Christmas-lovers! Holidays are around the corner. And it’s time for you to pick up on the most magical places to create memories of merry-making. With streets decked up with lights and landmarks cheering up with festivities enthusiasm, the spirit of Christmas in all its glory is best witnessed in a land glistening with snow. The Paradise on Earth – Kashmir makes up for the top tourist destination to spend a fulfilling winter holiday. Add to it the sight of snow, and the surroundings feel more surreal for a Christmassy holiday.
For your Christmas time, nothing can beat the experience of taking a trip to Kashmir packed with food, gifts and treats. In the winter wonderland, you get to celebrate white Christmas as it is meant to be. The Valley, a dreamland for snowfall lovers, is also abundant with sights, smells and sounds of Christmas. Thus, the Christmas celebration in Kashmir is no less than a dream come true. With scintillating scenery against a white backdrop, snowy slopes to ski, spas and resorts to rejuvenate and ever-present prayers for good health and prosperity, celebrate the warmth of Christmas at these snowy places for your winter vacation.
1. Holy Family Catholic Church, Srinagar
Holy Family Catholic Church is your go-to destination if it is the biggest gathering you want to be a part of. Honour the Christmas Eve tradition in the city of lakes at the Holy Family Catholic Church. The church, established in 1896, is located at Maulana Azad Road in Srinagar. The celebration is marked by the exchange of greetings, sweets, prayers and wishes of peace and prosperity in the Vale. After attending the event, stroll down the market and marvel at the extravagant display of lights and local artisans selling their artwork.
2. Golf Club, Gulmarg
Christmas in Gulmarg offers an out-of-the-world experience. Once you make it to this dreamy place, Christmas becomes a reality. With illuminated Hotel decor, pine trees tangled up in lights, and snow-covered landscapes, you can take up snow-filled activities such as making a snowman, indulging in snowball fights, etc. The place exudes a festive aura, with various events organised at the Golf Club. The festive week witnesses huge participation from tourists and locals alike every year. Moreover, you can always wander in this wonderland as it is a hub of adventure enthusiasts for winter sports.
3. St. Luke Church at Dalgate
St. Luke’s Church is considered one of the oldest in Kashmir. This historic Church is located near the DalGate area of Srinagar. Under the Smart City project, the renovation of this Church was sped up, and finally, the place opened its door after being shut for three decades. Naturally, when it was reopened after 30 years, the Christian community was glad to be back and offer their prayers to their place of worship. And now, again, it is becoming a popular spot to celebrate the festivity of Christmas. Besides Church, you can also head for Shankaracharya hillock – another popular sightseeing attraction nearby Church.
4. The Pahalgam Club, Pahalgam
Another best place to celebrate Christmas is Pahalgam. Though lesser known, colourful events are also organised here at the Pahalgam Club, including cultural programmes, a musical night, a cake-baking competition, and more. Participate in the fun-filled musical programmes, carol singing and special prayers organised by the Tourism Department. In the end, the winner gets the winning cash prizes and a memento. Make the night more memorable by visiting the radiating market and buying souvenirs for your trip back home.
5. St. Joseph Catholic Church, Baramulla
St. Joseph Catholic Church, the oldest in Jammu, is 59 km from Srinagar. If you find yourself in Gulmarg, you can also check out this place which is a one-and-a-half-hour drive from there. The town is a preferred top tourist destination for those who wish to visit historical sites like Parihaspora and lakes such as Wular and Alpather.
