Introduction
Are you looking for a vacation in the lap of nature? If yes, then there is no other place that captivates your soul as much as Kashmir in India. Surrounded by the majestic Himalayas, Kashmir serves as an epitome of unparalleled beauty that has rightfully earned its title as the “Paradise on Earth”. Besides serene lakes and snow-clad mountains, this beautiful region takes you on a sensory journey through its bustling bazaars and aromatic spice markets. Whether you are looking for an adventurous family vacation or a romantic honeymoon destination, Kashmir packages cater to every interest and preference.
Top 5 Places to Visit in Kashmir
1. Pahalgam- Nestled in the Anantnag district along the banks of the Liddar River, Pahalgam is a charming hill station in Kashmir. This stunning tourist destination boasts rugged terrains, luscious green meadows, and snow-covered mountains, which is a heaven for adventure seekers. Some of the iconic attractions you can visit on your trip to Pahalgam are Aru Valley, Chandanwari, Baisaran, and Betaab Valley. Since it is the filming location for the Bollywood movie Betaab, it offers beautiful cinematic locations to click pictures with your loved ones.
If you are fond of nature, you can go on a tranquil escapade to Mamal Temple and take a pony ride to Tulian Lake. You can also explore gorgeous waterfalls in Lolab Valley, witness the confluence of five streams at Panchtarni, and soak in the tranquillity of Sheshnag Lake. River rafting, zorbing, skiing, trout fishing, and trekking are some of the wonderful activities to do in this beautiful hill station of Pahalgam.
2. Gulmarg- Perched at an elevation of 2,730 metres above sea level, Gulmarg is a captivating skiing heaven within the Pir Panjal range. Within a backdrop of snow-draped Himalayas, flower-filled meadows, and lush evergreen valleys, it is a picturesque paradise that invites travellers seeking both adventure and romance. Boasting a record for the second-highest gondola ride in the world, Gulmarg provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. As you land at this iconic destination, you can visit attractions like Apharwat Peak, Drung Waterfall, and Alpather Lake.
An adventure enthusiast can indulge in bird-watching activities at Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve, skiing at Apharwat Peak, and photography at Ningle Nallah. You can try fresh strawberries in the Strawberry Field, witness natural water outlets in Seven Springs, and take your kids to the Children’s Park. If you are looking for a relaxing stroll, you can also pay a visit to the Khilanmarg, Kanchenjunga Museum, and Outer Circle Walk.
3. Srinagar- Resting along the serene banks of the Jhelum River, Srinagar is a jewel attraction in Jammu and Kashmir. Featuring stationary houseboats and iconic Shikaras, it is a dream destination for people planning to book Kashmir honeymoon packages. The heart of Srinagar lies in its enchanting Dal Lake and Nigeen Lake. You can embark on Shikara rides to explore attractions like the Floating Vegetable Market and the vibrant community of Mir Bahris who call the lake home. It is also home to Mughal-age gardens, including the exquisite Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, and Chashm-E-Shahi Garden.
Food enthusiasts should not miss an opportunity to indulge in Wazwan, which is a Kashmiri cuisine renowned for its unique and fragrant spices. The bustling Lal Chowk Market in Srinagar is a treasure trove for authentic Kashmiri shawls, crisp apples, and the finest dried fruits like almonds and walnuts. You can also enjoy a unique stay experience in the houseboats or glide on the reflective waters of Dal Lake on the Shikaras.
4. Sonamarg-
Sonamarg is another hill station in Kashmir that rests at a significant height of around 2,730 metres above sea level. It is a spectacular paradise that features majestic glaciers, serene lakes, and snow-covered fields. Surrounded by the grand Himalayan glaciers like Kolhoi and Machoi, Sonamarg showcases the famous Three Sisters of the Kashmir Valley. Some towering peaks, such as Kolhoi Peak, Amarnath Peak, Machoi Peak, and Sirbal Peak, make it a heaven for adventure enthusiasts. Sonamarg is also the gateway to the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek, which is a trekking delight through Gangabal, Vishansar, Gadsar, Satsar, and Krishnasar. Some of the other notable trekking destinations include Nichinai Pass, Baltal Valley, Satsaran Pass, and the challenging Zoji La Pass.
People who love camping can hike to the Thajiwas range and camp around the breathtaking views of cascading waterfalls and the Thajiwas Glacier. White river water rafting is another popular activity in the lakes of Sonamarg.
5. Amarnath- Amarnath is one of the most crucial pilgrimage sites in India that holds profound significance for worshippers of Lord Shiva. It draws a myriad of devotees from around the world to the Amarnath Cave, which houses a naturally formed ice Shivling. Several tourists take the challenging mountainous trek known as ‘Amarnath Yatra’ to the cave where Lord Shiva unveiled the secrets of life and eternity to Goddess Parvati.
Accessible only during the Shravan months of July and August, Amarnath offers two routes for the Yatra, which are via Baltal or Pahalgam. While the Baltal route is shorter, it involves a steeper trek. On the contrary, the Pahalgam route is longer but the preferred choice for most devotees. It is not just a physical journey but a spiritual pilgrimage that tests the devotion and endurance of devotees. During your trip, you can also visit Tarsar Lake, Lidderwat, Aru Valley, Sheshnag Lake, and Aishmuqam Shrine.
Conclusion
Exploring the mesmerizing beauty of Kashmir lets you unravel a treasure trove of wonders and the cultural richness of nature. From the serene lakes of Srinagar to the adventure-filled slopes of Gulmarg, every corner of this paradise on Earth tells a unique story. The meadows of Pahalgam and the snow-laden fields of Sonamarg add to the overall experience, while the spiritual journey to Amarnath connects you with ancient legends. So, venture into the unexplored corners of the diverse destinations of India and make each moment spent here a memorable chapter in your travel diaries.
Recommended Travel Company
If you are looking for an enjoyable travel experience to Kashmir, you can consider Thrillophilia for all your travel plans. As one of the prominent platforms in the Indian travel industry, Thrillophilia is a reliable partner for travellers seeking seamless and curated journeys. So, book your Kashmir tour packages from Thrillophilia today and enjoy a hassle-free travel experience with your friends and family!
