Kashmir

The best time to visit Jammu and Kashmir

Kashmir has heavenly landscapes throughout the year. But the weather can be a hindrance when you are visiting from out of town. So, spring and summer is the best time to visit Kashmir for a holiday trip. But the winter season here has its own charm.

India awaits offers the best Kashmir tour packages in winter and summer. Let us discuss what different times of the year mean for traveling to Kashmir.

March to May in Kashmir

March to May is the best time for Jammu & Kashmir tour. It is the time after the harsh winter is gone in Kashmir. The rivers and valleys are clear and some mountains are still snow-capped. The spring arrives and the cool breeze welcomes you in full blossom.

Kashmir trip from March to May is also the best time to visit the gardens of Srinagar. The iconic Mughal Gardens come lively with blooming flowers. We also recommend adventure activities like trekking and hiking during this time.

June to August in Kashmir

There are only a few states in India where the summer season is pleasant. Spending June on a Kashmir trip means clear skies with moderate temperatures. The days in the cities are a little hotter though.

After June, the Monsoon arrives in Kashmir. You get some relief from the heat and witness the lush greenery of Kashmir. Many spectacular waterfalls are also in sight while traveling.

However, it can get tricky to travel to distant places during Monsoon. Offbeat places such as Chatpal, Daksum, Gurez, and Turtuk can get tough to access. 

September to November in Kashmir

Kashmir travel from September to November presents you with the exotic side of the state. The transformation of the landscape from Monsoon to Autumn is simply breathtaking.

With the Kashmir tour packages in the valley, you get to see the shedding of leaves from deciduous trees. The leaves on trees also get colourful and every sight looks like a frame. Lakes like Dal and Wular have golden chinar leaves floating in them. The breeze also gets refreshing and the days start to get cooler and shorter. 

December to February in Kashmir

For people who love winters, Kashmir is heaven from December to February. There are gorgeous landscapes everywhere adorned with snow-covered mountains. You can also witness snowfall even in the cities.

This is also a great time for adventure seekers. The Kashmir trek from December to February presents the perfect adrenaline rush. The hiking and trekking routes become scenic and views get majestic.

Best places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir

Kashmir is popularly known as, 'paradise on earth'. The Kashmir tour package by India Awaits includes everything beautiful you experience here. The state has breathtaking landscapes with serene lakes, rivers, meadows, and picturesque valleys. 

A perfect Jammu and Kashmir trip should have inclusions other than sightseeing. Kashmir's cultural heritage, houseboats, pilgrimage, treks, and handicrafts are also awe-inspiring. To cover all the special things Kashmir has to offer, here are some places you must visit.

Srinagar

The best thing about Kashmir is Srinagar and the best thing about Srinagar is its lakes. The iconic Dal Lake has majestic mountains in the background. You can take houseboats to the crystal-clear water and the panoramic views. Nigeen Lake and Anchar Lake can also be on your list.

Srinagar is also known for its beautiful gardens. Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, Pari Mahal, and Chashme Shahi offer exquisite sceneries. The exotic flowers and lush green lawns welcome visitors from around the world. When in Srinagar, you can also buy local handicrafts.

Gulmarg

Gulmarg has a special place in all types of Jammu and Kashmir tour packages. It is popular for snow-capped peaks and winter sports. You can go skiing and sledding when Gulmarg witnesses snowfall. The Gondola ride is perfect to enjoy the majestic view of the mountains. Trekking is also a popular activity in Gulmarg.

Sonamarg

Sonamarg is a picturesque hill station, situated 80 kilometers from Srinagar. It has glaciers, meadows, dense forests, and snow-capped mountains. The beauty of the mountains makes it one of the best honeymoon destinations in Kashmir.

The peaceful ambiance of a Kashmir trip also attracts solo travelers. Thajiwas Glacier here is a major attraction for trekking enthusiasts. The Nichnai Lake, part of the Great Lakes Trek is also in Sonamarg.

Pahalgam

Pahalgam is known for its scenic mountains and spiritual significance. The meandering rivers, lush green turfs, and distant glaciers attract honeymoon couples. A good Pahalgam tour package must have the Pahalgam golf course, Avantipur Temple, Aru Valley, and the Betaab Valley. Kolahoi Glacier.in Pahalgam is a popular destination for trekking in Kashmir.

Aru Valley

The pristine Arun Valley is just 12 kilometers away from Pahalgam. You can have a peaceful time here, surrounded by alpine peaks and river valleys. This place is also the starting point for many small treks and long treks. Tarsar Marsar Trek and Kolahoi Glacier Trek start from here.

Yusmarg

Yusmarg is another beautiful hill station in the Badgam district of Kashmir. It is one of the best places for family vacations, backpackers, and honeymoon couples. Yusmarg means ‘Meadows of Jesus'. The long stretches of lush green fields and pasture offer you a rejuvenating holiday.

