Things to do in Kashmir

15 Best Things To Do In Kashmir To Experience The Valley At It’s Best

Kashmir is an exquisite masterpiece painted with hues of emerald valleys and sapphire lakes in the timeless tapestry of tales woven by nature.

Kashmir, often referred to as “Heaven on Earth,” is a tangle of best things to do that, like the rhythmic beating of a drum, resonate in the heart. Consider a peaceful shikara ride on the mirrored surface of Dal Lake while taking in the surrounding alpine beauty. Imagine yourself exploring the maze-like Mughal Gardens, where nature’s symphony plays at every turn.

15 Best Things To Do In Kashmir

1. Skiing In Gulmarg

1. Skiing In Gulmarg

 Skiing in Gulmarg, Kashmir’s most revered winter sport, is more than an adventure. It’s a riveting ballet between humans and the Himalayas, with the powder-white mountains serving as the grand stage. This captivating dance with nature is a radiant beacon for adventure enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies alike among the myriad things to do in Kashmir.

As the snow-laden gusts of wind whip across your face and you make your descent, a delightful sensation of freedom and exhilaration takes hold. It’s as if time has slowed down, and you are locked in a breathtaking waltz with the pristine snow under a celestial canopy. 

The thrill of conquering the slopes is surpassed only by the ethereal beauty that surrounds you – a beauty that firmly secures Gulmarg’s position among the most enchanting places to visit in Kashmir.

The panoramic view of snow-dusted pines and majestic peaks is nothing short of magical as you begin your ascent in Asia’s highest and longest cable car, the Gulmarg Gondola. 

Skiing in Gulmarg is more than just another thing to do in Kashmir; it’s a celestial experience that will make your soul pirouette with pure joy. A story of bravery, thrills, and awe-inspiring beauty that will be woven into the fabric of your being for the rest of your life.

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2. Take A Shikara Ride In Dal Lake

 In the magical land of Kashmir, where dreams are painted in blues and greens, you will embark on a journey of self-discovery and splendid serenity. Among the many treasures hidden in this paradise, one shines brighter, carving its own path on the canvas of the heart – the divine experience of a Shikara ride on the Dal Lake, one of the best places to visit in Kashmir.

Enter a world where the gentle symphony of lapping waters provides an enchanting background score. Time seems to stand still as you board the lavishly decorated Shikara. The ride encapsulates the essence of things to do in Kashmir, with the wicker-made roofs casting latticed shadows on your face.

Dal Lake’s waters, gleaming like sapphires in the sun, transport you across a mirage of floating gardens and vibrant houseboats. As you float along, lost in a world within a world, the snow-capped Himalayan peaks in the background bear witness to your journey.

A Shikara ride is more than just a tourist attraction; it’s a living poem, an unsolved mystery, and a lingering kiss from nature. As you disembark, you’ll take a piece of Dal Lake’s soul with you, a whispering echo that will draw you back to the mystic charms of Kashmir time and time again.

3. Stay In A Houseboat

Float in the embrace of a tranquil lake, accompanied by the choral symphony of water ripples – that’s a houseboat stay in Kashmir for you, one of the best things to do in Kashmir. Consider yourself lounging in a lavishly decorated floating suite, the scent of intricate walnut woodwork mingling with the crisp morning air. 

Outside your window, the sun’s reflection shimmers on the surface of Dal Lake, creating an ever-changing landscape of liquid gold. All around you is a symphony of nature, a spectacle of sights, sounds, and scents – an unparalleled sensory experience.

The houseboat journey engulfs you in a dreamy embrace, with each moment singing a different ballad. The setting sun bathes the landscape in a mesmerizing palette of warm hues as dusk falls, beautifully mirrored by the calm waters. 

The warmth of Kashmiri hospitality, reflected in the kahwa served with heat, and the rich flavors of local cuisine round out your enchanting day.

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4. Gondola Ride In Gulmarg

Behold the magnificent Gulmarg, a treasure trove where pristine white embraces azure blue and the mountains echo with a thousand tales. A unique journey awaits in this wonderland, not on foot or horseback, but on an aerial chariot known as the Gondola.

As you step into the gondola, a cocoon swaying gently at the mercy of the mountain winds, your heart may skip a beat. As the doors close and the gondola frees itself from its earthly bonds, an incredible canvas of nature’s artistry unfolds before your eyes. The ascent begins a ballet of motion on celestial strings that lifts you higher and higher above the legendary Gulmarg.

5. Relish The Local Cuisine

One of the things to do in Kashmir that feels like an intimate dance with tradition is to immerse yourself in local Kashmiri cuisine. Each dish tells a story, their aromas weaving a tantalising tapestry of culinary delight, their flavors echoing this picturesque region’s vibrant heritage.

