“Agar firdaus bar roo-e zameen ast, Hameen ast-o hameen ast-o hameen ast.”
If there is a heaven on earth, it’s here, it’s here, it’s here.
Did you know that a famous Indo-Persian Sufi singer and poet, Amir Khusrow, wrote these lines for Kashmir when he was left spellbound by its beauty?
Known as a paradise on earth, Kashmir is located in the northern part of India in the Himalayan Region. It is surrounded by snow-capped mountain peaks, spellbinding lakes, Mughal gardens, ancient architecture, and beautiful valleys with lush green forests.
From century-old traditions to historical monuments and pristine water lakes, Kashmir is a place everyone should visit and experience.
Why Should You Visit Kashmir?
If you want to witness the true divinity of nature, experience the majestic magic of the famous Dal lake and breathtaking landscapes, and enjoy mouth-watering Kashmiri delicacies, this destination should be on your bucket list this year.
Imagine witnessing the majestic beauty of Kashmir while enjoying a Shikara ride in the magnificent Dal Lake with your friends and family. Sounds amazing, right?
Apart from the scenic views and picturesque lakes, Kashmir is also known for its world-famous saffron, artistic antique carpets, pure Pashmina shawls, dry fruits, apple orchids, and silverware items.
Here are 6 Reasons You Must Plan a Trip to Kashmir Soon
To Enjoy Nature At Its Best
From the enchanting beauty of the famous lakes with pristine waters to the captivating views of the lush green valleys, Kashmir is one destination where you can relish the delightful beauty of nature and feel free from all your thoughts.
One can get lost in the mesmerizing trails and scenic landscapes and make the best of every moment. From experiencing the beauty of Gulmarg to watching the flowers in the Tulip Garden during peak season, Kashmir is one place where nature meets magic.
Go take a trip to Kashmir only for its beauty, if nothing else.
You can take a day trip to Sonamarg or visit Gulmarg for some exciting activities like skiing and trekking.
For the Finger-licking Kashmiri Delicacies
If travel is your first love and food is your second love, you must travel to Kashmir for its exquisite delicacies. From the authentic Mutton Rogan Josh to the mouthwatering Kashmiri Dum Aloo, Kashmir is home to some of the best recipes on the globe.
Its world-famous Wazwan, which consists of different meat dishes like mutton ribs, is a perfect feast for all the foodies in the world! Be it the Kashmiri Kahwa or Yakhni curry, you must visit Kashmir to get a nibble of paradise and treat your tastebuds!
As a vegetarian, you can try famous vegetarian dishes like Haak, Khatte Baingan, Kashmiri Saag, and Paneer Chaman, among other foods.
Ahdoos in Srinagar, Dana Pani in Pahalgam, and Mughal Darbar in Srinagar are some of the best places to taste authentic Kashmiri food.
The Serene Shikara Rides
Kashmir is home to some of the most famous and mesmerizing lakes in the world— Dal lake, Wular lake, and Mansar lake, among several others. And taking a Shikara ride in these beautiful lakes while enjoying the fascinating views of the Kashmir valley is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Shikaras are wooden boats found in many lakes in Kashmir that take you through the entire valley’s pristine waters and scenic views. You can click pictures, get dressed in Kashmiri attire, enjoy music, and listen to interesting stories about Kashmiri history and significance.
Shikara rides are not just a popular tourist attraction but a mode of transportation for the locals. For the tourists, a Shikara ride for one hour costs Rs 500. Only 6 people are allowed in a single Shikara.
For the Adventure Lover in You
If you are someone who seeks adventure and wants to go trekking amidst the bewitching mountains and camp around alluring lakes and exuberant forests, plan a trip to Kashmir.
Also Read: From Valley of Flowers to Kedartal, Five Hidden Treks in Uttarakhand for All Trek Lovers
You can trek to some stunning lakes like Gangabal, Kishansar, and Vishansar near Harnukh Peak for the love of exciting and scenic trails. For an experienced trekker, Aru-Valley, Kolahoi Glacier Trek, and Yousmarg Trek are perfect to enjoy an adventurous vacation.
