Famous Tourist Places in Kashmir

Srinagar – The Heart of Kashmir

Srinagar, the capital of Jammu and Kashmir is that city which epitomizes Kashmir. It sits actually at the banks of the beautiful river called the Jhelum River and surrounded by mind-blowing lakes, gardens, and mountains. Nature, history, and culture converge perfectly in Srinagar.

i. Dal Lake

Dal Lake is claimed to be the icon of destination in Srinagar. It is famous for its crystal clear waters, floating houseboats, and Shikara rides, thus forming the lifeline of Srinagar. A boat ride there will give you glimpses of floating vegetable markets, local life, and the Himalayan mountains.

ii. Nigeen Lake

This one is usually accompanied by Dal Lake. However, if you are seeking serenity, then Nigeen Lake is the place. Quiet, still waters, mirror-like, bordered with willows and poplars on each side. Most of the beauty of Nigeen Lake goes undiscovered because of their traveling.

iii. Mughal Gardens

Most beautiful Mughal gardens in the capital city of Srinagar give testimony to grandeur Mughal architecture, representing its symmetry, its terraced lawns, falling and colorful flowers in perfect art of relaxing.

a. Shalimar Bagh: Shalimar Bagh is said to be constructed by Emperor Jehangir as a fief to his wife, Nur Jahan. The largest of the three Mughal gardens, it stands out as an epitome of sublime landscape skills of the Mughals.

b. Nishat Bagh: It is very famously known as the “Garden of Bliss” because it presents an excellent view of the Dal Lake and the mountains. The actual beauty of this place is well-recommended to the visitors because it possesses a fabulous laid out terracing and beautiful flowers.

c. Chashme Shahi: It is very much an example of a small garden. It is beautiful because there is a natural spring here. The tranquility of the garden will make it picture-perfect and a place for a quiet walk.

iv. Shankaracharya Temple

Shankaracharya Temple of Lord Shiva is described as one of the oldest of the more important temples in Kashmir. The current structure of this temple stands at this hill, and now it can provide spectacular views of Srinagar and Dal Lake to the tourist. According to both historical and religious accounts, this place is said to have been built way back in 200 BC.

v. Hazratbal Shrine

It is considered the most sacred Muslim shrines in Kashmir. Situated on the northern banks of Dal Lake, it has as a relic the hair of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). It is a very quiet place and a beautiful location that attracts many pilgrims and tourists.

vi. Pari Mahal

It is also referred to as Palace of Fairies, which is one among the old Mughal constructions erected on Zabarwan mountain. This architectural site is developed by Dara Shikoh in the 17th century and reflects Islamic and Persian styles. The excellent scenic views of Dal Lake and the city of Srinagar can be seen from this building.

Gulmarg – Meadow of Flowers

This is an alpine town named Gulmarg, which actually means ‘Meadow of Flowers’. Its peaks are all snow clad and are accompanied by beautiful green meadows. Apart from other reasons, it is sports related also because of its winter and summer.

i. Gulmarg Gondola

It is the world’s greatest cable car ride and, with pride, the world’s second-highest. The gondola drops you off at Apharwat Peak, and you could enjoy almost all panoramic views from the top of into mountains that kiss the sky. It is turned into a winter playground for those who indulge in skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing during winters.

ii. Skiing in Gulmarg

Gulmarg is known all over the world as the skiing capital of India. Its slopes prove ideal for both amateur and professional levels and the snowfall is apt for the ardent winter sports lover.

iii. St. Mary’s Church

St. Mary’s Church is at the very centre of Gulmarg, 110 years old in Victorian style. It is a quiet and peaceful place to see and its oldness gives beauty to Gulmarg.

iv. Khilanmarg

It is a short trek from Gulmarg. Here, you reach a small yet interesting valley called Khilanmarg. It is very scenic in the shadow of Nanga Parbat and other Himalayan peaks. It is always a haven for the adventure lovers.

v. Drung Waterfall

The other treasure of Gulmarg is the Drung Waterfall. So, it just happens to be a breathtaking ‘icefall’ in the winter. The same place looks beautiful during summers against the lush green surroundings of the valley.

