Peak Season (March to May, October to November):

Witness the vibrant Tulip Festival in Srinagar and explore the iconic Mughal Gardens. Enjoy shikara rides on Dal Lake, thrilling skiing in Gulmarg, and the scenic beauty of Pahalgam. Autumn landscapes, adorned with golden Chinar trees, are perfect for exploring Shalimar Bagh and vibrant Srinagar markets.

Shoulder Season (November to February):

Enjoy snow-covered landscapes in Gulmarg and serene shikara rides on Dal Lake.

Explore winter sports in Sonamarg, such as whitewater rafting and zorbing, and marvel at the beauty of Nigeen Lake and Nishat Bagh.

Waning Season (June to September):

Experience lush greenery in Shalimar Bagh, stroll around Nigeen Lake, and bask in the beauty of Betaab Valley. The meadows of Sonamarg also offer mesmerizing views during this time.

How to Reach Kashmir

By Air: Srinagar Airport connects Kashmir with major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore through airlines such as IndiGo and Air India.

By Train: Jammu Tawi Railway Station, 330 km away, is the nearest railhead. From here, local taxis can take you to Kashmir.

By Road: Well-maintained highways connect Kashmir to Delhi, Chandigarh, and Jammu, offering scenic routes for an unforgettable journey.

Interesting Facts About Jammu and Kashmir:-

• Amarnath Cave features a naturally formed Shiva Lingam from melting ice.
• Dras, one of India’s coldest places, experiences temperatures as low as -45°C.
• Chashme Shahi’s spring water is famous for its medicinal properties.
• The Vaishno Devi Temple attracts over 81 lakh pilgrims annually.
• Kashmir is India’s primary saffron producer and ranks third globally.

The Gulmarg Gondola is India’s highest and longest ropeway, spanning 5 kilometers.

The Chenab Bridge is built with steel that withstands extreme temperatures of -20°C.

Kashmir is home to Asia’s largest tulip garden, the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden.

The Banihal Tunnel is India’s longest railway tunnel, spanning over 11 kilometers.

The Floating Market on Dal Lake is a unique experience, being the only one in India and the third in Asia.

Top Places to Visit in Kashmir

Anantnag:

A spiritual hub with attractions like Martand Sun Temple and Amarnath Cave, surrounded by freshwater springs and lush gardens.

Nishat Garden, Srinagar:

Known as the “Garden of Bliss,” this Mughal Garden offers stunning Persian architecture with a serene water channel and vibrant flowers.

Shalimar Garden, Srinagar:

Spread across 31 acres, this Mughal Garden is adorned with Chinar trees and colorful blossoms, providing a tranquil escape.

Chashme Shahi, Srinagar:

A compact yet enchanting garden featuring a natural spring, ideal for a peaceful retreat.

Jama Masjid, Srinagar:

An architectural marvel with Indo-Saracenic design, this historic mosque can host over 33,000 devotees at once.

Aru Valley:

A romantic retreat for honeymooners, offering adventure activities and serving as a base for treks to Kolahoi Glacier and Tarsar Lake.

Amarnath Cave:

A spiritual landmark with the famous ice Shiva Lingam, attracting thousands of devotees during the Amarnath Yatra.

Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve:

A wildlife enthusiast’s haven showcasing rare flora and fauna amidst the picturesque Himalayan backdrop.

Things to Do in Kashmir

1. Take a Shikara Ride on Dal Lake
A visit to Kashmir is incomplete without a ride on a Shikara, a traditional wooden boat, on Dal Lake. Glide through the calm waters surrounded by stunning views of snow-capped mountains. Relax, enjoy the soothing sound of water, and let the boatman navigate you through the scenic lake. This activity is a must in any Kashmir tour package.

Location: Dal Lake, Srinagar

Timings: 6 AM to 5 PM

Price: INR 150 to INR 250 per person

2.Experience a Gondola Ride in Gulmarg
Enjoy the breathtaking Gondola cable car ride in Gulmarg, perfect for adventure lovers and families alike. The ride operates in two phases, taking you from Gulmarg to Kungdoor and then to the stunning Apharwat Peak.

