30 Things to do in Kashmir

April 22, 2024

The sun has unleashed its wrath on us, and everyone is already browsing the internet to plan their trips to cooler areas for temporary relief. Kashmir is one of the easiest and most affordable options. If you plan a visit, you must know the best things to do in Kashmir beforehand.

This place is often referred to as "Paradise on Earth," and the title is in no way unjustified. The luscious range of snow-capped mountains and the crystal blue rivers descending from them, the enriching greenery, etc., have made people plan a trip to Kashmir quite frequently. 

There are indeed a lot of things to do in Kashmir that can compel you to revisit the place once again. The region is loaded with several thrilling activities and scenic beauty for you to indulge in. This article will explore thirty activities for you to enjoy, the famous street food choices, and how to make the commute. Scroll down to learn more. 

List Of 30 Best Things To Do In Kashmir

1. Shikara ride in Kashmir

Shikara ride is one of the best things to do in Kashmir

This is often considered one of the best things to do in Kashmir since the Shikara ride gives you an overall view of the breathtaking beauty of the region. These are lightweight rowing boats that offer trips from and to the houseboats. However, longer tours are also available. Also, during the ride, you can shop at the floating markets that will come your way. 

Kashmir is one of the best places to visit In October in India if you are planning for a Shikara ride. 

  • Where To Try: Dal Lake, Nagin Lake
  • Timings: 5:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Everyday)
  • Entry fee: INR 200-500
  • Ride duration: 30 - 45 minutes on average
  • Best time to visit: Summer Season (May-October)

2. Wildlife Tour

Wildlife Tour is one of the best things to do in Kashmir

Kashmir is home to a plethora of exotic animals and several rare species, making the wildlife safaris worthwhile. Visiting the various national parks and wildlife sanctuaries makes Kashmir the best place to visit with your family in India

  • Where To Try: Dachigam National Park, Kishtwar High Altitude National Park, Kazinag National Park, Overa Aru Wildlife Sanctuary, Achabal Wildlife Sanctuary. 
  • Timings: 7.00 AM to 6.00 PM
  • Entry fee: INR 25 - 30 
  • Ride duration: 2 - 3 hours 
  • Best time to visit: March to October

3. Gulmarg Golf Club

Gulmarg Golf Club is one of the best things to do in Kashmir

If you aim for golfing amidst the scenic beauty of the place, then Kashmir is amongst the best places to visit in November in India; you must visit to enjoy your golf game under the snow-capped mountains and around the beautiful greenery. Several travel packages might omit this activity; hence, be careful that you are choosing the right Gulmarg Tour Packages, which includes golfing. 

  • Where To Try: Gulmarg
  • Timings: 10.00 AM to 4.00 PM
  • Entry fee: INR 800 - 1000
  • Ride duration: 4 hour
  • Best time to visit: April to November

4. Explore Mughal Gardens

Explore Mughal Gardens is One of The Best Things to do in Kashmir

This is the most relaxing summer activity in this place. Strolling through the magnificent Mughal gardens. It is one of the most famous things in Kashmir; hence, it is a must for everyone. They are built in the charbagh style by the famous Mughal princes and courtiers. The gardens are beautifully placed amidst the fountains that elevate the overall beauty of the place. 

  • Where To Try: Nishat Garden, Shalimar Garden, Chashme Shahi Garden, Pari Mahal Garden.
  • Timings: 9.30 AM to 6:30 PM
  • Entry fee: INR 25-30 (approx) per person
  • Ride duration: 1-1.5 hours (for each garden)
  • Best time to visit: March to October

5. Pony Ride

Pony Ride is One of The Best Things to do in Kashmir

Pony riding should be on your list if you consider Kashmir amongst the best places to visit in July in India, as it is a common summer activity. Walking all the way through the hilly areas is not always feasible. Hence, you can easily book these ponies to help with your trekking activities. You can also choose the Pahalgam tour packages that provide this facility. Make sure to carry food and water along. 

