Places to Visit in Jammu and Kashmir

Rather, the most sought after tourist destination is Pangong Tso in Ladakh region. It is the highest among the high altitude lakes in India which is filled with saline water but provides some awe-struck moments to the visitors with the unbelievable phenomenon of changing colours quite a number of times a day. The reflections of the towering Himalayan peaks in the water add more charm to the lake. Currently, Pangong Tso is the favourite location for tourists.

Something divine makes Nubra Valley close to heart and it is not an exaggeration but a fact that experienced and shared by the countless tourists visited the paradisiacal location in Jammu and Kashmir. Without touching the spectacular roads of Nubra Valley, a Ladakh tour will not be complete. The tri-armed valley has Diskit Village as its capital. Ldumra, a magnificent name is the original name of the valley as the local scholars insist. Ldumra means Valley of Flowers. The large valley is formed after the merging of Shyok River with Nubra or Siachen River causing the separation of the Ladakh and the Karakoram Ranges. The valley is located 10000 feet that is 3048 meters above mean sea level and those who cross the Khardung La Pass can easily come to Nubra Valley from Leh.

Except for the river beds, every other place in the valley shows scant vegetation and low precipitation levels. Most of the villages in the valley are occupied by Nubra skat speakers and in the villages, one can find lush greenery and farming which happen through the regular irrigation. Diskit is the place where native people are seen in abundance and Diskit Monastery is the centre of attraction as well. The Shyok River flowing on one side of Diskit has a captivating effect on the visitors. Nubra Valley unwinds a lot of surprising sights when you visit it and an unbelievable fact is that the valley was open to the public till Hunder until 2010. Beyond Hunder, it was the greener region in the lower altitude where the Turtuk village exists. Till 2010, the Government did not allow tourists to mesmerize themselves in the magnificent beauty of Turtuk where numerous apricot trees and other vegetation along with the tribal community were preserved as a virgin.

Height: 3048 meters above the sea level

Location: The paradisiacal Nubra Valley is located at a distance of 140 km from Leh and the main road access to the valley is through Khardung La pass where you have to show the photocopies of your travel permit to the soldiers camping.

Best time to visit: The months from June to September is the perfect period to visit Nubra Valley

To see the pure, rugged face of nature, One must visit Ladakh once in their lifetime.

It won’t be exceeding at all how much you describe the beauty of Tso Moriri in Ladakh, a highly protected lake in Changthang Region and a significant portion of Tso Moriri Wetland Conservation Reserve. It is the largest of all high altitude lakes in India especially in Ladakh and is located at an altitude of 4522 meters above the sea level. The length comes to 26 km north to south and 3 to 5 km is the width and the water is wholly brackish. 

The water to feed the lake comes from the springs and melted snow from the nearby mountains. There are two major stream systems to lead the water to the lake. One in the north part of the lake and the other comes in the southwest part. Huge, extensive marshes are seen at both the entrances of the lake. Rupshu Valley, a breathtaking area is the guardian of Tso Moriri along with an array of the lofty Himalayan Mountains in the surrounding.

The number of people come to witness the beauty of this splendid lake is lesser when compared to that of Pangong Lake. It is because of the secluded location of the lake. Hence, it is a favorite home town for many migratory birds. They come to breed here especially birds like great- crested grebe, the brown-headed gull and the Brahmin duck. The rare Himalayan hares are also abundantly seen near the lake. Thus, the declaration of the lake as a reserved area is a right option to protect these species from extinction. Less human interference would keep their lives strong.

Height: The lake is situated at an altitude of 4522 meters.

Location: You can reach Tso Moriri via road from Leh. It is 150 kms away from Leh Airport. Kalka Railway station is the nearest one to the lake. You will get buses and taxis from the station as well.

Best time to visit: May, June, July and August are the peak season when tourists come to Tso Moriri in large numbers and other months will be filled with snow and have extreme cold conditions.

