Top Places to Visit in Jammu & Kashmir for Adventure and Tranquility
The ‘land of saffron and apples’, Jammu and Kashmir, appeals and entices tourists from India and the globe. When you think of the best destinations to explore in India, Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) takes the top spot, boasting marvelous attractions, snowy mountains, hills, valleys, and serene landscapes. Jammu and Kashmir has almost everything that tourists desire. Whether it is nature, thrill, adventure, or culture, you can have a piece of everything in this piece of paradise on earth.
With so much to see and do, how can you miss a trip to Jammu and Kashmir to explore the mesmerising valley? To make your travel smooth and comfortable, booking a car rental service in Jammu and Kashmir is the best option. In this blog, we will take you through the breathtakingly beautiful places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir, which are unforgettable.
Top Places to Explore in Jammu and Kashmir
Kashmir is incredible, enthralling, and irresistible. Every inch of this part of India spellsbinds travelers with its postcard-perfect views, which look like nature’s own masterpiece. With so much to explore, you need ample time in Jammu and Kashmir to cover all the appealing attractions. Here the top attractions that are unmissable.
Top Destinations Where Adventure and Tranquility Co-Exist
1. Gulmarg
Gulmarg, known as the “Snow Paradise of Kashmir,” is a dream holiday destination for everyone, especially adventure sports enthusiasts. Gulmarg is home to many top ski resorts. It offers the highest cable car trips in the world, known as the ‘Gondola ride’, and breathtaking views.
Gulmarg is rightly named the ‘Meadow of Flowers’ due to its splendid vistas, which every nature enthusiast is in awe of. With all this and more, Gulmarg is one of the top 10 places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir.
When to visit: December to March and May to September
Places to explore: Apharwat Peak, Gulmarg Golf Course, Outer Circle Walk, Ningle Nallah,
Activities to do: Skiing, Gondola Ride, Playing Golf, Shopping
2. Sonmarg
Sonmarg is a captivating jewel of Jammu and Kashmir, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush green meadows. This stunning destination offers fantastic views all year round. Summer in Sonmarg is tranquil amidst nature, while the place transforms into a snowy playground in the winter for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. Featuring adventure and serenity, Sonmarg is a must-see destination for anyone exploring Kashmir.
When to visit: April to June
Places to explore: Thajiwas Glacier, Gadsar Lake, Baltal Valley, Zoji La Pass
Activities to do: Pony Rides, Camping, Glacier Trekking
3. Pahalgam
Pahalgam, a serene and beautiful place in Kashmir, is perfect for family outings and vacations. Surrounded by greenery, lakes, and a breathtaking display of snow-capped mountains, Pahalgam is a complete package of nature and adventure. You will enjoy horse riding and trekking experiences in Aru and Betaab Valley in Pahalgam. Pahalgam is a bucket-list location for any nature lover.
When to visit: March to November
Places to explore: Betaab Valley, Tulian Lake, Aru Valley, Chandanwari, Baisaran Valley
Activities to do: River Rafting, Camping, Trekking
4. Srinagar
Undoubtedly, Srinagar is one of the best places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir. Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, is located on the banks of the River Jhelum. This city is beautiful with its fascinating houseboats in Dal Lake and Nigeen Lake. The beauty of Shalimar Garden and Nishat Bagh, along with the scent of saffron and spices in this city, is incredible.
When to visit: April to October
Places to explore: Pari Mahal, Shalimar Bagh, Nigeen Lake, Shankaracharya Temple, Dal Lake
Activities to do: Shopping, Shikara Ride, Trekking
5. Patnitop
Patnitop is a peaceful and scenic place in Jammu and Kashmir that combines natural splendor and adventure. It is located amidst the Pir Panjal range of mountains, surrounded by green meadows and trees, allowing you to unwind and escape the fast-paced city life. In winter, Patnitop becomes a skiing and snowboarding area, while in summer, people come here for paragliding and other activities.
When to visit: May to June and December to February
Places to explore: Nathatop, Sanasar Lake, Madhatop, Naag Mandir
Activities to do: Skiing, snowboarding, paragliding, trekking, boating, nature walks
6. Vaishno Devi
Vaishno Devi, one of the holiest pilgrimages for Hindus, is located in the Trikuta Mountain range, in Jammu and Kashmir. Each year, thousands of devotees make the 12 km trek from Katra as they begin this spiritual journey to pray for health, wealth, and peace. This is one of the holiest places of Hindu pilgrimage in India.
When to visit: March to October
Places to explore: Vaishno Devi, Bhairon Temple, Ardhkuwari Cave, Banganga, and Charan Paduka
Activities to do: Trek, visit Bhairon Temple and Ardhkuwari Cave, and enjoy the views
Things to do in Jammu and Kashmir
Here are some must-do things during a trip to Jammu and Kashmir:
1. Enjoy Adventure Activities
- Skiing and snowboarding are some activities that tourists can enjoy in Gulmarg in the winter season.
- Pahalgam and Sonmarg are places where you can enjoy river rafting during the summer season.
- You can enjoy trekking to the lakes, mountain biking, paragliding, and a Gondola ride in Gulmarg.
- Camping and wildlife safari are other activities that you can pursue in Jammu and Kashmir.
2. Shop for Kashmiri Handicrafts
When it comes to shopping, the local handicrafts and food products in Kashmir are a must-buy. Kashmiri souvenirs, regardless of size, appeal to everyone. Your trip to Kashmir is not complete without buying souvenirs from this beautiful valley.
You can choose from Pashmina shawls and fine carpets, or pick walnut wood souvenirs from the local shops in Kashmir. You can also buy saffron and fresh dried fruits, which the valley is so famous for.
3. Visit Apple Orchards
If you are planning your Kashmir visit between late August and October, you can visit the apple orchards to witness the harvest of fully ripe red apples in full swing. You can experience the beauty of the orchards and savor fresh, juicy apples.
4. Eat Kashmiri Cuisine
Jammu and Kashmir is a destination that everyone longs to visit. Kashmir, with its breathtaking beauty, rich culture, and diverse cuisine, is a favorite destination for both Indian and international tourists. The famous Kashmiri Wazwan, a traditional multi-course feast featuring popular Kashmiri dishes such as Rogan Josh, Gushtaba, Yakhni, Modur Pulav, Dam Aloo, and Kahwa, is one of the must-try delicacies that you can’t miss when in Kashmir.
Takeaway
Jammu and Kashmir is a destination where you can experience nature in its best and raw form. The region is blessed with such ethereal beauty that stays with you long after you return to your regular life. You can enjoy the charm of this destination anytime, no matter the season.
Planning a trip to this beautiful valley is complete when you book a self-drive car rental from Revv to explore your choicest places without any hurry or hassle. Revv offers the best fleet of vehicles at affordable rates. You can also take advantage of several discounts by booking a car in advance.
