Beautiful Kashmir | Must-Visit Places for Every Traveler

Beautiful Kashmir - Kashmir Tourism - Best places to visit in Kashmir

Kashmir is a magical place that will make any traveler speechless with its breathtaking views and stunning landscapes. Located in the northern part of India, Kashmir is known for its beautiful valleys, sparkling crystal-blue lakes, and snow-covered mountains.

Hi there! Welcome to my travel blog. This article aims to guide people who want to visit beautiful Kashmir and explore its glory. Based on my journey to Kashmir, I will let you know which are the must-visit places that you shouldn’t miss on your first trip to Kashmir. I want to help you have an amazing journey and discover the stunning landscapes and rich culture of Kashmir. So let’s get started.

Other than its charm, Kashmir has a positive and welcoming environment. The local people are known for their friendliness and hospitality, making you feel at home in their culturally rich region. The resilience and spirit of the Kashmiri people shine through despite the challenges they face.

While Kashmir has faced difficulties in the past, its positive sides overshadow the negative ones. The people’s determination to preserve their traditions and their warm hospitality remain strong. The natural beauty and cultural heritage of Kashmir continue to attract visitors from all over the world, allowing them to experience the magic of the region firsthand and form their own opinions free from biases.

So, get ready to explore Kashmir and be captivated by its serene valleys, friendly locals, and awe-inspiring nature. Kashmir is calling, ready to create memories that will stay with you forever.

Journey to Paradise: Uncovering the Best Places to Visit in Beautiful Kashmir

1. Dal Lake: Beautiful lake surrounded by Amazing views

Dal lake , Kashmir

“Dal Lake”, is one of those iconic places that is a must for any traveler’s bucket list. It is located in Srinagar. From my own experience, I suggest you spend an evening here with your family and experience the sunset. It’s a unique experience. The other best time to visit Dal Lake is early in the morning when everything is quiet and peaceful. Plan a boat ride in the early morning. The view you’ll see I can not explain in words.

Why should you visit Dal Lake?

  • It offers stunning scenic beauty with panoramic views of mountains, houseboats, and floating gardens.
  • Staying in traditional houseboats called shikaris is a unique and immersive experience.
  • Shikara rides allow you to explore the lake and witness floating markets and Mughal-era gardens.
  • Dal Lake is known for its floating gardens, where colorful flowers like lotus and saffron are cultivated.
  • Water sports and activities like kayaking and water skiing are available for adventure enthusiasts.
  • Watching the sunrise or sunset over Dal Lake is a magical experience.
  • Travelers can experience the local culture, interact with artisans, and explore floating markets.
  • Dal Lake promises an unforgettable travel experience with its beauty, unique experiences, and cultural richness.

Check out some of the pictures of Dal Lake, Kashmir, below.

Shikara ride at Dal Lake, Kashmir.

Depending on the time, early morning or sunset, you will see different sides of Kashmir.

I suggest you experience both! 

Sunset at Dal Lake, Kashmir
Shikara ride at Dal lake, early morning
Dal lake, Char Chinar , shikara ride , Kashmir

While enjoying our shikara ride (boat ride), we visited a place called “Char Chinar”. There are four Chinar trees in the middle of the Dal Lake.

2. Gulmarg: A beautiful Hill Station famous for Skiing

Snow covered mountains in Gulmarg
You are not in the mountains. The mountains are in you.

Gulmarg is a beautiful hill station surrounded by snowy mountains. It is located at a distance of 49 km from Shrinagar. Gulmarg is famous for its snow-peaked mountains and adventure snow activities like – Skiing, sledding, etc.

If you like snow and want to experience it, this is the one place you should not miss during your Kashmir trip. If you like snow and want to experience it, this is the one place you should not miss during your Kashmir trip. December’s end to mid-February is the best time to visit Gulmarg.

Why should you visit Gulmarg?

