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The pristine lakes and snow-capped mountains of Jammu and Kashmir offer a tranquil sojourn. Soak in the mesmerizing waters of Pangong and Dal, or savor the fresh scents of verdant gardens on your visit here.
Best Top Attractions and Tourist Destinations in Jammu & Kashmir
1. Vaishno Devi Jammu and Kashmir Tour
Vaishno Devi Jammu and Kashmir is a holy destination for both pilgrims as well as travellers. While the main purpose of a visit is to get darshan, there are several other attractions in Katra that keep people enthralled.
Book our Kashmir with Mata Vaishno Devi Tour to see all the attractions of this famous place. This 7 Nights 08 Days itinerary lets you seek the blessings of Goddess Mata Vaishno Devi at Katra and also enjoy sightseeing in Kashmir.
2. Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden Jammu and Kashmir
The Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden Jammu and Kashmir, formerly known as Siraj Bagh, is the largest tulip garden in Asia. It was opened in 2007 with the aim of boosting floriculture and tourism in the state.
The tulips look stunning against the backdrop of the Zabarwan Mountains and Dal Lake. The garden is also home to various spring flowers like daffodils, hyacinths, and ranunculi.
3. Betaab Valley in Jammu and Kashmir
The valley’s stunning beauty has captured the imagination of Bollywood moviemakers for decades. Films such as Kashmir ki Kali, Jab Jab Phool Khile, and Kabhi Kabhi have exposed an Indian audience to the breathtaking scenery of Jammu and Kashmir.
Enchanting meadows and mighty mountains surround Betaab Valley, which is dominated by the Lidder River. The pristine surroundings provide opportunities to picnic or stroll peacefully. The local culture is steeped in traditions that express a deep connection with nature.
4. Sri Shankaracharya Temple Jammu and Kashmir
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is also known as Jyeshteshwara Temple. It is a popular pilgrimage site in Srinagar. The presiding deity here is believed to be the same that was worshipped by Adi Shankaracharya, the philosopher who sparked a revival of Hinduism in India.
5. Gulmarg Gondola Jammu and Kashmir
Gulmarg Gondola Jammu and Kashmir is a wonderful experience during your vacation in the region. From incredible views to fun winter adventures, this unique experience will claim a special place in your memories forever.
The boarding point is located 20 minutes away from Gulmarg. Taxis are readily available, but you can also walk to get here.
6. Sinthan Top Jammu and Kashmir
Sinthan Top is a picturesque high-altitude mountain pass that offers breathtaking views of snow-capped hills and rivers. It is a great spot for trekking and camping.
The location is also very quiet compared to other popular tourist spots in Kashmir. The flora and fauna here are typically Himalayan.
7. Visit Dal Lake in Jammu and Kashmir
One cannot go to Jammu and Kashmir without visiting the enchanting Dal Lake. Its beauty has weaved its way into the culture of the region.
It is dotted with houseboats moored along its western edge near the lakeside boulevard and Dal gate, on small islands and even hotels that look like they could just float away. It is also home to the floating gardens.
8. Shri Amarnath Cave Temple Jammu and Kashmir
This holy abode is believed to be where Lord Shiva told Goddess Parvati about life and eternity. It is also the center of a pilgrimage that happens during the month of Shravan in July and August.
9. Yousmarg Jammu and Kashmir
The shrine of Saint Syed Balkhi is an important place for Muslims. It is a beautiful piece of architecture with a mixture of both Mughal and Kashmiri architectural designs.
The optimum time to visit Yousmarg is in spring and summer. It is a perfect month to witness the luscious green meadows that are left behind after the monsoon.
10. Aru Valley Jammu and Kashmir – A Hidden Gem
Jammu and Kashmir has plenty of incredible destinations to offer, from tranquil lakes and soaring mountains to breathtaking valleys. But one of the best-hidden gems is Aru Valley in Anantnag District.
Aru is noted for its scenic meadows and serves as a base camp for treks to Kolahoi Glacier. It’s also a popular spot for trout fishing.
