Kashmir Tourism

[Data is given in most interesting way for Reader’s Engagement]

Kashmir: A Paradise on Earth

Kashmir, the northernmost geographical region of the Indian subcontinent, is known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. With its snow-capped mountains, lush green valleys, sparkling lakes, and vibrant gardens, Kashmir is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The region is also home to a rich cultural heritage, with a unique blend of Hindu, Muslim, and Buddhist influences.

Important Contact Numbers of Kashmir


Category

Contact Number

Police

100

Ambulance

102

Fire

101

Tourist Helpline

1363

J&K Tourism Department Helpline

+91-194-2502512

Srinagar Airport (SXR)

+91-194-2303311

Jammu Tawi Railway Station (JAT)

139 (General Railway Enquiry)

Srinagar Tourist Reception Centre

+91-194-2452690

Gulmarg Gondola

+91-1954-254566, +91-9622166661



Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB)

+91-194-2313146

Helpline: 18001807198, 18001807199 (May to Oct)

+91-191-2555662, +91-191-2503399 (Nov to April)

Traffic Helpline (Srinagar)

+91-194-2455189

Disaster Management Helpline (J&K)

1070

Women's Helpline (J&K)

181

Child Helpline

1098

Medical Emergency

108

Blood Bank (Srinagar)

+91-194-2455713, +91-194-2477212

SMHS Hospital (Srinagar)

+91-194-2472143

SKIMS Hospital (Srinagar)

+91-194-2401013




Tourism Police (Srinagar)

+91-194-2472510

Consumer Helpline (J&K)

18001807011

Directorate of Tourism, Kashmir

+91-194-2472510

J&K Tourism Development Corporation (Srinagar)

+91-194-2472449, +91-194-2452690

Deputy Commissioner's Office (Srinagar)

+91-194-2472324

District Magistrate's Office (Srinagar)

+91-194-2471051

Traffic Police Headquarters (Srinagar)

+91-194-2450022

Mountain Rescue

112

Natural Disaster Helpline

1077

Anti-Corruption Helpline (J&K)

18001807007

Senior Citizen Helpline

14567

Srinagar Bus Stand Enquiry

+91-194-2472922

State Road Transport Corporation (SRTC) Helpline

+91-194-2455104

Prepaid Taxi Service (Srinagar Airport)

+91-194-2303311



Top Places to See in Kashmir


Place

Description

Famous for



Srinagar

The summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, Srinagar is known for its beautiful lakes, Mughal gardens, and houseboats.

Dal Lake, Mughal Gardens, Houseboats, Shankaracharya Temple


Gulmarg

A popular hill station, Gulmarg is known for its stunning scenery, skiing, and Gondola rides.

Gondola, Skiing, Apharwat Peak, Alpather Lake



Pahalgam

A picturesque valley, Pahalgam is known for its lush green meadows, snow-capped mountains, and the Amarnath Yatra.


Lidder River, Baisaran Hills, Betaab Valley, Amarnath Cave


Sonmarg

A beautiful meadow, Sonmarg is known for its stunning scenery, glaciers, and trekking trails.

Thajiwas Glacier, Zojila Pass, Vishansar Lake, Krishansar Lake

Dachigam

National Park

A wildlife sanctuary known for its Hangul (Kashmiri stag)

population.

Hangul, Himalayan Black Bear,

Leopard


Shalimar Bagh

A beautiful Mughal garden with terraced lawns, fountains, and a canal.

Mughal architecture, Chinar trees, fountains


Nishat Bagh

Another Mughal garden with a panoramic view of Dal Lake.

Terraced gardens, fountains, Dal Lake views


Pari Mahal

A historic garden with a terraced structure and a

panoramic view of Srinagar city.

Architecture, city views,

historical significance

Chashme Shahi

A Mughal garden with a natural spring and a beautiful waterfall.

Spring water, waterfall, Mughal architecture


Aru Valley

A picturesque valley known for its meadows, forests, and

the Kolahoi Glacier.

Kolahoi Glacier, trekking, scenic

beauty


Betaab Valley

A scenic valley named after the Bollywood movie "Betaab" which was filmed here.

Lush greenery, Lidder River, film location


Tulian Lake

A high-altitude lake known for its stunning scenery and trekking trails.