Amarnath

Amarnath is famous for the Amarnath Cave pilgrimage. Vehicles don't go there and you have to trek to the cave. The trek that starts from Pahalgam is around 40 kilometers long. The shorter route (14 km) starts from Baltal but it is a steep trek.

On the way to Amarnath, there are a lot of captivating lakes and mountains. Sheshnag Lake is one such place.

Kupwara

Bangus Valley in Kupwara is one of the best off-beat destinations in India. If you love being surrounded by nature, Kupwara has to be on your list. Other mesmerizing places in the district are Lolab Valley, Sibam Valley, and Chandigam.

Kargil

Far from the Lush Greenery of Kashmir Valley, Kargil offers you a unique experience. It has rugged but eye-candy landscapes with rivers and lakes. Some places to not miss are Drass Valley, Kargil War Memorial, and Mulbekh Monastery.

Pulwama

Pulwama district in Kashmir is significant for treks and a lot of religious sites. The Avantiswami Temple beside the Jhelum River is a historical site. The famous Tarsar and Marsar Lake Trek is also in the district.

Shankaracharya Hill

This hill is close to Srinagar with Shankaracharya temple at the top. The temple is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus. You get a panoramic view of Srinagar from here.

Parihaspora Hill

Parihaspora or Paraspur is an old town with ancient remains. The town falls in the Baramulla district and is only 25 kilometers away from Srinagar. Other than the historic Pattan Bazaar, There are a lot of Buddhist monasteries in the area.

Anantnag

Anantnag is the most important place in any Kashmir tour package. The Aru Valley, Betaab Valley, Pahalgam, and Amarnath we mentioned are in this district. Anantnag is also famous for its parks and gardens. Include the Verinag Mughal Garden, Kokernag Botanical Garden, and Sherbagh on your list.

Mughal Gardens

The Mughal Gardens are some of the main attractions in Kashmir's tour packages. These scenic gardens have fountains and flowers with mountains in the background. These must-visit Mughal Gardens are on UNESCO's tentative list of world heritage sites.

• Nishat Garden

• Shalimar Garden 

• Chashme Shahi

• Pari Mahal

• Achabal Bagh

• Verinag Garden

Great Lakes Trek

Kashmir Great Lakes Trek is hands down, the most beautiful trek in India. High mountain passes, valleys, turquoise lakes, and panoramic meadows provide perfect solace. The treks in our Jammu and Kashmir holiday packages are available from all major cities in India. 

These are some of the lakes in Kashmir Great Lakes Trek you will encounter on your path.

• Vishnusar Lake

• Kishansar Lake

• Yamsar Lake

• Gadsar Lake

• Satsar Lake

• Gangabal Lake

• Nandkol Lake

Best Honeymoon Places In Jammu And Kashmir

Kashmir is one of the most romantic places, not just in India but in the world. The landscapes, houseboat stays, and snowy retreats make it a popular honeymoon destination. Here are some destinations you can consider to embark on your romantic journey.

• Pahalgam - This is the top destination for couples In Jammu And Kashmir. It has serene hill stations like Aru and Betaab Valley. You can also visit the historic Avantipura Ruins. Chandanwari is another good place known for hiking and photography.

• Srinagar - Srinagar is part of almost all Jammu and Kashmir tour packages. It has many historical and cultural sites with lakes and gardens to enlighten your stay. You can also enjoy local cuisines with your partner. Srinagar also has vibrant markets to hunt for stunning local handicrafts. With the most versatile honeymoon destinations, Srinagar witnesses romantic couples throughout the year.

• Bhaderwah - This is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir. The perfect place to create cherished memories with your loved one. Bhaderwah has a hilly terrain with glittering green meadows. Some popular places to not miss here are Seoj’s Meadow, Chinta Valley, Jai Valley, and Padri.

Best Hill Stations In Jammu And Kashmir:

Kashmir is home to some of the most beautiful hill stations in India. The state offers a fusion of natural beauty, exhilarating adventures, and a serene ambiance.

These are the most popular hill stations in Jammu & Kashmir.

• Gulmarg - Gulmarg is a true paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The hill station is a retreat for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. The charming meadows, colorful flowers and the iconic Gondola ride further enhance its appeal.

• Patnitop - Patnitop has to be in mesmerizing Kashmir tour packages. A small lake, freshwater springs, and lush deodar trees are the signature of this hill station. You will find many family resorts to spend a peaceful time with your loved ones.

• Yusmarg - Nestled in the heart of the Kashmir Valley, Yusmarg is a lesser-known hill station. It has lush green meadows, dense forests, and snow-capped mountains. Yusmarg is an ideal destination for nature walks. You will also love the horseback rides and picnics amidst the enchanting landscapes.

