by Popular as ‘Paradise on Earth’, Jammu & Kashmir are one of the most attractive places across the Indian territory. Covering areas of snow-clad mountains and crystal clear water bodies ranging from lakes, forests, and rivers like the one in the picture, Jammu & Kashmir is one of the most beautiful states of India. That is why, it can be highly recommended to all tourists who like nature, active rest, families, as well as singles. Here is more on the best places that one would need to visit and a suggested itinerary when in Jammu & Kashmir.
Best Places to Visit In Jammu & Kashmir
1. Srinagar
Out of all the places to visit, Srinagar is the summer capital of the state of Jammu & Kashmir. Several tourist attractions are beautiful in Srinagar; the city is based on the side of the Jhelum River with the backdrop of the Zabarwan mountains. These are the famous Dal Lake where you can ride in a shikara boat, watch flowers in full bloom lotus, and houseboats. Some other top places of interest are the famous Mughal Gardens such as Shalimar Garden, Nishat Garden, the old city markets, and sycophant shrines.
2. Gulmarg
The picturesque place with lovely landscapes and the only famous skiing site in the country- it’s truly worth a visit. During summer you may go for a gondola ride up to Afarwat Peak to get the impressive sight of the meadows, forests, and high mountains filled with snow. Winter covers the area and becomes the skiing territory with different terrains for alpine skiing.
3. Pahalgam
The most significant hill station of Kashmir is Pahalgam, due to its scenic beauty which serves as the perfect backdrop to many shots of picture post-modern; art. With pine valleys, snow-capped peaks, and the Lidder River flowing through it, Pahalgam is perfect for nature walks, fishing, and much more! As stated earlier, it also provides a base camp for the annual Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage. Included beauty spots like Betaab Valley, Aru Valley as well as Chandanwadi.
4. Sonamarg
Popularly referred to as the ‘Meadow of Gold’, Sonamarg is culturally and naturally beautiful. Nestled on the shore of the Sindh River and accompanied by glaciers and snowy mountains Sonamarg has numerous trekking, hiking, and camping sites for the adventurous spirits. Tourist attractions include Thajiwas glacier beside Krishnasar Lake and Vishansar Lake of good tourist interest.
5. Patnitop
Located in the Shivalik range of the Himalayas, Patnitop is Jammu’s leading hill station. Patnitop – famous for its slopes which offer a view of the Chenab basin is blessed with several vantage points, opportunities to take nature walks through pine forests, and great picnic spots for people of all ages. Most important among them are Naag Mandir temple, the Patnitop ropeway, or places like Sanget Valley, Sudh Mahadev temple, and Gauri Kund.
Jammu and Kashmir Itinerary
Here is a 7-day itinerary to help you plan your Jammu & Kashmir trip:
Day 1: Arrive in Srinagar
- Check into hotel
- Rest and relax
Evening – Shikara ride at Dal Lake, overnight stay in houseboat
Day 2: Srinagar
Morning – Walkaround Dal Lake – Visit to floating markets
- Near Lunchtime – Visit Mughal Gardens – Nishat Bagh – Shalimar Bagh
Evening – Stroll around the old city’s bazaars
Day 3: Srinagar – Gulmarg
Start early from Srinagar and proceed to Gulmarg which will take 2-3 hours maximum.
Upon arrival take a Gondola ride up to Afarwat Peak Overnight stay in Gulmarg
Day 4: Gulmarg – Pahalgam
Go to Pahalgam after breakfast
On the way gonna visit Apple Valley and the beautiful saffron fields
- Arrive in Pahalgam by lunch
Evening – To go there – Betaab Valley - Overnight in Pahalgam hotel
Day 5: Pahalgam
Its better part will be spent at leisure covering hills and valleys – Chandanwadi and Mamaleshwara.
- Enjoy nature especially the river Lieder
Can choose to go for other tours such as a fishing tour, rafting tour
Day 6: Pahalgam – Srinagar
It should begin after breakfast by afternoon, the tourist should be in Srinagar.
Experience Local tour – Half-day tour of the old city: Jama Masjid, Khanqah mosque
– Go for souvenirs at Lal Chowk market
– Traditional Kashmiri Wazwan delicious foods
Day 7: Srinagar – Airport
The final day in Srinagar is free, so one can relax or go around the places not visited the previous day.
Depart for Srinagar Airport as per flight time
This vacation plan lists some of the most attractive breathtaking locations such as Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam with top attractions and things to-do areas. You can modify it according to your taste and time as per your interest. Thanks to scenic geography, friendly people, and centuries of history, Jammu & Kashmir is a perfect place to take a break on Indian territory.
Food
Rogan josh – Prepared from roasted chunks of lamb cooked in garlic and sliced onions and warm spices such as clove and cinna It attains its highly inclined red color from the inclusion of considerable proportions of Kashmiri chili powder.
Dum aloo – Small potatoes slow-cooked to perfection in a spiced tomato-based gravy flavored with fennel seeds, ginger, and other whole spices. it is especially known from the valley of Kashmir.
Modur pulav – Rice cooked with milk, chopped dry fruits, cashew nuts, almonds, and raisins, and garnished with saffron. It resembles the famous Kashmiri pulav although it’s sweeter.
Nadier palak –a gravy made out of spinach that is blended well with cream and seasoned with ginger and fennel seeds. Enjoyed with steamed rice.
Every meal in ancient Kashmir was said to be incomplete without Girda a dough ball burnt straight on fire. Another beverage is prepared with tea and milk, baking soda, and salt.
The street food market of Jammu is quite alive and has food that encompasses chaat namely Gol gappa and Dahi bhalle. While you are experiencing the beauty of the valley you must taste the rare form of tea called Noon chai and the specialty of the place Kaladi milk Kulfi. The different types of spices that give it the diverse flavors tell a lot about the food culture of this northern state of India.