A nine storey high building displays the influence of Potala Palace in Lhasa is the famed Royal Leh Palace that stands with its head high on a cliff top overlooking the ravishing Leh town. Leh Palace is a must visit during anyone’s tour of Ladakh region as it has been standing there as a symbol of the old glorious days of the royal family lived here. The top floors accommodated the members of the regal community and the low floors were occupied by stables and stores.

History

In the 17th century, King Sengge Namgyal led the construction of Leh Palace and it gained fame in a short span of time. Later, it was termed as an architectural icon and the symbol of pride and glory of Leh. The history says that during the time when Dogra forces took control of Ladakh, Leh Palace was abandoned and the members of the family were asked to move to Stok Palace. The Archeological Survey of India has restored the valuable ruins of the palace and opened to the public as a remarkable tourist attraction.

Structure of the palace

There is a monastery behind the palace which is a part of the palace and there you will find the statue of a seating Buddha in there in the monastery behind the palace. On the walls of the palace, you will see the old pictures and paintings including Tibetan thangka.

Timings: The palace is open to the public on all days from 07:00 am to 04:00 pm

Entry fee: For Indians: INR 20 and for Foreigners: INR 100

Location: Leh Palace is closely located to the town. Visitors can reach the palace by walking from Leh town as it is about 5 kms away from there.

For some years, adventure seekers all around the world have been talking about Chadar Trek in the Zanskar Region. Until this year, hundreds of people have experienced the thrill hidden and the mind blowing sights around Chadar frozen river. In fact, Chadar Trek is the most sought after and one of the breathtaking treks in the Himalayas. The winter trek is so special for those who are ready to have adventure at the maximum level. 

The river trek starts from Chilling where the river begins to freeze and mostly, travelers choose February as the best time to cross the frozen river as the ice sheets will be comparatively stable. The precarious snow-flakes would pose severe threats during the trek but in some other time, the challenges would be kind to the trekker. The surrounding of the river are completely vertical cliffs tall up to 600 meters. The Zanskar River is a tributary of the Indus and is 5 meters long. 

A trekker would have to cover 16 kms per day to complete the Chadar Trek. Usually, people opt for 10-15 days of trek depending on the climatic conditions persisting here. The temperature at Chadar will come to the lowest at -35 degree Celsius during winter and thus Chadar Trek becomes more intimidating. Approximate trekking distance one would have to cover in total is 75 kms.

Maximum altitude: 11123 feet is the height at which Chadar Trek would lead you to.

Location: To take part in Chadar Trek, one should arrive in Leh and from Leh, the journey starts and goes to Chilling, the beginning of the Zanskar River in the frozen state. From Leh it would take about 65-70 kms to reach Tilad via Chilling, the base camp of the trek.

Best time to visit: January end to February is the best time suitable for trekking in the frozen river of Chadar. Quality and safe trekking gears and highly warm clothes are required.

Controversies regarding the proclamation that Khardung La is the highest motorable pass in the world is not yet diminished but Ladakh travelers still believe that it is the highest and most adventurous pass in the world. Despite the controversies, Khardung La keeps on attracting hundreds of adventure seekers every year, be it bikers, trekkers or visitors. Nestled amidst the most reverberating surrounding, the ‘Pass of Lower Castle’ is located at an altitude of 17582 feet. Near to the pass, the collection of awesome valleys will lure you and along with the natural extravaganzas, the Tibetan prayer flags are an additional charm.

The pass was constructed in the year of 1976 and later in 1988, it was opened to public and from then on, the pass was inviting uncountable bikers, trekkers and tourists. It is maintained by the Border roads Organization as the pass is highly significant and important to India because it was once used to carry supplies to the Siachen Glacier. Recently, Khardung La became the hot potato of the town with a happy news that a ten member team of visually impaired people is going to conquer the pass through cycling in 2017.

Height: Khardung La is located at an altitude of 5359 meters. But there is an incorrect proclamation on the signboards appear here saying that the height of the pass is 18379 feet.

