Embark on a pleasing journey through the top tourist places in Jammu and Kashmir, a land that attracts people with nature’s grandeur. Traveling offers a unique joy that is an essential part of human nature.
Travelers frequently seek destinations where they can revel in this experience, Kashmir stands out as one of these destinations, a heavenly beauty that everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime.
The tourism in Jammu & Kashmir is simply indescribable. Its beauty is so captivating that once you experience it you will want to come back again and again.
Jammu & Kashmir has been often termed as a paradise, this land is abundant with natural wonders that continually draw tourists back to the region.
Top Tourist Places in Jammu and Kashmir
Jammu and Kashmir attracts millions of tourist from the country and around the world. Here are top 10 tourist places of Jammu and Kashmir.
Gulmarg
Distance from Srinagar: 56 km
Places that fall in the way: Tangmarg
Gulmarg is a hill station located in the Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding facilities, as well as its scenic beauty, including snow-capped mountains, meadows, and forests.
Gulmarg is also a popular destination for trekking, camping, and fishing.
Here are some of the specific things tourists can enjoy in Gulmarg:
Skiing and snowboarding: Gulmarg is one of the best places in India for skiing and snowboarding. The resort has a variety of slopes for all levels of skiers and snowboarders.
Trekking: There are a number of trekking trails in Gulmarg, ranging from easy to challenging. Some of the popular trekking trails include the Kongdoori Trail and the Apharwat Peak Trail.
Camping: Gulmarg is a popular camping destination. There are a number of campsites located in and around the resort.
Fishing: Fishing is permitted in the Ningle Nallah stream, which flows through Gulmarg.
Gondola rides: Tourists can enjoy gondola rides to the top of the Apharwat Peak, where they can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The Gondoal is ranking among Asia’s longest and highest cable car journeys.
Alpather Lake: Alpather Lake is a beautiful lake located about 13 km from Gulmarg. The lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and forests, making for a stunning backdrop.
Khilanmarg: Khilanmarg is a beautiful meadow located about 6 km from Gulmarg. The meadow is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and forests, making for a stunning backdrop.
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Gulmarg for skiing and snowboarding is during the winter months (December-March). The best time to visit Gulmarg for trekking, camping, and fishing is during the summer months (April-June) and autumn months (September-November)
Tips for Tourists:
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as you will be doing a lot of walking.
- Carry plenty of water and snacks with you.
- Be aware of the altitude, as Gulmarg is located at an altitude of 2,730 meters.
- Take your time and enjoy the scenery. There are many beautiful places to see in and around Gulmarg.
Gulmarg is a beautiful hill station that offers a variety of activities for tourists to enjoy. It is a perfect destination for a nature lover or anyone who wants to experience the beauty of Kashmir.
Pahalgam
Distance from Srinagar: 91 km
Places that fall in the way: Anantnag
Pahalgam is a hill station and tourist destination in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is noted for its scenic beauty and alpine meadows.
Here are some of the specific things tourists can enjoy in Pahalgam:
Betaab Valley: Betaab Valley is a scenic valley located about 16 km from Pahalgam. It is known for its meadows, forests, and streams. It is a popular destination for picnicking, trekking, and camping.
Aru Valley: Aru Valley is a scenic valley located about 12 km from Pahalgam. It is known for its meadows, forests, and streams. It is a popular destination for trekking, camping, and fishing.
Chandanwari: Chandanwari is a village located about 16 km from Pahalgam. It is the starting point for the Amarnath Yatra, a Hindu pilgrimage to the Amarnath Cave.
Baisaran Meadows: Baisaran Meadows are a series of alpine meadows located about 6 km from Pahalgam. They are known for their scenic beauty and are a popular destination for picnicking, trekking, and camping.
Thajiwas Glacier: Thajiwas Glacier is a glacier located about 11 km from Pahalgam. It is a popular destination for trekking, camping, and glacier walks.
Lidder River: Lidder River is a river that flows through Pahalgam. It is known for its trout fishing and is a popular destination for anglers.