Location: Gulmarg, Baramulla District

Timings: Ticket Sale: 9 AM to 3 PM | Ride: 10 AM to 5 PM

Price: INR 600 (Phase I), INR 800 (Phase II), INR 300 (Chair Lift)

3. Play Golf at Gulmarg Golf Club

Golf lovers should not miss playing at the Gulmarg Golf Club, one of the world’s highest and largest 18-hole golf courses. The serene backdrop of the Himalayan peaks makes this a unique experience.

Location: Gulmarg

Timings: 8:30 AM to 10 PM

Price: INR 800 (Indians), INR 1200 (Foreigners)

4. Savor Authentic Kashmiri Cuisine

Kashmiri food is a feast for your taste buds. Enjoy dishes like Mutton Rogan Josh, Yakhni, and Gushtaba. Vegetarians can try Dum Aloo and Paneer Chaman. Don’t miss Kahwa, a traditional Kashmiri tea.

Best Restaurants: Ahdoos, Nedous Dining Room, Alchi Kitchen

5. Explore Old Srinagar on a Heritage Walk
Discover the rich history and culture of Srinagar by taking a walking tour through Old Srinagar. Visit iconic landmarks like Jamia Masjid, marvel at Mughal-style architecture, and shop for local spices and dry fruits in bustling markets.

Location: Old Srinagar

6. Visit Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden

The largest tulip garden in Asia is a must-visit, especially during April when the annual Tulip Festival is held. Stroll through vibrant flower beds featuring tulips, daffodils, and more.

Location: Cheshma Shahi Road, Srinagar

Timings: 7 AM to 7:30 PM

Price: INR 50 (Adults), INR 25 (Children)

7.Shop for Organic Dry Fruits

Kashmir is famous for its high-quality dry fruits like almonds, cashews, and apricots. Visit markets around Dal Lake and Rainawari for the best deals.

Location: Dal Lake, Meena Bazaar

8. Visit Kheer Bhawani Temple

Seek blessings at Kheer Bhawani Temple, dedicated to Goddess Ragnya Devi. The serene temple is surrounded by a water spring, adding to its spiritual charm.

Location: Tulmulla, Srinagar

9. Shop at Ahmad Complex

Find traditional Kashmiri jewelry, souvenirs, and clothes at Ahmad Complex. It’s also a great spot to enjoy some local snacks.

Location: Budgam, Jammu and Kashmir

Timings: 10 AM to 9 PM

10.Go on a Wildlife Safari at Dachigam National Park

Spot animals like musk deer, leopards, and Himalayan black bears on a safari through Dachigam National Park. Bird watchers can look for cinnamon sparrows and black bulbuls.

Location: Near Harwan Mughal Garden, Srinagar

Timings: 8 AM to 6 PM

Price: INR 25

Must-Try Food in Kashmir

Rogan Josh: A slow-cooked lamb curry full of aromatic spices.

Yakhni: Mutton or chicken cooked in yogurt-based broth.

Dum Aloo: Spicy potato curry.

Wazwan: A royal Kashmiri feast with dishes like Rista and Gushtaba.

Kahwa: A refreshing green tea infused with saffron.

Popular Adventures in Kashmir

Horse Riding: Explore trails in Gulmarg and Pahalgam for scenic views.

Ziplining: Try the thrilling Skyview Patnitop zipline.

River Rafting: Navigate the rapids on Lidder and Sindh Rivers.

ATV Riding: Explore rugged terrain in Gulmarg on an ATV.

Shopping in Kashmir: What to Buy

Pashmina Shawls: Luxurious handwoven wool shawls.

Saffron: High-quality spice with rich flavor.

Kashmiri Carpets: Beautiful hand-knotted rugs.

Papier-Mâché Items: Decorative boxes and ornaments.

Walnut Wood Items: Carved furniture and decor.