You can also try exciting activities like mountain biking, river rafting, and snowboarding.
To Explore the History, Heritage, and Ancient Architecture
Visiting Kashmir will give you a chance to dive deep into the place’s glorious past through the historical monuments like Martand Sun Temple, Bumzuva Cave, Shankaracharya temple, Khanqah of Shah Hamadan, Patthar Masjid, Pir Haji Muhammad Sahib, Jama Masjid, Hari Parbat Fort, Pari Mahal, etc.
You can also explore the cultural heritage of ancient Kashmir by visiting several museums where you can see shawls, copper utensils, pottery, stones, and handicrafts.
Sri Pratap Singh, Kanchenjunga, Stok Palace Museum, Amar Mahal, and Dogra Art are some of the most famous museums in Kashmir.
To Take a Tour of Sacred Places
Apart from scenic views and mesmerizing lakes, Kashmir is also home to several religious and holy places for Hindus and Muslims. Several popular temples and mosques in Kashmir were built hundreds of years ago and are worth visiting.
The list includes Shankaracharya, Pandrethan, Sharika Devi, Kheer Bhawani, Zeastha Devi, and Bhuteswara Temple. Vaishno Devi and Amarnath Cave are also some notable temples and sacred places in Kashmir.
You can also visit religious Muslim places like the ancient Jama Masjid, Charat-e-Sharief, and Ziarat Dastgir Sahib.
Friends, Family, or Solo – How Should You Travel to Kashmir?
The best part about traveling to Kashmir is that you can go with friends, family, or even alone. The kind of Kashmir you will see with your family will be different than the one you will see with your friends or alone but believe me, all three ways are beautiful.
You will get to see irresistible views and want to come back again and again to take a Shikara ride in the fantastic Dal lake. Your heart would wish to take a Gandola cable car ride and go mountain cycling in the beautiful Gulmarg or go shopping in Anantnag. The activities can be different, but the experience will be worth it.
If you are traveling with your family, you can experience Kashmir like a proper tourist. It includes taking a Shikara ride in the Dal lake, visiting the famous Indira Gandhi Tulip Garden, going to Sonamarg valley for the stunning views of snow-clad mountains, and seeing the ancient Shankaracharya temple in Srinagar.
Furthermore, if you’re traveling with your friends or solo, you can go camping amidst the beautiful mountains of Sonmarg, Pahalgam, Aru Valley, and Mansbal Lake.
Also, you can do horse riding in Yusmarg and Kokernag to enjoy the views of dense forests and snow-capped mountain ranges. River rafting is another option on rivers like the Lidder Sindh, Indus, and Jhelum.
Also Read: Four Groups You Can Join for Your Solo Trip in India
What is The Best Time to Visit Kashmir?
The best part about the paradise on earth is that it can be visited throughout the year and is beautiful every season. Be it summers, spring, or peak winters, Kashmir is unique and equally attractive at all times.
If you want to see the blossomed tulips in the famous tulip garden, enjoy a Shikara ride in the Dal lake, visit the beautiful saffron fields in Pulwama, camp amid the lush green meadows of Kishtwar, or go trekking in the beautiful trails of Poonch, you should visit Kashmir during summers from April-September.
Kashmir is undoubtedly one of the best destinations to visit in India during winters. From the frozen lakes to the exciting snow activities and witnessing the entire valley covered in snow, you must visit Kashmir during winters.
Final Thoughts
Visit Kashmir to experience heaven on earth and witness the breathtaking beauty of the high mountain ranges, scenic landscapes, and mystical lakes.
Experience the true Kashmiriyat by observing the cultures and traditions of the Kashmiri people. Feel the magic of its pleasant climate and get lost in those lush green valleys.
Enjoy your Kahwa, experience the Kashmiri culture and traditions, witness the unforgettable sunsets, get lost in the mountains, and take a bag full of memories home.
So don’t overthink, pack your bags and visit one of the most beautiful places in the world.
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