Amarnath Cave: Amarnath Cave is a Hindu pilgrimage site located about 44 km from Pahalgam. It is known for its ice stalagmite, which is believed to be a representation of the god Shiva.
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Pahalgam is during the summer months (April-June) and autumn months (September-November) when the weather is pleasant. However, Pahalgam is open to visitors throughout the year.
Tips for Tourists:
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as you will be doing a lot of walking.
- Carry plenty of water and snacks with you.
- Be aware of the altitude, as Pahalgam is located at an altitude of 2,130 meters.
- Take your time and enjoy the scenery. There are many beautiful places to see in and around Pahalgam.
Pahalgam is a beautiful hill station that offers a variety of activities for tourists to enjoy. It is a perfect destination for a nature lover or anyone who wants to experience the beauty of Kashmir.
Also Read: Top 10 Wildlife Sanctuaries in India
Vaishno Devi
Distance from Srinagar: 232 km
Places that fall in the way: Anantnag, Ramban, Udhampur, Katra
Vaishno Devi is a Hindu pilgrimage site located in the Trikuta Mountains of Jammu and Kashmir, India. The main attraction is the Vaishno Devi Temple, which is dedicated to the goddess Vaishno Devi. The temple is accessible by a 12 km trek, which can be completed in two days.
Tourists can also visit the following places in Vaishno Devi:
Bhairavnath Temple: This temple is located at the top of the Bhairo Ghati, which is a steep climb from the Vaishno Devi Temple. The temple is dedicated to Bhairav, who is the consort of Vaishno Devi.
Ban Ganga: This is a sacred stream where pilgrims can take a dip before starting their trek to the Vaishno Devi Temple.
Charan Paduka: This is a rock formation that is believed to have the footprints of Vaishno Devi.
Himkoti: This is a beautiful meadow located on the way to the Vaishno Devi Temple. It is a popular spot for picnicking and camping.
In addition to the religious activities, tourists can also enjoy the following things in Vaishno Devi:
Trekking: The trek to the Vaishno Devi Temple is a challenging but rewarding experience. The route passes through beautiful forests and meadows.
Sightseeing: Vaishno Devi is known for its scenic beauty. Tourists can enjoy the views of the Trikuta Mountains, the Bhairo Ghati, and the Ban Ganga stream.
Shopping: There are many shops in Katra where tourists can buy souvenirs, handicrafts, and religious items.
Vaishno Devi is a popular tourist destination throughout the year. However, the best time to visit is during the spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) months when the weather is pleasant.
Here are some additional tips for tourists visiting Vaishno Devi:
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as the trek to the temple can be challenging.
- Carry plenty of water and snacks with you.
- Be aware of the altitude, as Vaishno Devi is located at an altitude of 1,800 meters.
- Take your time and enjoy the trek. There are many beautiful places to see along the way.
Sonamarg
Distance from Srinagar: 79.6 km
Places that fall in the way: Ganderbal, Kangan
Sonamarg is one of the top tourist places in Jammu and Kashmir. Sonmarg is a hill station in the Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is known for its scenic beauty, including snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and meadows.
It is a popular destination for trekking, skiing, and snowboarding. Tourists can also enjoy pony rides, and boat rides on the Thajiwas Glacier.
Here are some of the specific things tourists can enjoy in Sonmarg:
Thajiwas Glacier: This glacier is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Sonmarg. Tourists can take a pony ride to the glacier, where they can enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Vishansar Lake: This lake is located about 11 km from Sonmarg. It is a popular destination for trekking and fishing.
Krishansar Lake: This lake is located about 14 km from Sonmarg. It is known for its crystal-clear waters and its beautiful surroundings.
Gangabal Lake: This lake is located about 18 km from Sonmarg. It is a popular destination for trekking and camping.
Nilagrad River: This river is known for its trout fishing. Tourists can also enjoy white water rafting on the river.
Zoji La Pass: This pass is located about 15 km from Sonmarg. It is a high mountain pass that connects Kashmir to Ladakh. Tourists can enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains from the pass.
