10

Places To Visit Near Kashmir

Located 42 km from Jammu, the small hill town of Katra is where the Vaishno Devi trek begins. On the Chenab River, you can experience white-water rafting for a thrilling adventure. You can unwind at Sulla Park’s stunning gardens or walk along the beautiful path that leads to Shiv Kund.

Enjoy a leisurely day at the charming picnic area beside the Jhajjar River, Jhajjar Kotli. Visit the 200-year-old cave shrine Nau Devi Temple, which has statues that were carved by nature and offers a spiritual experience.

Activities to do: white-water rafting, night trekking, picnicking, pilgrimage

Patnitop is one of the places to visit near Kashmir that lets you ride one of Asia's tallest gondolas and take in breathtaking views of the valley. Adventurers can enjoy ziplining, climbing, tube sledging, and camping at Skyview Patnitop. You can visit Naag Mandir, a 600-year-old temple where it is believed that Lord Shiva married Parvati.

Explore the historic Sudh Mahadev Temple, a popular destination for Shiva devotees, especially around Arshad Purnima. Enjoy the exhilarating ropeway rides, horseback riding, and scenic walks that Patnitop Park has to offer. 

Activities to do: ziplining, camping, gondola rides, horseback rides, and tube sledging

Kupwara provides a peaceful getaway with surrounding mountain views and vast valleys. You can go to Lolab Valley, which is popular for its dense forests and grassy meadows. Discover the untouched natural beauty of Bangus Valley, a secret gem. Learn about the spiritual history of the area by going to the Sheikh Baba Behram shrine, which is one of the tourist places near Kashmir?.

To sample real Kashmiri cuisine, you can try dishes like Gushtaba and Rogan Josh. Meet local artists to witness their beautiful needlework, chain stitch, and papier-mâché works that display Kupwara's rich cultural history.

Activities to do: trekking, rock climbing, paragliding,  hot air balloon ride, skiing

Known as the ‘Rice Bowl of Kashmir’, Pulwama is home to lakes, ancient buildings, and vast meadows. Explore the 9th-century Avantipora Ruins, which are some of the most historic temples in the region. Discover the beautiful reflections and crystal-clear waters of Tarsar and Marsar Lakes.

At the 10th-century Pyer Temple, admire its architecture, which was carved from a single rock. Explore the Aharbal Waterfall, which is bordered by towering cliffs and pine forests. Remember to visit the Royal Gift Gallery to purchase personalized souvenirs such as calligraphy, T-shirts, and mugs.

Anantnag is a picturesque location where the Arapath, Sandran, and Brengi rivers converge. You can look around the beautiful Martand Sun Temple, which was built in the 8th century and has huge pillars and elaborate stone carvings.

You can also visit Kishtwar National Park, which is home to musk deer and Himalayan black bears. One of the holiest places to visit near Kashmir is the sacred spring of Kherbawani Asthapan here.

Activities to do: Bungee Jumping, Paragliding, Whitewater Rafting, Rock Climbing, mountain biking 

Doda is one of the most amazing places to visit near Kashmir for adventure and wildlife lovers. You can enjoy spotting animals like musk deer and leopards and admire the views of high-altitude peaks. See the religious sites of Chandi Mata Temple and Athra Buja Devi Temple in Kishtwar, which is renowned for its abundant fauna.

Take a stroll in the Chinta Valley, where the Chinta River flows through the rolling hills. Thrill seekers can head out for trekking and outdoor walks in the valley. Doda is also a popular destination for adventure sports like mountaineering and rock climbing, which makes it perfect for nature lovers.

Activities to do: rafting, trekking, camping

Bhaderwah’s Jai Valley provides opportunities for adventure activities for trekking, camping, and exploring the nearby villages. You can hike around Padri Meadow in the summer and go skiing or snowboarding in the winter. Visit Seoj Meadow, which is an ideal location for hiking and camping.

Discover the lush green meadows of Bhal Padri, which feature tall trees and expansive views of the mountains. See the Bhaderwah Fort, which was constructed in 1733 and formerly housed independence warriors. Bhaderwah's scenic views and  rich heritage attract trekkers, history buffs, and nature lovers.

Activities to do: camping, paragliding, trekking

Yusmarg is a fantastic location for trekking, pony rides, and nature excursions. The 600-year-old Charar-e-Shareef shrine, a significant Muslim pilgrimage site here, is a must-visit. See the stunning alpine lake known as Nilnag Lake, which is bordered by pine forests. Experience the tranquil surroundings and verdant meadows of Sang-e-Safed Valley.

Travelers can also opt for challenging treks to Doodhpathri and Tosa Maidan. You can attempt trout fishing in the pristine waters of the Doodh Ganga River or head to Lidder Mad and Haigan for panoramic views of the lush green meadows. 

Activities to do: horse riding, skiing, trout fishing, camping