Unique Places to Visit in Kashmir

Numerous unique places to visit in Kashmir has always been fascinating people to explore its most famous paradise places on earth. It’s rich & ancient culture with vibrant geographical landscape make it a perfect destination for nature lovers. This place is located in the northern part of India, it feels like heaven and if you came here once then you must fell in love with its romantic nature. Kashmir includes some fantastic places where you can visit and enjoy the surroundings as well as admire the beauty of Kashmir, On the other hand, If Kashmir has numerous beautiful places, it has some political tension, controversies and territorial disputes as well. Moreover, Kashmir is fully covered with Himalayan mountains, beautiful lakes and lush greenery valleys which continue to attract millions of visitors every year, although you will experience the different culture and traditions of Kashmir like the Kashmiri language, their festivals and their culture while taking breathtaking views and get to know about its complex history.

Kashmir : At A Glance

Location: The Kashmir region is located in the northern part of India
Temperature: During summer, the temperatures are not very high it is between 28 to 31°C in June to September. The lower temperatures are around 9 to 15°C between (November to February)
Weather: Summer weather in Kashmir is a little warm, the people of Kashmir just enough to use their ceiling fans. Although the days are mostly warm and the nights are quite cold.
Language: Kashmiri language is used in Kashmir which is also called Dardic language.
Population: As per the estimation of 2011 the population is 12 million.
Geographical area: the area is about 2, 22,236 sq. Km
GDP: As per the estimation of 2022 the GDP is US$6.6 Billion.

Several Unique Places to Visit in Kashmir to Enjoy Your Trip

1. Srinagar:

Srinagar is the best place to visit & also the capital of Jammu and Kashmir and famous for its stunning Dal Lake, you can take a ride of a houseboat on Dal Lake and you will explore the stunning Mughal Gardens like Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh etc and enjoy the beautiful surroundings, so you should definitely try to visit this place. If you don’t know, Srinagar is known for its beautiful Himalayas which is supported by the Jhelum River. Although you can take the best ride in Kashmir called Shikara ride in the daytime as well as at night to experience the beautiful evening and admire the beautiful location. These things make Srinagar a most popular tourist destination.

● September to November is the best time to visit Srinagar.
● This place is famous for Boating & exploring beautiful markets.
● You can cover your tour within 1-2 days.

2. Sonmarg:

Sonmarg is considered as the main tourist spot and attraction, as you can enjoy the beautiful green glacier of this place and the Thajiwas glacier is the main town in which many of the visitors come and enjoy the surroundings and also accessible to do the short trek from there, In winter months you will get to see their mountains are fully covered with snow and this will so wonderful to see, all the mountains are converted into white wonderland which give opportunities to visitors to do skiing and many more fun activities. Sonmarg is the best and most suitable destination for tourists, so you should definitely visit there.

● The best time to visit Sonmarg is from April to June.
● This place is famous for boating, skiing, trekking and river rafting.
● The approx stay is 1-2 days.

3. Gulmarg:

Gulmarg is also the one of the most visited destination by tourists and this place is personally known for the Gondola ride, Almost all the people take Gondola ride from the main station to Kongdoori Mountains which is end up to Apharwat peak to admiring the beautiful scenic views of Himalayas. Visitors take a gondola ride from the base station to Kongdoori Mountain and then the ride further takes up to the Apharwat Peak, which offers them very stunning views of the Himalayas along the way. Although Gulmarg has also affected by some political issues and stress, because of that there have been lot of efforts given by the people of their security and safety for tourists who visited this area and this allows people to enjoy the true natural richness with adventurous activities that Gulmarg has offers, there is also a trek which allows people to explore the scenic beauty of the Himalayan region and get to experience the beauty of this culture and hospitality.

• Best time to visit Gulamarg: From October to June
• Gulmarg is famous for: The gondola ride, alpine touring, trekking
• Approx duration: 3-4 days

4. Pulwama:

Pulwama is the most famous district in Kashmir which is located in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, This place is mostly covered with security and safety by the army force and this place is generally a home of strong population that turns up in agriculture and other livelihood activities. The economy of this district is heavily dependent on agriculture like rice, wheat and many more things being cultivated in the fertilised lands, although you can explore this beautiful place or visit their local markets and enjoy the wholesome hospitality.

● The best time to visit Pulwama is from April to October.
● This place is famous for its tulip garden, Shankaracharya Temple and Aharbal waterfalls and Tarsar Lake.
● The approx duration of staying for 3-4 hours of the day.

5. Vaishnodevi Temple:

The Vaishno

The Vaishno Devi temple is one of the most famous and sacred places to visit, as it is a hindu temple which is located in the Trikuta Mountains in the Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, although this temple is dedicated to Goddess Mata Vaishno Devi where you can manifest your blessings in front of Mahalakshmi, Moreover this temple is situated at the altitude of approx 5,200 feet above the sea level. This place is worth visiting. you will feel the positive vibes in this place. It is believed that whoever comes to this place with a devotional nature Mata Rani will fulfill all their desired wishes, Moreover during the pooja and aarti in the cave, devotees arrive at the place and pay their respect to Mata rani.

