Jannat-e-Kashmir. Paradise on earth. That’s how most travellers think of Kashmir. As an idyllic Garden of Eden with more natural beauty than the eyes can fathom. With lakes, mountains, meadows, and snowfields, Kashmir does indeed offer panoramic views till as far as the eye can see. And that’s why it is a popular tourist destination in India. From skiing in Gulmarg to staying in a houseboat in Srinagar, there’s lots to do in Kashmir. Apart from that, there’s also a lot of culture to soak in, in the form of traditional Kashmiri meals, music, and dresses. If you’re planning a trip to Kashmir, this is your one-stop guide for everything you need.
A Glimpse of Kashmir
The northernmost region of India was once a state that has now been split up into two union territories – Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. If you want to truly roam around the place and soak in the natural beauty of Kashmir, target visiting in the summer months, between March and June. That’s when the valley is abloom and every corner is like a picture postcard. But if you want to see some pristine snowfall and try some snow activities, then you should visit in December-January. Avoid the monsoon season because the region tends to see landslides and road blockages around that time.
Must-See Experiences
There’s so much to see and do in Kashmir that you’ll be spoilt for choice. But here are some experiences that definitely deserve a spot on your bucket list. One of the most exhilarating experiences in Kashmir is exploring the Dal Lake. You can start by taking a shikara ride on this gorgeous lake, set against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks, where several Bollywood movies have been filmed. You can also drop by India’s only floating post office. End the adventure by staying overnight in a houseboat.
Gulmarg
Another great attraction of Kashmir is Gulmarg, the ‘meadow of flowers’. The famous Gulmarg Gondola is a cable car that takes you high into the mountains for truly surreal views of the valley. Gulmarg is a great place to try snow activities like sledding, skiing, and tobogganing in the winter months. It is also home to India’s only igloo cafe, so drop by for a warm cuppa to heat up your bones in the icy cold weather.
If you want to find inner peace, there are two pilgrimages in Kashmir that are extremely popular. The Amarnath Yatra is undertaken to worship a shiva linga made naturally by snow. This pilgrimage generally takes place in the summer months. The second pilgrimage is the Vaishno Devi Yatra. This starts from Katra and takes you to the shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi in the Trikuta Mountain. Apart from this, Kashmir has many incredibly gorgeous hill stations like Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Pahalgam, Anantnag, and Baramulla that offer a simpler way of life and jaw-dropping Himalayan vistas.
Travel Tips and Recommendations
Jammu-Kashmir is home to three commercial airports in Jammu, Kargil, and Srinagar, all well connected with frequent flights to and from major Indian cities. There are also several trains and buses that offer easy access to tourists. Regardless of your budget, Kashmir has something to offer everyone. For budget travelers, you can get by on Rs 2000 per day, while mid-range travelers may spend up to Rs 3500 per day, and luxury travelers will spend above Rs 5000 per day.
While in Kashmir, don’t forget to try the local cuisine and indulge your taste buds with the spicy treats that are part of Kashmiri Wazwan. Wind up your day with a comforting cup of Kashmiri Kahwa. For accommodation options, consider hostels like Himalayan Bunker, Zostel Srinagar, Happy Drifters, and Raybo Hostel, or hotels such as Royal Comfy Regency, Lemon Tree Srinagar, Houseboat Zaindari Palace, and Pine N Peak. Luxury properties like the Khyber Himalayan Resort And Spa, Vivanta Dal View Hotel, Lalit Grand Palace Srinagar, and Four Points By Sheraton offer top-notch experiences.
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Conclusion
To explore the best of Kashmir, consider dedicating at least 10 days to truly enjoy the beauty at an unhurried pace. However, if you’re visiting just 2-3 cities, even 5 days should suffice. With its diverse offerings, Kashmir is a destination that caters to all kinds of travelers, promising unforgettable experiences and memories that will last a lifetime. If you enjoyed this video, please like, comment, and share it with your friends, and don’t forget to subscribe to our channel for more wanderlust-worthy videos.
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