Location: The highest motorable pass in Ladakh is lying about 39 kms away from Leh. By road, one can reach the pass. The first 24 kms of the road are paved and from there to the North Pullu check post, the 15 kms of the road are filled with loose rock, dirt and occasional rivulets formed after the melting of snow.

Best time to visit: The season between May to October is the best time to visit Khardung La.

The famous Magnetic Hill of Ladakh is a cyclops hill, a place where vehicles seem to have defied the force of gravity and move upwards when parked at a particular marked location here. Located on the Leh-Kargil-Baltic National Highway, this place remains a mystery even today, as many tourists are awestruck to witness the magical experience.

Tucked amidst the breath-taking landscapes of Ladakh is the Alchi Monastery, which is amongst the most sacred places for Buddhists. Dating back to at least 1000 years, the monastery is also the oldest Buddhist Learning Centre in the region. Detailed carvings on the walls, along with the age-old wall paintings are some of the major attractions of Alchi Monastery.

Around 4400 sq.km is the area the prime attraction of Ladakh spreads into. We are talking about the renowned Hemis National Park named after the popular monastery in the region that is Hemis Monastery. The very rare species of wildlife is the reason behind its global recognition. Bharal and snow leopards are examples for the unseen animal collection found in Hemis National Park. The park is located on the west bank of the Indus River. 

The animals, the flora, the birds and the nature in the park and its vicinity are coming under the highly protected areas and this is the only place in India where the protected snow leopards are seen in abundance. The Rumbak and Markha catchments were found to be protected with the discovery of the park in 1981 and it grew into 4400 sq.km in 1990 and becomes the largest national park in South Asia. Argali or the Great Tibetan Sheep, Shapu etc are the supporters of the prey base for the predators in Hemis. Asiatic Ibex, the Tibetan Wolf, the Eurasian brown bear and red fox are some of the endangered species found before and some are still present in the park. The crucial problem faced by the park is the regular animal-human conflicts because over 1600 people are living inside the park boundaries, mainly pastoralists living with poultry farming, goats and sheep.

Height: The elevation at which the park exists is 3000-6000 meters above the sea level.

Location: The park is located about 5 kms from Leh and Leh Airport is the closest airport to the park.

Best time to visit: To reach the park there are a number of trekking routes opened from Mid-June to Mid-October. But the best season to spot snow leopards is of course, in late winter.

Spituk Monastery in Ladakh has another name that is Pethup Gompa, very famous among the locals. It is located at a distance of 8 km from Leh and there are 100 monks inside the gompa. The major attraction at the monastery is the giant statue of Goddess Kali. The Buddhist monastery is at a site which was blessed earlier by Arhat Nyimagung.

History    

Spituk Monastery was founded by Od-de. He was the elder brother of Lha Lama Changchub Od. When he came to Maryul, he built the monastery and introduced the monastic community. But Lotsewa Rinchen Zangpo on his arrival said that an exemplary religious sect should be there and thus the name of the monastery was changed to Spituk which meant exemplary.

Structure of the monastery

There are three chapels in the gompa with numerous statues of Buddha and several thankas as well. The Dukhang Hall is the highlight and the two rows of seats running to a throne at the end are also something unique found here. Visitors will come across the beautiful sculptors and chortens.

Location: The monastery is perched on a thrilling hill top near Indus and about 8 kms away from Leh on Srinagar road. It is at an elevation of 3307 meters.

Timings: It is open on all days from 08:00 am to 01:00 pm.

Entry fee: INR 20 per person

Highlights: Gustor Festival held from the 27th to 29th day in the eleventh month of the Tibetan Calendar and it is for two days with mask dance and prayers. Usually, the festival falls on winter time which guarantees the presence of natives in large but the number of tourists would be comparatively lesser.

Known to be “The Jewel of Srinagar”, Dal Lake spreads across an area of around 26 square kilometers. Popular as one of the most spellbinding places to see in Srinagar, this hillside lake flaunts colorful Shikaras, traditional wooden houseboats, and floating markets. Tourists visiting Dal Lake love to take a ride in the beautiful Shikaras, which are basically wooden boats decorated beautifully with canopies overhead.

