Jammu & Kashmir tourism has often been referred to as a paradise, making it seem like the ultimate tribute one could offer. However, there exists a vagueness in this description that fails to capture the true essence of this region. With its intricate history, stunning landscapes, and cultural diversity, Jammu & Kashmir stands as a unique and captivating destination. Situated in the far north of India, it shares international borders with Pakistan and China. In this blog, we present the top 10 tourist places that showcase the timeless beauty of Jammu & Kashmir. With our curated Kashmir tour packages.

Here are the 10 Places to Visit in Jammu and Kashmir

Srinagar

Srinagar, often termed “Heaven on Earth,” earns a spot on this list as one of Jammu and Kashmir's most famous tourist destinations and a premier honeymoon spot. Nestled in the union territory of Jammu & Kashmir, on the banks of the Jhelum River, Srinagar boasts stationary houseboats and Shikaras in Dal Lake. As the largest city and summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, Srinagar is renowned for Mughal Gardens, religious and historical sites, Dal & Nigeen Lakes, and its title as the “Land of Gardens and Lakes.”

Mughal-era gardens like Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, and Chashme-Shahi Garden, along with the largest Tulip gardens in Asia, contribute to Srinagar's allure. The city's floating vegetable market on Dal Lake, Shikara rides to Mir Bahris, and the delectable Kashmiri cuisine add to the enchantment. Srinagar is also a hub for Kashmiri shawls, apples, and dried fruits. Winter months from December to February may pose transportation challenges due to heavy snowfall, and occasional curfews in certain areas necessitate awareness of the prevailing circumstances.

Yusmarg

Yusmarg, a hill station in the western part of the Kashmir valley, is believed by the Ahmadiyya Muslim community to be the place where Jesus once lived. Translating to ‘The Meadow of Jesus’ in Kashmiri, Yusmarg is often referred to as Switzerland and is located 47 kilometers away from Srinagar. The landscape here surpasses any other, with picturesque locations like Sang-e-Safed Valley. Yusmarg, the imperial gem of the Budgam district, features notable attractions such as Tattakutti (4,725 m) and Sunset Peak (4,746 m), the two highest peaks in the Pir Panjal range. The holy shrine of Charar-e-Sharif is believed to bless the entire region. Yusmarg's ageless beauty continues to captivate the hearts of tourists, inspiring them to return.

Gulmarg

Gulmarg, situated at an elevation of 2730 meters above sea level, is a notified area committee in the Baramulla district of the Indian Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Positioned 31 kilometers from Baramulla and 49 kilometers from Srinagar, Gulmarg is a perfect blend of snow-draped mountains, greenery, lakes, pine and fir forests, and an array of flowers. Nestled in the Pir Panjal Range of the Western Himalayas within the Gulmarg Wildlife Sanctuary, it justifies its name, 'the meadows of flowers.' 

The meadow features the 1890s Anglican Church of St. Mary’s, the highest green golf course in the world, and the highest cable car project. Gulmarg has emerged as a top adventure destination, hosting the Indian Institute of Skiing and Mountaineering. Hiking, mountaineering, skiing, and snowboarding courses are offered here. Known for its scenic splendor, Gulmarg has also been a preferred location for several Bollywood films. The climate in Gulmarg is tropical, with substantial snowfall during the wet winter season, which is uncommon for its latitude. Summers are pleasantly warm, while other seasons experience cold temperatures.

Sonmarg

Sonamarg, a beautiful hill station approximately 80 kilometers north of Srinagar, is situated at a height of around 2,730 meters above sea level, along the Sindh River. Translating to the “meadow of gold,” Sonmarg is celebrated for its glaciers, forests, and snow-capped mountains. Located in Jammu and Kashmir’s Ganderbal district, it was the starting point for the Silk Road connecting Kashmir to China.

The mountain is surrounded by the Himalayan glaciers Kolahoi Glacier and Machoi Glacier, the sources of the Three Sisters of Kashmir Valley. Peaks like Kolahoi Peak, Amarnath Peak, Machoi Peak, and Sirbal Peak overlook this charming hill town. The Thajiwas range divides the Sonmarg Valley, offering attractions like the fir-covered Thajiwas spur and the Thajiwas glacier. Popular adventure activities include camping and trout fishing. Sonmarg serves as the starting point for the Amarnath Cave trek, a major Hindu pilgrimage. The climate in Sonamarg is suitable for tourism, except for the winter months (November to February). The best time to visit is between April and October to witness the full splendor of the flowery meadows.

