Kashmir, known as Paradise on Earth, lies in the northernmost part of India, wrapped by the majestic Himalayas. The region is famed for its turquoise lakes, lush valleys, Mughal-era gardens, quaint wooden houseboats, and a rich tapestry of culture and crafts. Keywords often searched include Kashmir tourism, Gulmarg ski resort, Shikara ride in Srinagar, Kashmir honeymoon packages, and Kashmir itinerary 2025.
Historically, Kashmir has been shaped by Buddhist, Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, and colonial influences, contributing to its distinctive architecture, cuisine, music, and arts — many travelers explore its mosques, temples, and heritage palaces. It appeals equally to honeymoon couples, adventure seekers (skiing, trekking, rafting), families wanting peaceful retreats, and backpackers exploring offbeat meadows and glaciers.
Recent years have brought major infrastructure boosts: the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) was completed in mid-2025, greatly reducing travel time and improving safety. Attractions reopened including Betaab Valley, Verinag Gardens, Achabal Gardens, etc. These developments reinforce Kashmir’s appeal as a safe, accessible, and diverse travel destination.
How To Reach Kashmir
By Air: Srinagar International Airport (SXR) connects with major Indian cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru etc. Flight time from Delhi ~1.5 hours.
By Train: The recently completed USBRL (Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla) rail link is now fully operational as of June 2025. Travel between Jammu/Katra and Srinagar is now roughly ~3 hours by train.
By Road / Bus: Regular bus/taxi services to Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg; road journey subject to weather & mountain passes. Z-Morh tunnel recently inaugurated to ensure more reliable connectivity to Sonamarg through winter.
Tourist Attractions In Kashmir
Dal Lake – Iconic houseboats, shikara rides, floating markets in Srinagar.
Mughal Gardens (Shalimar, Nishat, Achabal, Verinag) – Elegant terraced gardens from the Mughal era.
Gulmarg – Ski resort, gondola rides, meadows and adventure sports.
Sonamarg – Gateway to alpine meadows and glaciers; ideal for treks and scenic drives.
Pahalgam – River valley, treks, calm walks and Betaab Valley.
Tulip Garden (Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden) – Largest tulip garden in Asia, colorful in spring.
Wular Lake – One of Asia’s largest freshwater lakes; amazing lotus blooms returning.
Naseem Bagh – Historic Mughal garden by Dal Lake, especially beautiful in autumn.
Things To Do In Kashmir
Cruise in a shikara on Dal Lake.
Stay in a houseboat for an authentic Kashmiri experience.
Enjoy the Gulmarg Gondola ride (one of the highest cable cars) and possibly skiing.
Trek to Thajiwas Glacier from Sonamarg.
Visit Mughal gardens and enjoy walk-throughs and sunrise views.
Spectate the spring Tulip Festival in Srinagar.
Bird-watching and boating in Wular Lake.
Shop for pashmina shawls, saffron, dry fruits, papier-mâché arts.
Best Time To Travel
Spring (March–May): Best for flowers, gardens, pleasant weather.
Summer (June–August): Warm but comfortable; ideal for hill stations and meadows.
Autumn (September–November): Clear skies, scenic foliage, less rainfall.
Winter (December–February): Snowfall in higher elevations; great for snow sports but cold days.
Events & Precautions
Events/Festivals: Spring Tulip Festival (Srinagar), local garden festivals; re-opening of spots like Betaab Valley, Verinag, Achabal Gardens with improved security.
Precautions: Check local advisories for weather and safety; some sites may close temporarily after security incidents but many have reopened. Always secure lodging in advance in peak season. Respect heritage and restricted zones.
Useful Travel Tips
Transport: Book flights and trains early (especially post-USBRL rail link). Use registered taxis; local travel in valleys often via shared rides.
Currency & Payments: Indian Rupee; digital payments accepted in many areas but carrying cash helps in remote regions.
Accommodation: From luxury houseboats to guesthouses and camps; options are plentiful near Srinagar, Pahalgam, Sonamarg and Gulmarg.
Connectivity & Communication: Mobile networks good in major towns; remote valleys may have patchy coverage.
Packing Essentials: Layered clothes, rain gear, sun protection, comfortable walking shoes, medication for cold or altitude.