They also enjoy shopping authentic Kashmiri items from the floating market or lake market. These markets lay amidst the lake and sell a number of items like saffron and handicrafts. The houseboats on Dal Lake feature floral motifs and intricate carvings and offer breathtaking sights of the majestic lake. These boats are equipped with single rooms and luxury suites and offer comfortable accomodation to the visitors. During the winter season, the visitors also enjoy ice skating on the frozen lake.

Location: Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir.

Timings: Anytime.

Best Time to Visit: May to November. 

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Forming the largest garden of the 3 breathtaking Mughal Gardens, the amazingly laid out Shalimar Bagh makes for one of the most sublime places to see in Srinagar. According to history, this stunning garden was constructed by Jahangir back in the year 1619 for his beautiful wife Noor Jahan.

Manifesting the extraordinary craftsmanship of the Mughal horticulturists, this garden overlooks the mesmerizing Dal Lake and showcases surreal architecture.

Shalimar Bagh presents an exquisite amalgamation of artificial structures and natural marvels. The whole premise of the garden has been beautifully carpeted with green grass. The garden has umpteen varieties of colorful flowers as well as tall trees of walnuts and almonds.

Location: Chinar chowk, Shalimar, Srinagar, Jammu, and Kashmir 191121.

Timings: From 9.30 AM to 6.30 PM, on all days of the week.

Price: INR 10 per person.

Best Time to Visit: Mid-February to Mid-April and September-October.

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Located near the Dal Lake, Nishant Bagh happens to be an enchanting twelve terraced garden, packed with green trees, scented flowers, and beautiful fountains. Known to be the 2nd biggest Mughal garden, this garden was constructed by Noor Jahan’s elder brother, Asif Khan, in the year 1633.

With the majestic Zabarwan Mountains forming its backdrop, Nishant Bagh makes for one of the most scenic places to visit in Srinagar and attracts a huge number of photographers and couples. Strolling in the garden, the visitors can also catch a panoramic view of the beautiful Dal Lake.

Location: Main road Nishat next to mughal garden nishat Srinagar Jammu and Kashmir, 191121.

Timings: From 9 AM to 10.30 PM, on all days of the week.

Price: INR 10 per person.

Best Time to Visit: March to June.

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Opened for public in the year 2007, the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden was built with the aim of improving floriculture as well as tourism in the area. The initiative proved to be a huge success and in the year 2017, this beautiful garden had its name among the world’s 5 best tulip gardens.

This garden is blessed to have even the rarest of rare tulip varieties, including the “Queen of the Night”. The main highlight of the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden is the enchanting annual festival, which is held in Spring, between the months of March and May.

Location: Jammu and Kashmir, Cheshma Shahi Road, Rainawari, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190001.

Timings: From 7 AM to 7.30 PM, on all days of the week.

Price: INR 50 for adults and INR 25 for children.

Best Time to Visit: March, April, and May. 

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Lying on the eastern part of Srinagar, Nigeen Lake is considered to be a part of the beautiful Dal Lake, but is separated from it by a narrow causeway. Also referred to as “The Jewel in the Ring, the name of this lake is inspired by the plethora of tall trees that surround the deep blue waterbody.

Making for a rejuvenating getaway from the chaotic and monotonous life, this popular lake is considered to be one of the most amusing tourist places in Srinagar. Propelling thrill and fun seekers of all age groups, this enticing destination is suitable for various water activities including swimming, sailing, water skiing. Right on the lake’s bank, you can find the Nigeen club, which has a tea pavilion and a bar for visitors.

Location: Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir.

Timings: 7 AM to 8 PM, on all days of the week.

Best Time to Visit: June to August.

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The two major sects of Buddhism, Drukpa and Gelugpa had two gompas in Mulbekh Monastery. The location is 45 kms away from Kargil and 260 km from Leh town. The nine meter statue of Maitreya Buddha placed in the premise catches the eyes of every visitor. Also, the two gompas are closely connected to the palace of Rajah Kalon of Mulbekh located nearby. To reach the gompa, there is a steep footpath arranged behind the building.

