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. |