
Jammu and Kashmir, northern-most state of India has been endowed with nature’s best and that is why it has been an object of interest for many travel enthusiasts. Enclosed by the snow-clad mountains and the gleaming lakes this state creates a picturesque landscape on earth. Due to the various picturesque places to visit in Kashmir, it is often referred as India’s Switzerland, as the place is blessed with the most scenic views which are worth a visit.
So, Let’s explore this state from tourists’ perspective.
Here is the list of top tourist destinations in Jammu and Kashmir which attract millions of tourists every year.
1. Dal Lake: Srinagar
Known to be “The Jewel of Srinagar”, Dal Lake spreads across an area of around 26 square kilometers. Dal Lake tour can be made more interesting by riding in the beautiful Shikaras, which are basically wooden boats decorated beautifully with canopies overhead. The houseboats on Dal Lake feature floral motifs and intricate carvings and offer breath taking sights of the majestic lake.
2. Shalimar Bagh Mughal Garden: Srinagar
This garden was constructed by Jahangir back in the year 1619 for his wife Noor Jahan. Shalimar Bagh presents an exquisite combination of artificial structures and natural marvels. The whole premise of the garden has been beautifully carpeted with green grass.
3. Nishat Bagh: Srinagar
It is known to be the 2nd biggest Mughal garden, this garden was constructed by Noor Jahan’s elder brother, Asif Khan, in the year 1633. It is enchanting twelve terraced garden, packed with green trees, scented flowers, and beautiful fountains.
4. Nigeen Lake: Srinagar
It is on the eastern part of Srinagar, and is considered to be a part of the Dal Lake, but is separated from it by a narrow causeway. Also referred to as “The Jewel in the Ring, the name of this lake is inspired by the plethora of tall trees that surround the deep blue water body.
5. Jammu City: Jammu
It is Situated on the banks of River Tawi and is a land of serene and beautiful valleys, lakes, and meadows surrounded by majestic snow-clad Himalayas. The Shivalik hill cuts across the area while rivers Tawi, Chenab, and Ravi, flow through this region.
6. Gulmarg
It is situated at an elevation of 2730 meters above sea level, in the meadow of flowers. The meadow is given a visual highlight by the 1890s Anglican Church of St Mary’s that sits on a lonely hillock which can be accessed off the dead-end road that links the 1965 neo-colonial style Hotel Highlands Park to the historic Gulmarg Golf Club.
7. Sonmarg
It is a small town of Kashmir situated 9,000 metres above sea level at the bank of the Sindh river. This picturesque town is located in Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir and is just 70 km away from the Srinagar International Airport.
8. Udhampur
It is known for its astounding natural beauty and as the hub of the Northern Command, Indian Army. It has its natural scenic viewpoints and offers a multitude of adventure and sightseeing activities for tourists coming over from various parts of India. Being located in the Shivalik Range, this city offers tranquillizing views of the snow-covered mountains and lush green forests.
9. Rajouri
It has various tourist places like Rajouri Fort, Gurdwara Chhati Padshahi, Balidan Bhavan, Rama Temple, Jama Masjid and Shiv Mandir. Other beautiful spots located here include Dehra ki Gali, Law Bawli, Darhal Malkan etc.
10. Vaishno Devi
The shrine is dedicated to Goddess Durga and has a holy cave where people come to pay their respects. It is a famous site to undertake a religious trek which involves an uphill climb of about 13 kms.