History

There are different opinions about the establishment of the gompa but the idol of Buddha placed here dates back to the 8th century and some others believe that it was built in the period of Kushan. The sculptor is the contribution of the missionaries but there is a saying that the artwork present in the sculptor shows that the missionaries were not Tibetans but mostly Ladakhis. Kharoshti scripts were also found in the main sculptor.

Structure of the monastery

Apart from the limestone idol of Buddha carved in the rock face, there are other relics of statues and frescoes. The entire monastery is made charming with the very valuable paintings and some relics of the prized items of the ancient period. As Maitreya is famous as Chamba among the Buddhist sets, the monastery has gained the name Mulbekh Chamba later.

Location: Mulbekh gompa is located in Kashmir, 45 Km from the town and 260 km from Leh in Ladakh region. You can reach the gompa by bus or jeep.

Timings: It is open on all days from 08:00 am to 06:00 pm

Entry fee: Entry to the gompa is free

Highlight: The gompa is 3504 meters above the foothills which gives a mesmerizing view of the valleys down.

Drass Valley in Kargil District in Jammu and Kashmir is popularly called as the gateway of Ladakh. In the infamous Kargil War, Drass has played a significant role. The Pakistani Army in 1999 started dropping shells in Drass and in the surrounding villages and thus the war broke out between India and Pakistan. In the end, India recaptured Drass and other parts in the premises and then on Drass has been recognized as the memorial of the Kargil War

Drass is nestled amidst the snow-clad peaks on the Leh- Kargil National Highway at a height of 3230 meters above the sea level. Zojila Pass is the beginning of Drass Valley. Even when the harshest climatic conditions of winter hit the inhabitants here, the people kept guarding the valley intact and thus they are called the guardians of Ladakh’s gateway. The residents of the valley is known to be the saviours of stranded travelers who try to cross the pass along the snow covered trails and also they have stayed back in the valley to transport trading merchandise in the extreme cold. Drass is recognized as the base for the three day long Suru valley trek.

 The coldest region of India is Drass where -12 degree Celsius is the average temperature during winter and it falls onto as low as -17 degree Celsius during the peak time of winter. The tours of Drass compulsorily include a visit to the famous Drass War Memorial which is built to pay tribute to those who lost their lives in the India-Pakistan War in 1999. There is a Brigade War Valley that also turned to be the space to commemorate the lives and dedication of Indian soldiers during Kargil War.

Height: Drass Valley is located at an average height of 3820 meters.

Location: It is located 60 kms away from Ladakh and starts from the foot of the famous Zojila Pass.

Best time to visit: The season between the months of May and September are the suitable time to visit Drass.

In the history of India, 1999 is a significant one in terms of politics in India and in its foreign relations. The Kargil War to be true has shocked the pulse of India but due to the timely attack of Indian Army against Pakistan made India proud though the war led many of our soldiers to lose their lives.

 To commemorate the victory India achieved and also to pay tribute to our brave soldiers, the Indian Army has built a War Memorial in Drass, the most important location which became famous during the war and now the memorial is known in different names such as Kargil War Memorial and Drass War Memorial. The Indian name of the memorial is Vijaypath. Lulled by the foothills of Tololing Hills, Drass Memorial keeps the soldier still alive through the epitaph which has the names of all the soldiers embalmed on it. On 26th July every year, Kargil Vijay Diwas is celebrated at the memorial. Indian Prime Minister pays tribute to the brave soldiers at Amar Jawan Jyothi at the India Gate, New Delhi on the same day.

 A Sandstone Wall is the prime attraction in the memorial which shows the names of the Indian Army personnel who fought and lost their lives in the war and near to the memorial you can see a souvenir shop as well. On the 13th anniversary of the victory in Kargil War, the soldiers have hoisted an Indian flag that weighs up to 15 kg as a tribute. There is a gallery, Manoj Pandey Gallery that displays the photographs taken during the war, the weapons used and artilleries discovered.

