Kashmir is glorious all year round. The best time to visit Kashmir really depends on the type of holiday you’re looking for. While summer is the best time for picnics in alpine meadows, winter brings a lot of activities for adventure enthusiasts.
Whether you’re visiting Kashmir for the first or the third time, there are always beautiful landscapes to explore. Imagine the majestic Pir Panjal Mountain range to the golden mustard fields, the Dal Lake is dotted with shikaras and blooming tulips.
No matter if you choose to visit Srinagar, Gulmarg, or Pahalgam, here’s a handy guide for the most popular places to visit in Kashmir.
When is the best time to visit Kashmir?
The best time to visit Kashmir for spring, seasonal blooms, and blue skies is March to September. This season sees cool temperatures, large crowds of tourists, and is the peak season in Kashmir.
For those looking for tranquility, July to September is the best time for long treks. You can choose the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek, exploring the local markets, and even the Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage.
November and December offer overcast skies, heavy snow, and sub-zero temperatures. The winter months are perfect for a host of adventure activities. It is also perfect for couples looking for a romantic holiday.
Best Places to Visit in Kashmir: A Complete Itinerary
Looking for the best places to visit in Kashmir? Then an 8-day trip is ideal. You can spend time in Srinagar, glide down to Dal Lake to see the floating markets, and explore the old city architecture. This is the perfect time to take in the beauty of the snow-capped peaks or spend a night on a houseboat.
If you still haven’t witnessed the beauty of this place, then you have time to plan a trip. Be sure to include the top places to visit in Kashmir this year. To make things easier, this Kashmir 8-day itinerary will help you enjoy a smooth and fun holiday.
1. Srinagar, Kashmir
Srinagar offers a truly unique feel of the local vendors near Dal Lake on their shikaras. Travelers can explore the local sights like Lal Chowk, Downtown, and the stunning Tulip Garden, and even go shopping for local embroidered shawls.
Make sure to enjoy a sunset Shikara ride on Dal Lake or check out the floating market early in the morning.
2. Yousmarg, Kashmir
Yousmarg is known for its beautiful landscapes and dense pine forests. Here you can visit the Charar e Sharif Dargah and its surroundings, take a horse ride through the meadows, or even explore Nilnag Lake.
Don’t forget to check out Sang-e-Safed, a stunning meadow that showcases the beautiful Doodhganga River.
3. Gulmarg, Kashmir
As a part of the Kashmir tour packages, Gulmarg is not to be missed. Gulmarg, also called the snow capital of India, is famous for its Gulmarg Gondola where travelers can enjoy stunning views, and even snow activities.
This place also offers points like the Baba Reshi Shrine, Durung Waterfall, Alpather Lake, and trekking on the Himalayan peaks.
4. Pahalgam, Kashmir
At Pahalgam, visitors can see the Aharbal waterfall, the Jhelum River, the Aru Valley, the Avantipur Temple, and even the Betaab Valley. It is an all-time favorite among holidayers. Those who love exploring can visit the Lidder River, frolic in the snow of Chandanwadi, or even check out the nearby Himalayan Cheese Factory.
Make sure you check out the local embroidery, braid work, glass beadwork, and sheep wool yarn.
5. Aru, Kashmir
Aru can be accessed depending on road conditions. If you manage to make it, Aru offers a lot to discerning travelers. Be ready for picnics, horse riding, fishing in the Aru River, enjoying winter sports activities, and exploring the Baisaran Hills.
Travelers can also indulge in strolls and nature walks amid blossoming meadows and stunning mountain scenery.
6. Sonamarg, Kashmir
One of the best reasons to visit Kashmir in April, Sonamarg offers picturesque views for visitors seeking snow-laden fields, serene lakes, and stunning glaciers. Sonamarg offers views of the Kolhoi Glacier and Machoi Glacier, as well as the Sirbal Peak, which is the gateway to the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek.
This location is perfect for trekking enthusiasts as it offers cascading waterfalls, the Thajiwas Glacier, mountain climbing, and more.
7. Anantnag, Kashmir
One of the top 10 beautiful places in India, Anantnag offers gushing streams and bustling markets. It also has major business centers, making it one of the most popular places in Kashmir.
Make sure to check out the Martand Sun Temple, the Jhelum River, Amarnath Ji’s Cave, and the Kishtwar National Park.
8. Dachigam National Park, Kashmir
Dachigam National Park is ideal for nature enthusiasts. It offers lush greenery, and the rarest flora and fauna. Here, travelers can see small villages and the forest reserve.
Bring your binoculars to spot fauna like the Himalayan brown bear, leopards, and even the Pygmy Owls in their natural habitat.
Exploring Kashmir: Your Perfect Travel Guide
Kashmir is not only the default backdrop for every romantic Bollywood movie but also one of the best holiday destinations in India. This state offers a cinematic feel, winter beauty, and summer magic.
Here are a couple of tips you need to navigate through Kashmir.
Where to eat and drink
Kasmir is famous for its downtown bakeries making fresh bagerkhayn, yakhni, or sheermal. Travelers should also try out the local family-run dhabas which are not only Insta-worthy but offer some delicious dishes. Be sure to savor Butter chicken, Tabak Maz, Chicken Tawook, Goashtaba, and more.
Don’t forget to stop at the Books & Bricks Café for some pop-hued Chai Jaai.
Where to shop
When shopping in Kashmir, visit Gulmarg and Srinagar. These places offer interesting shops filled with handicrafts, jewelry, pashminas, spices, walnut wood, and even carpets. Visitors can also explore the local markets for fabrics, handmade soaps, essential oils, and dry fruit.
Activities to do
Kashmir is chock-full of activities you can do. Travelers can take a Shikara ride on Dal Lake, go river rafting at Pahalgam, take a heritage walk through Srinagar’s old towns or even a day trip to Strawberry Valley.
Don’t forget to take a ride on the Gulmarg Gondola and try out some skiing and snowboarding in Sonamarg.
Enjoy the Finest Places to Visit in Kashmir
The best places to visit in Kashmir is possible at a touch of a button. Anubhav Vacations offers a refreshing escape from usual tourist spots. We know that travelers love the chance to explore the lesser-known gems and quaint villages. That is why we have a customized itinerary to cover the top places to visit in Kashmir. Our slow-paced travel allows you to enjoy rather than feeling rushed.
Whether you’re looking for something rugged and remote, romantic, family-friendly, or even adventurous, we have the perfect itinerary for you. We can customize the itinerary to suit your group and ensure you discover more than the popular places to visit in Kashmir. This will make your Kashmir holiday more authentic and unforgettable.