Author : Wahid Ahmad
One can go skiing in Gulmarg and live on a houseboat in Srinagar, among other things, in Kashmir. Besides that, there are many traditions to experience like the food of Kashir; its music and clothing as well. If you are visiting Kashmir, this guide will cover all your needs.
The northernmost part of India used to be a state but currently has two union territories, Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.
If you want to truly explore around the place and absorb in the natural beauty of Kashmir, target visiting in the summer months between March and June; that’s when the valley is a bloom and every corner is a picture postcard. But if you want to see some pristine snowfall and try some snow activities, then you should visit in December or January avoid the monsoon season because the region tends to see landslides and road blockages about that time.
What to do in Kashmir is hard to choose from because there are so many things. However, there are some experiences that should definitely be on your list. One of the most exciting experiences in Kashmir is exploring DAL Lake. This may first catch your attention, as you can begin your journey by taking a Shikara ride around this beautiful lake with snow-capped peaks in the background where Bollywood films have been shot.
You may as well go to the only floating post office in India and decide to spend a night on a houseboat; that would make your journey even more interesting. Wular Lake is also one of the best places for an adrenaline rush. Water skiing and numerous other enthralling activities can be engaged in at this location. Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir's summer capital And, therefore, while at Srinagar, never miss the Magnificent Mughal Gardens, Hazratbal Majid, Jama Masjid, and the mighty Jhelum River. Thus, as we celebrate the Tulip festival during April, among others that could be opted for is a visit to Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden, which would be beautiful, as it is a breathing space. Again, there is another place called Gulmarg where you can go off-golfing; it is known as Gulmarg Golf Course. It has an amazing view, and for this reason, it stands out as one of its kind, with 18 holes being the highest on earth.
Patnitop is among Kashmir’s most underrated areas The sight of Green Meadows, which lie against white hills full of snow with a background of blue sky, is just eye-catching. It’s possible to get a great view of this beautiful scene by taking ponies for a walk around the area, as natives typically do.
Kishtwar National Park can be regarded as a wildlife lover’s paradise, where some rare species, including snow leopards, Himalayan black bears, red foxes, and Griffin vultures, can be found in Kashmir itself.
If you want something really spiritual, then there are two well-known pilgrim routes in Kashmir. The Amarnath Yatra involves going on a yearly pilgrimage to see an ice shiva. This pilgrimage usually takes place in the summer months. The second is the Vishnu Devi Yatra, starting from Katra, which leads one up to the Trikuta Mountain shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi.
Additionally, there are plenty of other stunning hill stations in Kashmir, like Gulmarg, Sonmarg, Pahalgam, Anantnag, and Baramulla, that offer an easier way of life and breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
Jammu and Kashmir has three commercial airports located at Jammu, Kargil, and Srinagar; all have excellent connectivity, with major Indian cities having regular flights throughout the year. Additionally, there are various trains or buses available for easy access by tourists
What is great about Kashmir is that it works within any budget It’s possible to survive as a backpacker on 2000 rupees per day, which includes staying in a guesthouse or hostel, eating at dhabas and commuting by bus or rickshaw.
For someone who prefers middle-range hotels, local cafes, and using taxis provided locally, the cost of this trip will increase to Rs. 3500 per day.
If you decide to go for high-end travel where your hotel accommodation would be in four- or five-star establishments along with meals in trendy restaurants and guided sightseeing tours, then you should be ready to spend over Rs 5,000 per day.
While there, don’t forget to try the local Kashmiri Wazwan cuisine and make sure that your taste buds are satisfied by hot Indian snacks. To end your day profitably, do not hesitate to have a warm cup of Kashmiri Kawa honey tea.
Some of the top hostels in Kashmir are Himalayan Bunker, Zostel Srinagar, Happy Drifters, and Raybo Hostel. They are perfect for backpackers and solo travelers. They have lively common rooms where you are sure to meet very interesting people. You can choose to share a room with someone or book a separate room for yourself. Some hotels that come highly recommended are the Royal Comfortable Regency, Lemon Tree Srinagar, Houseboat Zaindari Palace, and Pine N Peak.
Some of the best luxury properties in Kashmir include the Khyber Himalayan resort and spa, the Vivanta Dal view Hotel, the Lalith Grant Palace Srinagar and four points by Sheraton.
To explore the best of Kashmir, it would be great to take out at least 10 days so that you can enjoy the beauty in an unhurried space. However, if you are visiting just two or three cities, then even five days should suffice.
we all know Kashmir is a heaven on earth with rich natural resources like lakes, mountains, meadows and snow fields that will leave you mesmerized. As once said by Amir Khusro, “If there be a paradise on earth, it is this.” The best time to visit Kashmir is during the summer months (March–June) or December–January for a wonderland in snow.
Take a spin on Dal Lake aboard a shikara or reserve one of their houseboats. You can engage in water sports at Wular Lake, which is India’s largest freshwater lake. Visit Srinagar’s Mughal Gardens, Hazratbal Mosque or Jhelum River. Gulmarg means meadow of flowers and skiing, sledding and tobogganing are some activities enjoyed here
Try Kashmiri Wazwan and sip Kashmiri Kawa to warm up. For instance; Mughal Darbar, Shamyana Restaurant and Ahdoos restaurant are some good options. Stay at hostels such as Himalayan Bunker or Royal Comfy Regency hotel. There are also luxury options like Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa
Because of its captivating natural beauty, enriched culture and thrilling experiences that it contains within it, it must be visited by everyone interested in the best tourist destinations around the world.Whether you’re an adventure lover, nature enthusiast or simply foodie, whatever your appetite calls for may be found right here in Kashmir