Scenic beauty, trekking, high-altitude lake

Sheshnag

Lake


Another high-altitude lake on the way to Amarnath Cave.

Religious significance, scenic

beauty, trekking

Martand Sun Temple

Ancient ruins of a Hindu temple dedicated to the Sun God.

Historical significance, architecture, ancient ruins



Top Offbeat Places to See in Kashmir


Place

Description

Famous for

Warwan Valley

A remote and pristine valley known for its stunning landscapes and trekking trails.

Trekking, natural beauty, remoteness


Sinthan Top

A high-altitude meadow with panoramic views of the Himalayas.


Scenic views, meadows, trekking

Doodhpathri

A picturesque meadow with a stream flowing through it.

Meadows, stream, scenic beauty


Tosamaidan

A high-altitude meadow known for its wildflowers and trekking trails.

Wildflowers, trekking, scenic views


Chatpal

A hidden gem with lush green meadows, dense forests, and a river.

Natural beauty, serenity, off-the-beaten-path


Daksum

A picturesque valley with a trout stream and dense forests.

Trout fishing, forests, scenic beauty


Verinag

The source of the Jhelum River, known for its natural spring and Mughal garden.

Jhelum River source, Mughal garden, spring

Kokernag

A scenic spot with a natural spring and a garden.

Spring, garden, scenic beauty

Aharbal Waterfall


A beautiful waterfall cascading down a rocky cliff.


Waterfall, scenic beauty, trekking

Manasbal Lake


A serene lake known for its lotus flowers and birdlife.

Lotus flowers, bird watching, tranquility


Gurez Valley

A hidden gem, Gurez Valley is known for its pristine beauty, stunning landscapes, and the Kishanganga River.


Habba Khatoon Peak, Razdan Pass, Tulail Valley


Bangus Valley

A lesser-known valley, Bangus Valley is known for its lush green meadows, dense forests, and the Bangus stream.


Meadows, Forests, Bangus Stream


Lolab Valley

A picturesque valley, Lolab Valley is known for its fruit orchards, rice fields, and the Kalaroos Caves.

Kalaroos Caves, Fruit Orchards, Rice Fields


Yusmarg

A beautiful meadow, Yusmarg is known for its stunning scenery, trekking trails, and the Nilnag Lake.

Nilnag Lake, Sang-e-Safed Valley, Doodh Ganga River



Top Activities in Kashmir


Activity

Description

Location


Gondola Ride

Enjoy a scenic ride on the Gulmarg Gondola, which offers stunning views of the Himalayas.


Gulmarg


Skiing

Hit the slopes and enjoy skiing in Gulmarg, one of the best skiing destinations in India.


Gulmarg



Trekking

Explore the stunning landscapes of Kashmir on foot, with a variety of trekking trails available for all levels of experience.



Various locations


Rafting

Experience the thrill of white-water rafting on the Lidder River in Pahalgam.


Pahalgam


Camping

Spend a night under the stars in the beautiful valleys of Kashmir.


Various locations


Bird Watching

Kashmir is home to a variety of bird species, making it a great destination for bird watching.


Various locations


Photography

Capture the stunning beauty of Kashmir with your camera.


Various locations


Top Hotels & Resorts of Kashmir


Hotel

Location

Description

The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa


Gulmarg

Luxury resort with stunning views, world-class amenities, and a spa.


Vivanta Dal View


Srinagar

Luxury hotel with a panoramic view of Dal Lake and excellent service.


Lalit Grand Palace Srinagar


Srinagar

Heritage hotel with a royal ambiance and modern amenities.

The Orchard Retreat & Spa

Srinagar

Boutique hotel with a focus on wellness and relaxation.


Four Points by Sheraton Srinagar


Srinagar

Modern hotel with comfortable accommodations and convenient location.


Pahalgam Hotel


Pahalgam

Classic hotel with a traditional Kashmiri ambiance and scenic views.


Hotel Heevan Pahalgam


Pahalgam

Offers comfortable stay with a focus on hospitality and local experiences.


The Vintage Gulmarg


Gulmarg

Boutique hotel with a vintage charm and modern amenities.


Hotel Highlands Park Gulmarg


Gulmarg

Family-friendly hotel with a variety of activities and facilities.