Sonmarg is a beautiful hill station that offers a variety of activities for tourists to enjoy. It is a perfect destination for a relaxing vacation or an adventurous getaway.
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Sonmarg is during the summer months (April-June) and autumn months (September-November) when the weather is pleasant.
Tips for Tourists:
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as you will be doing a lot of walking.
- Carry plenty of water and snacks with you.
- Be aware of the altitude, as Sonmarg is located at an altitude of 2,800 meters.
- Take your time and enjoy the scenery. There are many beautiful places to see in Sonmarg.
Hokersar
Distance from Srinagar: 10.5 km
Places that fall in the way: None
Hokersar is a wetland reserve located in the Zainakote area of Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is home to a variety of birds and other wildlife, including migratory birds from Siberia and Central Asia. Hokersar is a popular destination for birdwatching, boating, and fishing. There is also a nature interpretation center where visitors can learn about the local flora and fauna.
Here are some of the specific things tourists can enjoy in Hokersar:
Birdwatching: Hokersar is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Over 500 species of birds have been recorded in the wetland, including migratory birds such as the Siberian crane, the common pochard, and the northern pintail.
Boating: Tourists can enjoy boating on the Hokersar wetland. There are a variety of boats available, including rowboats, paddle boats, and motorboats.
Fishing: Hokersar is a popular fishing spot. Tourists can fish for trout, carp, and other fish species.
Nature interpretation center: The nature interpretation center at Hokersar provides information about the local flora and fauna. Visitors can learn about the different types of birds, fish, and other animals that live in the wetland.
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Hokersar is during the winter months (November-March) when the migratory birds are present. However, the wetland is open to visitors throughout the year.
Tips for Tourists:
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as you will be doing a lot of walking.
- Carry plenty of water and snacks with you.
- Be respectful of the wildlife and the environment.
- Do not litter.
Hokersar is a beautiful wetland reserve that offers a variety of activities for tourists to enjoy. It is a perfect destination for a nature lover or anyone who wants to experience the beauty of Kashmir.
Aru Village
Distance from Srinagar: 102 km
Places that fall in the way: Pahalgam
Aru Village is a small village located in the Pahalgam Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is known for its scenic beauty, including meadows, forests, and streams. It is a popular destination for trekking, camping, and fishing. Tourists can also enjoy horse riding and ATV rides.
Here are some of the specific things tourists can enjoy in Aru Village:
Trekking: There are a number of trekking trails in Aru Village, ranging from easy to challenging. Some of the popular trekking trails include the Green Top Trek, the Lidderwat Trek, and the Tarsar Marsar Trek.
Camping: Aru Village is a popular camping destination. There are a number of campsites located in and around the village.
Fishing: Tourists can enjoy fishing in the Aru River. Trout is the most common fish species found in the river.
Horse riding: Tourists can enjoy horse riding through the meadows and forests of Aru Village.
ATV rides: Tourists can enjoy ATV rides through the rugged terrain of Aru Village.
In addition to the above activities, tourists can also enjoy the following in Aru Village:
Picnicking: Aru Village has a number of beautiful meadows where tourists can enjoy picnics.
Photography: Aru Village is a photographer’s paradise. The village offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, meadows, and forests.
Relaxation: Aru Village is a peaceful and relaxing place to spend a few days. Tourists can enjoy the fresh air, the beautiful scenery, and the simple way of life in the village.
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Aru Village is during the summer months (April-June) and autumn months (September-November) when the weather is pleasant. However, the village is open to visitors throughout the year.
Tips for Tourists:
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as you will be doing a lot of walking.
- Carry plenty of water and snacks with you.
- Be aware of the altitude, as Aru Village is located at an altitude of 2,400 meters.
- Take your time and enjoy the scenery. There are many beautiful places to see in and around Aru Village.
- Aru Village is a beautiful and picturesque village that offers a variety of activities for tourists to enjoy. It is a perfect destination for a nature lover or anyone who wants to experience the beauty of Kashmir.
