15 Beautiful Places In Kashmir Tourists Should Not Miss

The valley of Kashmir is rich in history, culture and natural phenomena on one side, and is a political controversy on the other side. Spicy taste of native cuisines, different types of teas, trekking, staying on houseboats and visiting many holy shrines are favorable things tourists would love to do. The native textiles and craftsmanship are quite famous and thus shopping here is good.

This article will explain the beauty of the list of tourist places in Kashmir to visit that also explain the culture and history of those destinations along with pictures which will make your trip happy.

* Jama Masjid

Jama Masjid located in Nowhatta is one of the most visited mosques in Srinagar, the capital city. The mosque had been built by Sultan Sikandar in 1400 AD and was later extended by his son Zain-ul-Abidin. The mosque has 370 wooden pillars along with Indo-Sarancenic architecture are some elements which draw people here. Fridays are full of 1000’s of Muslims on Friday, as it is considered to be the holiest day to worship.

* Chashmashahi

Chashmashahi is as smallest of the three Mughal gardens located in Kashmir. The garden is located above the Nehru Memorial Park and the name means Royal Spring. From the garden the beautiful Dal Lake can be seen and also the mountains which are in the surrounding. The gardens also has many terraces and fountains and are constructed through the center.

* Nagin Lake

Nagin Lake is located towards the east of Kashmir Valley. It is situated at the foothills of the mountain Zabarwan and the lake is amidst willow and poplar trees. Shankaracharya Hill lies on the south of the lake and Hari Parbat lies to the west. It is famous for water skiing, launches, and boating. Naga lake is one of the most wonderful spots in Kashmir to visit.

* Dachigam National Park

Dachigam National Park is about 22 km away from Srinagar and is on an area of about 141 sq. km. The park is famous for its endangered animals like the red deer. The park is present in a deep valley with steep slopes of woods. The national park various in an altitude of 1600 m to 4200 m as it is in the mountainous area. This national park is one of the famous spots in kashmir for adventuring trip.

* Drass

Drass is second most cold place in the world which has inhabitants. It is located at a height of 3,230 meters and is approximately 60 km from Kargil. It is a small town in the middle of the valley and the path to Ladakh from here is easy as the Zojila Pass falls through the place. Tourists enjoy trekking and Suru Valley is most famous for it.

* Hazratbal

Hazratbal is a famous Muslim shrine and is believe that a strand of hair, preserved in the shrine, belonged to the Prophet Mohammad. It is situated in the left of Dal Lake and is one of the holiest places in Kashmir. The best time to visit this shrine is between March and October due to the favorable weather. Hazratbal is one of ideal and historical places to see in kashmir that will give plenty of peacefulness.

* Sonamarg

Sonamarg has to be reached through the Sindh Valley and it shows a different countryside atmosphere of Kashmir which is not very common. It is situated in an altitude of 2730 m and the name of it means the Meadow of Gold due to its mountainous backdrop with clean sky. The Sindh River flows through the valley and ponies are often hired to tour the venue. Sonamarg is one of the most beautiful sight seeing spots in kashmir to visit.

* Shiv Khori

Shiv Kori is a cave which is located in a hillock and it stretches for about a kilometer. The cave is known to have a natural Shiva Lingam and is more than 100 years old. Tourists get impressed by the Sheshnaag carved ceiling of the cave.

* Khanqah-e-Moula

Khana-e-Mola is one of the oldest Muslim shrines in Kashmir. The shrine had been constructed by Sultan Sikandar and has been beautifully carved on the inside. It was made in honor of Muslim preacher, Mir Syed Ali Hamdani.

* Srinagar

Srinagar is hands down one of the most beautiful places in all of India, let alone Kashmir. While in Srinagar, you can indulge in a host of activities that range from trekking, bird watching, boating or water skiing. It is a popular honeymoon destination in India. Though the place can be visited all through the year, the snowfall that occurs between December and January lends a special serenity and beauty to this wonderful place. It is one of most natural and famous tourist places to visit in kashmir.

* Leh

If you are visiting Kashmir during summers and thinking of the places to visit in Kashmir then Leh is the place for you. The lofty mountains and lakes offer a breathtaking view of the picturesque landscapes. The beauty of Leh mesmerizes all who visit it. It is also a great place for those who love mountain biking and trekking. Indulging in these activities will give you a lifetime of memories and loads of stories to tell your grandchildren about. However, if you wish to go to Leh for mountain biking, summer is the time for you because post November, many of the tracks are closed due to heavy snowfall.

* Kupwara

Kupwara is also known as the “the Crown of Kashmir” The beautiful, green meadows, the mountains and the gushing clear streams make Kupwara one of the best places to visit in Kashmir. Owing to its picturesque landscape, this place is a must visit if you plan to take a trip to Kashmir. Kupwara exemplifies the beauty of Kashmir in ways more than one. Sheikh Baba Behram, Lolab Valley and Qamar Reshi Sahib Shrine are few of the must go places.

* Kathua

If you have ever been attracted by Sufism and have an inclination towards it, Kathua is the place for you. Kathua is also known as the city of Sufis. It depicts the beautiful story of Kashmir’s past and is one of the most beautiful places in Kashmir. It is a must visit if you happen to be a history lover and do not miss out the Jasrota fort. Kathua offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere for all who visit.

* Kargil

It is a city that cannot be easily forgotten. Even today the mention of Kargil brings shivers down the spines of every Indian who had lived during the time of war. This city is a must visit because it holds a special place in the sentiments of every Indian citizen. It is one of Kashmir’s tourist places because of the multitude of emotions it has to offer. For many, this city brings alive memories from a long time ago and makes them proud of their Indian nationality. While in Kargil, one can go mountaineering or trekking in the nearby Suru Valley. Other places of interest include Mulbek Gompa, Shergol, Wakha Rgyal.

* Pahalgam

Freshness is overloaded in this tiny town tucked neatly into the mountains. There is plenty of tranquillity and serenity for all who visit. Pahalgam is a great place to relax, meditate and connect with nature. Located far away from the rat race of the busy city life, Pahalgam will make you forget all about your worries and stress during your stay there. This tiny town is very famous for its huge span of coniferous forest. The winter season starting from late October is perhaps the best time to visit this town because the snow gives an additional beauty to the place. While visiting Pahalgam one can indulge in a variety of pastime activities like canoeing and horseback riding. Nearby places of interest include Betab and Aru Valley.