Kashmir Tourism

Jammu and Kashmir Tourism

The breathtaking views, scenic beauty, and glimmering lakes make Jammu and Kashmir one of India’s best places to visit. This paradise on earth is known for its beautiful landscape, apple orchards, and pristine nature. Jammu and Kashmir is the perfect destination for honeymooning couples and family getaways. J&K comprises three regions, the Kashmir Valley, Jammu, and Ladakh.

The state of Kashmir is also known for the popular Amarnath Yatra and Vaishno Devi tours. It offers a lush green landscape, vast mountains, deep valleys, and religious shrines you can explore on your visit to the union territory. The land has some of the best destinations, including many activities you can undertake on your trip to Kashmir. 

The people of Kashmir are hospitable and warm and ready to welcome you to their beautiful land. So, whether it is to enjoy Kashmir’s beauty or simply escape for some peace and calm, this Jammu and Kashmir travel guide will tell you everything you need to know about Kashmir tourism and the popular tourist destinations to visit. 

Kashmir Tourism: At a Glance
Best Time for Kashmir Tourism Throughout the Year Read More
Things to Do in Kashmir Amarnath Yatra, Skiing at Gulmarg, Shikara Ride on Dal Lake Read More
Places to Visit in Kashmir Srinagar, Gulmarg, Leh Ladakh, Pahalgam Read More
Festivals and Events in Kashmir Tulip Festival, Hemis Festival, Eid and Amarnath Yatra Read More
Places to Eat in Kashmir Highland Park Restaurant in Gulmarg, Mughal Darbar in Srinagar Read More


Kashmir Geography

Located in the northernmost part of India, it shares its borders with two states, Punjab, and to the south, Himachal Pradesh. The state’s international neighbours include China to the east and Pakistan to the north and west. The state has many valleys such as Tawi Valley, Kashmir Valley, Poonch Valley, Chenab Valley, Lidder Valley, and Sind Valley. The Kashmir Valley stretches across 100 km and covers an area of 15000 sq km. The Jhelum flows through the Kashmir Valley, and Chenab, Tawi, and Ravi are a few other rivers in J&K. The biogeography of the state is diverse, and the land is very fertile. It is known to produce some of the best vegetables, fruits, and rice.  

Climate in Kashmir

In terms of climate and the best time to visit Kashmir, this Jammu and Kashmir tour guide will tell you exactly what to expect during each season.

Summer Season (March to June, Temperature 15°C To 30°C)

The summer season in the state is the best time to visit Jammu. The climate during the summer is ideal for tourism. You can enjoy a shikara ride at Dal Lake in the morning or evening when the weather is pleasant. Since resorts and hotels are usually packed during this season, it is advisable to book your travel well in advance.

Monsoon Season (July to September, Temperature 13°C To 17°C)

The state receives rainfall from July to August. During this period, Kashmir is extremely beautiful, with greenery all around. If you're visiting Jammu and Kashmir in August, apple picking is an experience you must not miss on your tour. People love to visit the state during this time, as the best flight and hotel deals are available. The Amarnath Yatra also takes place during this period.

Winter Season (October to February, Temperature -2°C To 12°C)

The winter season in Kashmir is from November to February. If you want to enjoy snowfall, this is the best period to travel to Kashmir. Honeymooners prefer to travel to Kashmir during the winter. You can enjoy adventure sports, such as skiing, during this season. 

Kashmir Culture

The culture of J&K comprises festivals, dance, and music. The land is known for its rich culture and beautiful handicrafts popular all around the world. A strong Persian influence is visible in the floral designs here, typical of Kashmiri art. When you visit this place, you can pick up beautiful souvenirs like shawls, carpets, woven baskets, rugs, silver jewellery, wooden furniture, and silver and copper items.

Dance is part of all their celebrations, and the music is soothing and melodious. Some of the instruments used are flutes, drums, chhaina, and narshingha. Kud, Fumenie, Heren, Benthe, and Jagarana are also part of the cultural heritage of the land.

Though the state is divided into three different regions, their way of life and religion bring them together. Some popular festivals in Jammu and Kashmir are Eid-ul-Fitr, Baisakhi, Eid-ul-Azha, Lohri, and Hemis.

