Jammu and Kashmir are called the crown jewels of India and are known as paradises on earth. There are just too many sites to visit in Jammu and Kashmir whether you are seeking a week-long honeymoon trip, an adventure trip, or a peaceful family vacation. It is one of the most stunning places in North India. Jammu and Kashmir is so rich in naturally beautiful experiences all year round like mountains full of snow, temples of olden times and quiet lakes.
The blog is about the places to go in Jammu and Kashmir, summer getaways, thrilling activities, and the winter wonderland. Are you prepared to witness the breathtaking scenery, rich cultures and hospitality that lie in wait on your journey to adventure in the Jammu and Kashmir tour?
20 Must-Visit Jammu and Kashmir Tourist Places for Every Traveller
1. Srinagar
Usually known as the Summer capital and heart and soul of Kashmir, Srinagar is one of Kashmir’s tourist attractions which every tourist wishes to visit when he is in the vicinity. The most sought-after places to visit in jammu and kashmir for honeymoon are a sunset at Dal Lake on a shikara, the view of the Mughal gardens, and the floating vegetable market. April–May, during the spring months, flowers in the tulip gardens provide a gorgeous scene of the many hues of several species of tulips, luring tourists from around the world.
- Principal Interests: Hazratbal Shrine, Dal Lake, Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh
- Getting There: Road from Jammu; direct flight by air from Srinagar International Airport
- Activities: Investigating the Shikara ride, houseboat stay, Mughal garden tour, pashmina and saffron purchase are what should be done.
- Best Area with Restaurants: Lal Chowk, Boulevard Road
- Best time: April to July and October are prime times.
- Potential accommodations: mid-range hotels, houseboats, luxury hotels near Dal Lake
2. Gulmarg
Gulmarg transforms into a snowy paradise, a magical location. December is among the top places to see in Jammu and Kashmir. Go skiing or snowboarding if you want to see amazing vistas; you cannot miss. This is where the highest gondola of the world is found and also one of terrific places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir for honeymoon for tourists and adrenaline junkies for winter sports or just for fun. Major attractions: Golf course, Apharwat Peak, Gulmarg Gondola
- How to reach: About 50 kilometers by road from Srinagar.
- What to do: Hiking, snowboarding, skiing, gondola travel
- Best location with eateries: Gulmarg Market and the gondola base
- Best time: December through February for snow; May to July for green surroundings are the best times to go.
- Possible lodgings: ski resort, heritage cottage houses, budget lodges, variedad.
3. Pahalgam
It is the Kashmir tourist spot surrounded by green pastures and pine forests that transforms the area into an ideal quiet retreat for couples and families. Pahalgam is among the most beautiful places to see in Jammu and Kashmir Additionally it is the starting point of the Amarnath Yatra.
- Main Attractions: Lidder River, Betaab Valley, Aru Valley
- Reaching there: 90 kilometers from Srinagar along the road
- Activities: Horse riding, river rafting, trekking
- Best area: main market, close to Aru Road
- Best season to travel: April to July
- Possible lodgings: include homestays, opulent hotels, and Riverside resorts.
4. Sonamarg
Sonamarg is also known as the “Meadow of Gold”. It is a popular high-altitude location noted for its pristine glaciers and trekking paths. Sonamarg is among the best Jammu and Kashmir tourist places to see, in May and June.
- Leading Attractions: Sindh River, Thajiwas Glacier, Zoji La Pass
- Getting There: About 80 km from Srinagar
- What to Do: Glacier treks, camping, trout fishing
- Best Restaurant Location: Sonamarg Bazaar
- Best Time: May–July
- Where to Stay: mountain lodges, campsites, visitor huts
5. Jammu
Among the greatest places to visit in jammu and kashmir with family, the “City of Temples,” Jammu is a religious center. From temples of the past to local vibrant marketplaces, it is culturally and historically rich.
- Most Important Attractions: Bagh-e-bahu, Bahu Fort, Raghunath Temple
- From major railroads and Jammu Airport, getting there
- Things to Do: Visit temples, shop dry fruits and handicrafts
- Top Neighborhood for Dining: Residency Road, Gandhi Nagar
- Best Time: to go is October to March.