  • Where To Try: Baisaran, Chandanwari, Gulmarg, Yousmarg, Sanasar
  • Timings: Any time 
  • Entry fee: INR 1000-2000 (depending on distances)
  • Ride duration: 3 - 4 hours 
  • Best time to visit: March to October 

6. Paragliding

Paragliding is One of The Best Things to do in Kashmir

If you want to ensure your Kashmir tour is memorable and exhilarating, then one of the best thing to do in Kashmir is paragliding. The valley beneath the site is a site to behold, especially as you get a top view of the soothing greenery and the snowy mountain tops. You can also get lucky and experience snowfall after your paragliding experience. 

We all know that Kashmir is definitely amongst the best places to enjoy snowfall in February in India.

  • Where To Try: Sonamarg, Gulmarg, Bhaderwah, Sanasar, and Harwan (Srinagar)
  • Timings: 8.00 AM to 6.00 PM
  • Entry fee: INR 3000 - 4000
  • Ride duration: 10 - 15 minutes
  • Best time to visit: May to October 

7. Rafting

Rafting is One of The Best Things to do in Kashmir

This is a thrilling ‘Kashmir things to do’ activity as the rivers are quite turbulent. However, there is nothing to worry about as you and the boat will be properly equipped to avoid any kind of danger. This is one of the best places for River Rafting in India. Moreover, if you want to feel the chills of the icy cold river, consider exploring Kashmir in September, as this will give you the most memorable rafting experience. 

  • Where To Try: Lidder River Pahalgam
  • Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM
  • Entry fee: INR 2000 - 4000
  • Ride duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour
  • Best time to visit: April to September

8. Camping

Camping is One of The Best Things to do in Kashmir

Camping in Kashmir is the best way to enjoy the sun-kissed nature in the day and the celestial beauty of the night. These site options are normally away from the pollution and chaos of the urban area. If you are looking for honeymoon destinations in India in low budget, choose Kashmir to indulge in this romantic activity. 

  • Where To Try: Gulmarg, Aru Valley, Lidderwat, Sonamarg, Yousmarg, Pahalgam
  • Timings: Check-In - 3.00 PM and Check Out - 11.30 AM
  • Entry fee: INR 3500 per night 
  • Ride duration: 2 nights, 3 days - 4 nights, 5 days
  • Best time to visit: March to October

9. Enjoy Local Cuisines

Enjoy Local Cuisines

Savouring the various delicacies of Kashmir is a must. Tasting the unique and perfectly balanced blend of flavours is one best things to do in Kashmir. Whether you have a sweet tooth or spicy food lover, this region has it all. The famous dishes are Tabakh Maaz, Rogan Josh, Gushtaba, Zaffran Pulao, etc. 

  • Where To Try: Ahdoos, Dana Pani, Shamyana Restaurant, Earthen Oven Restaurant.
  • Timings: 10 AM to 8 PM
  • Entry fee: INR 1000 - 1500 per person
  • Ride duration: 2 - 3 hours 
  • Best time to visit: March to October 

10. Gondola' Cable Car Ride

Gondola' Cable Car Ride is One of The Best Things to do in Kashmir

If you are visiting Gulmarg, then one of the things To Do In Gulmarg is the cable car ride. The cable car extends to Apharwat Peak; hence, you get a breathtaking view of the incredible beauty of the place. From Gulmarg to Apharwat, the ride covers a distance of 5 kilometres. It is the Best Places to Enjoy Snowfall in February in India as you get the skiing opportunity in this month. 

  • Where To Try: Gulmarg 
  • Timings: 10.00 AM to 5.00 PM 
  • Entry fee: INR 300 - 1000
  • Ride duration: 10 - 15 minutes
  • Best time to visit: November to February

 11. Shopping in Kashmir

You can easily choose a souvenir from Kashmir as there are famous things in Kashmir to buy, like handicraft items, like carpets, shawls, stone jewellery boxes, wooden furniture, etc. Each of these things is gorgeous, authentic and a must for shopaholics.  

