A Traveller’s Guide to Kashmir:

5 Must-Visit Places in Kashmir

Kashmir is a place that charms tourists with its breathtaking landscape, rich history, and world-class hospitality. Whether it's the stunning mountains, peaceful lakes, or colourful gardens, Jammu and Kashmir tourism promises an experience of a lifetime.

If you're planning a trip to this destination, also known as the “Heaven on Earth”, we have curated a list of the best places to see in Kashmir.

No Kashmir holiday is ever complete without a stopover at the stunning Dal Lake, which has been internationally hailed as the gem of Kashmir tourism. Nestled between the great Pir Panjal mountain ranges, this pristine body of water spans 18 square kilometres and is best discovered by its mythical houseboats and ancient shikaras (wooden boats).

Visitors can proceed to the floating market, where local farmers sell from the vessels. While passing through the serene waters, enjoy Kashmir's delicacies, such as rogan josh and gushtaba, or unwind while sipping a steaming cup of saffron-scented kahwa.

For those looking to experience the beauty of Dal Lake, Taj Dal View is the perfect choice. This hotel effortlessly blends into the stunning grandeur of the valley and offers a stay that showcases the serenity and charm of its surroundings.

Spring and summer are the best seasons to see Dal Lake. It is better to go to the floating market early in the morning.

One of the most stunning Mughal gardens, Shalimar Bagh, is a major highlight among places to visit in Kashmir. Commissioned by Emperor Jahangir in 1619 for his beloved wife Nur Jahan, this Persian garden spans 12.4 hectares of land.

The garden reflects Mughal architectural splendour, with its symmetry, cascading fountains, and greenery. It has four terraces, each representing various facets of royal recreation and beauty. With Nishat Bagh and Chashme Shahi, Shalimar Bagh is a place that one should not miss when looking for the historical beauty of Kashmir tourist places.

From April to October try to visit this garden when there are flowers, which offers a scenic contrast with the foliage.

Located at the Zabarwan Range's base and overlooking Dal Lake, the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden is Asia's most enormous tulip garden.

A presentation of hyacinths, daffodils, and ranunculus complements the site. During the Tulip Festival, visitors can also experience Kashmiri culture through classical music, handicrafts, and cuisine.

The best time to go is in late March or early May when the tulips are at their finest.

It stands on top of the Zabarwan hill range, the Pari Mahal is a stunning seven-tiered garden that offers a bird's eye view of Srinagar and Dal Lake. Constructed in the mid-1600s by Mughal Prince Dara Shikoh, the ancient monument served as a library and, subsequently, as an observatory for astrology and astronomy.

It is a tranquil retreat for history lovers and seekers of solitude in nature, making it one of the top places to see in Kashmir .

April to October is best to see the palace and the environment. Seeing it at sunset is wonderful as Srinagar is tinted in golden shades.

For all seekers of divinity, Shankaracharya Temple is among the best Kashmir tourist places. The oldest temple for Lord Shiva, sitting atop Shankaracharya Hill, offers a peaceful haven with breathtaking views of Srinagar and Dal Lake.

The temple is reachable through 250 steps, and although the ascent is steep, the views from the top are priceless. The place is also sacred to Buddhists, also referred to as Pas-Pahar. Shankaracharya Tapasya Cave is said to be Adi Shankaracharya's meditation place and is a must-visit.

Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to go, as they provide a serene environment and less crowd. Tourists should know that vehicles are not allowed within the temple grounds after 5:00 pm.

After a day of exploring the natural and cultural beauty of Kashmir, return to luxury in the embrace of Taj Dal View, Srinagar . Standing against the breathtaking scenery of the Zabarwan Mountain Range and looking over Dal Lake, this stunning hotel offers an unmatched blend of comfort and elegance.

Kashmir tourism is one of a kind, an ideal combination of nature's splendour, history, and culture. Whether you are gazing at the regal Mughal gardens, basking in Dal Lake's tranquillity, or unearthing spiritual shrines, Kashmir’s attractions will leave an everlasting impression on your soul.

When indulgence and comfort beckon, Taj Dal View, a luxury hotel in Srinagar , promises an unforgettable retreat for any occasion.