- Accommodations: Family-run guesthouses, economical hotels
6. Vaishno Devi
Vaishno Devi is among the most popular Hindu pilgrimages and a spiritual place to visit in J&K. It is most often visited tourist destinations in Jammu and Kashmir. It attracts religious and family visitors alike to Jammu and Kashmir for people seeking peace and spirituality.
- Top Attractions: Vaishno Devi Temple, Ardh Kuwari Cave
- Arrival: Base camp in Katra; can be reached by heliport or on foot.
- Things to Do: Travel pilgrimages, spiritual chanting, local bazaar visits
- Optimal restaurant location: Katra
- March to October is the finest time to visit.
- Where to Stay: Dharamshalas, low-cost hotels in Katra
7. Leh-Ladakh
Leh is the capital city of Ladakh and is a high-altitude desert city. It is a paradise for any spiritualists and thrill-seekers alike with its rugged landscape, ancient monasteries, and rainbow-hued Tibetan-Buddhist culture. You can trek, river raft, and visit Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, the nearby Nubra Valley, and Pangong. From May to September, Leh presents amazing mountain views and brilliant blue hues.
- Important sights: Magnetic Hill, Pangong Lake, Thiksey Monastery
- Getting there: One other option is road travel from Manali; Leh Airport can also be reached.
- Activities: Mountain biking, monastery tours, picture taking
- Best Restaurants: Leh Market
- Best travel times: June to September
- Where to stay: boutique guesthouses, hostels, eco-resorts
8. Patnitop
Midway among the Shivalik mountains, Patnitop is a hill station in kashmir sightseeing places. It is well known for its pine coverages, undulating grasslands, and dramatic Himalayan vistas. Winter offers a calm vacation destination including hiking, skiing, and paragliding. Patnitop is a year-round outdoor recreational spot.
- Notable destinations: Nathatop, Sanasar Lake, Skyview ropeway
- Getting there: From Jammu there are 110 kilometers.
- Activities: snow play, nature walks, paragliding
- Perfect Eatery: Kud Market
- Best time: December is best visited for snow; May through June for lushness.
- Accommodation alternatives include cottages and budget hotels.
9. Kupwara
Kupwara is painstakingly beautiful with its green meadows and apple orchards yet less touristy. It is one of the most under-visited Kashmir tourist places. It’s like a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
- Top Places to Visit: Lolab Valley, Bungus Valley
- How to Reach: 90 km from Srinagar
- What to Do: Village walks, orchard visits, photography
- Best Area with Restaurants: Kupwara town
- Best Time to Visit: April to October
- Places to Stay: Government lodges, guesthouses
10. Kargil
Renowned for its war memorials and war-torn terrain, Kargil is one of the places to go to in Jammu and Kashmir this summer for fans of history and adventure.
- Top Sites: Suru Valley, Kargil War Memorial
- How to Get There: By road from Leh or Srinagar
- What to Do: Explore war history, trekking in nature
- Where to Eat: Main Kargil town
- When to Visit: June to September
- Where to Stay: Mid-range hotels, army-run tourist houses
11. Pulwama
Equally referred to as the “Rice Bowl of Kashmir,” Pulwama is a green district famous for its saffron fields and milk-white waterfalls. It’s one of the most sought-after destinations in Jammu and Kashmir during April when saffron flowers and an off-the-beaten-path gem for shutterbugs and people seeking peace.
- Top Attractions: Aharbal Waterfall, Tarsar Lake, Avantishwar Temple
- Getting There: Approximately 40 km from Srinagar by road
- What to Do: Witness saffron fields, enjoy serene walks, witness rural Kashmiri life
- Best Area with Restaurants: Pulwama town market
- Best Time to Visit: March to April to witness saffron flowers in bloom
- Places to Stay: Homestays, local guesthouses
12. Doodhpathri
Doodhpathri is off the main road and one of the most serene Kashmir tourist attractions. Its many pine trees, rich meadows, and grazing sheep give it a dreamlike quality. Perfect for picnic food and summer day outings.
