Often called as the “Paradise on Earth”, Kashmir is amongst the best tourist destinations in India. Bounded by scenic landscapes, picturesque valleys, lakes and much more, Kashmir proves to be unique as well as year round holiday destination for both domestic as well as international destinations. Your presence in the beautiful valleys is itself an exotic experience, but if you are prepared for a wonderful trip, then read on to the following write-up and explore the top attractions of Kashmir:
Dal Lake
Rightly termed as Srinagar’s jewel, ‘the Dal Lake’ is a home to the unique houseboats and Shikaras. Here, you can enjoy fun rides on Shikara which works more of like local taxis available for transportation. Also, enjoy delightful stay in a houseboat, and don’t give a miss to capture the intricate carvings of these beautiful houseboats.
Shalimar Bagh
Shalimar Bagh is a Mughal garden linked through a channel to the north-east of the beautiful Dal Lake. On its right bank, the Srinagar city is located. These landscaped gardens were built by Jehangir for his wife Noor Jahan in 1619 and carefully crafted flowerbeds amidst fortresses. Once a high point of Mughal horticulture this garden is now a public park and famous picnic spot.
Pahalgam
Famous as a major hill station, Pahalgam is a fun and recreation resort for many tourists coming to Srinagar. Situated at an altitude of 2133 metres above the sea level, this hill resort is the best place for any holiday trip or family trip. This place is best known for its beautiful landscapes with lofty deodars, junipers, pine, etc. Planning a trip to Kashmir? Explore various online portals such as EaseMyTrip.in, TravelChaCha.com etc. and choose the most suitable holiday package.
Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden
Referred to as the largest Tulip garden in the Asia, the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden opens during the month of April, which is also the best time to visit this beautiful garden. Sprawling over an area of around 12 hectares, this beautiful tulip garden is located on the foothills of Zabarwan Range with an overview of scenic world famous Dal Lake.
Gulmarg Gondola
The Gulmarg Gondola is a cable car ride which is known to be the highest in the world. Offering a spectacular view from high above point where the Gondola takes its passengers the best time is visit is between February and May. An advance tip for you, book your Gondola tickets online to avoid any hassle, and enjoy the beautiful view!
Jamia Masjid
An exotic architecture clubbed with history, Jamia Masjid promises you to witness the elaborate carvings and Pagoda styled architecture. Quiet inside, you will surely be mesmerized with the amazingly high ceilings and huge doors.
Things You Must do When in Kashmir
- Enjoy boating at Dal Lake: When in Kashmir you cannot miss the beautiful Dal Lake. Spend time boating at the lake and lose your heart. Shikara ride at Dal Lake will certainly be a memorable experience.
- Visit Shankracharya Hill: Shankracharya Hill is one of the most popular tourist attractions of Srinagar, so don’t miss it.
- Shop till you drop: The best way to carry back memories from a place is by taking souvenirs. Kashmir is popular for is shopping – kashmiri kesar, dry fruits, apples, handicrafts, kashmiri kesar, and beautiful embroidery.
- Visit Indira Gandhi Tulip Garden: The beautiful tulips all around will transport you to another world. It is an incredible place to admire these colorful jewels of nature.
- Relish local cuisine: When in Kashmir don’t forget to dig into the local delicacies. Be it yakhni or rogan gosht or the delectable kashmiri kahwa. There are various bakeries along Dal Lake selling traditional breads. Also relish Wazwan, the multi course Kashmiri dining treat of this place.
- Visit Hazratbal: Hazratbal mosque is a very popular tourist attraction of Srinagar and you must visit it once to see the grandeur and beauty.
- Enjoy camping and trekking: For all you adventure a lover there is a lot to do in Kashmir. You can go for treks and enjoy camping. Apart from this there is skiing, mountaineering and a lots more to do in this dainty land.
- Visit Mughal Garden: Take a stroll through the Mughal Garden and admire the bliss and bounty of nature. Lush green cover all around and the backdrop of mountains make this a picture perfect location.
- Enjoy a houseboat stay: Kashmir and houseboats are inseparable. Plan an overnight stay at the houseboats and experience the majestic hospitality of Kashmir.
Amidst all this the most important thing is to make memories that will last a lifetime in your heart. Also don’t forget to catch moments in your camera.