Adventurous things to do in Jammu and Kashmir

Jammu and Kashmir is a playground for adventure enthusiasts. From adrenaline-pumping games to hikes and treks, adventure in Jammu and Kashmir has many faces. Here are activities for a thrilling experience with Jammu & Kashmir tour packages

• River Rafting - The valley's pristine rivers are perfect for a fun-filled adventure. We recommend the Lidder River in Pahalgam and the Zanskar River in Kargil. The Sindh River in Sonamarg is also an ideal spot for rafting.

• Snow Skiing - For Skiing, Gulmarg is the Mecca in India. Jammu and Kashmir's packages also have Sonamarg and Pahalgam. These places witness heavy snowfall, ideal for skiing.

• Mountain Biking - The terrain of Kashmir is well suited for Mountain Biking adventure. There are some popular routes you can follow in Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonmarg, and Srinagar.

• Paragliding in Kashmir - For a bird's-eye view of the magical landscapes of Kashmir, Paragliding here is a must. Gulmarg, Sanasar, and Bhaderwah are popular destinations for paragliding.

• Golfing in Kashmir - Kashmir's topography offers a wholesome golfing experience. You can enjoy golf at Gulmarg Golf Course Pahalgam Golf Course and The Royal Springs Golf Course in Srinagar.

• Shikara Ride - Have a romantic experience with Shikara rides in traditional wooden boats. This is the most liked activity in Jammu Kashmir tour and trip. The houseboats in the Dal Lake of Srinagar are accompanied by picturesque landscapes and floating gardens. You will be creating memories that will last a lifetime. 

• Wildlife safari - These are some places to enjoy Kashmir's wildlife safaris. Dachigam National Park in Srinagar. Hemis National Park in Ladakh. The Kishtwar National Park is home to wildlife species like the Kashmir stag (hangul), snow leopards, and Himalayan brown bears.

• Mountaineering in Kashmir - Kashmir has some of the rare places for mountain climbing in India. Kolahoi, Sunset Peak, Tattakuti, and Harmukh are some peaks where you can do mountaineering.

• Gondola Ride - The Gandola ride in Gulmarg is one of the most unique tourist experiences in Kashmir. The cable car is one of the longest in the world at such a high altitude. The ride offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, meadows, and forests.

• Ice Skating - Gulmarg has rinks for Ice Sakting. But the frozen rivers of Kashmir also bring a great opportunity for ice skaters. Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Leh, and Kargil offer such places in January and February.

• Bird Watching - Kashmir has a rich avian diversity with great natural habitats. In some seasons, one can spot migratory birds at Hokersar Wetland and Manasbal Lake. Species like the Kashmir Flycatcher and the Himalayan Monal are favorites of Birdwatchers.

• Horse Riding - Horse Riding in Kashmir allows you to explore picturesque landscapes with a little adventurous ride. It is available near Dal Lake and in all major hill stations.

• Luxury Houseboat Experience - The view of scenic Pir Panjal mountains is best enjoyed by the luxurious houseboats. The Dal Lake in Srinagar has luxury Shikaras that have all the amenities for the guests. Some popular boats are Naaz Kashmir, Butt’s Clermont, and Sukoon.

• Camping in Kashmir - A fantastic way to relish the beauty of Kashmir is by going on a trek and camping overnight. Places like Sonamarg, Yusmarg, and Patnitop offer great surroundings for camping and hiking.

• Hot Air Ballooning - This is the latest adventure activity added to the Best tours & treks in Kashmir. Currently, this is available in Srinagar's Zabarwan Park only. The Balloon ride allows you to view Dal Lake and Srinagar in a different light.

• Helicopter Ride - Helicopter tours are available in Kashmir tour packages for various routes. The ride from Katra to Sanjhichhat is quite popular for Vaishno Devi Temple Pilgrimage. The Srinagar to Pahalgam helicopter ride offers a lot of majestic sights.

• Kashmir road trip - The most you can cover Kashmir as a tourist is through road trips. Kashmir is a vast state with natural beauty spread over all the districts. The road trip will allow you to get closer to the popular spots, the cuisine, and local handmade products.

Famous food items to eat in Jammu and Kashmir

The traditional food of Jammu and Kashmir contains rich flavors, unique spices, and fresh local ingredients. You can savor Kashmiri cuisine in any tourist spot or at your hotel. Here are a few dishes you should demand from your host on the Kashmir tour.

• Methi Chaman - Methi Chaman is a traditional Kashmiri dish cooked with fresh fenugreek (methi) leaves and paneer. Spinach Gravy and spices are also added to make it healthy and tasty. 

• Rogan Josh - Rogan Josh is a delectable lamb curry cooked in a rich and aromatic gravy. The meat is slow-cooked with a blend of Kashmiri spices, herbs, and yogurt.

• Dumaaloo - A vegetarian dish made with baby potatoes cooked in a spicy tomato-based gravy. The locals flavor the dish with Kashmiri red chili powder and a blend of other spices. 

