Top Places Worth Visiting in Kashmir

One of the most beautiful places on earth, Kashmir is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and shimmering lakes. Each of the three different Indian states of Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh is encircled by the commanding Pir Panjal and Great Himalayan Mountain ranges. Kashmir is frequently referred to as India’s Switzerland because of the many magnificent places there.

The region is endowed with stunning scenery that is worth seeing. If visitors wish to witness nature’s beauty at its best, they shouldn’t miss a few places in the state. There are many best places to visit in Kashmir.

• Book Here Kashmir Tour Packages
• Read Here Things to Carry for Kashmir Trip

We’ve put up a list of the best places worth visiting in Kashmir that you should include in your schedule if you’re coming in 2023 to have an unforgettable trip.

• Read Here How Many Days are Enough for Kashmir

Srinagar

In the summer, the Jhelum River divides Srinagar, the capital of Jammu & Kashmir (J&K). The primary attraction in this region is the gorgeous Dal Lake, which was selected as the top visitor pick on Cliffhangers India for 2022. Shikara rides are offered both during the day and at night for special occasions. The largest Tulip Garden in Asia and the only floating market in India are both located here. Hotels in Kashmir provide lodging options for various tourists, allowing you to organize your vacation effectively.

• Ideal time Required: 1-2 days
• Best time to Visit: September to November
• December to February (For Snowfall)
• Book Srinagar Tour Packages

Sonmarg

Sonmarg, which translates to “meadow of gold,” has a widespread bloom of golden crocuses in the spring. Sonmarg or Sonamarg is a well-liked high-altitude tourist resort in Srinagar’s northeast. This area is where the “famous three sisters,” the Lidder, Sind, and Neelum rivers, begin. It’s a popular spot to start walks to the Thajiwas Glacier as well. Although the Indus River’s raging waters will make your heart race, you won’t be able to express how strangely beautiful it is.

• Ideal time Required: 1-2 days
• Best time to Visit: April to October

Gulmarg (8,600 ft)

Gulmarg, a breathtaking area in Kashmir, is a fantastic haven for anyone seeking adventure. With activities like skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and other sports, your holiday will be more exciting. The Indian Army and Tourism Ministry’s yearly three-day Winter Festival is a great time to visit this place. You can plan thrilling snowboarding and skiing trips with cliffhangers at affordable prices.

• Read the Complete Blog on Doodhpathri Vs Gulmarg
• Ideal time Required: 2-3 days
• Best time to Visit: December to February

Betaab Valley

In 1983, the small Kashmiri valley served as the backdrop for the well-known Bollywood film Betaab. The name “Betaab” Valley has since been given to the former Hagan Valley. With its backdrop of coniferous forests, gushing streams, and meadows, Betaab’s beauty beckons all those seeking an escape into the calm of nature.

Despite the lack of structured tourist attractions, Betaab might be one of the most pleasant spots to visit in Kashmir for weekend vacations. There are also many activities to take part in hiking trails in this region.

Highlights: Trekking, Camping, Photography, Hiking

Dal Lake

Dal Lake is known as “The Jewel of Srinagar” and has an area of around 26 square kilometers. One of Srinagar’s most alluring vistas, this highland lake is home to bright Shikaras, traditional wooden houseboats, and floating markets. The exquisite Shikaras, which are essentially wooden boats with beautiful canopies over them, are a popular mode of transportation for visitors to Dal Lake. This lake is definitely one of the best places worth visiting in Kashmir.

They also like shopping at the lake market or floating market for authentic Kashmiri products. Saffron and handmade crafts are among the many things sold in these lakes’ edge markets. Dal Lake houseboats offer breathtaking views of the lovely lake and have elaborate carvings and attractive floral motifs.

• Ideal time Required: 1-2 Days
• Best time to Visit: May to November

Pahalgam

Pahalgam Kashmir is the finest domestic location if you want to spend a vacation with your family. Everyone can gain from it, but children, in particular, adore exploring this breathtaking location greatly. You could choose to go zorbing with them, go to well-known theme parks, and more with them! While on vacation, you won’t have to wait around for too long because local transport is widely available. As a result, getting about Pahalgam is simple.

• Read the Blog on Pahalgam vs Sonamarg – which is better

The weather is fairly chilly from November through February, and there is a lot of snow on the ground. Up until April, the weather starts to warm up a little, but the minimum temperature stays around 2-3 degrees Celsius. From July through September, monsoon season occurs. The dry and windy autumn is often thought to have ended in November through October.

• Ideal time Required: 1-2 Days
• Best time to Visit: November-February

Pulwama

The affectionate moniker “Rice Bowl of Kashmir” refers to Pulwama, which is only 40 km from Srinagar. The aromatic saffron fields, pleasant atmosphere, and magnificent apple orchards make this delightful, picturesque community well-known. Here you can find majestic waterfalls, verdant meadows, and lovely natural springs.

