Every year Kashmir invites tourist from all over the world to its stunning valleys, beautiful lakes, snow topped mountains, splendid gardens, historical monuments in addition to lots of scope for indulging in adventure activities like travelling, outdoor camping, water-sports and a lot more activities.
Surrounded with the sublime mountains, these valleys echo nature, charm and a certain level of mysticism. If just words might explain the spectacular beauty of the landscape of Kashmir, such is the appeal that you will find a poet in yourself.
Pristine Lakes
Nature has actually blessed Kashmir with numerous gorgeous gifts and the most remarkable of them all are the numerous lakes. Whatever you crave for on a vacation, the lakes of Kashmir have it all. If you are trying to find a tranquil and tranquil environment the beautiful appeal and calmness of the lakes in Kashmir provide you with that. If you are water sport enthusiast then the lakes of Kashmir provide a huge selection of water sport and experience activities. If you are looking for a royal remain on an elegant houseboat then there is no other place than the Dal Lake in Kashmir.
Apart from that, the gorgeous lakes are surrounded by snow capped mountains; the entire picturesque charm leaves one speechless. The most captivating activity on the lakes of Kashmir is a boat trip in an embellished Shikara boat.
In addition the lakes of Kashmir also function as a bird watchers paradise which is the home of a many types of exotic birds.Not just are the lakes lovely in its beauty but also work as a source of livelihood for many locals of Kashmir, as they have many floating gardens which produce a variety of veggies and fruits which are offered on the well-known drifting markets( lakes) of Kashmir.
Famous Lakes: Dal Lake, Nagin Lake, Manasbal Lake, Anchar Lake and Wular Lake and lots of other.
Activities: Shikara trips, Houseboat stay, Water sports, Fishing, Kayaking, Bird viewing, Photography and viewing marine life.
Exquisite Moghul Gardens
If you like going to gardens, appreciate flowers and colorful plants of various types while adding a touch of history to it then visit the Mughal gardens of Kashmir.
The Mughal gardens of Kashmir are a group of gardens (Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh and Chashme Shahi) which were developed by the Mughals in the Persian style of architecture. Terraced lawns, cascading fountains, brilliant flowerbeds, etc in addition to scenic views of the Dal Lake were the concepts of paradise of the Mughal emperors in the bygone age, today these gardens act as a perfect location for picnics and leisure activities.
Besides the Mughal gardens the lovely valley of Kashmir possesses a number of parks and gardens and with the development of spring Asia’s largest tulip garden in Kashmir brings out the riot of colours contributing to the stunning appeal of Kashmir.All year round the stunning charm of the gardens of Kashmir draws a variety of travelers from all corners of the world where they hang around sitting, unwinding and delighting in the scenic beauty.
Lots of passionate travelers also get themselves photographed in traditional Kashmiri outfits while checking out the lovely gardens which have plenty of a range of flowers, plants and ancient Chinar trees some going back to 400 years.
Famous Gardens: Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, Chashme Shahi, Tulip Garden, Pari Mahal, Harwan Garden, Achabal Garden, Verinag Garden, Botanical Garden and Dara Shikoh Garden.
Activities: Sightseeing, Recreational Activities, Nature Photography, Try out a standard Kashmiri dress, Enjoy a household picnic, Explore the ancient gardens, Sound and Light program at nights, Relax and Laze around.
For more information about travel packages to Kashmir contact Kashmir Tour Travel one of the best tour operator in Kashmir.
Discover picturesque Valleys
While describing the appeal of Kashmir Mughal Emperor Jehangir once exclaimed “Agar firdaus bar roo-e zameen ast, Hameen ast-o hameen ast-o hameen ast”. It suggests “If there is a paradise on earth, It is this, it is this, it is this”.
The fascinating appeal of the valleys in Kashmir cannot be described in words which are the home of sensational natural lakes, streams, waterfalls, national forests, rich green meadows, alpine mountains and a variety of uncommon flora and animals.
The valleys of Kashmir have played a significant role by becoming part of the picturesque backdrop of numerous Bollywood films and are best romantic locations for the newlyweds as it’s here that both romance and nature come alive.
