Enticing chilly temperatures with wild virgin terrain, and heavenly colours, assemble the picturesque view of the Haseen Wadiyan of Kashmir. The alluring panorama of the chinar tree-lined roads, quaint wooden bridges, blooming lotus of Dal Lake, and spectacular Mughal-era gardens have inspired poets through the ages. Thelist of famous destinations is quite long, include Srinagar, Sonamarg, Betaab Valley, Dal Lake, Kupwara, Anantnag, Chashmashahi, Yusmarg, Sanasar, Baltal, Verinag, Aharbal Waterfall, Drung Waterfall, Dachigam National Park, Amarnath Shrine, Aru Valley, Jama Masjid, Nishat Garden, Pulwama, Vaishno Devi, etc.Add to this, the charms of delectable Kashmiri cuisine surrounding it.
Feel the Warmth of Cold
Kashmir is a temptation for every traveler in each of its seasons. Notwithstanding, summer i. e. March to August is considered the best time to visit Kashmir valley as you can enjoy sunny days with a mild cold breeze this time.Monsoon is also beautiful. It is the apple-picking season.In autumn(October & November), the chinar forests turned a copper-golden hue which is spectacular.December and January might get extremely chilly but otherwise, Kashmir in winter is very much dreamy.
How to reach
You can reach New Delhi by train from Kolkata and then fly to Srinagar International Airport from there. It takes 22 hours and 25 minutes. You can also take a flight from Kolkata to New Delhi, then a flight to Srinagar.Direct trains are also available from Kolkata to Jammu. But it takes almost 34 hours.
Ethnic Greatness
Kashmir has been a symbol of rich culture since ancient times. The land has given birth to numerus notable literature- Natya Shastra, Patanjali's compilation on Yoga, and the Panchatantra. A great number of Buddhist literature was also produced in Kashmir.
Later Islamic invasions influenced the Persian and Central Asian cultures of Kashmir. Certainly, Kashmiri culture is a fusion of Hinduism, Islam, Shikhism and Buddhism. The ethnicilty of the state is identified by Koshur Sufiana, dance, music, foods, and carpet weaving. Wazwan, the multi-cuisine dish is considered a point of pride in Kashmiri culture and identity.
Enjoy the Delicious Cuisines
Kashmir is the home to some phenomenal dishes. These recipes have found a place in almost every corner kitchen of the country.Kashmiri Pulaao is one such famous dish. The state is heaven for those who have a love for mutton. The most popular food is meat, along with rice here. Other such dishes include Kashmiri Kabab, Rogan Josh, Pasanda, Methi Keema, etc. The collection of vegetarian dishes is not small. Rajmah, Zarda, Shree Pulao, Hak, and Ladyar Tsaman are some popular veg servings. Kashmiri Sevaiyaan and Phirni are well known. The hot Sheer Chai is noted for its incredible flavour.
Enjoy the Cultural Feast
Several cultural festivals are celebrated all around the year in Kashmir valley. Some of them are cultural, others are religious and some are officially organized for tourist attractions.
The most-celebrated festivals in Jammu and Kashmir include Eid-ul-Fitr, Eid-ul-Adha, Baisakhi, Shikara Festival, Gurez Festival, Lohri, Tulip Festival, Hemis Festival, GaldanNamchot, Losar, SpitukGustor Zanskar, Sindhu Darshan Festival, Ladakh Festival, etc. Shikara Race, Dragon Boat Race and Canoe Polo Match and cultural programs during Shikara festival is a glimpse of the culture of Kashmir. Magnificent Tulip festival is another must visiting occasion.
Sightseeing Places in KashmirShow / Hide
Srinagar
Srinagar is the most popular destinations in Kashmir. The main attraction here is Dal Lake. The floating lotus garden and houseboat will surprise you. Don't foget to have a boat ride if you are in Srinagar. The traditional local markets of Srinagar offers a huge collection of gorgeous items-handicrafts, carpets, textile, jewelery, and numerous home decor elements to shop. Beautiful Srinagar fascinates its visitors with picturesque Himalayan backdrop. The majestic Mughal architecture add a peculiar charm to the scenery. When the city talks on the sunbeam reflecting the Himalays, the title of heaven on earth is well justified.
Tulip Festival
Asia’s largest tulip show, The Tulip festival is attended by national and international tulip buffs, tourists, and local people. The festival showcases the range of flowers in the historical Mughal garden as a part of tourism efforts by the State Government during the onset of the spring season in the valley. It is organized during the first 15 days of April every year. Huge variety and collection of colourful tulips are prepared specially for the festival. This occasion is a great place to witness the magnificent glance of the upcoming season.
Sonamarg
If you are dreaming about to witness the enchanting landscapes and milk-white glaciers, Sonamarg is the best destination. The place is noted for its significance in the ancient times. It was the gateway of the Silk Road, connecting Kashmir to China and considered as a present day base camp for Ladakh also. Sonamarg, with snowy mountains ranges at its backdrop adds a spectacular extravaganza to the countryside in Kashmir. The Sindh River valley is a magical sight to encounter. If you have more time, have a view on the Kolhoi Glacier, Machoi Glacier, and peaks like Kolhoi peak, Amarnath peak, Machoi Peak, and Sirbal peak.
Gulmarg
Gulmarg, a town snuggle in the PirPanjal range of the Western Himalayas is one of the best tourist destinations in Kashmir. Gulmarg is surrounded by beautiful snow-covered peaks, verdant green pastures, and meadows of colorful flowers seen in the summertime. Situated at an elevation of 2730 meters above sea level, it is popular as a world class ski resort destination. The British started it in 1927 by hosting the Christmas and the Easter ski events. Another major attraction here is the Gulmarg Gondola cable car ride. It is the second highest in the world. Gulmarg, which most tourists visit every year, serves and has some of the best stays in the area.
Pahalgam
Situated at the confluence of the Lidder and Sheshnag River, Pahalgam is considered as another jewel of the Kashmir valley. Several Tourist attractions turned this earlier shepherd's village into a popular town. Full of thrilling mountain routes among the alpine forests and grasslands, the town is a perfect spot for your vacation. Pahalgam is also the starting point for the annual AmarnathYatra. Coming under the Anantnag District in Jammu, Pahalgam is Situated at an elevation of 2740 meters above sea level. There are special playgrounds for daring sports like hiking, trekking, and fishing. The town also have its golden legacy in Bollywood movies what makes it such a destination you would not want to miss.
Vaishno Devi
Situated in the verdant and beautiful hills of Tirukata, Vaishno Devi is one of the most well-known destinations for its spiritual significance. Vaishno Devi, also called as Mata Rani, Vaishnavi and Trikuta is a sign of the Hindu Goddess Durga. According to some legend, devotees believe that during the aarti, Goddesses show up at the Holy cavern. Pilgrims also belive the goddess herself calls the devotees to reach here which pulls countless pilgrims from all over the world. The Shrine offers tranquility and spirituality that is something entirely different from what you have experienced.
