Places To Visit in Kashmir

Kashmir Valley is the largest valley in the Himalayan Mountains in Jammu and Kashmir,  exists between mountains in northern Jammu and Kashmir and the valley is surrounded by the Himalayas ranges, bordered by the Pir Pranjal ranges in the southwest and the Great Himalayas range in the northeast. Kashmir is known for its scenic beauty, food, music, art, and architecture. This place has a total area of 85,800 square miles, and India and Pakistan control its region. The popular materials in Kashmir are traditional clothes named Pheran, Samovar, the antic cattle, Handicraft walnut furniture, and many more. Here are the best places to visit in Kashmir.

1. Srinagar

Srinagar is located in the center of the Kashmir Valley on the bank of the Jhelum River and is surrounded by four districts and Ladakh Ut. The city is popular for its Lakes, Temples, Gardens, and houseboats. It is also famous for its handicrafts and dry fruits. Srinagar is also mentioned as Heavens on Earth. 

Here are some natural beauties of Srinagar:

• Dal Lake and Nigeen Lake-  These are famous for their serene water, houseboats, and Shikara rides. 

• Mughals Gardens-  Amazing gardens like Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Garden, and Chshme Shahi with terraced lawns, fountains, and flowers.
• Mountains and Valley-  surrounded by the Himalayas, Srinagar provides breathtaking views from specific places like Pari Mahal and Shankaracharya Temple.

Hence. Many people come to these places for peace, Pleasant Weather, and a Peaceful environment

Things to Do:

• Adventure activities- Trekking, Hiking, Water Skiing, Fishing on Dal Lake.

• Famous Food- Rogan Josh, Yakhni, Dum Aloo, and Wazwan Feast.

The best time to visit Srinagar:

• April to October for summer lovers

• October to March for snow lovers 

3. Gulmarg

Gulmarg was previously known as Gulamarag,” Named after Lord Shiva’s wife Goddess Parvati nicknamed Gauri. But the ruler Yusuf changed it into Gulmarg meaning ‘Path of Roses” in the 16th century. The Mughals brought roses with them and cultivated many varieties for a long time. It is famous for its natural beauty, winter sports, and other things. Gulmarg is an amazing valley in the Pir Panjal with snow-capped mountains, grassland, flowers, and waterfall. 

Things To Do:

• Gondola Rides- This ride is second-highest and longest cable car in the world, and provides a mesmerizing view of the valley.

• Alpather Lake- This is a small beautiful lake with blue water which freezes in winter.

• Maharani Temple- This is a famous temple that is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

• Wildlife Sanctuary- This place is a popular tourist destination with grasslands, rocks, forests, and the endangered musk deer. 

The best time to visit 

• March to June

3. Sonamarg

Sonamarg is a small town situated in the distinct of Jammu and Kashmir, India known as the “Meadow of Gold”. The name was derived from Sona means Gold and Marg means path as sun rays fall on a snowy Meadow making it shine like gold. It is famous for its beautiful view. People can reach Sonmarg by public transportation and there are hotels available in the main market. Here are some natural beauties of Sonamarg:

• Valleys- there are many valleys with a grass-covered and picturesque view of snow-capped mountains.

• Glaciers- Sonmarg is a starting point for the trek to the glaciers, rivers, and surrounding peaks.

• Flora and Fauna-  Thule flora of the area includes silver birch, cedar, pine, and alpine flowers, and you also have migratory birds.

The best time to visit

• April to November

4. Kupwara

Kupwara is located in the Kashmir valley, bordered by Baramulla district to the south, Bandipora district to the south, and Pakistan-administered Kashmir to the west. The distinct is characterized by lush green forest, rolling grasslands, and snow-capped mountains, making it a unique destination for nature lovers and adventures. Many people go there to watch the scenic beauty of this place. Here are some natural beauties of this place:

• Bangus Valley- A hidden gem with lush green meadows, dense forests and crystal clear stream

• Lolab Valley- It is known as the “Land of Love and Beauty”. Lolab is a picturesque valley with green pastures, gardens, and a serene atmosphere. 

• Sadhna Top- A mountain pass that offers a panoramic view of the surrounding Himalayan ranges.