Another moniker for Pulwama is the “Anand of Kashmir.” Pulwama also offers a wide choice of pulse-pounding options for individuals who are addicted to adventure. In the summer, Pulwama transforms into a magnificent trekking and mountaineering area, while in the winter, it offers fantastic snowboarding and skiing opportunities. 

Highlights: One of the best areas to experience snow.

Yusmarg

A short distance from Srinagar Main, Yusmarg is referred to as the “Meadow of Jesus” for its mystical beauty. One of Kashmir’s most well-liked weekend getaway spots, Yusmarg, is a tiny piece of paradise with long stretches of vast green fields extending to the horizon.

The Meadow is home to Tattakutti and Sunset Point, two of the highest peaks in Pir Panjal that offer unparalleled views of the valleys below. A few scattered Hindu temples and shrines can also be found around the field. Yusmarg is the ideal site for winter sports like skiing because it receives consistent snowfall throughout the winter.

Highlights: Snow games, River Sports

Nishat Garden

Nishat Garden, the second-largest Mughal garden, was built in 1633 by Asif Khan, Nur Jahan’s older brother. The Nishant Garden, often known as the “Garden of Bliss,” is a magnificent 12-terraced garden surrounded by tall Chinar trees. The garden has several lovely fountains as well as a central water channel.

Although the Nishat Garden’s landscaping is inspired by Kashmiri water patterns and topography, its design is based on Persian architecture. The beautiful Zabarwan Mountains provide the ideal backdrop as the Nishant Garden also provides breathtaking panoramic views of the lovely Dal Lake.

Shalimar Garden

The finely built Shalimar Bagh is the largest of Srinagar’s three renowned Mughal gardens. The Shalimar Garden was constructed in 1619 on orders from the Mughal Emperor Jahangir, who dedicated it to his wife Nur Jahan. With the majestic Dal Lake and its shimmering waves in the distance, this open area is referred to as the “Crown of Srinagar” and is situated there.

Even the name “Shalimar,” sometimes spelled Farah Baksh and Faiz Baksh, translates to “Abode of Love” in Sanskrit. The gorgeous Shalimar Garden features an exceptional fusion of magnificent man-made structures, stunning architecture, appeal from nature, and well-kept gardens.

Amarnath

One of Kashmir’s most significant tourist destinations as well as one of the most popular Hindu shrines globally is the Amarnath Shrine. Amarnath is situated at a height of more than 3,800 feet above sea level, making entry only possible after a lengthy walk. The Amaravati and Pantjarni rivers may join as they travel together, briefly submerging both of them.

The cave is only open to followers for a small portion of the year due to its height. This time of year, snow is typically on top of it. The main draw of the Amarnath Cave shrine is the naturally occurring Shiva Lingam enclosed within its womb, made of water drops that collect and freeze inside the cave.

Highlights: Devotional place, sacred Shivalinga

Jama Masjid

The largest mosque in Kashmir, Jama Masjid, is located in the city’s center and is a popular tourist destination. The Masjid was built by Emperor Sultan Sukder in the early 15th century, and it is well known for its historical significance.

Since then, the Masjid has had numerous fire outbreaks and reconstructions, with its current structure having been built in 1672 during the reign of Aurangzeb. With its distinctive Indo-Saronic architecture, the opulent Masjid stands out.

With 370 wooden pillars, a sizable courtyard faces the entrance. On every Friday of the week, worshippers fill the large halls here, which have a capacity for 33,333 people at once.

Highlights: Architecture, Photography.

Aru Valley

One of Kashmir’s least popular tourist spots, Aru Valley, stands out for its tranquil beauty. The undiscovered valley is studded with lovely lakes and meadows, making it the ideal destination for a day picnic or weekend escape. Many of the area’s lakes offer lovely spots for picnics, but one can also engage in some thrilling trout fishing in their waters.

In addition to trekking and horseback riding, Aru also offers several hiking trails that wind through the region’s hills. Two of the most well-liked winter activities in Kashmir’s Aru Valley, a well-known tourist destination, are heli-skiing and skiing. Aru valley is one of the best place to visit in Kashmir.

Highlights: Horse riding, trekking

Dachigam National Park

A little outside of Srinagar’s city center is Dachigam National Park, which is well-known for being the sole location where the now-endangered Kashmir stag is found. Since 1910, when it was first utilized as a game reserve for the Emperor of Kashmir, the National Park has been a protected area. One of Kashmir’s most beautiful tourist destinations is Dachigam, which is surrounded by carpets of grass that bloom in the spring and ice in the winter.

Along with the Kashmir stag, other creatures that can be found there include black bears, langurs, herds of musk deer, and many others. Due to the enormous number of birds there, it is one of the best spots in Kashmir for birdwatchers.

