Jammu and Kashmir, India
Kashmir
Houseboats on Dal Lake, alpine meadows, and snow-lined valleys — India's Himalayan crown.
Best time to visitApril to October
Ideal duration5–6 days
Nearest airportSheikh ul-Alam International Airport, Srinagar
Budget₹25,000–₹60,000 per person for 5 days
Typehill-station
Kashmir, nestled in the Himalayas, is famed for the houseboats of Dal Lake, the alpine meadows of Gulmarg, and the snow-capped valleys of Pahalgam and Sonmarg.
Experiences
- Shikara ride at sunset: Glide across Dal Lake in a traditional shikara as the sun sets over the mountains.
- Gulmarg gondola ride: Ride the two-stage cable car up to Apharwat Peak for snow-capped panoramas.
- Horseback through Pahalgam: Trek by pony through Pahalgam's meadows and pine forests.
- Walk the Mughal Gardens: Stroll the terraced fountains and flowerbeds of Shalimar and Nishat Bagh.
Attractions
- Dal Lake & Houseboats: Srinagar's iconic lake, lined with ornately carved houseboats and floating gardens.
- Gulmarg Gondola: One of the world's highest cable cars, rising to Apharwat Peak above the meadows.
- Pahalgam Valley: A pine-forested valley along the Lidder River, gateway to the Amarnath Yatra.
- Mughal Gardens: Terraced Mughal-era gardens — Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh — overlooking Dal Lake.
Local food
- Rogan Josh: A rich, aromatic Kashmiri lamb curry cooked in a blend of Kashmiri red chilli and spices.
- Wazwan: A traditional multi-course Kashmiri feast served at weddings and special occasions.
- Kahwa: A fragrant green tea infused with saffron, cardamom and almonds.
- Kashmiri Pulao: A mildly sweet, fragrant rice dish studded with dried fruits and nuts.