• Rista - Meatballs are made of pounded lean mutton meat. These meatballs are then cooked in thin non-spicy red curry to make a tasty Rista dish.

• Yakhni - Kashmiri Yakhni is a yogurt-based curry prepared with succulent pieces of mutton or chicken. The meat is cooked in a yogurt sauce infused with aromatic spices. The yogurt and spices like fennel, ginger, and cardamom make it a rich and creamy dish.

• Gushtaba - Gushtaba is a flavorful dish consisting of minced mutton balls cooked in creamy yogurt gravy. Kashmiris delicately spice the meatballs with fennel, cardamom, and other aromatic spices.

• Rajma Chawal - Kashmiri Rajma Chawal is probably one of the tastiest vegetarian dishes in north India. The kidney beans are cooked in spiced tomato gravy. It is then served with aromatic Basmati rice. You will find this delicacy in almost all the hotels.

• Kaladi Kulcha - This is the best street food in the region exclusive to Jammu. Kaladi Kulcha consists of crispy Kulchas (leavened bread) stuffed with spicy Kaladi. Kaladi is a locally produced cheese. 

Best Places For Shopping In Jammu And Kashmir

Jammu And Kashmir has a rich cultural heritage and phenomenal craftsmanship. In the state's vibrant markets, you can hunt for handicrafts, textiles, jewelry, and spices. These are the 10 most famous places for shopping In Jammu And Kashmir for a special experience. 

• Kashmir Government Arts Emporium - This is a shopping complex in Srinagar. Here you will find Kashmiri handicrafts. Like the famous Pashmina shawl, intricately woven carpets, woodwork, and vintage artifacts.

• Lal Chowk - This is a local market in Srinagar. Here You will find a wide range of handicrafts, Pashmina shawls, spices, and dry fruits.

• Polo View Market, Srinagar - Polo View Market is a popular shopping hub with a mix of traditional and contemporary items. Visit it for embroidered fabrics, Pashmina shawls, Kashmiri carpets, and traditional copperware.

• Floating Vegetable and Flower Markets - If you plan to stay for a long in Srinagar, you must visit this colorful market. Situated on the Dal Lake, the market offers fresh produce from local farms.

• Raghunath Bazaar - Located near the Raghunath Temple in Jammu. Popular for traditional Kashmiri jewelry, colorful carpets, Pherans (Kashmiri attire), and local spices.

• Residency Road - The exotic Kashmir tour packages are not complete in this market in Srinagar. It is popular for Kashmiri artifacts. The Earthenware crockery and metallic artwork impress the tourists the most.

• Bahu Plaza - This is like a marketplace to do regular shopping in Jammu. You will find jewelry shops, restaurants, tech products, and travel agencies.

• Kesar (Saffron) Market - This market in Pampore has the world-famous Kashmiri saffron. Pampore has saffron fields that you can visit and purchase high-quality saffron directly from the producers.

• Pahalgam Market - You can buy authentic Pashmina shawls, Kashmiri rugs, and carpets from the locals here.

• Tibetan Market, Leh - You can cover Leh too with our exotic Kashmir tour packages. The Tibetan Market is popular for Tibetan handicrafts, jewelry, precious stones, and traditional clothing.

What to Shop in Jammu and Kashmir?

Almost all the markets we discussed above have something unique for everyone. To make a list, here are the things to buy while visiting Jammu and Kashmir.

• Wooden carving handicrafts

• Papier Mache items

• Kashmiri carpets and rugs

• Pashmina shawls

• Kashmiri sweets:- Sund Panjeeri and Chocolate Burfi

• Walnuts and other dry fruits

• Traditional Dogra jewellery

• Earthenware crockery

• Traditional handicrafts

How To Reach Kashmir?

Kashmir is the northernmost territory of India. This place consists of mountains, hills, and valleys that are all part of the mighty Himalayas. That's why the Kashmir tour & trips offer you numerous dreamlike hill stations. Here are the ways to reach Kashmir for your holidays.

Kashmir by Air - To visit all the popular destinations in Kashmir, you will have to visit Srinagar first. Flights from all major cities in India will take you to Srinagar International Airport. Jammu and Kashmir tour packages are available from Kolkata, Mumbai, Delhi, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Pune, Chennai, Bangaluru, etc. From Srinagar airport, you can hire taxis to go to your desirable spots.

Kashmir by Train: There are no trains in the Kashmir region. However, all major cities in India, have several trains to Jammu Tawi Railway Station. From there you will have to travel by road to Srinagar. You can hire a taxi or travel by private or government buses.

Kashmir by Road: Jammu Kashmir is well connected with the rest of India through National Highways. You can go to Jammu from Delhi or any other city. From Jammu, it takes around 8-9 hours to reach Srinagar.