Kashmir is full of beautiful and magical places to visit. You don’t even need to find them, as every bit is filled with breathtaking views.
Here are our top picks that are must-visit destinations around Kashmir. Make sure to include these scenic spots in your next visit to Kashmir.
Aru Valley
If you love wanderlusting through scenic meadows, Aru is the perfect spot for you. Located in the Anantnag District of Jammu and Kashmir, Aru Valley is the base camp for trekking to the Kolahoi Glacier and Tarsar Lake. During winters, this serene and scenic village freezes to become a skiing paradise.
Gulmarg
Thrill-seekers have always been rushing to Gulmarg for the world-renowned ski experience. Snow-capped peaks, and thrilling rides in the Gondola, the world’s highest golf course make Gulmarg one of the most alluring tourist destinations. Gulmarg offers cool and pleasant weather during the summers, whereas the winter is filled with adventure-filled snow sports. Lesser-known adventurous sports include mountain trekking and trout fishing.
Dal Lake
Dal Lake is rightly named the “Jewel in the crown of Kashmir”. Being the most popular attraction in Srinagar, this Lake of flowers is often preferred for Shikara cruising and film shoots. Dal Lake even attracts fishing enthusiasts making it one of the most popular tourist attractions. The shoreline of Dal Lake is encompassed by a boulevard lined with Mughal Gardens, parks, houseboats, and Hotels. The night view of the lake is a sight for sore eyes.
Betaab Valley
Originally known as Hagan Valley, Betaab Valley came to be known by its present name after the shooting of the Bollywood movie Betaab. Lush green meadows, snow-dressed mountains, and dense vegetation make Betaab Valley a favorite for campsite travelers. If you are up for wondrous sightseeing, do visit Baisaran and Tullian Lake which are nearby points of interest to travelers.
Apharwat
Apharwat Peak is one of the most attractive spots to visit in and around Gulmarg. Apharwat Peak is also very popular for skiing owing to the highest ski slopes in Asia. It lies in the second phase of the Gondola cable car ride from Gulmarg and reaching the peak is dependent on the weather conditions. Due to the huge tourist influx, this place remains one of the most visited destinations in Gulmarg.
Gurez
Summer is the peak time to enjoy the lush meadows in Kashmir. And on the top of the list is Gurez, famous for its unparalleled beauty, vast forests, pastures, a serene surroundings. The picturesque Gurez valley is masked among the high mountains making it an enticing attraction for visitors. The residents of Gurez live in houses made of wood mostly because of the harsh weather conditions.