Kashmir Tourism Tips

Srinagar Tourism

Referred to as the Land of Lakes and Gardens, Srinagar is surrounded by breathtaking views of the mountains. You can experience the beauty of Mughal gardens and the tranquil Nigeen and Dal lakes, popular spots on any Kashmir tour package. It is a dream destination for vacationers and honeymooners. The summer capital of the union territory of Jammu is known for its popular houseboat stays on the Nigeen and Dal lakes that travellers are always excited to experience.

Gulmarg Tourism

Gulmarg is among the top hill stations to visit in Kashmir. Situated in the Pir Panjal Range, it is a great tourist destination for adventure lovers, honeymooners, and families. Considered one of the best tourist destinations in the country, Gulmarg has lush landscapes, snow-capped mountains, and magnificent lakes. The world’s second-largest and highest cable car project is the Gulmarg Gondola project, the top attraction here. Your Gulmarg tour would be incomplete without a gondola ride.

Gulmarg offers travellers many sightseeing opportunities. Some tourist places include Khilanmarg, Tangmarg, Khilanmarg, and Ferozepur Nallah. You can also enjoy a spiritual experience and visit famous religious sites like the Baba Rezi Shrine, St. Mary’s Church, and the Maharani Temple. If you’re in for some adventure sports, you must try skiing in Gulmarg.

Pahalgam Tourism

Known as the Valley of Shepherds, Pahalgam is another famous tourist destination in Kashmir. Situated in the Anantnag District, it has a lot to offer travellers. One can enjoy the mesmerising beauty of the Lidder River and stroll across the lush green meadows that adorn the place. Verdant forests, apple orchards, and beautiful mountains make it a must-visit destination in Kashmir. Pahalgam is popular for camping, trekking, sightseeing, white water rafting, fishing, and the Amarnath Yatra. It is also the starting point of the famous Amarnath Yatra that Hindu pilgrims undertake during June and August. If you’re an adventure enthusiast, you can enjoy camping at Lidderwat, Panchtarni, Tarsar Lake, and Kolhoi Glacier.

Sonmarg Tourism

Sonmarg is another spectacular hill station in Kashmir. It is like a white fairyland during the winters and bursts into a thousand colours during the summer. Fir and pine trees surround the landscape, while a tributary of the River Jhelum called Nallah Singh cuts through the beautiful mountains. You can enjoy the panoramic views and sightseeing at the Nilagrad River, whose red hue waters are said to have healing properties. At the Baltal Valley, the mesmerising snow-capped mountains surrounding the land will leave you amazed.

Patnitop Tourism

Patnitop is another famous hill station in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. It is a popular destination for those planning a holiday with family or friends. You have plenty of adventure and sightseeing opportunities in this region. From spellbinding views to adventure activities, Patnitop offers visitors fantastic experiences. Kud Park, Billo ki Powri, Nag Temple, and the Pir Panjal Range are some places you must visit in Patnitop. You can also enjoy skiing, paragliding, or a quick trek to Nathatop.

Kashmir - FAQs

What is the best time to visit Kashmir?

The best time to visit Kashmir is during the winter season, from October to February. During this time of the year, you can enjoy snowfall, the Gondola cable car ride, skiing, and other fantastic adventure activities. Honeymooners and adventure enthusiasts love to visit the Kashmir Valley during this period. However, the monsoon and summer seasons are also suitable for a visit to the valley.

What is the best way to reach Kashmir?

The best way to reach Kashmir is by air. The major airport in Kashmir is the Srinagar Airport. The airport operates flights to the country’s major cities, including Mumbai, Delhi, Goa, Bangalore, and Jammu. Some popular airlines operating on this route are IndiGo, Air India, and Go First.

What are the best places to visit in Kashmir for tourists?

Some of the best places to visit for exploration and sightseeing in the Kashmir Valley are Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Srinagar, Sonmarg, and Patnitop.

What kind of adventure activities can you enjoy in Kashmir?

You can enjoy many activities in Kashmir, such as skiing in Gulmarg, Shikara riding on the Dal Lake, horse riding in Pahalgam and Gulmarg, mountain biking in Sonmarg, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam. You can also consider golfing and trekking in Gulmarg.  

Language Spoken

Urdu, Hindi, Kashmiri

Currency used:

Indian Rupee

JAN-JAN 15 to 30oC
JUN-SEP 19 to 25 oC
OCT-FEB - 2 to 12oC

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Jammu And Kashmir Tourism

Jammu And Kashmir Tourism