Local Etiquette & Culture: Modest clothing; respect religious and cultural institutions.
Health & Wellness: Stay hydrated; altitude can have effects in higher areas; avoid unregulated food stalls in remote areas.
Sustainable Travel: Support conservation (e.g. lotus bloom restoration in Wular Lake), avoid single-use plastics, use eco-friendly tour operators when possible.
Things Not To Do / Avoid
Do not photograph restricted or military areas; avoid trespassing.
Avoid traveling at night on remote mountain roads during monsoon or snow conditions.
Do not litter lakes, rivers, or heritage gardens.
Refrain from buying fake handicrafts; ensure authenticity of pashmina, saffron, etc.
Things To Remember
Carry ID and travel permits if required (some border zones might require).
Have copies of bookings and offline maps.
Save emergency contacts: local police, hospital, tourism helpline.
Weather changes fast — pack for temperature swings.
Suggested Itinerary
3-Day Itinerary (Popular)
Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar — Dal Lake shikara ride, Mughal Gardens (Nishat & Shalimar)
Day 2: Day trip to Gulmarg — gondola ride, leisure in snow or meadows
Day 3: Sonamarg — glacier sightseeing & return to Srinagar, departure
5-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Srinagar arrival + houseboat stay + local market
Day 2: Mughal Gardens + Tulip Garden (if in bloom) + Wular Lake or Naseem Bagh visit
Day 3: Gulmarg (full day)
Day 4: Pahalgam / Betaab Valley + river view walks
Day 5: Sonamarg + departure
7-Day Itinerary
Combines above + off-beat valleys: Yusmarg, Dachigam, less visited lakes, immersive home-stays and scenic drives
(Popular tag: 3-day Srinagar + Gulmarg + Sonamarg is widely chosen by first-time visitors.)
Nearby Destinations For Extended Trip
Bhaderwah (~150-180 km): Emerging hill town, cultural festival scene, scenic valleys.
Ladakh (via Leh): For high-altitude landscapes; accessible via road/tourist flights.
Jammu / Katra: For pilgrimage and historic city experience; allows combining culture + nature.
Zanskar Valley: Offbeat trek region for adventure travellers.
Chandeleur Meadows & Paristan / Pogal valleys: For wilderness, lesser crowded trails; ideal if you have 6-7+ days.
Must Try – For Foodies
This list is based on recent traveller reviews (TripAdvisor, local tourism blogs). Check opening times before visiting.
Indian Veg
Ahdoos Veg & Bakeries, Srinagar — local sweets, breads, vegetarian Kashmiri dishes (@approx. ₹200-₹500 per person)
Krishna Vaishno Dhaba, Srinagar — North Indian veg cuisine (@approx. ₹150-₹400)
Indian Non-Veg
Mughal Darbar, Srinagar — famous for rogan josh, kebabs etc. (@approx. ₹500-₹1,200)
The Chinar, Srinagar (hotel-area also has public dining) — non-veg, multi-cuisine (@approx. ₹700-₹1,500)
Local Cuisine
Local Kashmiri cafes & stalls: Wazwan specialties (Gushtaba, Yakhni, Rogan Josh) especially in Srinagar and Pahalgam (@approx. ₹600-₹1,500)
Indian/Continental fusion cafes in Srinagar: pizzas, pastas, international menu items in major lounges and houseboat restaurants (@approx. ₹500-₹1,200)
Emergency numbers: Police (100), Fire & Rescue (101), Ambulance (108) or one Unified No. (112)
Tourist Helpline: 1800-11-1363
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes — the Udhampur–Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) is fully operational as of June 2025, including the world’s highest railway arch bridge over Chenab.
Betaab Valley, Achabal Gardens, Verinag, among others, reopened post-security-review.
Spring (March–April) for tulip bloom; check dates as they vary yearly.
With Z-Morh tunnel inaugurated, connectivity has improved; winter access still depends on snowfall and road/tunnel conditions.
Yes — with the USBRL completion, direct Vande Bharat service between Katra and Srinagar has been flagged off.
Many tourist attractions are open; there are enhanced security measures. Visitors report better safety. Still advisable to follow local advisories.
5N/6D
4.9 (Excellent)
