A Complete Guide for Travelling to Kashmir

Travel Guide to Kashmir

If there is one place in India that perfectly captures the essence of the phrase ‘Heaven on Earth’ in the truest sense it is Kashmir. The crowning glory of India’s topography and natural beauty, Kashmir is every traveller’s delight and dream. 

Nowhere in India you will find icy glaciers, pristine lakes, lofty snow-clad mountains, and scenic beauty that will behold your senses. Kashmir has a charm of its own and it is incomparable to any other place in India. The numerous natural wonders, rich culture, delectable cuisine and history will give you an enriching travelling experience.  

If you are planning a trip to Kashmir, we bring you a complete travel guide to Kashmir that provides all the vital information you need, including – 

•     Best places to visit in Kashmir
•     Things to do in Kashmir
•     How to reach Kashmir
•     Best time to visit Kashmir
•     Resorts in Kashmir

Best Places to visit in Kashmir 

• Srinagar 

The soul of Kashmir valley, Srinagar is also the capital city of Kashmir. Adorned by the mighty Himalayas, glistening lakes, historical gardens, and lush greenery, the pristine beauty of Srinagar is surreal. It is a place where you want to get wonderfully lost amidst nature.  

• Gulmarg 

A tiny paradise in Kashmir, during winters the entire landscape of Gulmarg gets covered in snow, giving you a chance to indulge in various adventurous activities like snowboarding, skiing, and Heli-skiing. In summers, with the rolling green meadows, and the lofty mountains in the background, the place looks like a fairy tale land, making it one of the best places to visit in Kashmir. 

• Betaab Valley 

If you are searching for a place that redefines tranquillity and serenity, a place where you can just relax amidst nature, all Kashmir travel guides will point you to Betaab Valley. As you explore the place, you would feel the healing touch of nature. It is a wonderful place for couples and families to spend a peaceful time with each other.   

• Pulwama 

Popularly known as the ‘rice bowl of Kashmir,’ Pulwama is a beautiful place replete with picturesque orchards, saffron fields, cascading falls, natural springs and enchanting valleys. The natural beauty of Pulwama will fill your heart and spirit with warmth and excitement.  

• Anantnag 

Pick any guide to Kashmir and it will surely mention Anantnag as the go-to place in Kashmir to rejuvenate. The fresh water springs, grand gardens, and spiritual places in the region make you feel alive and fresh. 

Also Read: Top 8 Places To Visit In Kashmir With Family

Things to do in Kashmir 

Whether you are a nature enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or a laidback traveller, Kashmir welcomes everyone with open arms and gives you a chance to indulge in things that you love doing. There are many things to do in Kashmir that are sure to give you an unforgettable experience but some of our top picks, include.  

•     Take a ride on a Shikara boat over the Dal Lake in Srinagar
•    Enjoy a scenic view of the snow-capped mountains and the stunning valley below on a Gondola at Gulmarg
•     Experience the nature’s wonder at Magnetic Hill
•     Go on a trek to the Chadar Lake
•     Indulge in the heavenly taste of Kashmiri cuisine
•     Stay in a houseboat
•     Explore the beautiful gardens and monasteries 

Best time to visit Kashmir 

When a place is as beautiful as Kashmir, you can visit anytime. But, get the best tourist experience, the best time to visit Kashmir between March and August. During this period, Kashmir experiences Spring and Summer, and the weather is pleasant throughout the day. You can comfortably explore the places, without feeling tired and enjoy the best of what Kashmir has to offer.  

If you want to experience snow, you can visit between November and February. But, be warned, the weather during this period can be rough and severely cold. Also, many places remain shut due to heavy snowfall. 

Also Read: Kashmir Tourism: A Detailed Guide For Family Trips To Kashmir

How to reach Kashmir? 

Kashmir, despite its location in the high altitudes, has excellent connectivity to the rest of India through all means of transport. You can easily reach Kashmir by air, rail and road.  

By Air

The closest airport to reach Kashmir is the Sheikh Ul-Alam International Airport located in Srinagar. Almost all the major airlines in the country operate daily flights to Srinagar. If you are travelling from overseas, there are not many direct flights to Srinagar, but you can reach any nearby major city like Delhi and get a domestic flight from there to Kashmir.  

By Rail

The major railway station to Kashmir is the Jammu Tawi Railway Station in Jammu, which is about 300 kms from Srinagar. There are many trains operating daily from Delhi and other parts of India to Jammu. From here you can take a bus or private cab to reach Srinagar.  

By Road 

Kashmir has excellent road connectivity. The National Highway 1 (NH1) and NH 44 connects Kashmir to all major cities of India. The new Jawahar Tunnel Road that connects Kashmir to Jammu has given a major impetus to tourism in the region.  

Also Read: 6 Lakes You Must Visit While on a Kashmir Tour

Resorts in Kashmir 

When you visit Kashmir, you have plenty of accommodation options from cheap hotels to luxury private villas and homestays. But, if you want to experience the best of Kashmir, and enjoy a premium stay experience, you can book your stay at the Kashmir Houseboats, an associate of Club Mahindra.  

Located in the heart of Dal Lake, the resort gives you a chance to experience the signature Club Mahindra hospitality and indulge in many exclusive experiences that make your stay memorable!