  • You can experience the breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains.
  • You can take the Gulmarg Gondola ride to the top, it’s one of the highest cable car rides, and experience 360-degree views while sitting on a Gondola ride.
  • You can Enjoy skiing and snowboarding activities here in the snow.
  • If you are visiting in the summer months you can explore the lush green meadows and iconic Alpather Lake.
  • Adventure travel enthusiasts can engage in various snow sports activities like snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and sledding.
  • You can explore here Kashmiri culture and can try local cuisine, and shop for handicrafts.
  • If you like hiking and trekking this is the must-go place for you. Here you can explore beautiful hiking and trekking trails, including the frozen Alpather Lake trek.
  • If you are like me and just want to escape from your busy city life and just chill in a beautiful and quiet place while having “Kashmiri Kahva tea” in a local tea hut, then there is no better place than this for you.

Gulmarg is a special place that combines thrilling adventures, beautiful nature, interesting cultural experiences, and fun recreational activities. All of these things together make it a very attractive destination for tourists.

Below are some photos I took when I visited Gulmarg.

(i) Gulmarg Phase-1

Gulmarg Phase 1

Gulmarg Phase 1 is the starting point of the Gulmarg Gondola, a cable car ride in Kashmir. Your journey to phase 2 starts from here. It takes you to Kongdoori Mountain, offering breathtaking views of mountains, forests, and meadows.

At phase 2 you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding in winter. With its stunning scenery and exciting activities, Gulmarg Phase 1 is a memorable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

(ii) Gondola cable car ride in Gulmarg – Journey to Phase – 2

Gondola cable car ride in Gulmarg

The Gondola cable car ride at Gulmarg is an exciting and memorable experience. It is a high and long cable car ride divided into two phases. The first phase takes you to Kongdoori Mountain, offering beautiful views of the snowy peaks, meadows, and forests.

The second phase goes even higher to Apharwat Peak, providing stunning panoramic views from above. Whether you love nature or adventure, the Gondola ride in Gulmarg is a thrilling way to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Kashmiri mountains.

(iii) Gulmarg Phase – 2

Gulmarg phase 2, Beautiful Kashmir, Best places to visit in Kashmir

Gulmarg Phase 2 is the second part of the Gulmarg Gondola ride that takes you to Apharwat Peak. Here you will be amazed by stunning views of the snow-covered mountains, and valleys. Here at the top, you can enjoy beautiful Kashmir snow.

Adventure lovers can enjoy skiing and snowboarding here, especially during the winter season. The peak is also a great spot for photography. Gulmarg Phase 2 provides an exciting adventure and a chance to admire the magnificent beauty of the Kashmiri mountains from a high point.

3. Pahalgam: Paradise for nature lovers – ‘A valley of shepherds’

Pahalgam, Pahalgam visit places

Pahalgam is a beautiful place in the Kashmir Valley that nature lovers will surely like. It has stunning landscapes and pleasant weather all year round.

Pahalgam weather: In the summer season the temperature in Pahalgam stays between 15°C – 25°C. It provides a nice break from the heat. In the winter, Pahalgam gets really cold with snowfall.

One popular hotel in Pahalgam is Hotel Baisaran, which offers a comfortable stay with friendly service.

But we stayed at the Hotel Mountview. We enjoyed our stay very much. The view, rooms everything was perfect. You can check the details here, at Hotel Mountview.

Pahalgam visit places:

Betaab Valley is known for its natural beauty and greenery.

The Lidder River flows through Pahalgam, offering lovely views and activities like rafting and fishing.

Chandanwari is another famous spot and the starting point for the Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage.

Pahalgam is truly a paradise for nature lovers with its amazing scenery, pleasant weather, and exciting places to explore.

Why should you visit Pahalgam?

  • You can enjoy leisurely walks and picnics along the banks of the Lidder River.
  • The stunning Betaab Valley, known for its lush meadows and snow-capped peaks, will leave you speechless.
  • There are so many adventure activities available for you to enjoy in Pahalgam. For example, trekking, and river rafting.
  • Baisaran, also known as “Mini Switzerland.” It offers breathtaking views and a tranquil atmosphere.
  • Families can have a great time at the Lidder Amusement Park, which features fun rides and beautiful gardens.
  • Don’t miss the opportunity to explore local markets and shop for traditional Kashmiri handicrafts and souvenirs.
  • Photography enthusiasts will find Pahalgam a paradise, with its stunning landscapes, snow-covered peaks, flowing rivers, and vibrant meadows.
  • Above all, Pahalgam provides a serene and peaceful environment, offering a perfect escape from busy city life.