- Top Attractions: Kaliganga River, pine forests, green meadows
- Getting There: 45 km from Srinagar
- What to Do: Horse riding, trekking, picnic
- Best Area with Restaurants: Roadside eateries and cafes
- Best Time to Visit: June to September
- Places to Stay: Hotels and accommodation centers in Srinagar or near Budgam
13. Yusmarg
Yusmarg is a natural paradise and a true wonderland. It is among the most picturesque places in Jammu & Kashmir during summer. Beautiful views of the Pir Panjal range and verdant meadows provide the perfect getaway for people who wish to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
- Top Attractions: Nilnag Lake, Sunset Point, Sang-e-Safed
- Getting There: Approximately 50 km from Srinagar
- What to Do: Pony rides, nature walks, camping
- Best Area with Restaurants: Local dhabas in the area
- Best Time to Visit: April to October
- Places to Stay: Homestays and government-owned huts
14. Anantnag
Anantnag is one of Kashmir’s lesser-known tourist sites. It is well-known for its natural springs and historical relics. It combines historical and scenic elements as an ancient and heritage city in the Kashmir Valley.
- Top Attractions: Martand Sun Temple, Verinag Spring, Achabal Gardens
- Getting There: 55 km from Srinagar on NH44
- What to Do: See temples, gardens, stroll around bazaars
- Best Restaurant Location: Lal Chowk, Anantnag town
- Best Season to Visit: May to July
- Accommodation: Heritage guesthouses, Pahalgam hotels (proximity)
15. Shopian
Located amidst apple groves and alpine landscapes, Shopian is a quiet place and the top Kashmir tourist spot for offbeat mountain village lovers. It’s ideal during spring and fall when apple flowers bloom or turn golden.
- Top Sights: Aharbal Falls, Mughal Road, Peer Ki Gali
- Reaching Here: Approximately 60 km from Srinagar
- What to See and Do: Orchard strolls, seeing waterfalls, heritage walk
- Best Restaurant Area: Main bazaar and roadside restaurants
- Best Time to Come: April for blooms; October for golden leaves
- Where to Stay: Simple guesthouses, stay nearby in Pulwama
16. Lolab Valley
Many people refer to the Lolab Valley as the “Land of Beauty and Love.” It is one of the most beautiful tourist attractions in jammu and kashmir with family. Because of its dense forests, waterways, and natural splendor, it is perfect for tranquil getaways.
- Top Attractions: Kalaroos Caves, Satbaran, Chandigam Village
- Getting There: Approximately 120 km from Srinagar through Kupwara
- What to Do: Nature walks, photography, village exploration
- Best Restaurant Area: Limited – village restaurants
- Best Month to Visit: May to October
- Accommodation: Government huts, forest resorts
17. Nubra Valley
Nubra Valley, a strange cold desert dotted with double-humped camels and monasteries, is a radical shift in terrain from tourist destinations in jammu and kashmir. One of the most adventurous locations for adventure seekers and a perfect place to explore in Jammu and Kashmir during summer
- Top Attractions: Hunder Sand Dunes, Diskit Monastery, Turtuk Village
- Getting There: From Leh through Khardung La Pass
- What to Do: Camel treks, monastic tours, star-gazing
- Best Area with Restaurants: Diskit town
- Best Time to Visit: June to September
- Places to Stay: Desert camps, homestays, eco-lodges
18. Zanskar Valley
Zanskar, a remote Himalayan valley famous for its monasteries and chilly river trek known as the Chadar Trek, is one of the pilgrimage sites to explore in Jammu and Kashmir during December and January. It’s an exhilarating adventurer’s paradise.
- Top Attractions: Chadar Trek, Phugtal Monastery, Padum
- Getting There: 250 km from Kargil; only open in summer through road
- What to Do: Trekking, spiritual retreats, cultural exploration
- Best Restaurant Area: Padum
- Best Time to Visit: July to September by road; December to trek on the frozen river
- Where to Stay: Camps, local monasteries, simple guesthouses
19. Gurez Valley
Gurez Valley is a place that is unparalleled in beauty and serenity. It is what we call true hidden treasure. It is located on the Line of Control and is among the most serene places to see in Kashmir during the summer and ideal for those seeking something truly untouched.
