The most popular tourist destination in India is the Kashmir valley. Kashmir is synonymous with the “heaven on earth” tag. It is known for its snow-filled mountains and evergreen landscapes. Every nature lover should add Jammu and Kashmir Tour in their bucket lists. These are the most popular attractions.
Principal tourist attractions in Kashmir
Srinagar
Srinagar, the capital of Jammu & Kashmir, is one of Kashmir’s most beautiful cities. You can ride a shikara on the tranquil Dal Lake, see the city from the top ShankaracharyaTemple, and then stay in the famous houseboats during your next trip. The Shalimar Gardens, which are located on the back of Rs. 10 currency note, can be found in Srinagar.
Kashmir Valley
The largest Himalayan valley is Kashmir Valley. It is an elliptical saucer-shaped landmark in Kashmir. The stunning view of Kashmir Valley, which is surrounded by PirPanjal and Karakoram ranges, can be seen from all directions.
Pahalgam
You can find it surrounded by Betaab Valley and Lidder Lake. Pahalgam is where you will experience clear water rivers, exhilarating deep valleys and thrilling river rafting. It is known for its river rafting at Lidder lake, golfing, and traditional Kashmiri goods.
Gulmarg
It is known as the snow paradise in Kashmir. It is a skier’s paradise because it has one of the longest and highest ropeways in the world, with an average of 5kms. 5kms. It is amazing to see the view from the top of the mountains, 3979m above sea level. Every tourist has a chance to experience the snowfalls, even in summer.
Sonmarg
The meadow of Gold, also known as “the meadow in gold”, is a picturesque spot in Kashmir. This place is called ‘Jannat’, or heaven. It has snow-covered mountains, green grasslands, and ponies to ride. Sonmarg is also a base point for the Amarnath yatra. Popular tourist spots are also home to river rafting and zorbing, as well as trekking. Winters are difficult for Sonmarg due to heavy snowfall and avalanches.
The best time to visit Kashmir
The best time to visit Kashmir is the months’ March through August. Two seasons are covered in Kashmir during this time. The spring season (March-early May) and summer (early may-late august). This is the best time to visit Kashmir due to the beautiful spring flowers and cool summer weather.
Festivals and fairs of Kashmir
Shikara Festival
Shikara, the lifeline and identity for Kashmir’s Dal Lake, must be celebrated once a year. In 2016, the government of Kashmir started this festival to promote tourism. The festival features beautiful Shikaras being painted and beautifully dressed. Shikaras take part in Shikara Race, Dragon Boat Race, and Canoe Polo Match. You can also see the culture of Kashmir through other cultural programs. It is held in July and August.
Gurez Festival
Gurez hosts an annual festival that showcases their culture, handicrafts, and cuisine each year. The festival brings together people from all walks of life and includes activities such as river rafting or trekking, zorbing, biking, and more. There are also many competitions like painting and drawing, which see large participation and people review it. It is also enjoyable to enjoy many musical programs that showcase Kashmiri culture. Gurez Festival is celebrated in the beautiful valley of Gurez during July or August.
Lohri
Lohri Festival is celebrated every year on 13 January. It marks the end of peak winter and celebrates the harvest of crops. This festival celebrates the January harvest of sugarcane. People gather around a bonfire to sing, dance, and enjoy winter delights of sesame, peanuts and jaggery. Jammu and Punjab are home to this festival.
Hemis Festival
Hemis gompa, the largest and most prosperous monastery in Kashmir, is located in Ladakh. It is where Hemis is celebrated full enthusiasm and zest. It is a state holiday. It is observed to mark the birth anniversary of Padmasambhava, who is well-known as the founder and father of Tibetan Buddhism. It’s a celebration lasting two days that begins in the fifth month of the Tibetan lunar year.