4. Sonamarg: Meadow of Gold, Incredible views of pristine glaciers

Sonmarg Kashmir

Sonmarg is the most beautiful destination in Kashmir. The distance between Srinagar and Sonmarg is around 80 kilometers.

It is known as the “Meadow of Gold” because when sunrays fall on the meadows and mountains it sparks like golden color. You can reach Sonmarg from Srinagar by a scenic drive of approximately 2 to 3 hours.

Sonmarg is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, alpine meadows, and flowing rivers. One of the main attractions is the Sonmarg 0 Point, which serves as the entrance to the Thajiwas Glacier. Visitors can enjoy pony rides or go on a hike to explore this beautiful glacier, surrounded by snow-covered peaks and picturesque valleys.

The temperature in Sonmarg varies depending on the season. During the summer season, the weather is very pleasant. During this season temperatures range from 10 to 25 degrees Celsius, offering a refreshing escape from the heat in the plains.

In winter, Sonmarg receives heavy snowfall, transforming it into a magical winter wonderland and attracting adventure enthusiasts for activities like skiing and snowboarding.

Sonmarg’s natural beauty, its proximity to glaciers, and its pleasant climate make it a popular choice for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Whether you want to witness the awe-inspiring landscapes, engage in thrilling activities, or simply unwind amidst the splendor of nature, Sonmarg provides an enchanting experience in the heart of Kashmir.

Sonmarg valley in beautiful kashmir
Sonmarg Kashmir

Why should you visit Sonmarg?

  • Sonmarg is incredibly beautiful with stunning landscapes and snowy mountains.
  • You can get up close to the impressive Thajiwas Glacier, which is very close by.
  • There are thrilling activities like rafting, hiking, and camping to enjoy.
  • Sonmarg provides a peaceful and calm environment, perfect for escaping the busy city life.
  • You can also plan a day trip to Yousmarg, another picturesque place nearby.
  • The summer weather is pleasant, offering a refreshing break with temperatures between 10 to 25 degrees Celsius.
  • Sonmarg is easily accessible from Srinagar, the main city of the region.
  • You’ll have the chance to experience the local culture and try delicious Kashmiri cuisine.
  • The breathtaking landscapes make Sonmarg a paradise for travel photographers.

Sonmarg is a destination that combines natural beauty, adventure, serenity, and cultural experiences, making it a compelling choice for tourists looking to explore the wonders of the Kashmir Valley.

5. Bangus Valley: “Mini Switzerland of Asia” is an untouched place in beautiful Kashmir  

bangus valley

Bangus Valley is a hidden paradise in Kashmir. Not many travelers know about this place and because of that, they miss out on this hidden gem during their Kashmir trip.

This beautiful Kashmir valley is famous for its breathtaking views, small but sparkling river streams, and green forests, creating a breathtaking landscape that will leave you amazed.

To reach Bangus Valley from Srinagar, you will have to travel a distance of about 100 kilometers to the Kupwara district. It’s around a 3-hour ride from Srinagar. After that, you may need to hike 20 to 30 minutes hike to bangus valley because cars can not reach all the way to bangus valley.

The journey itself is quite enjoyable as it takes you through scenic routes and charming villages. On your way to the Bangus Valley, you will see magnificent views of snowy mountains, lush green forests, and flowing river streams.

One of the best reasons to visit Bangus Valley is the opportunity to capture amazing bangus valley photos. The valley is a heaven for photographers, with its vast meadows, and reflective lakes that mirror the surrounding mountains. Whether you are an amateur or a professional, Bangus Valley provides endless opportunities to capture stunning photos that will be priceless memories for you to keep. Check out some of these mind-blowing bangus valley photos. I also added some Kashmir beauty quotes to express the feel of this amazing place.

bangus valley kashmir

“Lost in the beauty of Kashmir, found peace in my soul.”

bangus valley photos , beautiful kashmir

Why should you visit Bangus Valley?