  • Where To Try: Lal Chowk, Residency Road, Badshah Chowk, Polo View Road, Floating Vegetable Market, Kashmir Government Arts Emporium
  • Timings: 9.00 AM to 10.00 PM
  • Entry fee: Average price range INR 2000 - 10000
  • Ride duration: 4 - 5 hours 
  • Best time to visit: March to August 

12. Trekking in Kashmir

Trekking is One of The Best Things to do in Kashmir

Kashmir is undoubtedly one of the Best Places to Visit in India if you want an ideal spot for trekking. The range of mountains and the impeccable natural beauty will give an enhanced experience. The sunset views and the serenity of the atmosphere are especially soothing. 

  • Where To Try: The Great Lakes trek, Tarsar Marsar trek, Naranag Mahlish trek, Naranag Gangabal trek, Kolahoi Glacier trek, etc.
  • Timings: 8 AM to 8 PM
  • Entry fee: INR 10,000 - 11, 000
  • Ride duration: 5 - 7 hours 
  • Best time to visit: July to October 

13. Hot Air Ballooning in Kashmir

Hot Air Ballooning is One of The Best Things to do in Kashmir

If you are tired of walking in the hilly areas of the region, then avail yourself of the relaxing hot air balloon service. It rises to around 35 feet for you to enjoy the scenic beauty of the region. They take up to 4 persons for each ride. 

  • Where To Try: Zabarwan Park (Srinagar)
  • Timings: 8 AM to 9 PM
  • Entry fee: INR 1000
  • Ride duration: 10 - 15 minutes
  • Best time to visit: April to October

14. Camel Safari

Camel Safari is One of The Best Things to do in Kashmir

Another activity among the best things to do in Kashmir is Camel Safari. The tour begins in Nubra Valley and ends at Panamic Village. The entire ride is incredible as it gives you a breathtaking view of Ladakh. Do not miss out on this activity. 

  • Where To Try: Ladakh
  • Timings: 5.00 AM to 7.00 PM
  • Entry fee: INR 500 per hour
  • Ride duration: 1 - 2 hours
  • Best time to visit: July to September

15. Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden

Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden is One of The Best Things to do in Kashmir

This is the Best Places To Visit In India In April if you are looking forward to cherishing the beauty of the Tulip Garden. This is an inclusion on all Srinagar Tour Packages as this garden claims to have 68 variants of the flowers. Also, it has 15 lakh flowers and has been recognized as Asia's largest park in the London World Book of Records. 

  • Where To Try: Srinagar
  • Timings: 8.00 AM to 7.00 PM
  • Entry fee: INR 25 for children and 60 for adults
  • Ride duration: 2 - 3 hours 
  • Best time to visit: March to April

16. Old Srinagar Heritage Walk

Old Srinagar Heritage Walk is One of The Best Things to do in Kashmir

There can be nothing more dreamy than strolling through the breathtaking city of Srinagar. The city proudly speaks of the rich heritage and history of the place. This is surely the best things to do in Kashmir, especially if you are visiting the Jama Masjid, built on 370 pillars made from Maple trees. Don't miss out on the shops, gardens and the various other architectural buildings. 

  • Where To Try: Srinagar
  • Timings: 9.00 AM to 8.00 PM
  • Entry fee: INR 2000 - 3000
  • Ride duration: 30 - 50 minutes
  • Best time to visit: March to June

17. Mountain Biking

Mountain Biking is One of The Best Things to do in Kashmir

Biking through the roads of this region will give you a thrilling and memorable experience. If biking is your strength, then this is one of the best things to do in Kashmir, especially in areas like Pahalgam to Srinagar, Sonmarg to Wular, etc. 

  • Where To Try: Gulmarg to Pahalgam, Pahalgam to Srinagar, Sonmarg to Wular/Manasbal Lake, Srinagar to Sonmarg
  • Timings: 8.00 AM to 7.00 PM
  • Entry fee: INR 300 - 400 per hour
  • Ride duration: 1 - 2 hours 
  • Best time to visit: March to May 

18. Skiing

Skiing is One of The Best Things to do in Kashmir

This is the Best Places To Visit In December In India if skiing is your focus activity. The beautiful slopes and landscapes make it an ideal spot for skiing. Also, the variety of landscapes enables skiers of all ability levels to comfortably indulge in the activity. 