Things to DO:

• Trekking

• Birdwatching

• Camping

• Nature Photography

The best time to visit:

• April to August

5. Pulwama

Pulwama is a district in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, known for its natural beauty, rich culture, and strategic importance. Moreover, Pulwama is also associated with a major event in recent history that attracted global attention. Agriculture is an important part of Pulwama’s economy, with apple and saffron cultivation being the mainstay of local livelihood. The distinct is one of the largest producers of saffron in India, and apples are known for their quality and taste. Pulwama gained international attention due to a tragic incident known as the Pulwama attack on February 14, 2019.  In this attack, our 40 CRPF died for the Nation, and then India took revenge for the Pulwama attack by visiting the Jash-e Mohammed camps in the Balakot area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan. India advanced 50 Km inside the line of control, where the Indian Air Force (IAF) deployed Israeli-made smart bombs and 12 Mirage and 2000 fighter jets, killing hundreds of Terrorists. Pulwama has several tourist attractions, including Temples, Wildlife Sanctuaries, and Rivers.

• Avantipora ruins- An ancient temple complex dedicated to the Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu.

• Nagaberan- A picturesque spot surrounded by forests and home to the Nagaberan Wildlife Sanctuary.

• Jhelum River- A river with beautiful scenery and recreational opportunities.

• Payer Temple- An ancient Hindu Temple with intricate carvings and sculptures 

• A harbal waterfall- A hidden gem of Kashmir

• Tarsar Lake-  A reservoir of water.

The best time to visit:

• April to October

6. Pahalgam

Pahalgam is a picturesque city in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir, India, known for its amazing natural beauty, lush green grassland, and gateway to many important trekking routes in the Himalayas. It is a popular tourist destination, often referred to as the Valley of the Shepherds. Pahalgam is situated in the Lidder Valley at an altitude of about 2130 meters. It is around 95 Km from Srinagar. The town has such natural beauty and attractions :

• Lidder Water- A crystal clear water that flows through Pahalgam, offering opportunities for Fishing, River rafting, and free strolls along its banks. 

• Betaab Valley- Named after the Bollywood movie Betaab which was filmed here, this valley is known for its green meadows, gushing stream, and panoramic views.

• Aru Valley- A serene and less explored spot, Aru Valley is located around 12 Km from Pahalgam and is famous for its scenic meadows, trekking routes, and camping sites.

• Baisaran Valley- Often called Mini Switzerland, Baisaran is a beautiful meadow surrounded by dense forests of pine and fir, offering breathtaking views and pony rides.

Best time to visit – April to June

7. Vaishno Devi Temple

 It is one of the most famous temples in India, located in the Trikuta Mountains of the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Dedicated to the Mata Vaishno Devi, an avatar of the Hindu Goddess Durga, this temple attracts millions of people devotees every year, who undertake a challenging journey to seek blessings and spiritual solace. The holy cave is situated at an altitude of 5200 feet and people have to trek about 12 Km starting from Katra.  The story of Vaishno Devi is about a famous Hindu, Tantrik Bhairon Nath, who saw young Vaishno Devi at an agriculture fair and fell madly in love with her. Vaishno Devi fled to the Trikuta Hills to his romantic advances, later she transformed into her original form Durga, and cut his head with her sword in the cave,

Things to not carry:

• Sharp objects like knives, blades, hammers, swords, and other sharp items

• Addictive substances like Meat, Fish, Cigarettes, alcohol and other substances

• Leather Products like Belts, Smart Watches, Jewelry and other metal objects

• Other Items like Mobile Phones, Pen, and bags also

Things to Do while Trek at Temple:

•   Clothing: Wear Comfortable clothes, carry a raincoat, and carry heavy woolen cloth in winter 

•   Snacks: Carry snacks like Dry Fruit and energy drinks to boost your energy while trekking

Conclusion:

Hope, you like the post, Here we discuss the best places to visit in kashmir, best things to do in kashmir and also provide information on things to carry before planning a trip. kashmir is one of the best place in India because everyone says that Kashmir is JANNAT. If you want to planning a trip, then Kashmir is one of the best place.