Betab Valley
Distance from Srinagar: 114 km
Places that fall in the way: Pahalgam
Betab Valley is a scenic valley located in the Pahalgam Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is known for its meadows, forests, and streams. It is also popular for its snow-capped mountains and glaciers. Betab Valley is a popular destination for picnicking, trekking, and camping. Tourists can also enjoy horse riding and ATV rides.
Here are some of the specific things tourists can enjoy in Betab Valley:
Picnicking: Betab Valley has a number of beautiful meadows where tourists can enjoy picnics. The lush green meadows are surrounded by snow-capped mountains, making for a stunning backdrop.
Trekking: There are a number of trekking trails in Betab Valley, ranging from easy to challenging. Some of the popular trekking trails include the Thajiwas Glacier Trek and the Chandanwari Trek.
Camping: Betab Valley is a popular camping destination. There are a number of campsites located in and around the valley.
Horse riding: Tourists can enjoy horse riding through the meadows and forests of Betab Valley.
ATV rides: Tourists can enjoy ATV rides through the rugged terrain of Betab Valley.
In addition to the above activities, tourists can also enjoy the following in Betab Valley:
Photography: Betab Valley is a photographer’s paradise. The valley offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, meadows, and forests.
Relaxation: Betab Valley is a peaceful and relaxing place to spend a few days. Tourists can enjoy the fresh air, the beautiful scenery, and the simple way of life in the valley.
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Betab Valley is during the summer months (April-June) and autumn months (September-November) when the weather is pleasant. However, the valley is open to visitors throughout the year.
Tips for Tourists:
Wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as you will be doing a lot of walking.
Carry plenty of water and snacks with you.
Be aware of the altitude, as Betab Valley is located at an altitude of 2,700 meters.
Take your time and enjoy the scenery. There are many beautiful places to see in and around Betab Valley.
Betab Valley is a beautiful and scenic valley that offers a variety of activities for tourists to enjoy. It is a perfect destination for a nature lover or anyone who wants to experience the beauty of Kashmir.
Dachigam National Park
Distance from Srinagar: 22 km
Places that fall in the way: None
Dachigam National Park one of the top tourist places in Jammu and Kashmir the park is located in the Zabarwan Range of the Himalayas, about 22 km from Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including the endangered Hangul or Kashmir stag.
Other animals that can be found in the park include the Himalayan brown bear, the black bear, the snow leopard, the Himalayan tahr, and the Himalayan monal.
Dachigam National Park is a popular destination for wildlife watching, birdwatching, and trekking. Tourists can also enjoy picnicking, camping, and fishing in the park.
Here are some of the specific things tourists can enjoy in Dachigam National Park:
Wildlife watching: Dachigam National Park is a great place to see a variety of wildlife, including the endangered Hangul or Kashmir stag. Other animals that can be seen in the park include the Himalayan brown bear, the black bear, the snow leopard, the Himalayan tahr, and the Himalayan monal.
Birdwatching: Dachigam National Park is home to a variety of birds, including the Himalayan monal, the golden oriole, and the black bulbul.
Trekking: There are a number of trekking trails in Dachigam National Park, ranging from easy to challenging. Some of the popular trekking trails include the Dachigam Sanctuary Trek and the Thajiwas Glacier Trek.
Picnicking: Dachigam National Park has a number of beautiful meadows where tourists can enjoy picnics.
Camping: Camping is permitted in designated areas of Dachigam National Park.
Fishing: Fishing is permitted in the Dagwan River, which flows through the park.
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Dachigam National Park is during the summer months (April-June) and autumn months (September-November) when the weather is pleasant. However, the park is open to visitors throughout the year.
Tips for Tourists:
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as you will be doing a lot of walking.
- Carry plenty of water and snacks with you.
- Be aware of the altitude, as Dachigam National Park is located at an altitude of 2,400 meters.
- Be respectful of the wildlife and the environment.
- Do not litter.
Dachigam National Park is a beautiful and biodiverse national park that offers a variety of activities for tourists to enjoy. It is a perfect destination for a nature lover or anyone who wants to experience the beauty of Kashmir.
