The inexplicable natural splendor of Kashmir has been enthralling visitors from times immemorial. Popularly referred to as the ‘Paradise on Earth’, Incredible Kashmir is a land of rippling lakes, beautiful gardens, valleys, glaciers, houseboats, meadows and majestic views of the Himalayan ranges. Besides, there are several options to indulge in adventure sports like trekking, hiking, skating and skiing and the peace and serenity.
Here’s a list of the best tourist destinations in Jammu & Kashmir:
Vaishno Devi
Located at an altitude of 5300 feet, Vaishno Devi is the second most visited religious shrine in the country after the TirumalaVenkateswara Temple. Inspite of the high altitude, a journey of 12 kilometre on foot and chilling temperatures, millions of pilgrims brave the adversities to seek the blessing of Mata Rani.
Srinagar
The capital of Jammu & Kashmir, Srinagar is famous for its beautiful gardens and rippling lakes in the backdrop of the majestic Himalayan ranges. The Shalimar Bagh, NishantBagh, Shankaracharya Temple, Dal Lake and the traditional Kashmiri handicrafts are the major attractions in Srinagar. A stay in a houseboat (also known as Shikara) on the Dal Lake is another experience in Srinagar that one would always cherish.
Gulmarg
Literally meaning ‘Meadow of Flowers’, Gulmarg is a beautiful hill station located about 56 kms from the capital city of Srinagar. This picturesque destination offers splendid views of flower-laden meadows and majestic views of high Himalayan ranges. Gulmarg is also known as the heartland of winter sports in India. Extreme terrain with torrential snowfall, amidst majestic Himalayan ranges makes it one of the most preferred destinations for winter sports like skiing, golfing, trekking, mountain biking and horse riding.
Pahalgam
Located on the banks of Lidder River at an altitude of 7200 feet, Pahalgam is famous for its unending stretches of breathtaking meadows and untouched natural landscape. One can also indulge in adventure sports like horse riding, trekking, canoeing, water rafting, etc in Pahalgam.
Sonmarg
Sonmarg is another popular destination in Jammu & Kashmir renowned for its beautiful glaciers, serene lakes, beautiful meadows and picturesque sceneries. Literally meaning ‘Meadow of Gold’, Sonmarg is is the base camp of several treks in that region including the journey to the holy Amarnath cave. A number of challenging trekking routes passing through Sonmarg attracts enthusiastic mountaineers and adventurers every year.
A tour to Jammu & Kashmir will definitely be etched in your memory lane forever with unforgettable moments and a life-time experience.
You can book a tour to Kashmir with Southern Travels here.
