Kashmir is surrounded by a picturesque landscape of snow-capped mountains and shimmering lakes. This dramatic landscape is divided into three main regions: Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh, each surrounded by the mighty range of the Great Himalayas and the Pir Panjal range. Known as India’s Switzerland, Kashmir is known for its many scenic spots, many of which are worth visiting because of the arresting views. Many places in the state reflect nature’s beauty at its best, which no traveller should miss. In this article, we will make you aware of the top 5 attractions of Kashmir that tops everyone’s wish list of Kashmir’s visiting places.
Floating Market at Dal Lake
The Floating Vegetable Market on Dal Lake is one of Srinagar’s most unique sights. With its bright colours and beautiful backdrop, this floating market makes for a perfect place for photographers. The beautiful scenery it offers makes this a must-see location in the Jammu and Kashmir tour. For the bustling floating market, one must arrive early in the morning.
On the lake, on the floating Shikara boats, fresh vegetables are sold straight from the floating gardens in the natural wetlands of Srinagar. As 5:00 am is the peak time for the market, it’s ideal to arrive by this time. Floating Vegetable Market visitors enjoy pleasant weather from March to October.
Indira Gandhi Tulip Garden
Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden is regarded as Asia’s largest Tulip Garden. Since 2007, the garden has been open to the public. Since the Mughals established pleasure spots in Kashmir during the 16th century, this tulip garden is undoubtedly the first major landscaping project undertaken. The Indira Gandhi Tulip Garden is accessible by a leisurely drive of just nine kilometres from Srinagar along the soothing Dal Lake.
This garden is nestled in the gentle slopes of the Zabarwan hills. The area is flanked by a manicured golf course in the north, and the Dal Lake essentially washes its western edge. Tulip Gardens are endowed with an aesthetic of timeless grandeur by the nearby Chashme Shahi and Pari Mahal complexes.
Zero Point at Sonamarg
In Sonamarg’s direction, toward the Drass side and the Zojila Pass, Zero Point is 35 km from Sonamarg. The pass has a reputation for being one of the most dangerous in the world. The name of this place is designated zero-point because, at this place, the temperature scale is always close to zero or simply zero.
Mesmerizing views from Shankaracharya Hills
Located on the top of this forested hill lies a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. You will ascend two hundred and fifty steps to reach this ancient temple built in the ninth century. This ancient temple is constructed with grey stone blocks and is one of the earliest designs in India. Electronic devices are strictly prohibited at this temple and should be deposited before climbing the steps with the military personnel. It means you can truly disconnect while you are there. Shankaracharya Hill is regarded as one of Kashmir’s top attractions. A pleasant view of the entire city of Srinagar can be had from this hill.
Cable Car at Gulmarg Gondola
Known as the most prominent attraction of Gulmarg, the Gondola is the second-longest and second-highest cable car in the world. This two-phase line transports almost 600 people per hour from and to the Apharwat Mountain, the site of many winter sports in Gulmarg. As part of phase 1, Gulmarg Gondola takes passengers from Gulmarg Resort to Kongdoori Station (middle station). It rises 400 meters in vertical distance from the base at 2,990 m. The cable car transports 1500 passengers an hour to the height of 3100 m, where there are several ski runs.
As part of Phase 2 of Gulmarg Gondola, Kongdoori Mountain is connected to Apharwat Peak. The cable car ascends 1,330 vertical metres and reaches nearly 4,000 meters in almost an hour. You will need to trek 30 minutes more to reach the mountaintop from the rail station. You can see the Line of Control from here. The Gulmarg Gondola offers a terrific view of Nanda Devi, Pir Panjal mountain range and the LOC. Apart from cherishing the beauty of the Himalayan ranges, tourists can experience the joy of other activities like horse riding & snow skiing.