Srinagar is the mesmerizing summer capital of the state of Jammu and Kashmir, which is incomparable in its breathtaking magnificence. The prime attraction of the region is the serene and calming Dal Lake along with the beautiful trees, majestic mountains and the soul-stirring landscape. Let’s have a look into some of the popular houseboats to stay in and around the Dal and the Nigeen Lake, for a guaranteed amazing experience of the heart and soul of Kashmir.
Jammu and Kashmir
The Best Time to Visit Gulmarg
Gulmarg, located in the state of Jammu and Kashmir, is at a distance of about 55 kilometers from the capital, Srinagar. Present at an altitude of 2650 meters, the place is swarmed by tourists for the winter sports conducted around the region. Skiing is the popular sport in Gulmarg, which is carried out on the slopes of the Apharwat peak. The dazzling, white mountain peaks and the lush meadow of flowers are what draws visitors to Gulmarg in huge numbers. Let’s go through the popular attractions in Gulmarg and the best activities at various times of the year.
The Best Time to Visit Srinagar
Srinagar, the summer capital of the state of Jammu and Kashmir, is a place which dazzles anyone who sets their eyes upon it. Set within a picturesque location, Srinagar has got mesmerizing mountains and gardens, along with the highly famed Dal Lake. The climate of the region with its ever famous houseboats, make it the perfect location to unwind and relax. Let’s view some of the interesting locations to visit in Srinagar and the best time to carry out these activities.
The Best Time to Visit Leh
Leh, located in the state of Jammu and Kashmir, is the capital of Ladakh. The picturesque region is located at an altitude of almost 3500 meters, and is the second largest district in India. Thronged by tourists for its serene and majestic ambience, Leh is a place to enjoy the raw beauty of nature. Due to the proximity with Tibet, Leh has a mixture of culture and lifestyle which evokes a sense of oneness in any tourist visiting the place. Let’s have a look at the best activities to carry out and the perfect timings to pursue them.
The Best Time to Visit Ladakh
Adventure and serenity is what a trip to the region of Ladakh guarantees. Situated in the state of Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh is a region present between the Karakoram and the Himalayan mountain ranges. The setting of this place is blessed with an aura of calmness, away from the hustle of the rest of the country. This place is mostly frequented by thrill-seeking travellers who want to challenge themselves in the harsh climate to eventually enjoy the peaceful ambience and culture in it. Let’s have a look in the best times and places to visit Ladakh.
The Best Time to Visit Patnitop
The Kashmir Valley is famed for its beauty and nestling in the foothills of the majestic Himalayas, it’s no surprise for anyone who has witnessed the beauty of this region. Patnitop is a hill station in Kashmir, located at an elevation of 6,640 ft. Even though temperature in summer reaches to 40°C, the place does not shower heat waves upon its tourists. The scenic beauty of Patnitop blooms in various hues depending on different seasons. Planning a trip to Patnitop depends on what you want to get out of your experience in this hill station. If you enjoy snow fighting with your friends or want to ski down the hill top, then spending a winter in Patnitop is your perfect choice.
The Best Time to Visit Kashmir
Oh, Kashmir! We all know you. Everyone does. For good or for bad, this place has always managed to remain in the news. Sometimes as the Switzerland of the East, sometimes torn and blown apart by terrorism or unstable politics. But no one can deny that if its one place in India you should go to before you leave, it should ideally be Kashmir. Be the rolling Himalayas or snow white Sonmarg-Gulmarg, be it the majestic Dal Lake and Shikara cruises, Kahsmir is the adventure of a lifetime. Just for information, a Shikara is a houseboat. More so, you can shop in markets on water while riding these. How cool is that? Now, Kashmir is cold. That’s common knowledge. In summers, its pleasantly cool. In winter, it’s freezing. Literally. Snowfall is a major tourist draw for Kashmir. All you need is to go on!
Top 5 Places to Visit in Nubra
The Shyok river meets the Nubra or Siachen river creating an engrossing sight of rugged mountains, rich green oasis villages, white sand deserts and glimmering streams. The raw and stark contrast seen in Nubra Valley is unparalleled and takes your breath away. Located in the Ladakh region of Jammu & Kashmir, Nubra rests in the slopes of the Karakoram mountain range at an average elevation of 3,048 metres. One of the most beautiful regions in the world, Nubra is well known among seasoned travelers. Deriving its name from “Ldumra”, literally meaning the “valley of flowers”, Nubra remains one of the most pristine locations for an intimate interaction with the nature at an unimaginable scale. The five best places one must visit while in Nubra are detailed here.
Top 5 Places to Visit in Baramullah
This treasure trove of Kashmir derives it’s name from the Sanskrit word “Varahamula”, an amalgamation of the words “Varaha” or Boar and “Mul” meaning deep or root, meaning “Boar’s molar”. Featuring in various Hindu mythological texts, Baramullah (or Baramulla) is said to have been found by Raja Bhimsina in 2306 B.C. Situated on the banks of the Jhelum river, the city resides in the Baramullah district just 55 kilometres from the capital city of Srinagar. The Srinagar – Baramullah road is said to be the best in the valley with the most wondrous view one can possibly get. A rarely visited tourist site, Baramullah has its own glorious and unexplored beauties one must encounter. Five of the best sites in Baramullah are listed here.
Top 5 Places to Visit in Poonch (Punch)
Exclaimed as “Mini Kashmir” by the great Huien Tsang, the infamous Chinese traveler who traversed this way in the 6th century, the region of Poonch or Punch has a long history and the charm of being acquainted with some of the most historical figures the world has ever seen. Visited by Alexander the Great, who in 326 BC, invaded the Jhelum belt to war with Porus, Poonch was vacillated in the war among the humans for ages until the Indian independence settled part of its location firmly within the country. Bound by the Actual Line of Control (A.L.C.) between India and Pakistan, the Poonch district was divided into two parts after the partition in 1947. Partially lying in Pakistan, this district is still one of the remotest in the state of Jammu & Kashmir and in India, the traumatic experience of the partition not having healed the region completely. Also a region of harsh and wondrous beauty, Poonch has many breathtaking sights that transports one back to the ancient past. The five best sites in Poonch are listed here.