Pahalgam

Pahalgam, situated in the Anantnag district about 90 kilometers from Srinagar, rests on the banks of the River Lidder. Known as the Valley of Shepherds, Pahalgam is a picturesque reflection of nature, intersected by streams from Sheshnag Lake and the Lidder River. Featured in the classic Bollywood film Betaab, Pahalgam became known as Betaab Valley. The village offers breathtaking landscapes, and places like Aru Valley, Betab Valley, and Baisaran make Pahalgam an ideal destination for sightseeing. Baisaran, or “Mini Switzerland,” is a scenic location offering serene meadows, clean lakes, and picturesque surroundings. Adventure activities such as pony rides and zorbing are available. Chandanwari, located in Pahalgam, marks the starting point for the Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage.

The climate in Pahalgam experiences fairly cold weather with significant snowfall from November to February. It becomes slightly warmer in the later months until April, with a minimum temperature of around 2-3 degrees Celsius.

Gurez Valley

The Gurez Valley, a stunning natural location in Jammu and Kashmir, is situated in the high Himalayas approximately 86 kilometers north of Srinagar and 123 kilometers south of Bandipore. Elevating 2400 meters above sea level, the valley offers favorable weather for photography, tranquil picnics, and hiking adventures. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, meadows adorned with lindens, walnut, and willow trees, and the Kishan Ganga River, Gurez Valley is divided into Dawar and Title districts. Dawar, Gurez central settlement, is where hotels are concentrated.

Due to substantial snowfall and the closure of Razdan Pass in winter, Gurez Valley remains cut off from the rest of the world for six months, enhancing its allure as a famous tourist destination in Jammu and Kashmir. The Dard Shin Tribe is one of the oldest tribes in Kashmir, resides here, and speaks Shina. The valley provides a glimpse into the challenging yet peaceful lives of the residents, with villages scattered across the area. Visitors can take the Gurez helicopter operated by the Gurez Copter Service for a unique perspective of the valley. Given its altitude, the valley tends to be colder than other places. Warm clothing, including a jacket and gloves, is advisable, especially at night.

Verinag

Verinag is a town in the Anantnag district, renowned for the Verinag Spring, a must-see attraction. Named after the spring and the Mughal garden, Verinag, en route to Jammu, holds significant importance and beauty. The deep blue water emerging from the mountain spur's base, with the stone basin and arcade built by Jahangir, make this spring exceptional. Noteworthy is its reputation for never drying up or overflowing.

Emperor Jahangir designed an octagonal pavement around the spring and expressed his admiration for Verinag's beauty. He even wished to be buried there upon his death at Chengas village near Rajouri. The adjoining garden, constructed by Shah Jahan, enhances the site's allure. Tourist facilities are available, including a bungalow, rest house, and shelters. Designated as a Monument of National Importance by the Archaeological Survey of India, Verinag Spring is the primary source of the River Jhelum.

According to folklore, goddess Vitasta (Jhelum) intended to rise from Verinag, but encountering Shiva already present, she returned, giving rise to Varthur. Virah, meaning 'to return' in Sanskrit, combined with 'nag' (water spring), led to its name as Virahnag or “Vernag.”

Vaishno Devi

For the spiritually inclined, Vaishno Devi, a temple town and significant Hindu pilgrimage destination, beckons. Situated on the Trikuta Hills, 13 kilometers from Katra in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, this sacred site honors Mata Rani, an embodiment of the Hindu Goddess Durga. The three naturally formed rocks representing Maha Kali, Maha Saraswati, and Maha Lakshmi, draw millions of devotees annually.

The pilgrimage involves a 14-kilometer trek from the Ban Ganga Bridge, with alternative modes like battery-operated cars, ponies, palkis, and helicopter rides available. Devotees offer customary items during the journey. The Pandavas from the Mahabharata are believed to have built the sacred cave temple. Vaishno Devi temple witnesses a significant influx of visitors yearly.

Patnitop

Patnitop, a hill station in the Udhampur district of Jammu and Kashmir, captivates tourists with meadows, scenic views, and Himalayan peaks. Located between Ramban Town and Udhampur City on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, Patnitop stands 2024 meters above sea level and offers paragliding joyrides at Dawariyai. Skiing and paragliding at Madhatop, along with visits to places like Batote and savoring Kashmiri cuisine in local dhabas, enhance the experience. Don't miss tasting Patisa, the local delicacy, during your stay.

Sanasar, renowned for its golf courses, paragliding base, and extensive tourist opportunities, lies 17 kilometers from Patnitop.

Doda

Doda, a district in the eastern part of Jammu, offers sightseeing and adventure opportunities. Named after the town of Doda, it stands at an elevation of 5,000 feet above sea level. The district is surrounded by Himachal Pradesh districts and features hills, Chenab River, deodar pine trees, and opportunities for snow skiing, mountain biking, trekking, and paragliding. Prominent pilgrimage sites include the Chandi Mata Temple and Vasuki Nag Temple, attracting those inclined towards spirituality. Doda's climate ranges from temperate to subtropical, with agriculture and mining being prominent activities in the region.