Best places to visit in Kashmir

Kashmir continues to be one of the most sought-after travel destinations in India — celebrated for its dramatic landscapes, alpine meadows, pristine lakes, adventure options, and rich culture. In 2026, it remains high on traveller lists, even ranking among India’s most searched holiday spots.

Top Places to Visit in Kashmir (Must-See Spots)

1. Srinagar – The Heart of the Valley

Srinagar is the perfect base for your Kashmir trip:

Dal Lake & Shikara Rides: Glide across the lake amid mountains and floating gardens.
Houseboat Experience: Sleep on the water for a truly unique Kashmir memory.
Mughal Gardens: Includes Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh, beautifully laid out, terraced gardens.
Tulip Garden: Asia’s largest tulip garden is in bloom each spring (March–April).

2. Gulmarg – Snow & Adventure Paradise

A world-class destination for both winter snow lovers and summer hikers:

Gulmarg Gondola: One of the highest cable cars in the world with breathtaking views.
Skiing & Snowboarding: Excellent slopes in winter.
New Ski Lift: Asia’s longest ski drag lift inaugurated in 2026, further improving winter access.

3. Pahalgam – Valley of Shepherds

Ideal for nature lovers and peaceful stays:

Lush forests, riverside picnics along the Lidder River, and scenic walks.
Great base for exploring Aru Valley, Betaab Valley, and river rafting.
Perfect for couples, families, and photographers.

4. Sonamarg – Meadow of Gold

Set amid glaciers and alpine vistas:

Thajiwas Glacier: Easily approachable via a short hike or pony ride.
Excellent trekking and picnic spots along the Sindh River.
All-weather access is now improved thanks to the new Sonamarg Tunnel (opens winter access).

5. Yusmarg & Doodhpathri – Offbeat Gems

For those seeking tranquillity and less crowded beauty:

Yusmarg: Peaceful meadows and forest walks.
Doodhpathri: “Valley of Milk” with clear streams and open fields.
Great for photography, horse rides, and quiet hikes.

6. Manasbal Lake – Birdwatcher’s Paradise

A lesser-known gem:

Deep freshwater lake near Ganderbal, surrounded by villages.
Ideal for birdwatching, peace, and lotus blooms in summer.

7. Naseem Bagh & Other Heritage Spots

History lovers will enjoy:

Naseem Bagh: A historic Mughal chinar garden built in the 1500s.
Nearby shrines, temples, and heritage trails around Srinagar add cultural depth.

Local Experiences Not to Miss

✔ Try Kashmiri Wazwan, Rogan Josh, Kahwa tea and local breads.
✔ Shop for Pashmina shawls, carpets, and papier-mâché crafts in Srinagar markets.

Tips & Travel Advice (2026)

Season & Weather Planning

Snow seasons (Dec–Feb) bring magical landscapes but can disrupt travel plans, so pack thermals and allow buffer days.
Spring & Summer are the most comfortable for full-itinerary exploration.

Travel & Safety

Some spots reopened after earlier closures; check the latest local travel advisories before planning routes.
Hiring a reliable local driver or travel company is recommended for smooth navigation and fair pricing.

Responsible Tourism

Some lesser-visited areas face environmental pressure due to litter — please carry waste bags and respect nature.

Final Thoughts

Kashmir in 2026 remains one of India’s most iconic travel destinations — a mix of serene lakes, snow-capped peaks, verdant valleys, and cultural richness. Whether you’re after adventure, peace, scenic drives, or culinary delights, this region has something unforgettable for every kind of traveler.

Ready to plan your Kashmir itinerary? If you want help with a custom itinerary or best times to visit based on weather, just ask! ✈️