  • Bangus Valley is one of the lesser-known places in Kashmir. It’s a hidden gem that offers a natural environment to the wildlife that resides there. Because fewer tourists visit this place it is pure and unspoiled.
  • The valley is known for its vast stretches of green meadows that are perfect for relaxing walks and enjoying picnics.
  • The breathtaking views of the mountains will make you speechless.
  • Sparkling streams that flow in the valley make the place very natural.
  • Adventure enthusiasts will find Bangus Valley to be an ideal destination for trekking, thanks to its challenging trails.
  • Exploring Bangus Valley during ‘Bangus Mela’ provides you an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture, and interact with friendly locals.
  • It’s a peaceful and serene retreat, far away from crowded tourist spots, allowing you to relax and find inner peace.
  • With its stunning landscapes and captivating beauty, Bangus Valley offers plenty of opportunities for photography, allowing you to capture the essence of this hidden gem.

Visiting Bangus Valley is an exceptional experience, where you can enjoy untouched natural beauty, exciting adventures, cultural immersion, tranquility, and the chance to connect with nature. It’s a place where you can escape from the usual tourist crowds and explore the hidden treasures of the Kashmir region.

 6. Betaab Valley: beautiful Kashmir valley

betaab valley , betaab valley pahalgam

Betaab Valley is a must-visit place for your Kashmir trip. It is located in Pahalgam. Betaab Valley is known for its natural beauty and peaceful surroundings like the Lidder river stream, and forest of deodar and pine trees. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and lush greenery, Betaab Valley is a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

The best time to visit Betaab Valley is in these months: May, June, and July. During these months you can experience the actual beauty of the place, rather than coming in winter when everything is covered in snow.

Betaab Valley is around 7 kilometers away from Pahalgam. The journey offers breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys. When you reach Betaab valley at the entrance you need to pay an entry fee which is 100 rupees.

When it comes to accommodation, there are several hotels and resorts in and around Betaab Valley. These accommodations cater to different budgets and provide a comfortable stay amidst the natural surroundings. You can choose from a range of options like,

  • JKTDC Hotel Alpine Pahalgam
  • JKTDC Pahalgam Resort
  • Hotel Pine Spring Pahalgam

(Kindly check the location, pricing, and reviews by yourself before booking your stay. Hotel names are given here for information purposes only.)

Checkout below some of Betaab Valley photos:

“Heaven isn’t too far if Kashmir is your destination.”

betaab valley

Why should you visit Betaab Valley?

  • Betaab Valley is an incredibly beautiful place that will make you speechless with its breathtaking views of mountains, meadows, and streams.
  • A Bollywood movie called “Betaab” was filmed here so now you know how and why the valley is named.
  • It’s easy to get there from Pahalgam, which is only 7 kilometers away.
  • You can do exciting activities like trekking, horse riding, and picnics in the valley.
  • The weather is pleasant all year round. And it offers various activities to the tourists.
  • There are many places to stay in nearby Pahalgam that fit different budgets.
  • Photography lovers will find so many opportunities to capture stunning landscapes of the surroundings.
  • If you want to relax in some place quiet and leave the city noise behind then this place can be a perfect match for you.
  • In Pahalgam, you can explore the local culture, try traditional food, and meet friendly people.
  • Visiting Betaab Valley allows you to enjoy nature’s beauty, have thrilling adventures, and experience the calmness of the mountains in Kashmir.

7. Mughal Gardens: Must visit in any Kashmir travel package itinerary

Mughal Gardens in Kashmir are beautiful gardens that showcase the impressive architecture of the Mughal Empire.

These gardens are located in Kashmir. Many tourists are attracted by the historical importance of these gardens and visit during their Kashmir trip. They have well-maintained by the authorities. Well-planned designs, colorful flowers, lovely fountains, and peaceful water fountains are the best features of these gardens.

