tanmarg, Monkey Hill, and Baba Reshi.
09. Try Kashmiri Cuisine
Kashmiri cuisine, as it is called, is a special fusion of flavors that has developed over hundreds of years. Kashmiri cuisine is primarily influenced by the dietary preferences of the Muslim population and pandits.
Rice has long been the main dish in the area, and it’s frequently served with a wide range of seasonings and toppings like cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, saffron, and Kashmiri chilies.
The delectable delicacy known as Kashmiri Wazwan embodies the culinary culture of the area, emphasizing the skill of preparing meat-based meals though vegetarian selections are also highly valued.
Other popular dishes also include Modur Pulao, Rogan Josh, Yakni, dum aloo whose taste is different and unique.
10. Go on Srinagar Heritage Walk
The summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, Rinagar, is renowned for its stunning scenery, friendly people, and extensive cultural legacy and this city is well-known for its historical landmarks and architectural wonders in addition to its tranquil lakes and breathtaking scenery.
A heritage walk is one of the greatest ways to discover Srinagar’s rich past, as it allows you to fully immerse yourself in the city’s past and catch a peek of its beautiful past. And that’s exactly what the Srinagar walks are meant to accomplish.
Walking tours in Srinagar provide a unique perspective on the city and its people. The historical accounts state that the city of Srinagar was established approximately three miles southeast of the current location, close to Panderethan, in 250 B.C.
11. Wildlife Safari in Dachigam National Park
See rare animal species at Dachigam National Park, such as the Himalayan brown bear, leopard, and Kashmiri stag, or Hangul, and over 145 birds.
The major attractions are Musk Deer, Leopards, Himalayan Gray Langurs in the park, which stretches to an area of 140 sq. km.
This requires special permits to visit and remains closed from January to April. The name literally translates to “ten villages,” maybe in remembrance of the ten villages that had to be moved to make room for the park.
12. Pony Ride in Pahalgam
You may see this beautiful area from a different angle when you ride a pony through it. You can cross rocky paths and arrive at quiet areas that are unreachable otherwise.
You’ll travel through green pastures, charming tiny hamlets, and dark pine forests as you softly sway to the beat of the pony.
Famous places like Baisaran, dubbed “Mini Switzerland” for its gently sloping green hills and far-off snow-capped summits, and the tranquil Aru Valley are frequently visited throughout the trip.
Pony rides are available in several well-known and well-liked places, including Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg, Doodhpathri, and Yusmarg.
13. Enjoy Hot Air Ballooning
In Srinagar, the cycle can be initiated from the Zabarwan Hills. Typically lasting ten minutes, the Zabarwan Hot Air Balloon Ride in Kashmir lifts you over twenty-five feet above the ground, providing you with the best views of Dal Lake and the surrounding Mughal Gardens.
In Kashmir, a group of four to eight persons can take a hot air balloon ride simultaneously.
The best places to do hot air balloon ride are aside from the Zabarwan hills, include Suru and Zanskar where you can enjoy the cool breeze above.
The early morning flights frequently align with the sunrise, which intensifies the magic of the event by painting the sky in pink and orange hues.
14. Play Golf at Gulmarg Golf Course
This golf course is nestled amid a meadow, home to vibrant lupins and at least sixteen different kinds of wildflowers. The 18-hole course is 6858 meters long and is a challenging challenge for players when played from championship tees.
Alternatively, players can play from ordinary tees and enjoy the unique experience of playing at the world’s highest green golf course.
There are also the amenities-filled Club facilities available. With their undulations and shapes blending in with the surrounding areas, the greens have been created to blend in with the natural terrain.
The greens’ grass is crookedly bent. imported from the US. It’s among the best places in the world to play golf in the summer.
15. Experience Mountain Biking
Experience the stunning scenery of Kashmir by mountain biking and embarking on an exhilarating adventure. Riding a bike over the Kashmir Valley’s slopes, which are filled with dense pine and deodar trees, is an incredibly thrilling experience.
The stunning terrain of Jammu and Kashmir, which is peppered with water streams, paddy fields, meadows, village markets, and forests, is another factor that adds to the thrill of mountain biking there.
In addition to being an exhilarating experience, mountain riding in Kashmir enables you to explore the area’s varied topography and natural beauties dynamically.
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FAQs
How many days are enough in Kashmir?
It usually takes 7 to 10 days to enjoy Kashmir’s attractions and natural beauty on a trip there. This time frame enables travelers to experience popular locations like Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonmarg, as well as enjoy activities like trekking, shikara rides, touring Mughal gardens, skiing in Gulmarg, offbeat destinations.
Which is the best month to visit Kashmir?
Every month has its own charm and beauty, March to October are the most ideal months to travel to Kashmir as it’s a beautiful time of year when the valley is full of colorful flowers. While autumn (September to October) provides breathtaking scenery with fall foliage, spring, and summer (March to June) are best for sightseeing and outdoor activities when weather is pleasant and clear.
Is it safe to visit Kashmir now?
Kashmir is typically secure for visitors however, it’s a good idea to keep up with local conditions and travel advisories. The travel and tourist industry has greatly improved, and many travelers have expressed satisfaction.
What are the top attractions in Kashmir?
The gorgeous Dal Lake, the Mughal Gardens (Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh), the ski-friendly hill town of Gulmarg, Pahalgam with its verdant meadows and Lidder River, and the breathtaking scenery of Sonmarg are among of Kashmir’s top attractions. The saffron meadows of Pampore is another highlight.
What is unique about Kashmiri culture?
The history of Hindu, Buddhist, and Islamic traditions in Kashmir is reflected in the rich tapestry of influences that make up its culture. One of its unique features is its unique food, which includes delicacies like Wazwan and Rogan Josh. World-famous handicrafts from the area include elaborate papier-mâché and Pashmina shawls.
How can I travel to Kashmir?
There are several handy ways to travel to Kashmir. The most popular method is via air, as Srinagar International Airport offers flights to most important cities in India. National Highway 44 connects Kashmir with the rest of India by road. The closest railhead for a picturesque ride is Jammu Tawi, which may be reached by car from there and then driven to Kashmir.
What are some lesser-known places to explore in Kashmir?
Beyond well-known locations, Kashmir has undiscovered jewels like Yusmarg, a serene meadow ideal for horseback riding and wildlife excursions. Doodhpathri, renowned for its streams and verdant surroundings, provides a tranquil haven. Experience a distinct culture in the isolated village of Turtuk, which lies close to the border between India and Pakistan. Gurez Valley’s pristine beauty makes it the perfect place to explore off the main path.
Are there any adventure sports available in Kashmir?
For those seeking adventure, Kashmir is a paradise. Gulmarg becomes a top skiing destination in the winter. In addition, the area provides heli-skiing, snowboarding, and snow trekking. Trekking, camping, paragliding, and river rafting in the Lidder River are popular summertime activities. Adventure lovers may expect an exhilarating experience all year round because to the diverse terrain.
Can I visit Kashmir for a honeymoon?
Kashmir is a beautiful place to go on a honeymoon, with romantic surroundings surrounded by breathtaking scenery. In addition to seeing the tranquil Mughal Gardens, couples can take a shikara ride on Dal Lake and stay in quaint houseboats. Locations like Pahalgam’s verdant valleys and Gulmarg’s snow-capped vistas make for exquisite backdrops for a honeymoon to remember. For newlyweds, the area’s peace and picturesque views make for an unforgettable experience.
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