Location: Drass Valley in the foothills of Tololing is the location of Kargil War Memorial. You can visit the memorial during the visit to Kargil from Leh. It is located 5 kms from the city center across the famous Tiger Hill.

Timings: It is open on all days except Sunday, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm and from 02:00 pm to 05:00 pm

Best time to visit: During the months of May, June, July, August and September would be the perfect time to visit the memorial.

One of the main attractions in Gulmarg, the Kongdori- Gulmarg Gondola is the second longest and second-highest cable car ride in the world. The entire ride is divided into two phases in which it ferries people to and from the Apharwat Mountain, the site where most of the winter sports in Gulmarg take place.

One of the best places to visit in Gulmarg for wildlife enthusiasts, the Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve gives you ample opportunities to observe biodiversity in its richest form, the exquisite species of flora, fauna and avifauna. Capture the animals, including both common and rare species, in their different moods and moments in this reserve located at an altitude that ranges between 2,400 and 4,300 metres above sea level.

The Strawberry Valley is one of the lesser-known attractions in Gulmarg and thus has preserved much of its nascent beauty with rolling green meadows covered with bright red strawberry farms. Summers are the best time to visit the plantations when the fruits are at their ripest form and it is almost time for a harvest. 

Seven Springs in Gulmarg came by this name after the seven natural outlets of water here. It is a majestic stream located atop a little hill near Kongdori. The place is a popular tourist attraction primarily for the scenic views of the nearby areas from here. You can also get picturesque views of both the Gulmarg and Srinagar valleys from here. 

One of the highest green golf courses in the world, the Gulmarg Golf Course also comes with a clubhouse that has its very own historical significance. If you want to try your hand at golfing, there are golf sets that you can hire and instructors to make that perfect. You can also get a temporary membership here if you wish to give golfing a go.

Zoji La located 9 km from Sonmarg is one the thinnest roads with hairpin bends and rocky terrain, making it one of the most challenging passes in the world. It is the only road that connects Ladakh to Kashmir, offering one of the most scenic road trip experiences. The road may be blocked due to snowfall in winter.

A perfect winter spot, Zero point is a treat to your eyes with snow-capped mountains, streams, and valleys consisting of maple trees. The road to Zero Point indicates caution with narrow and rough roads that make it a difficult drive. The destination is covered in snow all year but the best time to travel is between February and June.

Thajiwas glacier is located 3 km from Sonmarg is the “Jewel of Kashmir” with its frozen lake, snow-covered mountains, fir and pine trees, alpine meadows, gushing waterfalls, and small streams. A favorite destination for trek lovers, it is also known for activities like sledding, and pony riding. The ideal time to visit is between April and October.

Baltal Valley located 15 Km from Sonmarg, along the Sindh River on the Srinagar-Leh highway is famous for its great treks and for being a fantastic camping site. The valley is mind-blowing with its waterfalls, glaciers, mighty peaks, and meadows. The best time to visit is between April and September.

Krishansar lake is located at 4000 meters from Sonmarg and is a marvel which freezes during the winter and whose water changes its color according to the climate of the day. The lake is popular for being a major trekking and fishing destination. The best time to visit is between June and September.

Also called ‘Anand of Kashmir’, Pulwama is among the gorgeous places to visit in Kashmir. It is famed for its beautiful apple orchards and nature’s beauty. It comprises various villages and was once the place where the Mughal rulers came in the 16th century.

It is known for having various historical places and also presents a number of activities like mountaineering and trekking to adventure lovers. Some of the popular places to visit here include Aharbal Fall, Shikargarh, Aripal Nag, Hurpora and Tarsar and Marsar lake. There are several religious places here as well like Jama Masjid Shopian, Payer Temple, the Avantishwar Temple, the Shrine of Shah Hamdan etc.