Pahalgam – Valley of Shepherds

Pahalgam is a very beautiful sceneric town located along the Lidder River and serene for those who would want to live away from all chaos, with beauty in the best way possible of nature. It is also one of the initial take-off points of the annual Amarnath Yatra, which is considered one of the important pilgrimages between Hindus.

i. Betaab Valley

This place is named after the Bollywood movie “Betaab” and is a place of exceptional beauty which no other place in the world can match, set amidst snow-clad mountains, lush green meadows, and crystal-clear streams. It is ideal for a picnic and ideal for photography, presenting some of the most spectacular views in Pahalgam.

ii. Aru Valley

12 km from Pahalgam, Aru Valley is a small picturesque village known for pristine beauty and adventure sports. It also acts as a base camp for treks to reach the Kolhoi Glacier and Tarsar Marsar Lakes. It is ideal for camping and horse riding too.

iii. Baisaran

Baisaran Valley is also called “Mini Switzerland”. It is a rich green meadow along with timber heavily covered and snowcapped mountains all around. Scenic views are amazingly beautiful, where perfect spots for family picnics, zorbing, and horse riding can be arranged.

iv. Sheshnag Lake

It is a crystal clear lake in the midst of lush green meadow surrounded by powerful oak trees. It is one of the alpine lakes, around which big mountains are on the way to Amarnath Cave. According to Hindu mythology, it is said that Sheshnag is the king of serpents there. It is the very good place for trekker and adventure-seekers.

Sonamarg – The Meadow of Gold

Sonamarg is an attractive hill station with an altitude of 2,800 meters and is also famously known as the ‘Meadow of Gold’. This destination is surrounded by alpine meadows, high towering peaks, and glaciers. This is a better destination for adventure lovers in this place.

i. Thajiwas Glacier

Easily visited by ropeway from Shetang platform.
The tourists who visit Sonamarg typically trek to the Thajiwas Glacier where one finds the glacier at an altitude of about 9,000 feet amidst beautiful green meadows and waterfalls. It also serves as a favorite for photography for other people, a camping spot, and pony rides.

ii. Zoji La Pass

The largest pass by area is Zoji La Pass. It is located 9 km from Sonamarg. The pass is a thrilling drive between the Kashmir region and the Ladakh region. The pass forms a beautiful view as one views the Himalayas. It continues to be an important route for adventurous travelers traveling to Leh.

iii. Vishansar and Krishansar Lakes

Vishansar and Krishansar Lakes: This is the twin alpine lake a few kilometers from Sonamarg. These lakes are considered one of the most popular trekking sites with breathtaking views of the surrounding glaciers and valleys.

Ladakh – The Land of High Passes

Neither does it lie technically within the Kashmir Valley but visited so often by tourists already traveling through that area. Its arid landscapes, Buddhist monasteries, and high-altitude lakes make it a very different kind of destination.

i. Pangong Lake

Perhaps it is the most beautiful lake in India whose shades of blue change with every passing day. The lake stretches up to a meager mile from Indian to Chinese territories and has rugged mountains on its sides. The place should be included in the itineraries of those who are planning to visit Ladakh.

ii. Nubra Valley

Nubra Valley is known for its unique geography of sand dunes, riverbeds, and monasteries. The ride in the desert on a double-humped Bactrian camel is never to be forgotten ever.

Yusmarg – The Meadow of Jesus

It is a silent meadow in Budgam district that has never been a traveling place. Covered with snow from top and dense pine forest from all sides.

It is a place said to be visited by Jesus Christ. That’s why it is known as Yusmarg.

i. Doodhpathri

Just a few kilometers drive from Yusmarg would take you to Doodhpathri, which literally means the ‘Valley of Milk’. The valley got its name due to the milky appearance the water assumes in the river flowing through the meadow. It is like heaven for nature lovers and trekkers.

Kupwara – Kashmir’s Hidden Jewel

It is one of the offbeat places that has uniqueness in its sceneries as well as historical values. As this place is close to the Line of Control, the place has picture valleys and ancient temples.

i. Bangus Valley

One of the lesser-trek centers in Kashmir is the Bangus Valley, one of the most seclusionist and serene places. It is known for its green meadows, thick forests, and variable variety of wildlife. This trekking spot is an ideal place for treks and camps to experience raw beauty in Kashmir.