Highlights: Safari Rides, Valley of Flowers

Gurez Valley

If Kashmir is the paradise’s crown of India, Gurez Valley is the most priceless jewel. The isolated valley, which was previously prohibited due to its proximity to the Line of Control, is today one of the safest and most peaceful parts of the Kashmir valley. The uninhabited region of Kashmir is regarded by many as its most beautiful. Gurez Valley is one of the serene and offbeat which needs the top position on the tourism map. The forgotten Dard-Shin people, who are related to their counterparts in Gilgit-Baltistan, live in the valleys of Gurez, Tulail, Bagtore, and Izmarg, which are peppered with medieval towns situated amidst breathtaking scenery. 

• Ideal Duration: 5 days
• Best Time: April- November
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Great Lakes Trek

For hikers in this area, the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is a well-liked route that passes through some of Kashmir’s most breathtaking scenery. The walk is moderately challenging and is best suited to experienced hikers because of its multiple steep ascents and descents. The difficult six-day Great Lakes trek, which traverses seven of Kashmir’s most stunning valleys, validates the hill station’s status as “heaven on earth” and is well worth the effort. Kashmir Great Lakes Trek offers the trekkers to enjoy the stunning views of the pristine 8 lakes.

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The jagged mountains here are divided by patches of snow, alpine springs, and wide stretches of flower-filled meadows, with each new valley presenting a distinctive adventure. To know more about trekking in Kashmir you can check complete details at Cliffhangers India.

• Ideal Duration- 7 Days
• Best time: July to September

Aharbal Waterfall

Aharbal, which cascades in silence, is also referred to be Kashmir’s Niagara Falls. One of the rumbling Vishav Rivers creates a tremendous cascade by plunging over 25 feet. Aharbal’s water creates a roar that is so magnificent that it can be heard from a great distance despite its low height.

Going to Aharbal is not difficult; one can go all the way to the ridge’s edge and take in the panorama unrestrictedly. One may attempt fishing in its waters, although a permit is necessary. The best time to visit this location is in the summertime you will enjoy the Aharbal Falls with its incredible nature and in the winter season it remains frozen.

Highlights: Photography, Fishing, Trekking

Doodhpathri

Doodhpathri is one of the less-known places in Kashmir. It is located at a distance of 40 kilometers from Srinagar. Doodhpathri is an offbeat destination that is slowly gaining popularity from tourism.it is also termed the ‘’ valley of milk’’ because the water flowing through the valley looks like milk. It is one of the peaceful places with immense natural beauty and incredible surroundings. The valley is surrounded by lush green meadows, dense forests, and snow-covered mountains from the backdrop. 

Doodhpathri is a small hill station that sits at an altitude of 2730 meters. It is an unexplored destination that receives very little tourism. The valley has lush landscapes with a variety of multicolored wildflowers which makes it the supremely beautiful destination. 

 Highlights: Trekking, Pony ride, Photography

Bangus Valley

Bangus Valley is the most beautiful and pristine offbeat place in Kashmir. Famous for its serene environment and lush landscapes. The valley is located in the Kupwara district of Jammu and Kashmir. Bangus Valley is one of the least explored places which needs to get explored.

It is located 128 kilometers from Srinagar and sits at an altitude of 10,000 ft. The valley has two meadows one is a big Bangus and the other is a small Bangus. It offers beautiful scenery and a peaceful environment. 

• Read the Complete Guide on Bangus Valley Kashmir

The Bangus Valley is far away from the tourism map but needs some popularity from tourism. If you are looking for a peaceful and serene place, Bangus Valley is the place to be.

The vast and lush meadows are the main attraction of Bangus Valley.

Highlights: Fishing, Camping, Trekking.

Lolab Valley

Lolab Valley is one of the scenic offbeat places in Kashmir Valley. It is surrounded by snow-covered mountains, grasslands, and gushing river streams. The valley is untouched by any kind of modernity and the people of Lolab has exotic beauty. It is located 114 kilometers from Srinagar and sits at an altitude of 1600 meters. The valley is far away from the hustle and bustle to enjoy a peaceful trip.

This picturesque destination is quite good in the summer months. In the summertime, the valley is in its full glory and it is considered the best time to visit this peaceful place. The valley has many hiking trails and you will get to explore the entire Lolab valley through trekking. It has many naturally formed gushing water streams, and dense forests and is home to many ancient springs.

Highlights: Hiking, Photography, Kalaroos Caves.

• Read the Complete Guide on Lolab Valley

Daksum Valley

Not many people would have heard the name Daksum Valley. It is one of the less explored offbeat destinations in Kashmir that hardly receives a little tourism. If you are looking for a peaceful trip, Daksum Valley is the place to be because the valley is far away from the e crowded cities. This beautiful offbeat place is 40 kilometers from the main Anantnag located in the Larnoo tehsil of Anantnag and sits at an elevation of 8000 feet. The Daksum Valley has a wide range of flora and fauna. The water stream that flows through the valley is rich in trout fishes.

Daksum Valley is the place where you spend your time with mother nature. You can explore the valley by trekking and also you will get the opportunity to enjoy sightseeing. 

The ideal time to visit Daksum Valley is from April to September, during these months, nature is in full glory which has positive effects on travelers.