Consider a chilly morning with the sun gently breaking through the snow-covered peaks, its warm rays breathing life into the sleepy town. One of the must-dos in Srinagar is to savour a steaming cup of Kahwa, an exotic blend of green tea, spices, and almonds, as its symphony of flavours slowly unfolds, warming your soul.

The star of Kashmiri cuisine, Rogan Josh, a delicacy prepared with tender meat and an array of fragrant spices, welcomes you into a realm of exquisite delight, while the sweet, creamy comfort of Phirni makes for a sublime finale to this gastronomical journey. Unraveling the magic of the local cuisine is indeed one of the most rewarding things to do in Kashmir.

6. Visit the Vaishno Devi Temple

A visit to the Vaishno Devi Temple is like listening to a divine symphony. It is a highlight among the things to do in Kashmir, nestled among the celestial heights of the Trikuta Mountains, a spiritual pilgrimage that enchants the soul and mesmerises the senses.

Consider ascending an illuminated pathway as dusk falls, the twinkling lights guiding your way like a constellation. The scent of incense and the fervour of devotion become your companions as you make your way to the sacred cave. The hymns echoing through the darkness become the rhythm of your journey, creating an experience beyond the physical realm.

Among the other things to do in Kashmir, visiting this holy shrine offers a contrasting harmony of tranquility and spiritual vitality. It’s not merely a temple visit, but a heartwarming encounter with the divine; a journey of transformation, where every step taken whispers a tale of devotion and self discovery.

7. Boating In Mansar Lake

Mansar Lake sparkles like a dazzling sapphire stitched into the emerald quilt of Kashmir’s landscape in the grand theatre of nature’s creations. As you embark on an ethereal boating journey across its placid waters, an exquisite spectacle unfolds. Every stroke of the oar echoes the lake’s symphony, echoing tales of ancient myths and legends buried in its depths.

Each ripple you make tells a story about the mighty Himalayas that shelter this aquatic haven. Birds serenade you on your journey, drawing your gaze skyward, where the divine azure mirrors the lake beneath, creating a mesmerising tapestry of peace.

The boat cuts through the shimmering expanse, setting the stage for an enchanting dance between man and nature. This timeless ballet, set to the music of lapping waters and rustling leaves, is a performance that etches itself onto the canvas of your memory. Come, embrace the serenity of Mansar Lake, where boating is more than a pastime—it’s a poetic dialogue with nature’s finest muse.

8. Seek Divine Blessings At Raghunath Temple

One of the many experiences woven into the vibrant threads of Kashmir is a visit to the Raghunath Temple, which radiates a divine charm that draws seekers and travellers alike. The temple, engulfed in a mystical aura of spirituality, is a cornerstone of the best things to do in Kashmir.

Imagine a peaceful journey to the heart of Jammu, walking the hallowed corridors that echo ancient stories of faith. Consider your senses awakening to the harmonious chime of temple bells, the vibrations of which reverberate deep within your soul. Seek solace in Lord Rama’s divine embrace, basking in the serene tranquillity that surrounds this sacred sanctum.

The Raghunath Temple, with its splendid spiritual allure, punctuates the list of the best things to do in Kashmir. It’s a stirring odyssey that binds the threads of faith, devotion, and a quest for

9. Ride In The Ropeway At Patnitop

Among the exhilarating things to do in Kashmir, a resplendent ride on the Patnitop Ropeway is an escapade that leaves you breathless. As the gondola gently ascends from the lush foothills, your journey takes a flight into a realm where the clouds are your companions, whispering tales of the valleys beneath.

Every moment in the Ropeway offers an orchestration of scenes that shift like a magical kaleidoscope. The panoramic canvas unfurls the majestic Chenab River carving its way through the valley, the seemingly infinite spread of pine forests, and the snowclad Himalayan peaks that guard the horizon. In the middle of this spectacle, you dangle in an ethereal space, bridging the gap between earth and sky.

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10. Explore the Old Srinagar Streets

Every nook and cranny of Old Srinagar whispers stories from the pages of history, inviting you to immerse yourself in the history etched in its ancient stone and timber. Srinagar’s heart beats in its old city streets, an urban maze nestled on the banks of the Jhelum, waiting to be discovered. Things to do in Kashmir often have echoes of history, and Srinagar, the crown jewel, is no exception.

You’ll find the soul of the city carved in the delicate lacework of wooden window frames and majestic houseboats as you stroll through the narrow, labyrinthine alleys. The sublime Jamia Masjid, with its wooden pillars and serene courtyard, exudes spiritual calm. As you go deeper, you’ll come across vibrant bazaars, a sensory explosion of vibrant hues, enticing spice fragrances, and the constant hum of lively chatter.

