The sound of gushing water, the perfume of pine trees, the brilliance of saffron, the rise of Azaan, the magnificence of snowy mountains, and a mysterious beckoning are what come to mind when we talk about Kashmir. It isn’t a place but a state of mind; where your whole body and soul instinctively respond by pushing away the worries and stress of life. Before you plan your Kashmir itinerary, let’s help you be halfway there and give you a list of must-see places for your trip to Kashmir.
1. GULMARG
The more you talk about Gulmarg, the less it is! An ideal vacation spot and one of the must-visit places in Kashmir. The splendour of Gulmarg will leave your soul refreshed and energized. Whether you see it covered in green or in white, it’s going to breathe an air of new life into you each time. Moreover, the plenty of adventures it has to offer is the cherry on the cake. Choose to fly high with a Gondola ride or glide down the mountains with your pair of skis on, the experience is going to be enthralling!
2. PAHALGAM
Another sought-after and best tourist place in Kashmir is Pahalgam. The place is located at an elevation of 2130m with stunning hills and a lot of vegetation around. Its moderately harsh climate also makes it one of the best picnic spots in Kashmir. The town’s gorgeous Lidder River meanders through it, which is a sight to behold. Its huge fir-covered mountains and snow-capped summits create and breathtaking panorama. What’s more, it offers you a perfect setting for fishing, hiking, and trekking.
3. SONAMARG
Moving on to the charming hill town of Sonamarg, often known as ‘Meadow of Gold’; A flower-filled meadow with wafting odours of fir and pine forests. This beautiful hill station is about 80km from the capital city of Srinagar and is a prominent tourist point in Kashmir because of its gorgeous glacier, thick forests and snow-capped mountains. Sonamarg gives you a chance to relax and immerse your soul in its picturesque panorama. It also offers you and your family a fantastic opportunity for trekking.
4. GUREZ VALLEY
One of Kashmir’s most alluring and appealing tourist sites, thanks to its lush rolling meadows, lovely pastures, emerald green woods, gushing rivers, and mist-covered mountains. A perfect location for you to unwind amid the beauty of nature. This valley, which lies 8000ft above sea level, provides a well-deserved respite from the bustle of the cities. Plan a trip to this location, breathe in the fresh air, and fill your soul with serenity, comfort, and healing. Overall, a must-visit place in Kashmir.
5. AHARBAL WATERFALL
Names like Pahalgam, Sonamarg, and Gulmarg hardly scratch the surface of Kashmir. It has numerous other lesser-known locations that are equally beautiful. One of them is Aharbal. It’s one of Kashmir’s most stunning waterfalls. A place that’s the easiest to get to and is only around 70km from Srinagar, yet it does not receive the attention it rightfully deserves. Most of the visitors to this place are locals. So get ready to explore this hidden gem! We are sure that you’re going to love this one!
6. DAL LAKE
Because Dal Lake is one of Kashmir’s best places, it’s known as the jewel of Kashmir valley tourism. This must-see location is perfect for honeymooners, families on holiday, and even lone travellers seeking solitude. It provides some amazing views of tall undulating hills, mighty snow-capped mountains, shikaras riding silently, and houseboats standing motionless with the ideal posture. Its outstanding appeal, together with its exotic surroundings will make you stand in awe.
7. WULAR LAKE
With a surface area of 200 sq km, Wular Lake is the largest freshwater lake in India and one of Kashmir’s most beautiful places. The lake is tucked away in the northern portion of the Kashmir valley and is a veritable water chestnut or water caltrop treasure trove. The natural beauty of the lake is indescribable, especially when you view it from an elevation. You can get a bird’s eye view of the villages and fields around it. This serene place is a favourite among the locals who love to visit it after a hectic day.