Besides that the valleys of Kashmir provide tourist picturesque vistas and a pristine environment suitable for experience activities like travelling, camping and photography.
Valleys: Gulmarg, Sonmarg, Pahalgam, Betaab Valley, Aru Valley, Chandanwari, Nagin Valley, Dras Valley, Baltal Valley, Warwan Valley, Amarnath Valley and much more.
Activities: Trekking, Camping, Rock climbing up, Pony rides, Photography.
Explore Historical Monuments:
Kashmir has a history of more than 5000 years and has actually been ruled by numerous dynasties, besides having massive natural appeal; Kashmir has actually captivated every traveler with its huge heritage for time immemorial.
While strolling through the lanes of Srinagar or other smaller sized towns of Kashmir you will discover the magnificent monuments that tell tales about the great rulers of Kashmir. Forts, palaces and estates that stand high on mountain peaks, luxurious gardens or veil themselves behind beautiful hills have always included to the abundant historical heritage of Kashmir.
While most of the historical monuments are still well preserved a few remain in a ruined state but they still stand elegantly bring their abundant heritage and tradition to the curiosity of the observers. Today, efforts are being made by the locals and federal government organizations to bring back and preserve these historic structures for the sake of future generations. So come and get dominated by the wonderful charm of the historical monuments of Kashmir.
Popular monuments: Hari Parbat fort, Martand Sun temple, Pari Mahal, Sher Garhi Palace and many more.
Spiritual and Spiritual Places
From the presence of the magnificent Amarnath temple on mount Amarnath to the shiny white marble structure of the Hazratbal shrine on the coasts of the Dal Lake, the majority of the pilgrimage centers in Kashmir are located on stunning areas making them a wonderful treat for the eyes.
The spiritual richness of Kashmir is extremely well represented by numerous spiritual shrines coming from Hindus, Muslims and Sikhs, the finest part of a trip to Kashmir being the serene coexistence of numerous religious beliefs in Kashmir. The living proof of this harmony can be seen at the Hari Parbhat hill where there is a temple, a mosque and a gurudwara standing side by side.
Besides that the Kashmir valley has a number of spiritual and meditation centers belonging to all faiths and lie among the most beautiful and scenic environments enough to leave visitors spell bound and speechless.
Forehead: Amarnath Cave temple, Shankaracharya temple, Kheer Bhawani temple, Martand Sun temple, Mattan temple, Sharika Devi temple.
Mosque: Hazratbal mosque, Jamia Masjid, Khanqah e Moula, Makhdoom Sahib.
National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries:
Jungle safaris and sees to sanctuaries are best on top of every tourists list. The National parks of Kashmir are a good option for visitors who desire to enjoy the view of carpeted lawn lands, meadows and wildlife in their natural environment.
Kashmir has almost half a dozen national forests and sanctuaries. These parks are home to the unusual ‘Hangul’ or ‘Kashmir Stag’ and much more animals like musk deer, leopard, Himalayan grey langur, Himalayan black bear, Himalayan brown bear, jackal, hill fox, Himalayan weasel and more.
The finest way to explore the nationwide parks is through a jeep safari, tourist can also take their private vehicles or trek through the forest with an aid of a guide and get a closer take a look at the location’s biodiversity. The weather inside the nationwide parks remains cool making it the ideal location for a daytime picnic. The very best time to visit these sanctuaries is at dawn when animals and birds are out searching for food and water or throughout sunset.
National Forest: Dachigam National Park, Salim Ali National Park, Daksum Wildlife Sanctuary, Overa– Aru Wildlife Reserve, Gulmarg Wildlife Sanctuary.
Adventure Sports
Kashmir is possibly the only location in India where a variety of experience sports can be used up in a single holiday. Today it has emerged as hub for experience sports activities.
Many peaks are covered with snow throughout the year which works as a best play ground for adventure sports, the stunning mountains of Gulmarg and Sonmarg will provide you adequate factors for skiing. The beautiful deep valleys of Kashmir provide a best environment and surface for aero sports like paragliding, hand gliding and hot air balloon journeys.