  • Where To Try: Gulmarg
  • Timings: 9.00 AM to 6.00 PM
  • Entry fee: INR 1000 - 1500 (daily)
  • Ride duration: 4 -5 hours (Depends on kilometres) 
  • Best time to visit: December to March

19. Snowboarding

Snowboarding is One of The Best Things to do in Kashmir

We all know that Kashmir is one of the Best Snowfall Places In India You Must Visit (2024); hence, snowboarding is a very popular indulgence. Moreover, the landscape allows everyone to engage in this activity. 

  • Where To Try: Gulmarg, Pahalgam
  • Timings: 8.00 AM to 5.00 PM
  • Entry fee: INR 5000 - 6000
  • Ride duration: 5 - 7 hours (depending on kilometres)
  • Best time to visit: December to February

20. Couple Photoshoots in local dress

Kashmir is often considered a potential site for pre-wedding photoshoots. And why not? The ethereal beauty of the region can never be denied, and capturing it with your loved one is amazing. Moreover, you get to click the pictures in their local dress, which elevates your experience even more. Do not forget to keep this in your list of best things to do in Kashmir if you visit. 

  • Where To Try: Pahalgam
  • Timings: 6.00 AM to 7.00 PM
  • Entry fee: INR 5000 - 8000 (with a professional photographer)
  • Ride duration: 1 - 2 hours 
  • Best time to visit: March to November

21. Explore Shankaracharya Temple

Explore Shankaracharya Temple is One of The Best Things to do in Kashmir

Visiting this temple is a must for your best things to do in the Kashmir list as it speaks of our rich culture and heritage. It is a Lord Shiva temple set high up on a hilltop, which gives a bird's eye view of the entire city. This is one of the Best Places to Visit in Kashmir to spiritually connect with the region. 

  • Where To Try: Zabarwan range (Srinagar)
  • Timings: 7.00 AM to 8.00 PM
  • Entry fee: INR 25 for people above 12. Free for below 12 children
  • Ride duration: 2 - 3 hours 
  • Best time to visit: May to september. 

22. Water sports at Wular Lake

Water sports at Wular Lake is One of The Best Things to do in Kashmir

Wular Lake is a very vibrant spot for a variety of things. This is the Best Places To Visit in June in India if you plan to indulge in water sports like boating, water skiing, fishing, etc. You can also opt for other activities like birdwatching, sunset viewing, camping, rafting, etc. 

  • Where To Try: Bandipora (Wular Lake)
  • Timings: 6.00 AM to 7.00 PM
  • Entry fee: INR 200 to 700 
  • Ride duration: 10 - 15 minutes
  • Best time to visit: April to October 

23. Fishing & Angling

Fishing & Angling is One of The Best Things to do in Kashmir

This is one of the most thrilling experiences in Kashmir. The gurgling streams descending down from the mountain ranges harbour fishes like rainbow trout, German trout, etc. The region has 61 beats, each 3-4 km long for fishing and angling. This is one of the best things to do in Kashmir if you are visiting the place in April or October. 

  • Where To Try: Lidder, Erin, Ferozpur.Sindh Doodh Ganga, Daksum, Noobug, Aharbal, Krishen Ganga, Hirpur, Kokernag, Verinag, Sukhnag, Krishansar and Vishansar Lakes, Gangabal Lake
  • Timings: 9 AM to 10 PM
  • Entry fee: need licence and permit - INR 1000 for local anglers, INR 2000 for foreigners
  • Ride duration: six fish a day
  • Best time to visit: April to October 

24. Horse Riding

Horse Riding is One of The Best Things to do in Kashmir

Horse riding is among the best things to do in Kashmir as you enjoy the thrilling topography of the place. The best way to enjoy the minute details of the region is by booking a horse ride. Also, you can consider these as your romantic honeymoon activity as you ride through the dreamy landscape of the region. 