Ahad Hotels & Resorts Sonmarg


Sonmarg

Offers comfortable stay with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.



Top Homestays of Kashmir


Homestay

Description

Location

Highlights


The Other House

A beautifully restored traditional Kashmiri house with modern amenities.



Srinagar

Cozy rooms, garden, delicious homemade food, warm hospitality, central location.



Haven Retreat

Peaceful homestay with a focus on sustainable tourism and local experiences.



Srinagar

Organic garden, cultural activities, personalized service, serene environment.

Vale of Kashmir Homestay

Family-run homestay with comfortable rooms and a friendly atmosphere.



Srinagar


Home-cooked meals, helpful hosts, close to Dal Lake, authentic experience.

John's Homestay

Highly rated for its cleanliness, comfort, and welcoming hosts.


Srinagar

Well-maintained rooms, helpful advice, great location, value for money.


The Humble Abode


Offers a comfortable stay with a focus on personalized service.



Srinagar

Friendly hosts, modern amenities, peaceful location, authentic Kashmiri experience.


Moonshine Home stay

Located in a quiet locality, offering a peaceful and relaxing stay.



Srinagar


Clean and well-maintained property, helpful host, comfortable rooms.


Anand Homestay

Known for its warm hospitality and delicious home-cooked meals.



Srinagar


Comfortable rooms, friendly atmosphere, local insights, cultural immersion.

Ikraam Inn Bed & Breakfast

Offers a comfortable stay with a focus on local culture and traditions.



Srinagar

Traditional décor, home-cooked breakfast, helpful staff, authentic experience.

Hideaway Cottages Home in Kashmir



Charming cottages with stunning views and a peaceful ambiance.




Gulmarg



Well-equipped cottages, garden, scenic location, privacy, ideal for families.

Himalayan Sun Cottage

Family-run homestay with a cozy atmosphere and beautiful views.


Gulmarg

Comfortable rooms, home-cooked meals, warm hospitality, scenic location.



Farsal Villa

Offers a luxurious stay with modern amenities and stunning views.



Pahalgam

Spacious rooms, well-equipped kitchen, garden, panoramic views, personalized service.

Luminaire Homestay

Known for its comfortable rooms and friendly hosts.


Pahalgam

Well-maintained rooms, helpful staff, peaceful location, value for money.



Top Kashmiri Cuisines


Dish

Description

Where to Eat




Wazwan

A multi-course feast, a hallmark of Kashmiri cuisine, featuring an array of meat dishes like Rogan Josh, Rista, Gushtaba, Tabak Maaz, and more, served with rice, vegetables, and chutneys.


Ahdoos (Srinagar) Shaheen Restaurant (Srinagar) Mughal Darbar (Srinagar)


Rogan Josh

Aromatic lamb curry cooked in a rich gravy of Kashmiri chilies, yogurt, and spices, offering a deep red color and a flavorful experience.

Ahdoos (Srinagar) Mutton Point Restaurant (Srinagar) Shamyana Restaurant (Srinagar)



Yakhni

A mild and flavorful mutton curry cooked with yogurt, cardamom, and a blend of spices, creating a creamy and aromatic dish.

Mughal Darbar (Srinagar) Alka Salka Restaurant (Srinagar) Shaheen Restaurant (Srinagar)



Gushtaba

Tender meatballs cooked in a creamy yogurt gravy, often considered the highlight of Wazwan, known for its delicate flavors and melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Ahdoos (Srinagar) Shaheen Restaurant (Srinagar) Mughal Darbar (Srinagar)



Rista


Spicy meatballs in a fiery red gravy, offering a bold and flavorful experience for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

Ahdoos (Srinagar) Shaheen Restaurant (Srinagar) Mughal Darbar (Srinagar)


Tabak Maaz


Crispy fried lamb ribs, a delicacy for adventurous eaters, offering a unique combination of textures and flavors.

Ahdoos (Srinagar) Mutton Point Restaurant (Srinagar) Shaheen Restaurant (Srinagar)



Dum Aloo


Baby potatoes cooked in a creamy and flavorful gravy, a vegetarian delight with a rich and satisfying taste.