For those who love to experience the tough may of nature can use up mountain travelling through the popular trekking routes and take pleasure in camping in the valley by night. Additionally, the restless streams and gushing rivers of Kashmir are ideal locations for river rafting and kayaking.
While those who choose it rather, the fishing season spreads throughout the whole summer season hence Trout fishing and fishing works as a another fantastic experience sport in the valley. Golf courses of Gulmarg are one their kind and supply excellent chances and experience for playing golf to all.
Popular sports: Trekking, Camping, Golfing, Aero sports, Water sports, Game Fishing.
Finest Places: Srinagar, Gulmarg, Sonmarg, Pahalgam, Drass and Khilanmarg.
Winter season sports
While the spring and summertime seasons in Kashmir are ideal for adventure sport activities like trekking, aero sports and water sports, visiting Kashmir in winter is absolutely a different experience to delight in winter sports, which draws in tourist from far and large and consists of activities like snowboarding, sleigh riding, skiing, snow skating, snow trekking, ice hockey, ice skiing and heliskiing.
Gulmarg, Khilanmarg, Pahalgam, and Patnitop are the major places to enjoy winter sports in Kashmir which starts every year in the month of December and end by March. Kashmir the paradise in the world is thronged by tourist in great deals throughout the winter season and Gulmarg is the ideal location for all skiers to check their abilities be it beginners or advanced.
Gulmarg also offers Heliskiing, Asia’s only Heliskiing resort after Canada and is likewise the most cost-effective ski resort on the planet. Gulmarg being the winter sports capital of India likewise hosts occasions like Alpine snowboarding, Cross nation skiing, Biathlon, Ice skating and Ice hockey championships every year which not only keeps tourist amused but likewise gives them a chance to participate.
Popular Winter Sports: Snowboarding, Sleigh Riding, Skiing, Snow Skating, Snow Trekking, Ice Hockey, Ice Skiing and Heliskiing.
Foods of Kashmir
Simply like its attractive beauty the foods of Kashmir are divine too, the rich fragrant dishes of Kashmir are steeped in traditions and have progressed through lots of generations and are a blend of various cooking styles of mainly Kashmiri pandits, Muslims and Mughals.
Using traditional spices in Kashmiri foods is highly intriguing and there is plenty available for both vegetarians and non vegetarians. But one must attempt the ultimate ritualistic banquet referred to as ‘Wazwan’ popular as the ‘feast fit for kings’; it is a baronial 36 course banquet and has 30 non vegetarian meals.
Here is an appearance at some of the most popular vegetarian and non vegetarian foods of Kashmir do not miss to enjoy these specials during your trip to Kashmir.
Popular Kashmiri meals: Wazwan, Gushtaba, Yakhni, Roganjosh, Tabakmaz, Seekh Kababs, Rista, Chaman and Dum Aloo.
Celebrations and Cultural Events
The joyful season in Kashmir represents a vibrant mosaic of its people and the culture of the region. As part of its efforts to attract traveler, every year the Kashmir tourism department organizes lots of fairs and celebrations to display the abundant heritage of this area. Cultural programs, folk tunes, art & culture programs are organized to captivate the visitors besides offering of conventional cuisines.
The unmatched charm and the distinct festivals of this captivating place deserves experiencing which joins together individuals from all spheres of life; castes and creeds gathering and share their happiness with the traveler going to Kashmir. Apart from spiritual celebrations there are some extensively popular festivals throughout Kashmir organized for going to tourist and are commemorated with great zeal and merriment.
Popular festivals: Tulip celebration, Gardens of Paradise Festival, Shikara Festival, Saffron Festival, Water sports Festival, Gulmarg Snow Festival, Mansar Food and Craft Mela and Kashmir Festival.
A place is just as lovely as its individuals are, the individuals of Kashmir are hot and welcoming and they really think in the ancient Indian saying ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’, for a guest is actually a God.
Apart from the charm of Kashmir, a journey here will always be memorable since of its warm hearted and hospitable people.
