Kashmir’s blissful aura can never be expressed in words. Snowy glaciers, pristine lakes, expansive grassland, and stunning orchards await visitors in this paradise. The unbelievably beautiful places to visit in Kashmir have fascinated tourists from worldwide, and now it is your turn to discover this ‘Paradise on Earth’.
If you are planning a trip here in 2021, we have compiled a list of 12 tourist places in Kashmir to include in your itinerary for a memorable vacation.
1. Srinagar (5,200 ft.)
Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu & Kashmir (J&K), is split into two by the river Jhelum. The star attraction here is the idyllic Dal Lake, having been ranked TripAdvisor’s top travellers’ choice for 2020. You can take a shikara ride in the daytime or a midnight cruise for a romantic evening. You will also spot Asia’s most extensive Tulip Garden and India’s only floating market here. Hotels in Kashmir cater to all kinds of travellers, so you can book your accommodation accordingly.
- Best time to visit: September to November
- Famous For: Boating, local delicacies, Markets
- Ideal Duration: 1-2 days
- How to reach:
- Nearest Airport: Sheikh ul Alam International Airport (11 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Srinagar Railway Station (12 km)
- Nearest Bus Stand: Srinagar Bus Stand
2. Sonmarg (8,960 ft.)
#2 Places to Visit in Kashmir
Literally meaning the ‘meadow of gold’, Sonmarg observes a widespread bloom of yellow crocuses during spring. Sonmarg or Sonamarg is a high-altitude tourist attraction in Srinagar’s northeast region. It is home to the famous three sisters – a group of rivers (the Lidder, Sind, and the Neelum). It is also a popular base point for trekking excursions to the Thajiwas Glacier. While its surreal beauty will leave you stunned, a river rafting experience on the gushing Indus River will get your heart racing.
Sonmarg is truly one of the best places to visit in Kashmir with marvellous attractions that you will want to visit more than once.
- Best time to visit: April to June
- Famous For: Trekking, River Rafting, Baltal Valley, Thajwas Glacier
- Ideal duration: 1-2 days
- How to reach:
- Nearest Airport: Sheikh ul Alam International Airport (102 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Srinagar Railway Station (101 km)
- Nearest Bus Stand: Sonmarg Bus Stand
3. Gulmarg (8,694 ft.)
#3 Places to Visit in Kashmir
Gulmarg is a beautiful place in Kashmir that is an absolute delight for adventure seekers. This is the state’s crowning glory, offering the world’s second-highest gondola ride to Apharwat Peak (14,403 ft.) and the third-highest ski resort. Skiing, snowboarding, trekking, and other activities will add more excitement to your holiday. For a culturally rich experience, visit this place during the three-day Winter Festival organised by the Indian Army and Tourism Ministry every year. Gulmarg is among the top 5 places to visit in Kashmir for adventure sports
- Best time to visit: October to June
- Famous For: Gondola ride, Ski, Snowboarding, Trekking
- Ideal duration: 3-4 hours
- How to reach:
- Nearest Airport: Sheikh ul Alam International Airport (57 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Srinagar Railway Station (56 km)
- Nearest Bus Stand: Old Bus Adda
4. Pahalgam (7,200 ft.)
#4 Places to Visit in Kashmir
Pahalgam is a visual treat with its breathtaking vistas of lush greenery, vast Himalayan ranges, and pristine mountain rivers. Stretched along the Lidder River, it is a popular spot for adventure junkies to try trout fishing, trekking, and angling among others. It serves as the base camp for popular trekking getaways to Amarnath, Aru Valley, Kohaloi Glacier, and other Kashmir tourist places.
Pahalgam is a wonderland that is dotted with prominent attractions like the Aru Valley and Betaab Valleys. You can either explore Pahalgam on foot or opt for a pony ride. Don’t forget to bargain!
- Best time to visit: April to June
- Famous For: Betaab Valley, Chandanwari, Amarnath Temple, Tulian Lake
- Ideal duration: 4-5 hours
- How to reach:
- Nearest Airport: Sheikh ul Alam Airport (89 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Srinagar Railway Station (93 km)
- Nearest Bus Stand: Pahalgam Bus Stand
5. Pulwama (5,419 ft.)
#5 Places to Visit in Kashmir
Pulwama is a city that should be on everyone’s bucket list for multiple reasons. It is a famous tourist place in Kashmir for its widespread saffron fields, largest milk production, and untouched surroundings. It is truly the ‘Delight of Kashmir’, as its blissful aura is unrivalled among Kashmir’s other attractions.
It is a sought-after attraction where important religious sites and historical monuments can also be found. Do visit the Aharbal Waterfalls, Tarsar Lake, Shikargarh, and Avantishwar Temple here. If you aren’t short on time, plan a 7-day Tarsar Marsar Trek; you won’t be disappointed!