Highlights: Waterfalls, scenic views, orchard, trekking, skiing, snowboarding etc.

With a number of charming landscapes, Rajouri is one of the famous tourist places in Jammu and Kashmir. The place is associated with ancient times and legend of Mahabharata as it was a part of the kingdom of Panchal. The city name literally means the land of kings and situated on the foothills of Pir Panjal range.

It has various tourist places like Rajouri Fort, Gurdwara Chhati Padshahi, Balidan Bhavan, Rama Temple, Jama Masjid and Shiv Mandir. For the thrill-seekers there are a number of treks which can be enjoyed from Rajouri to see the untouched beauty of Kashmir. Other scenic spots not to miss here are Dehra ki Gali, Law Bawli, Darhal Malkan etc.

Highlights: Trekking, scenic beauty, mythological relevance, historical site etc.

One of the most popular religious places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir, Vaishno Devi draws in millions of devotees. Vaishno Devi is believed to be a trio of three Goddesses: Mahalaxmi, Mahasaraswati, and Mahakali, in Hindu mythology.

The shrine is dedicated to Goddess Durga and has a holy cave where people come to pay their respects. It is a famous site to undertake a religious trek which involves an uphill climb of about 13 kms. The trek can be completed on foot in 6-9 hours or one can use helicopter services/ ride on a horse to reach the shrine on the top. The trail is filled with a number of shops that sell a variety of snacks and refreshments along with religious souvenirs here.

Highlights: Religious site, trekking, scenic views, photography etc.

With its panoramic locales and prominent tourist sites, Patnitop is one of the must visit tourist places in Jammu and Kashmir. It is located in the Lower Himalayan Range and enthralls everyone with its scenic views of Chenab basin and Pir Panjal valley. A delight for nature lovers, it has various meadows where you can enjoy picnics with your loved ones.

With the snow in winters, it promises a thrilling escape as you can indulge in a number of adventure activities in Patnitop. The place is an ideal getaway for skiing and trekking enthusiasts. Moreover, tourists here can enjoy visiting places like Batote, natural freshwater springs and savour Kashmiri food at the famous dhabas of Patnitop.

Highlights: Hill station, nature views, horse riding, trekking, photography etc.

Considered as one of the holiest shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, Amarnath Cave is considered an important pilgrimage site by the Hindus. It is famous for the strenuous Amarnath yatra which begins in Chandanwari and usually held between June to August.

The cave is believed to be the place where the secret of life and eternity was revealed by Lord Shiva to Goddess Parvati according to a legend. Inside the cave, one can see the Shiva Lingam along with two other ice formations depicting Goddess Parvati and Shiva’s son Ganesha. It also offers a serene escape as tourists here get enchanted with the luxurious views of nature. This is a 5000-year-old shrine and one of the unmissable places to see in Jammu and Kashmir for Hindus.

Highlights: Religious importance, scenic beauty, trekking.

Surrounded by lush green valleys, Kupwara is one of the most beautiful places to see in Jammu and Kashmir. It boasts of having lush forests and luxuriant vegetation which makes it a delight for nature lovers. Adding to the surreal ambience of nature, Kupwara enchants the visitors with its verdant meadows and crystal-clear lakes.

There are also breathtaking valleys which are home to the most rare and exotic wildlife in Kashmir. Some of the must visit places in Kupwara are Seemab Valley, Lolab, Bungus Valley, Sadhna Pass View Point etc.

Highlights: Scenic beauty, photography, nature etc.

Situated in the foothills of Himalayas, Akhnoor is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir on the banks of Chenab River. It is believed that it has the caves where Pandavas stayed during the time of their exile. It boasts of many historical places to visit and draws in tourists from all over the world.

It is near to the famous Parashurama temple where Parashurama Jayanti is organized with great fervor in Kashmir. It is also famous for having a beautiful park which is a scenic respite for all nature lovers near the banks of Chenab. Another prominent attraction of this city is the famous Akhnoor Fort where you can indulge in sightseeing and photography.