Top 14 Things to Do in Kashmir – Explore the Crown of India

1. Shikara Ride

As your boatman takes you across the lake, relax and take in the splendor of the far-off mountains. A Shikara ride tops the list of the finest things to do in Kashmir since it gets you away from the rush of dirty city life. Nothing. There was no high-pitched irate throng, no smoke, no sound from the cars.

2. Houseboat Stay

This is one of the greatest unusual things to do in Srinagar, and it goes beyond the shikhara rides in Dal Lake. Lounging overnight on the houseboat moored at the Dal Lake jetty is another of Kashmir’s best experiences. A night spent on one of Srinagar’s houseboats is an experience that everyone should have, whether they are alone, on a honeymoon, or traveling with a family.

3. Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden

Without a visit to this exquisite tulip garden, your trip to Kashmir is completed. One of the biggest tulip gardens in Asia is known as the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden. There are numerous additional garden plants besides tulips, such as hyacinths, daffodils, and ranunculus. March through May is when this garden is most enjoyable to see.

4. ‘Gondola’ Cable Car Ride

A popular activity in Kashmir for visitors of all ages is taking a ride on the Gondola cable car. Travelers who want to see the greatest views of the snow-capped mountains choose to take cable cars. One of the nicest things to do in Kashmir in May is riding a Gondola, as the summer is drawing to a close and the scenery is breathtaking.

5. Old Srinagar Heritage Walk

You walk more to know more, they say. Likewise, Srinagar is in this category. The city’s architecture is influenced by three different architectural styles and three different religions, with some buildings dating back more than four centuries and gardens that are nothing short of a paradise. One of the calmer things to do in Kashmir is to take a stroll through the ancient town.

Things to do during the Old Srinagar Heritage Walk:

• Start at Jamia Masjid.
• Explore Khanqah-e-Moula.
• Walk through Maharaj Gunj and the local culture.
• Visit Shah Hamdan’s Shrine and its historical importance.
• Admire Zaina Kadal Bridge.
• Discover Makhdoom Sahib Shrine and popular pilgrimage site for tourists.
• End at Lal Chowk and the local atmosphere, sample street food, and do some shopping for souvenirs.

6. Tarsar Marsar Trek

Embark on the breathtaking Tarsar Marsar trek, one of the top adventures in Kashmir, and discover the pristine beauty of the Himalayas. This 7-day trek takes you through lush meadows, dense forests, and serene alpine lakes, including the stunning Tarsar and Marsar lakes. With its diverse landscapes and picturesque campsites, the Tarsar Marsar trek offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. Ideal from July to September, this moderate trek promises awe-inspiring views and a chance to explore the untouched wilderness of Kashmir.

7. Kashmiri Cuisine

One of the most crucial things to do in Kashmir, just like in any other place in the globe, is to sample the local food. Everyone has heard about Kashmiri lamb mutton rogan josh and Kahwa tea. But there are a ton more delectable dishes in the cuisine.

8. Tourist Attractions

Whether on a trip with friends, family, or both, nobody would want to skip Kashmir’s breathtaking sights. The most well-liked tourist destinations in Kashmir are Srinagar, Pahalgam, Gulmarg, and Sonamarg. One of the most well-liked activities in Kashmir is visiting these cities.

9. Shopping

One of the most popular pastimes in Kashmir is shopping. Shoppers can purchase pricey Doda Sapphire, hand-woven carpets from Namda, fine Kashmiri handlooms and Pashmina shawls, and antique copperware such as samovars. And then there are the shikaras in Dal Lake, where you can buy fruits, veggies, and flowers.

Here are some popular things to buy in Kashmir:

• Pashmina shawls in local markets or specialty stores.
• Kashmiri carpets or fine wool.
• Kashmiri embroidery.
• Kashmiri handicrafts and exquisite walnut wood souvenirs.
• Kashmiri saffron.
• Kashmiri tea (Kahwa).
• Kashmiri dry fruits from local markets or specialty shops.
• Kashmiri sweets in local sweet shops.

10. Wildlife Tour

Some of the most amazing and uncommon types of plants and animals can be found in Jammu and Kashmir’s snow-capped mountains and deep woods. The best places to see these wildlife species are the more than seven national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in Jammu and Kashmir. Hemis National Park, Kishtwar National Park, Dachigam National Park, Kazinag National Park, and Salim Ali National Park are just a few of these locations.

11. Gulmarg Golf Club

This is one of the unusual things to do in Jammu & Kashmir. It’s one of the biggest and tallest 18-hole golf courses in the world, Gulmarg Golf Club is highly sought after. Playing golf in this “Meadow of Flowers” can be one of the most enjoyable things to do in Jammu & Kashmir. There is a natural golf course at this location. So, take in the scenery while playing this game.

12. Pony Ride Excursions

In the Kashmiri valleys, ponies are a common means of transportation. An additional fascinating activity to do in Kashmir is to go for a quick pony ride around the stunning valleys. In Pahalgam, Sonamarg, Yusmarg, and Gulmarg, pony rides are much sought-after. In locations where motorized transportation is not possible, pony rides are increasingly prevalent.

13. River Rafting

This area has easy to moderate rapids, suggesting that rafting in Kashmir is not too challenging. Additionally, you can go rafting close to Sonamarg. But more well-known is the white water rafting in Pahalgam’s Lidder River. River rafting requires a lot of teamwork and coordination, and you have to heed the instructors’ safety recommendations.

14. Paragliding

Another alternative for individuals who cannot get enough of adrenaline is to try paragliding. The scene beneath is the magnificently gorgeous valley. One of the most exhilarating activities in Kashmir is paragliding, which offers a unique perspective of the verdant valleys.