Mughal Gardens in Kashmir is a combination of natural beauty and impressive architecture. They offer a peaceful retreat to every tourist who visits here. Here people can enjoy the lovely surroundings and appreciate the historical legacy of the Mughal Empire.

These are the following Gardens you should visit during your trip to Kashmir,

  • Nishat Bagh
  • Shalimar Bagh
  • Chashme Shahi
  • Pari Mahal

Let’s see them one by one in detail.

1. Nishat Bagh, Kashmir:

nishat bagh Kashmir

Nishat Bagh is located in Srinagar City in Kashmir. It is a beautiful Mughal Garden that adds to the charm of the Kashmir region. It was built by Shah Jahan’s brother, Asif Khan.

Nishat Bagh is famous for its well-planned design, terraces, beautiful flower beds, and artistic fountains. You can enjoy stunning views of Dal Lake and the Zabarwan Mountains from here. It offers peaceful relaxation with your family to enjoy picnics or outings.

If you’re planning to visit Nishat Bagh, it’s good to know the opening hours and entry fees. The garden is open from morning at 9 AM till evening at 7 PM.
The entry fees are 24 rupees for adults. And for children, it’s 12 rupees. The fees help maintain and preserve this historical garden. Nishat Bagh is a must-visit place for those who want to enjoy a peaceful environment and appreciate the history and scenic views that the Mughal Gardens of Kashmir offer.

2. Shalimar Bagh, Kashmir: Crown of Srinagar

shalimar bagh kashmir

Image source: Wikimedia Commons, the free media repository

Shalimar Bagh in Kashmir is a stunning Mughal garden with a fascinating history. It was built by Emperor Jahangir for his wife, Queen Noor Jahan.

The garden has 3 terrace structures. It has charming fountains, and lovely grass fields built in the Mughal style. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere while exploring the garden’s water channels and historical structures.

Shalimar Bagh opens from 9 AM to 7 PM. The entry fees are 24 rupees per person. It’s located a 3-kilometer distance from Dal Lake. If you want to relax with your family and explore the art of Mughal architecture, do visit the Shalimar Garden when you are in Srinagar.

3. Chasme shahi, Srinagar:

chasme shahi shrinagar

Chasme Shahi is one of the three Mughal Gardens in Srinagar, Kashmir. It is a historical garden built by Governor Ali Mardan Khan on the order of Shah Jahan for his son Dara Sikoh.

Chasme Shahi, also known as the Royal Spring, is famous for its natural spring and green terraces. The garden is a peaceful place with lovely fountains, colorful flowers, and tall chinar trees. It’s a perfect place to have a picnic with family and relax and enjoy beautiful nature.

If you’re planning to visit Chasme Shahi, remember to check the entry fees which is 20 rupees for adult and 12 rupees for children.
Chasme Shahi is open between 8 AM to 7 PM. The garden is open from March to November months. But the best time to visit came shahi garden is from April to October when the spring season arrives.
The entry fees are affordable, making it accessible to everyone. Chasme Shahi is not far from Dal Lake, so it’s easy to reach. Don’t miss the chance to visit this charming garden and experience the glory of Mughal architecture. You’ll be amazed by the peaceful atmosphere and stunning views at Chasme Shahi in Srinagar.

4. Pari mahal, Srinagar: “Palace of Fairies”

pari mahal srinagar

Pari Mahalis located in Srinagar city around 8 km from Dal Lake. It was built by Dara Shikoh who was a son of Shah Jahan.

“Palace of Fairies” is another name by which this place is known. This garden is situated on top of the Zabarwan Mountains. You can see the view of Srinagar city. Here you can enjoy the sunset. Here you will be able to explore the terraced gardens and peaceful and quiet areas.

Pari Mahal opens between 9 am to 5 pm. The entry fees for Pari Mahal are 24 Rupees for Adults and 12 Rupees for children. It is a must-visit place for those seeking a quiet place and wanting to see the beautiful sunset.

FAQs:

How to go to Kashmir?

There are 3 ways you can go to Kashmir:

(1) By Air: The easiest way is to fly to Srinagar International Airport. It has regular flights from major cities in India like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. Once you arrive, you can take a taxi or pre-booked transfer to your destination in Kashmir.

