About Jammu & Kashmir
Nestled in the northernmost corner of India, Jammu and Kashmir is a land of breathtaking landscapes, snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, serene lakes, and rich cultural heritage. Often referred to as “Paradise on Earth,” this region is renowned for its unparalleled natural beauty and offers travelers a variety of experiences—from exploring historic temples and mosques to indulging in adventure sports and nature walks. Jammu & Kashmir is a perfect destination for travelers seeking a blend of scenic beauty, culture, and spirituality.
Popular Jammu & Kashmir Tour Packages
Tourist Destinations in Jammu & Kashmir
1. Srinagar – The Summer Capital
The beautiful city of Srinagar is famous for its Dal Lake, floating houseboats, and Mughal Gardens. A shikara ride on Dal Lake amidst the backdrop of snow-covered peaks is a must-do experience. The Shankaracharya Temple and the Hazratbal Shrine are popular religious sites. Srinagar’s Mughal Gardens like Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh showcase the region's rich historical influence.
2. Gulmarg – The Skiing Paradise
Gulmarg, meaning "The Meadow of Flowers," is a charming hill station located at an altitude of 2,690 meters. Famous for its skiing and snowboarding activities in winter, it also offers a range of adventure sports like gondola rides and trekking in summer. The Gulmarg Gondola is one of the highest cable car rides in the world, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
3. Pahalgam – The Valley of Shepherds
Pahalgam, located in the Anantnag district, is known for its lush green meadows, rivers, and pine forests. The serene beauty of Betaab Valley, Aru Valley, and Baisaran Valley make Pahalgam a perfect retreat for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. It is also the base for the Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage.
4. Sonmarg – The Meadow of Gold
Sonmarg, with its picturesque meadows and glaciers, is often referred to as the "Meadow of Gold". Located at an altitude of 2,740 meters, Sonmarg is known for its stunning views of the Kundli, Machoi, and Thajiwas glaciers. It's an ideal destination for trekking, camping, and fishing.
5. Vaishno Devi – The Divine Shrine
Located in Katra, the Vaishno Devi Temple is one of the most famous pilgrimage destinations in India. Dedicated to Goddess Vaishno Devi, the temple attracts millions of devotees each year. The trek to the temple is a spiritual journey, and the temple itself is surrounded by scenic views of the Trikuta Hills.
6. Amarnath – The Cave of Lord Shiva
Amarnath is a sacred site for Hindus, housing the natural ice Shiva Lingam that forms every year. The Amarnath Yatra is an arduous journey that takes pilgrims to the high-altitude cave temple located at 3,888 meters.
Things to Do in Jammu & Kashmir
1. Shikara Ride on Dal Lake
A shikara ride on Dal Lake in Srinagar is one of the most iconic experiences in Jammu & Kashmir. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, houseboats, and traditional Kashmiri architecture.
2. Skiing in Gulmarg
Gulmarg is a skiing paradise. In winter, the region attracts adventure enthusiasts who indulge in skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. The Gulmarg Gondola offers stunning views of the snow-covered landscapes and is a major highlight.
3. Trekking and Nature Walks
Trekking in Sonmarg, Pahalgam, and Gulmarg offers exhilarating experiences amidst lush meadows, dense forests, and snow-capped peaks. Trekking trails like the Aru Valley and Baisaran Valley offer breathtaking views of the Kashmir Valley.
4. Shopping for Handicrafts
Kashmir is famous for its rich handicrafts, such as Pashmina shawls, Kashmiri carpets, and Kangri (traditional fire pot). Srinagar is the best place to shop for these traditional items, which are perfect souvenirs for visitors.
5. Fishing and Camping
Sonmarg and Pahalgam are perfect places for fishing in the rivers and camping in the meadows. Camping under the stars with the majestic mountains as your backdrop is an unforgettable experience.
Best Time to Visit Jammu & Kashmir
- Summer Season (April to June): Ideal for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and visiting the temples. The temperatures range from 15°C to 30°C.
- Winter Season (November to February): Perfect for snow activities like skiing and snowboarding, with temperatures dropping to -5°C in some regions.
- Spring Season (March to April): A pleasant time to visit, with blooming flowers and a temperate climate.
How to Reach Jammu & Kashmir
- By Air: Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport (Srinagar) and Jammu Airport are the nearest airports.
- By Train: Jammu Tawi is the main railway station, well-connected to major cities in India.
- By Road: Jammu & Kashmir is well-connected by roads from major cities like Delhi, Amritsar, and Chandigarh.