Here’s a notable thing to do in Srinagar: unwind with a cup of local, aromatic Kahwa as you observe the daily life unfurl in front of you, an experience as enchanting as the melody of the Santoor.

11. Take A Pony Ride In Pahalgam

A simple adventure every now and then leaves a profound imprint on your memory, and such is the magic of a pony ride in Pahalgam. The iconic experience, often referred to as one of the most exhilarating things to do in Kashmir, is a delightful mingling of scenic charm and innocent joy.

Imagine riding a gentle pony, its hooves softly imprinting on the lush verdant trails, while the crisp mountain air whispers stories of ancient Himalayan folklore. Pahalgam unfolds like a grand theatre, with the melodious Lidder River playing the symphony and towering pine trees standing as silent spectators, applauding your journey with a rustle.

Every bend in the path will introduce to something new. The rhythmic trot of the pony and the soothing tranquility of the journey is interspersed with the occasional chirping of a bird, an echo from the heavens, a nod from nature itself.

This quaint pony ride is not just an exploration of Pahalgam’s landscape; it’s a whimsical waltz with nature, where each moment is as deliciously slow and sweet as honey dripping off a wooden ladle. 

12. Visit The Kheer Bhawani Temple

Kheer Bhawani Temple is a serenade to the goddess Bhawani, a place where the divine and mortal realms come together in a profound dance of faith. The temple, adorned with the purity of white marbles, cradles an enchanting spring, the waters of which are said to change colours and reflect cosmic moods and mysteries.

The temple echoes with hymns and prayers that blend with the cool breeze to create a tranquil melody that serenades the surroundings. Visitors are gently surrendered to the divine atmosphere, allowing their hearts to be cradled by a serenity that envelops them like a warm shawl on a crisp Kashmiri morning.

13. River Rafting

Imagine harnessing a river’s unbridled power as it rages beneath your raft, echoing the mighty spirit of the Himalayas. Yes, river rafting in Kashmir is more than an adventure – it’s a symphony of exhilarating crescendos, swirling rapids, and thrilling notes.

River rafting, widely regarded as one of the most thrilling things to do in Kashmir, draws adrenaline junkies from all over the world to the frothy waters of the Lidder and Zanskar rivers. You’ll feel a mix of fear, excitement, and awe as your raft ebbs and flows with the raging river, mirroring the river’s untamed rhythm.

Embrace the pulsating heartbeat of the mountains as you navigate turbulent rapids, framed by the picturesque canvas of alpine beauty. And then, when the water stills and the thrill subsides, soak in the serene magnificence around you, the calm symphony of Kashmir washing over you.

No catalog of things to do in Kashmir can ever be complete without a mention of river rafting. Whether you’re a seasoned rafter or a novice adventurer, the river’s music will draw you in, promising a dance that’s as raw and unfiltered as nature’s untouched beauty.

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14. Trekking

Trekking in Kashmir – two words, a world of unbound adventures and unfathomable beauty. Here, every trail is a story, narrated by the ever-changing landscapes that will make your heart gallop in your chest, beating the rhythm of nature’s wild symphony.

In the heart of this divine land, trekking transforms into an ethereal ballet between man and mountain. An enchanting dance where valleys hum melodies of tranquility, majestic peaks bow in silent salutation and the wind whispers tales of the ancient earth. 

From traversing the panoramic charm of the Great Lakes trek, to being swept off your feet by the untouched wilderness of the Tarsar Marsar trek, each path is a poem crafted in the language of raw beauty.

Amidst the rhododendron forests, high-altitude lakes shimmering under the sun like precious gemstones, snow-laden peaks casting their mighty shadows, and quaint hamlets painting the canvas of green meadows, trekking in Kashmir weaves a tapestry of ceaseless wonders. 

It’s an orchestra of experiences waiting to be savoured, a call to the inner explorer to wander in the theatre of natural spectacle.

15. Explore Nishat Bagh

Nishat Bagh, located in the heart of Srinagar, unfolds before your eyes like a storybook of verdant tapestries, a pageantry of nature’s design. Every step in this “Garden of Joy” is an exploration, an adventure that easily ranks among the best things to do in Kashmir.

The scene is set with a melody of murmuring fountains and colourful flower beds that draws you in like a siren’s song. A stroll through Nishat Bagh’s twelve terraces is like a dance with nature, with each terrace representing a zodiac sign and whispering tales of ancient wisdom. 

A voyage to Nishat Bagh is also a journey through history, where tales of royal past and Mughal architecture merge with the rustling leaves, creating a symphony that harmonizes with the rhythm of your heart. This delightful encounter undoubtedly crowns the list of the best things to do in Kashmir.