● The best time to visit Vaishno Devi temple is from March to October.
● This temple has a trek of 16 km devoted to Mata Vaishnodevi temple.
● Approx days for staying in this place is 2-3 days.

6. Shri Amaranth Cave Temple:

The Amarnath Cave Temple is an admired Hindu temple located in the Himalayan region of Jammu and Kashmir, located at an altitude of approximately 3,888 meters above sea level, the cave is dedicated to the great Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism. The religious journey to the Amarnath Cave Temple is taken on mostly during the Hindu month of Shravan, The journey to the temple is considered heavy and demanding, involving the trek of approximately 46 kilometers The Amarnath Yatra, a religious journey is known as one of the most journey in Hinduism that attracts lakhs of devotees from all over India.

• Best time to visit Amarnath Temple: From June to August
• Temple Cave is famous for: For trekking, beautiful photography and manifestations in the temple
• Approx duration: 3-5 days 

Where To Stay In Kashmir

Affordable hotels in Kashmir:

1. Hotel Kashmir Inn
Starting from Rs 900 – 1000 per night

2. Hotel Room
Starting from Rs 950 – 1,050 per night

3. Costa Green
Starting from Rs 650 – 900 per night

4. Hotel Narayan
Starting from Rs 750 – 850 per night

5. Dal point view
Starting from Rs 550 – 750 per night

However, these are some affordable hotels, if you and your family are planning to visit Kashmir. the best part is these hotels are near the exploring places.

Luxurious hotels in Kashmir:

1. Hotel Royal Savoy Kashmir
Starting from Rs 7,050 to 8000 per night

2. The Lalit Grand Palace, Srinagar
Starting from Rs 13000 to 12000 per night

3. Royal Hilton
Starting from Rs 17000 to 17500 per night

4. The Orchard Retreat
Starting from Rs 17500 to 18000 per night

5. Hotel snow land
Starting from Rs 16,250 to 17,500 per night

So, these are some recommendations of luxury hotels, if you visit Kashmir. although if you are not planning for an outing you can also enjoy it by staying in a hotel. Along with this, the hotel will provide free breakfast too.

Famous Food In Kashmir:

1. Kahwa namkeen chai:
Kahwa namkeen chai is basically a different type of chai and it is called as kashmiri Kahwa or kashmiri chai which is made up of Green tea leaves, milk, salt and other spices. This Kahwa is often served hot especially during winters, and it is healthy for digestion and immunity.

2. Yukhni Pulaw:
If you don’t know, Yukhni pulao is the most famous and traditional dish of Kashmir, and it is famous in Kashmir valley in Northern parts . The pulao is made from basmati rice with some tender pieces of chicken in it and it is often served with salad and raita. The pulao is full of herbs and flavoured spices which gives the immense taste, and if you are a spice lover that this dish is specially for you.

3. Dum Olav:
Dum aloo is also called dum aloo, basically, it’s a north-side dish but kashmirians made it different with their different spices which give the recipe a good form. In Kashmir, it is served with hot naan and roti. Dum Olav is one of the most favorite in Kashmiri cuisine and it is also prepared during festive occasions, weddings, and family gatherings. It is loved for its comforting taste and the depth of flavor that makes you fall in love.

4. Chaaman:
Chaaman is a very popular Kashmiri dish that is made with paneer cooked in a rich, form of creamy gravy. The gravy is generally made with yogurt, and spices such as turmeric, ginger, garlic, and all the spices. Chaaman is basically served with rice or naan. The fried paneer cheese cubes are boiled in a pot of hot water consisting of different spices such as cloves, cardamom, and fennel powder. Which gives the dish next-level taste.

5. Sheermal:
Sheermal is a flavorsome that you must try on your trip in Kashmir. sheermal is Flavored with saffron, this is a type of flatbread will melt in your mouth and will leave you with an amazing taste. It is Crispy and sweet, Sheermal is that food which you can easily prepare at home. Sheermal is a dish you can enjoy it during special occasions, festivals, and celebrations, and it holds a special place in your heart. Its mouthwatering flavor and unique texture make it a beloved treat for those who love to eat sweets.

How To Reach Kashmir:

From Bangalore: 

By Air: If you want to go from Bangalore to Kashmir by air. There are several airlines that operate flights from Kempegowda International Airport, Bangalore to Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport in Srinagar, Kashmir. it takes approx 3 to 4 hours.

By Train: If you want to go by train you can take a train from Bangalore to Jammu Tawi Railway Station. The journey can take 40 to 50 hours to reach.

From Delhi:

By Air: The most convenient way to reach Kashmir from Delhi is by taking a flight from Indira Gandhi International Airport to Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport. Your journey can take approx 1.5 to 2 hours.

By Train: Although there are no direct trains to Kashmir, you have to take a train from Delhi to Jammu Tawi Railway Station. after reaching Jammu you can travel to Kashmir by road, from Jammu to Srinagar, Kashmir it takes up to 6 to 10 hours.

From Mumbai:

By Air:  The most convenient way to reach Kashmir from Delhi is by taking a flight from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaja international airport to Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport. Your journey can take approx 2.5 to 3.5 hours.

By Road: it is possible to travel from Mumbai to Kashmir by road, it takes a long journey of approximately 2,000 to 2,500 kilometers, depending on the route you have taken.