Doodhpathri
Distance from Srinagar: 45.7 km
Places that fall in the way: Budgam
Doodhpathri is a hill station located in the Budgam district of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is known for its meadows, forests, and streams. The name Doodhpathri literally means “valley of milk” and it is believed that the meadows of Doodhpathri were once used to graze cattle and buffaloes, and the milk produced in the valley was so pure and white that it was called “doodh” or milk.
Doodhpathri is a popular destination for picnicking, trekking, and camping. Tourists can also enjoy horse riding and pony ride.
Here are some of the specific things tourists can enjoy in Doodhpathri:
Picnicking: Doodhpathri has a number of beautiful meadows where tourists can enjoy picnics. The meadows are surrounded by snow-capped mountains and forests, making for a stunning backdrop.
Trekking: There are a number of trekking trails in Doodhpathri, ranging from easy to challenging. Some of the popular trekking trails include the Shaliganga Trail and the Dophkhal Trail.
Camping: Doodhpathri is a popular camping destination. There are a number of campsites located in and around the valley.
Horse riding and pony rides: Tourists can enjoy horse riding and pony rides through the meadows and forests of Doodhpathri.
In addition to the above activities, tourists can also enjoy the following in Doodhpathri:
Photography: Doodhpathri is a photographer’s paradise. The valley offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, meadows, and forests.
Relaxation: Doodhpathri is a peaceful and relaxing place to spend a few days. Tourists can enjoy the fresh air, the beautiful scenery, and the simple way of life in the valley.
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Doodhpathri is during the summer months (April-June) and autumn months (September-November) when the weather is pleasant. However, the valley is open to visitors throughout the year.
Tips for Tourists:
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as you will be doing a lot of walking.
- Carry plenty of water and snacks with you.
- Be aware of the altitude, as Doodhpathri is located at an altitude of 2,730 meters.
- Take your time and enjoy the scenery. There are many beautiful places to see in and around Doodhpathri.
Doodhpathri is a beautiful hill station that offers a variety of activities for tourists to enjoy. It is a perfect destination for a nature lover or anyone who wants to experience the beauty of Kashmir.
Yusmarg
Distance from Srinagar: 49 km
Places that fall in the way: Budgam
Yusmarg is a hill station located in the Budgam district of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is known for its beautiful meadows, forests, and streams. Yusmarg is also home to a number of waterfalls, including the Tosa Maidan waterfall and the Ningle Nallah waterfall.
Yusmarg is a popular destination for picnicking, trekking, and camping. Tourists can also enjoy horse riding and pony rides.
Here are some of the specific things tourists can enjoy in Yusmarg:
Picnicking: Yusmarg has a number of beautiful meadows where tourists can enjoy picnics. The meadows are surrounded by snow-capped mountains and forests, making for a stunning backdrop.
Trekking: There are a number of trekking trails in Yusmarg, ranging from easy to challenging. Some of the popular trekking trails include the Tosa Maidan Trail and the Frozen Lake Trail.
Camping: Yusmarg is a popular camping destination. There are a number of campsites located in and around the valley.
Horse riding and pony rides: Tourists can enjoy horse riding and pony rides through the meadows and forests of Yusmarg.
In addition to the above activities, tourists can also enjoy the following in Yusmarg:
Photography: Yusmarg is a photographer’s paradise. The valley offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, meadows, and forests.
Relaxation: Yusmarg is a peaceful and relaxing place to spend a few days. Tourists can enjoy the fresh air, the beautiful scenery, and the simple way of life in the valley.
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Yusmarg is during the summer months (April-June) and autumn months (September-November) when the weather is pleasant. However, the valley is open to visitors throughout the year.
Tips for Tourists:
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as you will be doing a lot of walking.
- Carry plenty of water and snacks with you.
- Be aware of the altitude, as Yusmarg is located at an altitude of 2,692 meters.
- Take your time and enjoy the scenery. There are many beautiful places to see in and around Yusmarg.
Yusmarg is a beautiful hill station that offers a variety of activities for tourists to enjoy. It is a perfect destination for a nature lover or anyone who wants to experience the beauty of Kashmir.