- Best time to visit: April to October
- Famous For: Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden, Shankaracharya Temple, Aharbal Waterfalls, Tarsar Lake
- Ideal duration: 3-4 hours
- How to reach:
- Nearest Airport: Sheikh ul Alam Airport (31 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Srinagar Railway Station (34 km)
- Nearest Bus Stand: Pulwama Bus Stand
6. Aru Valley (7,920 ft.)
#6 Places to Visit in Kashmir
Aru Valley’s scenic beauty is like a Windows wallpaper image and is highly regarded among the famous Kashmir visiting places. You can explore the stunning sights of this valley on a pony ride or foot. The drive to this gem of Kashmir is an experience in itself. Book a cosy, local homestay, and savour traditional delicacies at roadside cafes.
The Aru Valley presents unparalleled views of the Kashmir Valley, so if nature and tranquillity are what you seek, you know where to go. It is among the best picnic spots in Kashmir. You won’t be able to get enough of the natural scenic views here, so don’t miss this gem!
- Best time to visit: July to September
- Famous For: Horse Rides, Picnic, Skiing, Fishing
- Ideal Duration: 2-3 hours
- How to reach:
- Nearest Airport: Sheikh ul Alam Airport (101 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Srinagar Railway Station (105 km)
- Nearest Bus Stand: Pahalgam Bus Stand
7. Yusmarg Valley (7,861 ft.)
#7 Places to Visit in Kashmir
Yusmarg or Yousmarg, literally meaning ‘Meadows of Jesus’, is a perfect alternative to the country’s other popular hill stations. It is believed that Lord Jesus stayed here for a short duration and he got extremely impressed by its spectacular expanse. This mini hill station of Kashmir is a favourite among couples who want to spend quality time together amidst tranquillity. This is one of the unique places to visit in Kashmir and also ideal for those who enjoy trekking for long periods in remote locations.
- Best time to visit: April to June
- Famous For: Nilnag, Hirpora Wildlife Century, Doodhpathri, Tatakooti Peak
- Ideal Duration: 1-2 days
- How to reach:
- Nearest Airport: Sheikh ul Alam Airport (47 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Srinagar Railway Station (45 km)
- Nearest Bus Stand: Nagbal Yusmarg Bus Stand
8. Betaab Valley (7,851 ft.)
#8 Places to Visit in Kashmir
Located just 5 km from Pahalgam, Betaab Valley is yet another attraction among the beautiful places in Kashmir. You can take in the scenery while sipping tea, coffee, or Kashmiri Kahwa at a roadside café. It is a common stopover en route Chandanwari.
Bollywood has an undeniable affection for the Betaab Valley, with blockbusters as old as Kashmir Ki Kali in 1964 and more recent movies like Bajrangi Bhaijaan (2015) showcasing the best of Kashmir. If you want to soak in the breathtaking combination of nature and peace, it’s right here.
- Best time to visit: October to June
- Famous For: Mamaleshwar Temple, Tulian Lake, Lidder Amusement Park, Poshwan Park
- Ideal duration: 1-2 days
- How to reach:
- Nearest Airport: Sheikh ul Alam Airport (96 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Srinagar Railway Station (99 km)
- Nearest Bus Stand: Pahalgam Bus Stand
9. Dachigam National Park (5500 ft.-14000 ft.)
#9 Places to Visit in Kashmir
The Dachigam National Park is the world’s best-preserved natural habitat for the near-extinct Hangul or Kashmir stag (Red deer). It has piqued the interest of many wildlife enthusiasts to visit and photograph a wide range of species in their natural habitat. They believe that one visit is insufficient to explore its wilderness.
- Best time to visit: April to October
- Famous For: Wildlife Safari, Trekking, Birdwatching, Photography
- Ideal duration: 3-4 hours
- How to reach:
- Nearest Airport: Sheikh ul Alam Airport (29 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Srinagar Railway Station (31 km)
- Nearest Bus Stand: Theed Main Bus Stand
10. Chandanwari (Approx. 9,498 ft.)
#10 Places to Visit in Kashmir
Chandanwari is the popular entry point to Amarnath, one of the four dhams of Hinduism. It is located exactly halfway between Srinagar and Amarnath. It is named after an interesting phenomenon in that it has a holy sandal (meaning ‘Chandan’) tree that is unlikely to survive at such high altitudes and topography.
A trek to the Chandanwari Glacier point will give you unparalleled views of Pahalgam. Don’t skip the adrenaline-rushing sledge ride across a snow bridge and be mesmerised by this visual treat. As it remains covered in snow all year, it is advisable to rent a pair of gumboots from a nearby local shop.
- Best time to visit: April to June
- Famous For: Deno Valley, Yanner Bridge, Lavender Park, Pahalgam Valley
- Ideal duration: 2-3 hours
- How to reach:
- Nearest Airport: Sheikh ul Alam Airport (89 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Srinagar Railway Station (92 km)
- Nearest Bus Stand: Pahalgam Bus Stand
11. Patnitop (6,640 ft.)
#11 Places to Visit in Kashmir
Patnitop is one of Kashmir’s most developed tourist locations where you can spend quality time with your loved ones in peace. On a clear day during winter, you can enjoy paragliding at Dawariyai. If you come here in the summer season, make a reservation for a round of golf at its 9-hole course (a major crowd-puller).