11. Gulmarg, a Snow-laden Hill Station in Jammu and Kashmir
Gulmarg is a snow-laden town and hill station in Jammu and Kashmir. It was once a popular summertime retreat for India’s British colonial rulers.
Try Yakhni, a meat dish consisting of lamb immersed in yogurt gravy with spices including black and green cardamom, dried mint leaves, malwa flowers, and more at local restaurants like Nedous Dining Room. Also, sample the savory gunpowder tea.
12. Sonamarg Jammu and Kashmir: A Spectacular Place for Adventure and Serenity
The name translates to ‘Meadow of Gold’ and it probably refers to the profusion of flowers that carpet the place in the spring. It is a major base camp for Amarnath Yatra.
13. Pahalgam Tourism in Jammu and Kashmir
Pahalgam is a town and notified area committee in Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir. It is a popular tourist destination for its scenic beauty and adventure activities like hiking, white water rafting, etc.
Religious sites such as temples, mosques, and gurudwaras are an integral part of the city’s culture. The annual Amarnath Cave yatra attracts thousands of pilgrims from across the country.
14. Srinagar Jammu and Kashmir Tourism
Srinagar Jammu and Kashmir is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty with serene lakes, beautiful Mughal gardens, and historic sites. It is also a center for traditional Kashmiri handicrafts and dried fruits.
Doodhpathri (Valley of Milk) is a bowl-shaped alpine valley dotted with pine fir and deodar forests. Visit this peaceful spot and trek up 243 steps to reach the Shankaracharya Temple, where Lord Shiva is the presiding deity.
Why is Jammu and Kashmir Famous?
Known for its beautiful temples and Basmati rice, Jammu is the hub of all religious activities. The famous shrine of Vaishno Devi is situated on the Trikuta hills and attracts devotees from across the country every year. Besides, the city is home to numerous other beautiful locations that offer peace and tranquility to all tourists.
The region is also renowned for its various handicraft products like Pashmina shawls and antique hand-woven carpets. The locals of the state are skilled in this art and the market of Jammu is flooded with these products. Whether you are a fashion enthusiast or a shopaholic, the Jammu market is ideal for all your shopping needs. It houses everything from beautifully patterned carpets to traditional jewelry and earthenware utensils to feather-like Pashmina shawls. Moreover, you can even get your hands on wood carvings, which are unique to this region.
Another reason why Kashmir is famous is due to its rich culture that includes a variety of festivals. During the festivals, the entire state gets decked up and people come together to celebrate the occasion. The main festivals of the state include Eid-ul-Fitr, Baisakhi, Lohri, Hemis Festival, and Shivratri.
Moreover, the cuisine of Jammu and Kashmir is very delicious. It consists of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes and contains a variety of spices. The most popular dish is Ambal, which is made with different types of pulses and lentils. It is a must-try when visiting the region. Other notable dishes include Dal Patt, Maa da Madra, Dal Kadhi, and Auraiya. The region is also known for its various pickles such as Kasrod, Jimikand, girgle, and Tyaoo.
FAQs
Which is the most visited place in Jammu and Kashmir?
- Sonmarg
- Pahalgam
- Gurez Valley
- Vaishno Devi
- Gulmarg
Which is the No. 1 place in Kashmir?
Srinagar is the No.1 place in Kashmir.
Top Attractions in Jammu and Kashmir
- Gulmarg
- Gurez Valley
- Srinagar
- Vaishno Devi
- Sonmarg
Top sights in Jammu and Kashmir
- Vaishno Devi
- Sri Shankaracharya Temple
- Gulmarg Gondola
- Indira Gandhi Memorial
- Sonamarg
Which is the best month to visit Kashmir?
March to August is the best month to visit Kashmir.
How many days are enough for Kashmir?
7-days are enough for Kashmir.
Unique places to visit in Kashmir
- Gurez
- Chatpal
- Dal Lake
- Pahalgam
- Aru Valley