Clothes to wear in Kashmir in Summers
The month of May marks an end to the spring season in Kashmir and commemorates the beginning of the summer season. The typical temperature level in Kashmir from April to June is 25 degrees Celsius, and the city is covered with lavish greenery. One can see miles and miles of a location covered with mustard fields and umpteen numbers of mature fruits during the summer season. The Kashmir Valley, in particular, blanketed with its multi-hued flower beds, sparkles as short spells of rain blesses this region. With cascading streams, clear skies and cool breeze, Kashmir at this time of the year is the prettiest!
So, if you plan to visit this divine location anytime between April to June, these clothes are a need to:
- Cotton Clothes- With an average temperature level of 25 degrees Celsius, cotton clothes will do simply fine throughout the day. Especially, if you plan to check out more than 1-2 destinations on foot. It is very important to keep yourself light and delight in the pleasant weather. One can likewise decide to wear linen or khadi. Full/half sleeves tops or tee shirts, preferably complete selves due to the fact that if it rains, the temperature falls by a few degrees. A comfortable pair or jeans would be simply great for the journey. However, if you prepare to travel, you can load a set of track trousers or jeggings that allow easy movement.
- Woolen Clothes- Though the weather appears enjoyable for many of the day, the temperature drops a little during the night, for that reason, carrying light woolens would be a good safety measure. Perhaps a pair or more of woolen trousers, thermals or zippers would do simply fine.
Things to bring while traveling to Kashmir in April, May, and June
With the shift from spring to summer season, the month of April, May and June provide a little everything; rain, heat, and cold. The city is at its peak then, you can stroll in Mughal Gardens, take shikhara trips on the Dal lake, go for trekking, snowboarding and rafting. It is all here, and it can all be performed in this enjoyable weather condition.
A couple of things you wish to bring to enjoy your journey to the fullest:
- Umbrella/Raincoat– You may experience quick showers and its finest to keep yourself protected.
- Trekking boots- These are typically helpful in Sonamarg and Gulmarg, where the ice level is high.
- Moisturizers- Remember to bring your cold creams for the night and other parts of the day if it gets cold. Likewise, do not forget to bring sun blocks as higher altitude are most likely to offer sunburns quickly.
- Small taking a trip bag – They will appropriate to carry essential things like money, cellphone, and medicines.
Clothes to wear in Kashmir in Winters (November, December, January)
November to January is the perfect time to experience a blend of 2 seasons; winter season and autumn. Autumn is the season where Kashmir’s green land becomes gold to russet to red. The sight at Kashmir is forever bewitching! Completion of November marks the beginning of the winter in Kashmir when heavy woolens are a necessity. The city is covered in layers of snow and is as lovely as an image on a painter’s canvas. Savouring a cup of ginger tea or coffee beside a bourn-fire, in this weather condition is a pure delight!
This experience I’m sure, you won’t get in other part of India. So, while you enjoy this weather, we recommend you to safeguard yourself from the cold too. With an average of 7 degrees Celsius, Kashmir is freezing during winters, and we recommend you must embrace the concept of layered clothes.
Where one garment can be worn on top of another, to trap the temperature and to keep you warm!
You can carry:
- Thermals- Wear those as a base layer below all your clothing for added warmth.
- Full/cut sleeves sweaters- To protect you from the cold.
- Coat and Jackets- Winter coats and coats are used to keep the torso and arms safeguarded from cold. Types: fur coats, pea coats, leather coats, ski jackets, bomber coats, parka or puffer coats/down coats.
Things to carry while taking a trip to Kashmir in November, December, and January
You will experience a winter like no other in this snow land from November to January. So, for those of you who have actually not been to this snowy area (and those who have as well), here is a list of things you must bring along:
- Shoes- Boots are a must; you cannot stroll in the snow with your sports shoes. If possible, bring snow boots they have the edge over other winter boots as they are water resilient.
- Winter Accessories -Scarves/Mufflers, Ear Muffs, Gloves/Mittens.
- Duffel Bag- Make sure you bring a weatherproof waterproof knapsack (or other traveling bag) with you.
For more information on Kashmir holiday packages contact Kashmir Tour Travel one of the leading tour operators in Kashmir.
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