(2) By Train: There is no direct train to Kashmir, but you can reach Jammu Tawi railway station in Jammu City. Many trains from big cities in India go there.
From Jammu, you can hire a taxi. Regular buses also operate from here that will take you to Srinagar. It may take about six to seven hours of travel by road. It totally depends on the traffic and road conditions at the time.

(3) By Bus: There are government and private buses that travel between major North Indian cities and Srinagar. You can choose deluxe or semi-deluxe buses for a comfortable trip.
Remember to check the road conditions, especially in winter or bad weather. Consult with your travel agency for the latest information regarding your trip to Kashmir.

What are the best places to visit Kashmir?

These are the best places to visit Kashmir: (1) Dal Lake (2) Gulmarg (3) Pahalgam (4) Sonmarg (5) Bangus Valley (6) Betaab Valley (7) Mughal Gardens: Shalimar Garden, Nishat Garden, Chasme Shahi.

Is it safe to travel to Kashmir?

Yes, it is safe to travel to Kashmir. And I am saying this from my personal travel experience.

I traveled to Kashmir with my family. It was a week-long trip. We booked a travel package from Kesari Tours. During our trip, we did not encounter a single problem. We did not know that only a postpaid SIM card is allowed in Kashmir. All of our SIM cards stopped working. Our hotel receptionist gave us his SIM card to us for use during our stay at that hotel in Srinagar!

Based on that, you can see that the Kashmiri people are very helpful by nature. You might see armored vehicles and Indian Army soldiers with big guns in some areas. You don’t need to be afraid because they are working 24 hrs for our safety. Salute to the Indian army & our brave Jawans. We completed our trip, traveled to amazing places, and built so many memories. So I can say confidently that Kashmir is safe for travel.

Mumbai to Kashmir distance?

The distance from Mumbai to Kashmir depends on your destination. For example, if your destination is Srinagar, the distance between Mumbai and Srinagar is approximately 2072 kilometers. Which can be completed by air in 2–3 hours if there is no stop and the flight is direct. If there is one stop before reaching the destination, this time can increase to 4 to 5 hours.

*(The image is for informational purposes; actual timings can vary.)*

mumbai to kashmir distance - by air

How to go to Kashmir from Delhi?

The fastest and easiest way to reach from Delhi to Kashmir is via Air. Take a flight from Delhi Airport to Srinagar. These are the regular flights you can take to reach Kashmir, which will get you to your destination around
1h 30m to 1h 40 minutes. Flights: SpiceJet, IndiGo, Air Asia, and Vistara.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Kashmir offers many amazing places that every traveler should visit. From the historical Mughal Gardens like Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh to the peaceful Dal Lake, there is so much to see. Gulmarg, Sonmarg, and Betaab Valley are also worth exploring for their beautiful landscapes. Pari Mahal and Chasme Shahi are perfect for those seeking history and a peaceful place.

Now, let me ask you, Are you planning a trip to beautiful Kashmir and going on a memorable trip to the amazing places I just listed above? If yes, then it’s time to pack your bags and experience the incredible beauty for yourself!

I urge you, don’t wait. Take action now and plan your trip to this amazing place today. Experience the rich culture by yourself, go on adventures, and create memories for a lifetime.

If you are interested in more travel guides like this, explore the blog section. Read my Thailand travel guide here. Which includes helpful tips, and guides to make the most of your trip.

Share your experiences with us too. We’d love to hear about your favorite moments and unique perspectives on your Kashmir trip. To receive my future blog posts by email, you can subscribe here on the contact page.

Stay tuned for more exciting posts where we’ll share more travel content packed with our experiences, vibrant culture, delicious food, and fascinating history.

Kashmir is waiting for you. It’s time to discover, explore, and make unforgettable memories. When will you experience the beauty of Kashmir is up to you! Go on this adventure today or wait for the perfect time forever. Thanks a lot for reading. I hope to see you again in my next post. 🙂

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Read more related to Kashmir: Viral Quotes That Perfectly Capture the Beauty of Kashmir

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