8. DOODHPATHRI
About 42km from Srinagar lies the famous Doodhpathri, often known as the “Valley of Milk”. It’s one of the popular tourist points in Kashmir. The water running through the meadows seems milky from a distance and is extremely chilly. The thick emerald grass covering the broad meadows and the silvery streams meandering over the big stones, further enhance the splendour of the place. You’ll also find sloping grasslands with a variety of rainbow flowers. The sight is truly a treat to the eyes!
9. SINTHAN TOP
Situated between Kishtwar and the Breng Valley in South Kashmir is a mountain pass known as Sinthan Top. This location provides an engrossing sight in the summer and remains covered in a white blanket of snow in winter. The area’s mild, healthy climate has a revitalizing influence on visitors. At the base of Sinthan’s top, there are endless slopes and simple meadows. The location is perfect for outdoor activities like paragliding, horseback riding, and rock climbing, and winter sports like skiing and ice skating.
10. GANGABAL LAKE
Also known as Harmukh Ganga Lake, Gangabal Lake is located in North Srinagar at the base of the formidable Mount Harmukh. You’ll right away fall in love with its beautiful setting; clear greenish-blue lake on one side, and lovely green meadows and towering mountains on the other. In its high alpine altitudes, tourists also go hiking. For an added element of adventure, you can also rent a horse to get to the lake. It’s one of Kashmir’s best places and one deserving of your visit.
11. MUGHAL GARDENS
The famous Mughal gardens in Srinagar are always a must-see when it comes to beautiful Kashmir visiting places. These excellent gardens are surrounded by picturesque lakes and majestic hills. You can see the influence of Persian architecture in these gardens. All Mughal Gardens have rectilinear designs within a walled enclosure with canals, fountains, pools of flowing water, and a variety of shade-giving trees, flowers, fruits, and scented grasses Strolling through these gardens is a soul-energizing experience.
12. YUSMARG
Yusmarg, also known as “Meadow of Jesus”, is a large area of lush pastureland in the district Budgam. It’s an ideal tourist destination and is one of the best picnic spots in Kashmir. It’s home to numerous picturesque locations such as Sang-e-Safed Valley and Nilnag. The gorgeous river Doodh Ganga adds to the beauty of this location. Skiing is also possible on Yusmarg’s formidable natural slopes for thrill seekers. Its ageless beauty will compel you to visit it again and again.
13. MANASBAL LAKE
Located in the Ganderbal district of Kashmir is Lake Manasbal. The lake goes by the moniker ‘supreme gem of all Kashmir Lakes. It is a fantastic location for bird watching because it’s one of Kashmir’s major natural breeding grounds for aquatic species. The lotus, which grows abundantly around the lake’s edge, enhances the attractiveness of the lake’s crystal-clear waters. The entrance to the lake is through a lovely garden and there are gazebos in the well-kept lawn where you can unwind. The overall vibe and charm of the lake are out of the world.
14. KOKERNAG
Because it combines all the delicate elements of the planet’s natural beauty, visitors come to this place from all over the world. Once you arrive in the lush Kokernag Valley of Anantnag, you’ll find the cold, fragrant mountain air greeting you. The name Kokernag comes from the multitude of springs that erupt from the foot of a heavily forested hill, where waters separate into channels that resemble the claw-foot of a hen. Its water is said to quench both hunger and thirst.
15. ARU VALLEY
Located 11km from Pahalgam lies the incredible Aru Valley with its breathtaking landscapes and towering snow-capped Himalayan peaks. The valley is like a refuge for individuals seeking solitude and tranquillity because of its less population. It’s well-known for its magnificent meadows and outdoor pursuits like horseback riding, hiking, and trekking. In winter, it transforms into a white paradise with snowfall, making it an ideal location for skiing.
Bottomline
No 15 or 50 locations can adequately describe Kashmir. The valley is full of surprises and is a treasure trove of unexpected features and uncharted territory. Yet once you see and experience the grandeur of the locations we already mentioned, you’ll undoubtedly declare, “I left my heart in Kashmir.”