  • Where To Try: Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Yusmarg, Sonmarg, Kokernag
  • Timings: 9.00 AM to 6.00 PM
  • Entry fee: INR 2000 - 4000
  • Ride duration: 2 - 4 hours
  • Best time to visit: March to December

25. Luxury Houseboat Experience

Luxury Houseboat Experience is One of The Best Things to do in Kashmir

If you want to enjoy the more authentic taste of the place, quit the traditional luxury hotels and choose the amazing houseboats. These are equally furnished but with a rustic taste. They have separate lounges, dining, etc. Some even have balconies and floating garden areas. If you plan to laze around and enjoy scenic beauty, make sure your Kashmir Tour Packages include this activity. 

  • Where To Try: Dal and Nagin Lake
  • Timings: Check-In - 2.30 PM, Check-out - 11 AM
  • Entry fee: INR 5000 - 10000
  • Ride duration: 1- 2 nights 
  • Best time to visit: Anytime of the year

26. Mountaineering

Mountaineering is One of The Best Things to do in Kashmir

Another best things to do in Kashmir is mountain climbing. The Himalayan ranges enable the region to offer this activity to the visitors. Don't miss out on this enthralling experience. Moreover, the road is comfortable for both amateurs and experts. You will be provided with all the necessary items. 

  • Where To Try: Kolahoi, Tattakuti, Harmukh, Sunset, Sonmarg, Gulmarg and Pahalgam.
  • Timings: 6.00 AM to 6.00 PM
  • Entry fee: According to the packages
  • Ride duration: 1 - 2 hours
  • Best time to visit: May to October 

27. Fairs & Festivals

There is no better way to understand the essence of a place than attending the fairs and festivals of the place. Hence, this is one of the best things to do in Kashmir to enjoy the rich culture and heritage of the region. Some of the must-visits are Bahu Mela, Purmandal Mela, Jhiri Mela, Pahalgam festival, and saffron and shikara festivals. 

  • Where To Try: Jammu region
  • Timings: 9.00 AM to 8.00 PM
  • Entry fee: N/A
  • Ride duration: 4 - 5 hours 
  • Best time to visit: March to November 

28. Photography

Photography is One of The Best Things to do in Kashmir

The region offers unparalleled topographical beauty to its visitors, which makes photography one of the best things to do in Kashmir. The lakes, mountains, snowfalls, wildlife, historical sites and many more compel visitors to capture the beauty in numerous photos. Hence, whether it's your mobile or camera, make sure you are ready to click the breathtaking landscape of the region. 

  • Where To Try: Srinagar, Pahalgam, Yusmarg, Gulmarg, Sonmarg, Jammu City.
  • Timings: Anytime
  • Entry fee: Depends on different spots 
  • Ride duration: N/A
  • Best time to visit: March to November

29. Jeep Safari

Jeep Safari is One of The Best Things to do in Kashmir

The landscape of the region makes it apt for jeep safari. Moreover, the surrounding scenery enhances the ride. The snow-capped mountain, luscious greenery, etc., add more to the beauty of the trip. Hence, this makes it one of the Best Places to Visit in Kashmir for Honeymoon. Moreover, you can opt for a jeep safari to commute to the various Places To Visit In Gulmarg To Spark Your Wanderlust.

  • Where To Try: Sonmarg, Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Yusmarg, Zoji Pass, Kishtwar, Bhaderwah
  • Timings: 4 - 5 hours 
  • Entry fee: INR 300 - 400 
  • Ride duration: 5 - 6 hours
  • Best time to visit: March to May

30. Hill Stations

Hill Stations is One of The Best Things to do in Kashmir

The Himalayan range of the region certifies it as one of the Best Hill Stations in India You Must Visit. The surrounding beauty will undoubtedly enhance your experience. A family trip to these hill stations is a must. Additionally, if your partner is fond of the hills, then you can consider Kashmir as the Best Honeymoon Places in India in December

  • Where To Try: Srinagar, Pahalgam, Sonmarg, Gulmarg, Patnitop
  • Timings: 10.00 AM to 5.00 PM
  • Entry fee: Depends on packages 
  • Ride duration: 4 - 5 days 
  • Best time to visit: June to October 

Famous Local Street Food In Kashmir

The street food options here are not only varied but also delicious and unparalleled in terms of taste and quality. If you have listed down your activities, then hopping across the street food shops is a must for things to do in Kashmir, India, to enhance your taste buds. There are the top five street food options that you must try to enrich your palate. These are as follows:

