Planning to visit Kashmir this year? Well, apart from its pleasant cool weather and delicious apples, Kashmir is a favorite destination for travel-enthusiasts as this hill station is all about mesmeric sceneries and photographic locales in the lap of nature. Link with the best tour and travel agency in Kolkata to cherish an amazing vacation in Kashmir.
Pahalgam
Located at a height of 1230m, Pahalgam is surrounded by lovely hills and abundance of greenery. The climate of this place is appeasing and the sight of the beautiful Lidder River passing through the town is mesmerizing. Pahalgam is positioned at the meeting point of the Sheshnag and Aru Rivers and encompassed by fir-clad mountains and snow-covered peaks, thereby, creating a stunning sight. Pahalgam is believed to be once a shepherd's village. It holds prominence as the starting point of the holy Amarnath Yatra where countless devotees of Shiva gather.
Pahalgam is incredibly popular among tourists, especially for those enthusiastic about trekking and going for adventure activities. Shoppers like to come here too for exploring various items sold at the local markets. Some of the must-see spots to visit here include the Aru Valley, Lidder River, Betab Valley and Pahalgam Golf Course.
Srinagar
Scenic and enchanting, Srinagar is nestled among the mighty green Himalayas and is globally famous for its exhilarating natural beauty. Surrounded by tall mountain peaks, picturesque green valleys, glimmering lakes, temples and charming Mughal gardens, this city has held a special place in the hearts of poets throughout the years. This capital city of Jammu and Kashmir is located at the center of the Kashmir Valley, with the Nagin and Dal Lake enhancing its beauty.
From Chasma Shahi, Dal Lake, Gulmarg, Dachigam National Park, Nagin Lake, Nishat Bagh, Pampore, Wular Lake, Tulip Garden, Sonamarg and Yusmarg to Badshah Tomb, Hazratbal Mosque, Shah-I-Hamadan Mosque, Shankaracharya Temple, Sri Pratap Singh Museum and Floating Vegetable Market, you should see the various natural, heritage and spiritual sights in Srinagar. The indescribable charms, glory and vibes of these places will captivate you instantly. Don't forget to buy the luxurious pashmina shawls that are so popular here!
Sonmarg
Situated at 2740m altitude, Sonmarg is an idyllic stopover for travelers who're looking for some respite amidst nature or those who wish to camp in a hill station. Referred to as the Meadow of Gold, Sonmarg is famous for its lush valleys and snowy peaks. This is the gateway to Ladakh through which the River Sindh flows, watering the pine, fir, silver birch and alpine flowers on its way. Sonmarg is another beginning destination to start the Amarnath Yatra.
If you're in Sonmarg, don't forget to visit the Vishansar Lake and the River Nilagrad which is said to have medicinal value. Are you an adventure-enthusiast? Then, come to the Thajiwas Glacier to participate in ice skiing. You can also take part in river rafting at the Shutkari Bridge. In the past, Sonamarg used to be the gateway to the historic silk roadalongside Gilgit. The Zoji La Pass is situated around 15km from this place.
Gulmarg
With stretches of green meadows that are carpeted by wild flower bushes, snow-clad peaks peeping into the clouds and refreshing mountain streams flowing by, Gulmarg is a sheer heaven on Earth. If you go there in winter, you'll find it to be a complete snow wonderland, making it a favorite spot for skiers. The snow-capped hills of Pir Panjal range gracefully cocoon the paradise of Gulmarg. Some of the ethereal sights in Gulmarg that are steeped in natural splendor are Alpather Lake, Aparwath Peak, Ferozepur Nallah, Khilanmarg, Ningli Nallah, Kongdori and Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve. Want to visit the heritage or religious sites there? Then, you shouldn't forget to explore Badshah Tomb, Maharani Temple, St. Mary's Church, Kanchenjunga Museum and the Ziarat of Baba Reshi. Tangmarg is a popular stopover as you travel towards Gulmarg.
Doodhpatri
The bowl-shaped hill station of Doodhpatri is an off-beat destination that lies in the Budgam area of Kashmir at 8957ft above sea level and is enclosed by soothing pastures, clear streams and beautiful environs. Literally signifying the "Valley of Milk", this place has a river flowing through the emerald meadows with such speed that it appears to be like milk from afar. This region is best for visiting in summer when the climate is comfortable. Winters are harsh here. When you come to this pristine hill town, located 42kms from Srinagar, you must stop by Palmaidan, Tangnar and Yusmarg.
Dal Lake
This is the jewel of Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir that rests on the footing of Mount Shridhara. This shimmering lake has houseboats parked on it and flows through the Pir Panjal peaks. This enchanting lake is divided into 4 parts by causeways. The captivating floating gardens on which you'll find blooming lotuses are a sight to behold fondly in the months of July and August. Some of the nearby star attractions are Nishat Bagh, Tulip Garden, Shah-I-Hamadan Mosque and the Floating Vegetable Market.
Excited to go to Kashmir during this summer holiday? Then, immediately connect with one of the most popular travel agencies in West Bengal offering a nice itinerary plan for exploring Jammu and Kashmir. This will surely make it possible for you to have a wonderful time experiencing the dreamy locations and out-of-the-world places there while escaping the heat!