Kashmir, often referred to as “Paradise on Earth,” is a dream destination for travelers who seek serenity, adventure, and unmatched natural beauty. From snow-capped mountains to lush valleys and shimmering lakes, Kashmir offers some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast, a history buff, or someone looking to relax amidst nature, Kashmir has something for everyone. Here are the Top 10 Popular Tourist Places in Kashmir that you should not miss!
1. Srinagar – The Heart of Kashmir
Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu & Kashmir, is an enchanting city that offers a blend of natural beauty and rich culture. The city is renowned for its iconic Dal Lake, where you can enjoy a ride on a shikara (traditional boat) while taking in the picturesque surroundings. The Mughal Gardens like Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh are perfect spots to relax and admire the beautiful landscapes. Don’t miss staying on a houseboat for a truly unique experience!
Top Attractions:
- Dal Lake
- Mughal Gardens
- Shankaracharya Temple
- Hazratbal Shrine
Dal Lake
Mughal Garden
Hazratbal shrine
Shankaracharya Temple
2. Gulmarg – The Meadow of Flowers
Known for its lush meadows and stunning views of the Himalayas, Gulmarg is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. It is one of the best destinations for skiing in the winter and trekking in the summer. The Gulmarg Gondola, which is the world’s highest cable car, takes visitors up to the beautiful Apharwat Peak, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Top Attractions:
- Gulmarg Gondola
- Apharwat Peak
- Skiing and Snowboarding
- St. Mary’s Church
Gulmarg Gondola
Apharwat Peak
Skiing and Snowboarding
St. Mary’s Church
3. Pahalgam – The Valley of Shepherds
Located on the banks of the Lidder River, Pahalgam is a charming town known for its peaceful environment and stunning landscapes. It’s the base camp for the famous Amarnath Yatra and offers various activities like trekking, fishing, and horse riding. The lush green meadows and beautiful valleys, like Betaab Valley, make it a favorite for tourists seeking a retreat from city life.
Top Attractions:
- Betaab Valley
- Lidder River
- Aru Valley
- Baisaran Valley
Betab Valley
Lidder River
Aru Valley
Baisaran Valley
4. Sonmarg – The Meadow of Gold
Sonmarg, meaning “Meadow of Gold,” is one of Kashmir’s hidden gems. This picturesque destination is located in the Ganderbal district and is known for its snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and glaciers. The Thajiwas Glacier is one of the most popular spots for trekking and sightseeing, while the tranquil atmosphere of Sonmarg makes it perfect for a peaceful getaway.
Top Attractions:
- Thajiwas Glacier
- Sonmarg Valley
- Vishansar Lake
Thajiwas Glacier
Sonmarg Valley
Vishansar Lake
5. Kupwara – The Untouched Beauty
If you want to experience the raw, unspoiled beauty of Kashmir, Kupwara is the place to be. Known for its scenic meadows, lush green valleys, and crystal-clear lakes, Kupwara offers a serene and tranquil experience away from the tourist crowds. The picturesque Lolab Valley and Rafiabad are among the must-visit spots here.
Top Attractions:
- Lolab Valley
- Rafiabad
- Shamsbari Range
Lolab Valley
Rafiabad
Shamsbari Range
6. Hemis National Park – A Wildlife Wonderland
For wildlife enthusiasts, Hemis National Park is a must-visit. Located in the eastern part of Jammu & Kashmir, this park is one of the largest high-altitude national parks in India. It is home to the elusive snow leopard, Tibetan wolf, and various species of birds and animals. The park’s rugged terrain and diverse wildlife make it a great destination for trekking and photography.
Top Attractions:
- Snow Leopard Spotting
- Wildlife Safari
- Bird Watching
Snow Leopard Spotting
Wildlife Safari
Bird Watching
7. Leh-Ladakh – The Desert Mountains
Though it is technically part of Ladakh, Leh is a popular addition to any Kashmir trip. Known for its barren landscapes, Buddhist monasteries, and surreal beauty, Ladakh offers a unique experience. Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, and Tso Moriri Lake are some of the most visited spots here. Ladakh’s landscapes will leave you spellbound and provide endless opportunities for adventure.
Top Attractions:
- Pangong Lake
- Nubra Valley
- Tso Moriri Lake
- Leh Palace
Pangong Lake
Nubra Valley
Tso Moriri Lake
Leh Palace
8. Jammu – The City of Temples
While not as famous for its natural beauty as other places in Kashmir, Jammu holds immense religious and historical significance. The city is home to the revered Vaishno Devi Temple, one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in India. The Raghunath Temple and Ranbireshwar Temple are also noteworthy for their religious importance and architectural grandeur.
Top Attractions:
- Vaishno Devi Temple
- Raghunath Temple
- Ranbireshwar Temple
- Mansar Lake
Vaishno Devi Temple
Raghunath Temple
Ranbireshwar Temple
Mansar Lake
9. Tangmarg – A Hidden Gem
Nestled between Gulmarg and Srinagar, Tangmarg is a quiet town surrounded by natural beauty. It is known for its picturesque meadows, dense forests, and charming villages. Tangmarg is the starting point for many treks and is a great destination for those looking for an offbeat experience in Kashmir.
Top Attractions:
- Meadows of Tangmarg
- Rani Mahal
- Baba Reshi Shrine
Meadows of Tangmarg
Rani Mahal
Baba Reshi Shrine
10. Jammu and Kashmir’s Apple Orchards
Kashmir is famous for its apples, and visiting the region’s vast apple orchards is an experience in itself. Shopian and Kulgam are famous for their apple cultivation, and travelers can enjoy picking apples, tasting fresh fruit, and immersing themselves in the rural landscape. The views of orchards with the backdrop of snow-capped mountains are simply mesmerizing.
Top Attractions:
- Shopian Apple Orchards
- Beauty of Kulgam
- Fruit Picking Experience
Shopian Apple Orchards
Beauty of Kulgam
Fruit Picking Experience