  • Masale Tsote - The flatbread is filled with smashed chickpeas and garnished with a spicy chutney. If you are a spicy food lover, then this is a must. 
  • Nader Monje - Here, the finely sliced lotus stems are coated in a balanced batter and fried to achieve the perfect texture and taste. It is garnished with salt and paprika. 
  • Halwe Paratha - This offers the best blend of sweet and salty. The sweet halwa made of semolina is served hot with parathas fried in oil.  
  • Harissa - Kashmir is definitely one of the best places to visit in winter in India for several reasons, and tasting this famous mutton delicacy is one of them. The meat is cooked in multiple spices until it becomes rich and thick. This helps to provide your palate with a blast of flavours the moment you pair it up with the Kashmiri flatbread called Girda. 
  • Tujje - It is also called tikka. There is marinated mutton or beef that is roasted in optimum heat to cook the meat with a juicy texture. This is usually paired up with flatbreads and various chutneys. 

Best Time To Visit Kashmir 

Kashmir is one of those few places you can visit at any time of the year. However, if you are planning to escape the unbearable heat and scorching sun of the summer, then it is best to arrange a trip from March to September. This time range encompasses the entire summer, spring and autumn. As accepted by many, this is one of the best places to visit in May in India, especially when dealing with the hot and humid weather of the ongoing season. 

During these months, the atmosphere in Kashmir remains extremely pleasant and has proved favourable for everyone. The temperature ranges from 15°C to 30°C, perfect for enjoying various activities. Kashmir is undoubtedly one of the Best Places To Visit In Summer In India since, during this time, you can visit the Kashmir Valley, enjoy the spring blossoms and the snowfall, etc. Moreover, you can also choose to laze on your hotel balconies and enjoy the cool and pleasing weather. 

How To Reach Kashmir

The best transportation option is by flight. There is an international airport in Srinagar that receives all the major flights from around the world daily. This airport is well connected with the rest of the country hence travelling by flight is the best option for you. You will have to hire a taxi from the airport to reach your desired destination. 

The city does not have a railway station. The nearest one to Srinagar is Jammu Tawi Railway, which is 300 kms away. Hence, if you plan to commute by train, this is the only available route. Comparatively, it is better to opt for flight services to make travel more comfortable and fast. 

Another way is by road. If you have the right vehicle, then the drive to this region is incredible. You can enjoy the most minute details and relish its unending beauty. However, make sure the car or bike is capable enough to ride through the hilly areas of the region. 

How Trip Planners India Helps You?

Several aspects must be considered while planning a trip. Everything from booking the tickets to hotel reservations must be completed carefully. Additionally, if you are planning to go sightseeing in Kashmir, you will need to make extra arrangements. Hence, aligning all these necessities can sometimes become quite challenging. 

However, we can simplify the process considerably. With Trip Planners, you can find the best domestic packages in India that are affordable. You just need to tell us your travel destination and leave the rest to us. We will take care of everything you need, from ticket bookings to hotel reservations. Moreover, as the best tour planner in India, we also share our valuable advice in case of accommodations, transportation, etc. 

Have your summer holidays already begun? Do not waste any more time and immediately contact the Best trip planners in India to book your tour. You can partner with Trip Planners for your upcoming travel plans. Just tell us your requirements and sit back and wait while we make all the necessary arrangements to ensure an enhanced travel experience. 

Summing Up

Undoubtedly, Kashmir is the best option for this summer vacation. However, if you are unsure of the things to see in Kashmir, you should check out these thirty best things to do in Kashmir and get the ultimate essence of the place. While booking your travel, make sure you are choosing the right travel planner India to avoid missing out on the major indulgences.

On this page

Ayodhya

lorem ipsum

image

Ayodhya Ram Mandir Tour Package for 3 Days

Starting From
₹6999/-
image

Varanasi Allahabad Ayodhya Tour Package For 5 Days

Starting From
₹13999/-
image

Varanasi Ayodhya Tour Package 4 Days & 3 Nights

Starting From
₹10999/-

FAQ

Fill the Form to Get Free Quote