The northernmost state of India, Jammu and Kashmir is located right in the arms of the majestic Himalayan Mountains. The great Mughal emperor Jahangir is said to have remarked that Kashmir was paradise on earth on setting his eyes on the awe-inspiring beauty of the region. Even centuries later, his words rings true through the incredible valleys, peaceful meadows, pristine lakes and grand mountains.
The state of Jammu and Kashmir offers a plethora of stunning mountain vistas to satisfy the hungering soul. Adventure is available in plenty. A multitude of religious spots are present for your spiritual needs. If you want to relax and enjoy nature at its best, you just need to walk through the innumerable gardens. The languid lakes of the region will call you lazing around in the bosom of the glorious surroundings.
Jammu and Kashmir has a number of different places for the tourist to pick and enjoy. The magnificent Dal Lake in Srinagar is surrounded by mountains and gardens calling you to come and take a break. Of course, the beauty of the sight is enhanced by the sheer variety of the colorful boats languidly traversing it. You can enjoy challenging treks across the length and breadth of Kashmir in areas such as Gulmarg,Pahalgam, Ladakh, Leh, and Panchtarni and so on. Religious centers such as the Mata Vaishno Devi temple, the gompas of Leh, and Srinagar offer relief of a spiritual nature. In short, you will never run out of things to do or see in the amazing state that is Kashmir.
The city of Jammu is nestled in the foot of the majestic Himalayan Mountains. Jammu actually falls in the Shivalik mountain range. This does not mean, however, that the behemoth Himalayas are far away. The fascinating landscape will draw you in like a moth to a flame. Jammu is also called the city of temples. The many incredible temples will pull you close with their holy and tranquil aura from afar. Jammu forms the entry point into the wonderful vista that is Kashmir. Do take some time to get familiar with the beautiful landscape in Jammu before you become immersed in the divine beauty of Kashmir. There are some great places to visit in Jammu after all.
Raghunath Temple
Vasihno Devi Temple
Peer Khoh
Amar Mahal Palace Museum
Bahu Fort and Gardens
At a dizzying height of 2740m, Sonmarg offers a paradise for nature lovers. This picturesque area offers verdant meadows surrounding gushing rivers that divide the mighty mountains. In Sonmarg, you can relax in the bosom of nature as solitude covers you like a blanket. Pristine lakes offer incredible banks to take a relaxing stroll as the chilly mountain air whistles past. Literally names the meadow of gold, Sonmarg can be considered to the truest reflection of the amazing beauty of Kashmir. The quaint town is surrounded by a landscape whose beauty transcends descriptions. Distant glaciers and peaceful lakes envelop the landscape while the meadows bloom with a vibrant display of colors. The favorite pastime here is trekking. If you truly wish to lose ourself in the exquisite natural beauty, then a trek is the best option.
Bisansar Lake
Nilagrad
Yousmarg
Thajiwas
When a place has been dubbed as the Kashmiri Venice, you will be expecting a lot from it. Srinagar fulfills those expectations and gives you more. The houseboats languidly traversing the waters of the Dal Lake will remind you of Venice. However, you just need to look at the majestic mountains in the distance to remind yourself that you really are in the heavenly land of Kashmir. Apart from the lazy houseboats, Srinagar offers you a true glimpse into the fascinating Kashmiri culture. The gardens of Srinagar are mired in history. The wooden mosques here are examples of the unique Kashmiri style. In the northwest, you will find the old city of Srinagar which is fantastically chaotic and singularly fascinating in its chaos. The placid Dal Lake will enchant you with its colorful splashes of houseboats.
Hazratbal Shrine
Jama Masjid
Shankaracharya Temple
Chashme Shahi Garden
Dal Lake
Nagin Lake
Garden of Char Minar
Shalimar Bagh
IGM Tulip Garden
Kashmir Houseboat and Shikara
Kheer Bhawani Temple
Nishat Bagh
Mughal Gardens
Pari Mahal
The charming and quaint hill station of Patnitop is located on a pretty plateau. The amazing panorama of the lower Himalayan mountain range is a sight for sore eyes. A walk through the breathtaking spots in Patnitop is a rejuvenating experience and you can enjoy picnicking in some idyllic spots. Patnitop seems to be blessed with a divine location where incredible vistas are available in plenty. If you have an adventurous streak, you will love Patnitop which offers some exciting activities such as trekking and paragliding.
Nag Temple
Madhatop
Sudh Mahadev Temple
Sanasar
The meadow of flowers is an apt description of Gulmarg. Pine trees surround the stunning meadow nestled in the midst of the mighty mountains. The lovely landscape of Gulmarg charms the visitor. The snowy mountains in the distance contrast the lush forests close by. Trek through the various trails to get a feel of the enchanting beauty of the place. Skiing is a favorite pastime with Gulmarg being the only skiing resort offered in India. The meadow of flowers certainly has some fine flowering plants. You can be enchanted with the sight of the blooms stretching across the landscape as the mighty snow mountains look on in the distance. Get on the gondola to get a breathtaking panoramic view over the pine forests. Divine is one word that will frequently pop into your mind when you take in the views at Gulmarg.
Somnath Mahadev Temple
Alpather Lake
Wular Lake
In Pahalgam, dusty roads will lead you to a vista of open green spaces. Massive mountains lie in the distance half obscured by the floating clouds.The gushing Lidder River makes its way through dense forests of fir and pine. Originally, Pahalgam was a shepherds’ village. You can take a stroll through the grasslands to enjoy the fresh mountain air surrounded by some beautiful panoramas. The valleys created by the Lidder and the Seshnag rivers are covered with massive conifers. Hidden amongst the thick foliage are some scenic spots and pristine clear lakes. If walking is not entertaining enough, hire a horse and gallop away into these magnificent places which are a feast for the eyes.
Chandanwari
Panchtarni
Sheshnag
Amaranth
Aru
Baisaran