You can also take a refreshing bath in any one of the area’s three freshwater springs, which are thought to have medicinal properties. Patnitop is one of the best places in Kashmir to relax. Get your hands on a ‘Patisa’ prepared in pure desi ghee to satisfy your taste buds. Its melt-in-the-mouth texture will make you crave it even more.
- Best time to visit: September to October
- Famous For: Patnitop Park, Natha Top, Dawariyai
- Ideal duration: 1-2 days
- How to reach:
- Nearest Airport: Jammu Airport (115 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Udhampur Railway Station (46 km)
- Nearest Bus Stand: Patnitop Bus Stand
12. Sanasar (9,505 ft.)
#12 Places to Visit in Kashmir
Sanasar, a lesser-known gem of Kashmir, is an eco-friendly village in the Ramban district of J&K. This attraction is notable for its cup-shaped meadow surrounded by huge conifers. If adventure and thrill are top of your list, this is the place for you. A day at Sanasar is all about adventures like a paragliding session or a hot balloon ride, as well as a horseback ride through the green hills followed by an overnight camp stay.
If you cannot get enough of it, you can go rock climbing, trekking expeditions, or enjoy a game of golf at a premium golf course.
- Best time to visit: May to June/September to October
- Famous For: Trekking, Camping, Paragliding, Golfing
- Ideal duration: 1 day
- How to reach:
- Nearest Airport: Jammu Airport (133 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Udhampur Railway Station (64 km)
- Nearest Bus Stand: Sanasar Bus Stand
13. Nigeen Lake (5,190 ft.)
#13 Places to Visit in Kashmir
Nigeen Lake is a pristine lake located in Srinagar and is a haven for nature lovers. One must visit the Shikaara ride and houseboat stay to experience the incredible beauty and atmosphere. The lake is surrounded by willow and poplar trees making it among the Kashmir famous places to visit.
- Best time to visit: May to June/September to October
- Famous For: Shikaara ride, Houseboat stay, Tulip Garden tour, Sunset
- Ideal duration: 1 day
- How to reach:
- Nearest Airport: Jammu Airport (100 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Srinagar Railway Station (20 km)
- Nearest Bus Stand: Srinagar Bus Stand
14. Shri Amarnath Cave Temple (12,756 ft.)
#14 Places to Visit in Kashmir
Shri Amarnath Cave Temple is one the most revered temple of Lord Shiva among Hindus. It is located in Pahalgam and is only open for 60 days a year. Inside the temple, there is a Lingham made of ice that depicts Lord Shiva. Every year lakhs of devotees visit the shrine for blessings making the temple one of the most visited Kashmir tourism places.
- Best time to visit: June to August
- Famous For: Amarnath Cave, Trekking, Photography
- Ideal duration: 3-5 days
- How to reach:
- Nearest Airport: Srinagar Airport (72 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Jammu Railway Station (20 km)
- Nearest Bus Stand: Srinagar Bus Stand
15. Vaishno Devi Temple (5,200 ft.)
#15 Places to Visit in Kashmir
Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine is considered to be one of the holiest pilgrimages in India. It is situated in Katra, Jammu. Millions of devotees visit the shrine every year to worship the goddess. This shrine is believed to be the most important Shaktipeeth and Goddess Shakti is worshipped here in the forms of Maha Kali, Maha Saraswati, and Maha Lakshmi.
- Best time to visit: March to October
- Famous For: Vaishno Devi Temple, Trekking
- Ideal duration: 2-3 days
- How to reach:
- Nearest Airport: Jammu Airport (50 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Jammu Railway Station (5 km)
- Nearest Bus Stand: Katra Bus Stand
We have carefully selected these attractions to ensure that there is something for everyone. All of these places to see in Kashmir are among the top-rated attractions by tourists from around the world. It is now up to you to plan your itinerary as per the days in hand and get mesmerised by the heavenly charm of Kashmir.
FAQ
Q. Which is the most beautiful place in Kashmir?
A. Some of the beautiful Kashmir places to visit are Srinagar, Gulmarg, Sonmarg, Pahalgam, and Aru Valley.
Q. Is 4 days enough in Kashmir?
A. Some of the famous places in Kashmir to explore in 4 days are Srinagar, Pahalgam, and Sonmarg.
Q. What is the famous food in Kashmir?
A. The famous food dishes in Kashmir are Goshtaba, Rogan Josh, Dum Aloo, Naat Yakhni, Kashmiri Rajma, Aab Gosht, Nadir Monji, and Tabak Maaz.
Q. Which is the best month to visit Kashmir?
A. The best month for Kashmir sightseeing is from April to October.
Q. Which time snowfall is best in Kashmir?
A. The best time for a Kashmir view with snowfall is from December to February.
Q. What is the best time to visit the tulip garden in Kashmir?
A. The best time to visit the tulip garden in Kashmir is from late March to April end.
This post was last modified on 26-Dec-2023