Do you know there’s “heaven on earth,” and that’s Kashmir! The Rise of Azaan (the Arabic call to prayer in Islam), the vibrancy of saffron, the aroma of pine trees, the sound of gushing rivers, and the unfathomable calling—the valley of Kashmir is called so for all the right reasons. In fact, Kashmir is more than a place, a tranquil, or perhaps an ideal state of mind.

The beauty of this place is surreal and must be on every travel enthusiast, whether Indian or international, bucket list. That said, listed here are the top 5 Kashmir sightseeing places no one should miss out on your visit.

5 Must-Visit Kashmir Sightseeing Places

1. Srinagar – The Heart of Kashmir

Srinagar, the capital city of Jammu and Kashmir, is the largest city and summer capital. The best way to explore the famous Kashmir tourist spot, Dal Lake, is to ride a shikara. It is a traditional wooden boat that glides over the shimmering water body. The lake is a world in itself, with floating markets, gardens, houseboats, and ways of life that have remained unchanged for centuries. Apart from Dal Lake, you can also explore Wular Lake, another freshwater lake in Srinagar.

The old-world charm of Mughal Gardens, such as Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, and Chashme Shahi, with their cascading fountains, colorful flower beds, and terraced lawns, are perfect examples of Persian-style landscapes.

For the spiritually inclined, the city has Hindu and Muslim worship places, including the Shankaracharya Temple, Hazratbal Shrine, Shah Hamdam Shrine, Jama Masjid, and more. In short, this crown city in the jewel of Jammu and Kashmir offers an immersive experience with a culture steeped in history, breathtaking landscapes, and the warmth of hospitality offered by locals.

2. Gulmarg – The Skiing Heaven

Gulmarg literally means “meadows of flowers” and is located 60 km away from Srinagar. Winter covers the entire place with a white blanket of snow, making it a skiing and snowboarding paradise, attracting both professional athletes and beginners. And that’s what makes Gulmarg one of the best Kashmir tourist destinations for adventure enthusiasts.

A must-do activity is taking the Gulmarg Gondola ride, the second longest and second highest cable car in the world! The first phase takes you to the height of 8530 ft to Kongdori station, and the second phase takes you to the height of 12293 ft. (On a lighter note, you can literally say “up above the world so high” here!) Other than this, you can enjoy horse riding and explore Leopard Valley and Strawberry Valley and ride up to Kongdori to witness the frozen lake of “Al-Pathar.”

In summer, it’s a peaceful retreat with lush green meadows, whereas winters make it an ideal spot for “white” Christmas and New Year parties!

3. Sonamarg – Meadow of Gold

Sonamarg, or the “Meadow of Gold,” is situated at an altitude of approx. 2800 meters above sea level. It is famous for its lush meadows, including silver birch, fir, pine, sycamore, and alpine flowers. The Sindh River flows beside these meadows, providing breathtaking views of the nearby snow-capped mountains.

Sonmarg is also the starting point of the well-known Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage and the journey to the Thajiwas Glacier. However, the place becomes unsafe during winter due to heavy snowfall and avalanches. Moreover, the trekking route from Sonmarg leads to Vishansar Lake, Gangabal Lake, Gadsar Lake, and Krishnasar Lake. It’s one of the hidden gems among must-visit Kashmir tourist places, perfect for whitewater rafting, trekking, fishing, birdwatching, and camping.

4. Pahalgam – Village of Shepherds

Located at the height of 2740 meters above sea level, Pahalgam is filmmakers’ favorite place. Its lush valleys, snow-clad mountains, colorful meadows, and Lidder Nallah make the place even more enticing. The Betaab Valley, with emerald-green grasslands and towering pine, deodar, and walnut trees, will leave you spellbound.

Aru Valley, another enthralling tourist spot in Kashmir, welcomes you with a carpet of vibrant meadows surrounded by mountains. It is also the base camp for the Tarsar Lake Trek and Kolahoi Glacier Trek. Baisaran Hills, referred to as the “Mini Switzerland of India,” is a perfect stopover when trekking to Tulian Lake. The Overa-Aru Wildlife Sanctuary is the ideal spot for wildlife lovers, with multiple species of flora and fauna. Not to forget the Sheshnag Lake, one of the most beautiful and easiest treks for adventure seekers.

5. Yusmarg – Hidden Gem of Kashmir

Tucked away from the usual tourist crowd, Yusmarg (meadows of Jesus) is a hidden gem located about 47 km from Srinagar with places like Sang-e-Safed Valley and the holy shrine of Charar-e-Sharif. Moreover, this Kashmir tourist spot is an untouched paradise for nature lovers. You’ll find some of the highest peaks in the PirPanjal range, like Sunset Peak (4746 m) and Tattakutti (4,725 m), here in Yusmarg.

The milky white waters of the Doodh Ganga River add to the area’s charm. The lush meadows, forests of pine, and crystal-clear streams make it an idyllic location for hiking, picnics, and photography. So, if you’re looking for a tranquil retreat away from the hustle and bustle, Yusmarg should be on your list of must-visit Kashmir locations.

Kashmir: A Delightful Retreat for Mind, Body, and Soul

Every mile traveled in Kashmir is a testament to why this valley is known as “Heaven on Earth!” From the shimmering waters of Dal Lake and Wular Lake to the rugged beauty of Gulmarg and the Baisaran Hills, Kashmir offers a rich tapestry of immersive experiences that cater to all kinds of travelers.

Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone seeking solitude, Kashmir has something for everyone. In fact, no matter where you go in the valley, you’ll find yourself surrounded by unparalleled natural beauty and warm hospitality. Kashmir is not a place but an unparalleled experience for your mind, body, and soul.

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your Kashmir sightseeing tour today, and prepare to be amazed by all that this beautiful valley has to offer. Whether it’s the snow-capped peaks, the spiritual retreats, or the cultural treasures, Kashmir is ready to enchant you!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit Kashmir?

The best time to visit Kashmir is between March and October, as the weather is pleasant. For snow lovers, December to February is ideal for winter sports in Gulmarg.

Is Kashmir safe for tourists?

Yes, Kashmir is generally safe for tourists. However, it is recommended that tourists check the latest travel advisories and follow local guidelines.

What are the top activities to do in Kashmir?

Some top activities include houseboat rides in Dal Lake, skiing in Gulmarg, trekking in Sonamarg, and exploring the Mughal Gardens in Srinagar.

How long should I plan my Kashmir trip?

A 7-10 day trip is ideal for exploring the major Kashmir tourist destinations. This gives you enough time to visit Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and other must-see spots.

What are the famous foods to try in Kashmir?

On your trip to Kashmir, you can try Rogan Josh, Gushtaba, Kashmiri Pulao, and Kahwa, the traditional Kashmiri tea.