Ahdoos (Srinagar) Mughal Darbar (Srinagar) Dana Paani (Srinagar - Vegetarian)


Kashmiri Pulao

Aromatic rice dish with dry fruits, nuts, and saffron, offering a fragrant and flavorful accompaniment to main courses.

Ahdoos (Srinagar) Mughal Darbar (Srinagar) Shamyana Restaurant (Srinagar)


Modur Pulav

Sweet rice dish with dry fruits and saffron, often served as dessert, providing a sweet and satisfying end to a meal.

Ahdoos (Srinagar) Mughal Darbar (Srinagar) Shaheen Restaurant (Srinagar)



Kahwa

Traditional green tea infused with saffron, cardamom, and almonds, a warm and comforting beverage with a unique Kashmiri flavor.

Most restaurants and cafes in Kashmir. Ahdoos (Srinagar) Mughal Darbar (Srinagar)



Noon Chai


Salted pink tea, a unique Kashmiri beverage, offering a savory and distinctive taste experience.

Local tea stalls and cafes Ahdoos (Srinagar) Mughal Darbar (Srinagar)



Top Restaurants of Kashmir


Restaurant

Description

Location

Shaheen Restaurant

Known for its Wazwan and traditional Kashmiri dishes.

Srinagar

Mutton Point Restaurant


Popular for its Rogan Josh and other mutton delicacies.


Srinagar

Alka Salka Restaurant

Offers a variety of Kashmiri and Indian dishes.

Srinagar

The Chinar

Fine dining restaurant with a focus on Kashmiri cuisine.

Srinagar

The Kebab Shop

Serves delicious kebabs and other grilled dishes.

Srinagar

Stream Restaurant

Offers a scenic view along with Kashmiri and Indian cuisine.

Pahalgam

Trout Beat Restaurant

Specializes in trout fish dishes and other local delicacies.

Pahalgam

Cafe Log Inn

Cozy cafe with a variety of snacks and beverages.

Gulmarg

The Vintage Gulmarg

Restaurant with a vintage ambiance and a multi-cuisine menu.

Gulmarg

Heevan Retreat Restaurant

Offers stunning views and a menu featuring Kashmiri and Continental dishes.


Sonmarg

Ahdoos

A popular restaurant serving traditional Kashmiri cuisine.

Srinagar


Mughal Darbar

Another popular restaurant serving Kashmiri and Mughlai cuisine.


Srinagar


Shamyana Restaurant

A rooftop restaurant offering stunning views of Dal Lake and delicious Kashmiri food.


Srinagar

Dana Paani

A vegetarian restaurant serving delicious Kashmiri dishes.

Srinagar



Festivals of Kashmir


Festival

Duration

Significance


Tulip Festival

April (variable dates)

Celebrates the blooming of tulips in the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden, Srinagar, showcasing the region's natural beauty.


Baisakhi


April 13th or 14th

Marks the Sikh New Year and the harvest season, celebrated with festivities and prayers at gurudwaras.



Urs (Ziarats)

Throughout the year (variable dates)


Commemorates the death anniversaries of Sufi saints, observed by both Muslims and Hindus with prayers and gatherings at shrines.


Eid-ul-Fitr


End of Ramadan

Marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, celebrated by Muslims with prayers, feasts, and family gatherings.

Eid-ul-Adha (Bakra Eid)

Islamic lunar calendar

Celebrated by Muslims with the sacrifice of an animal, symbolizing Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son.


Kheer Bhawani Mela


May or June (variable dates)

A Hindu festival dedicated to the goddess Ragnya Devi, celebrated at the Kheer Bhawani Temple in Tulmulla with prayers and offerings of kheer (sweet rice pudding).

Mahashivratri (Herath)

February or March (variable dates)

Celebrated by Kashmiri Pandits in honor of Lord Shiva, with fasting, night-long prayers, and special rituals.

Gurez Festival

July or August (variable dates)

A relatively new festival promoting tourism in the Gurez Valley, showcasing local culture, cuisine, handicrafts, and sports.

Shikara Festival

September (variable dates)

A vibrant festival on Dal Lake with shikara races, cultural performances, and traditional music.


Saffron Festival

October or November (variable dates)


Celebrates the harvest of saffron, a precious spice grown in the Pampore region, with cultural programs and exhibitions.