- Top Attractions: Habba Khatoon Peak, Kishanganga River, Dawar Village
- Getting There: 130 km from Srinagar, requires ILP
- What to Do: Scenic drives, photography, local interaction
- Best Area with Restaurants: Dawar
- Best Time to Visit: May to September
- Places to Stay: Army guesthouses, homestays
20. Hemis
Famous for the renowned Hemis Festival and India’s richest monastery, Hemis is a cultural and religious treat near Leh. It’s one of the best destinations within Kashmir tourist places to explore history and Buddhism.
- Top Attractions: Hemis Monastery, Hemis National Park
- Getting There: 40 km from Leh
- What to Do: Visit the festival, trek, and watch wildlife
- Best Restaurant Area: Leh
- Best Time to Visit: June and July to coincide with the festival
- Where to Stay: Guesthouses in monasteries, eco-lodges in Leh
Jammu and Kashmir Tourist Spot: Seasonal and Thematic Travel Guide
Jammu and Kashmir has travel experiences to offer throughout the year, from blooming spring valleys to winter ski resorts. If you want a family vacation, a honeymoon with your partner, a spiritual pilgrimage, or an adventure and trekking holiday, this seasonal and theme table will assist you in understanding when to go, where to go, and what to do in those months. For deeper insight, check out our comprehensive blog on the best time to visit Jammu and Kashmir.
May and June’s spring blooms will allow for awesome trips to all famous valley attractions, and you’ll get to explore the famous valley attractions, including Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg. Whichever month you’re travelling to Jammu and Kashmir, whether you want to go skiing in December, trekking in June, or looking for flowers in May, you can just consult the table here as a quick reference for an unforgettable Jammu and Kashmir trip experience, at any time of year, during any theme of travel.
| Topic | Best For | Recommended Places | Recommended Activities |
| Places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir in April | Spring, Adventure, and Scenic Views | Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg, Srinagar (Dal Lake), Yusmarg | Skiing (Gulmarg), Trekking (Sonamarg), Shikara Ride (Dal Lake), Visit Mughal Gardens (Srinagar) |
| Places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir in May | Late Spring, Blossoms, and Nature Escapes | Betaab Valley, Kishtwar, Pahalgam, Yusmarg | Photography (Betaab Valley), Nature Walks (Yusmarg), Horse Riding, Explore Local Villages (Pahalgam) |
| Places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir in June | Early Summer, Adventure Trekking, Exploring Meadows | Tarsar Marsar Trek, Leh Ladakh (via Kargil), Gulmarg | Trekking (Tarsar Marsar), Mountain Biking (Gulmarg), Paragliding (Sonamarg), Photography |
| Places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir in July | Monsoon Season, Scenic Views, Adventure | Lidder River, Jammu City, Pulwama, Jammu Temple | River Rafting (Lidder River), Pilgrimage (Jammu Temple), Local Sightseeing (Jammu) |
| Jammu and Kashmir tourist destinations in December | Winter Sports, Snow Lovers, Tranquil Experiences | Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg, Patnitop, Vaishno Devi | Skiing (Gulmarg), Snowboarding (Sonamarg), Winter Trekking, Snowfall Viewing (Pahalgam) |
| Jammu and Kashmir tourist spot in summer | Escaping the Heat, Scenic Beauty, Peaceful Retreats | Srinagar (Houseboats), Jammu Hill Stations, Pulwama | Boating (Dal Lake, Srinagar), Nature Walks, Visit Historical Temples (Jammu) |
| Places to visit in J&K for Honeymoon | Romantic Getaways, Serene Views | Srinagar Houseboats, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg, Yusmarg | Houseboat Stay (Srinagar), Shikara Ride (Dal Lake), Romantic Walks (Pahalgam, Sonamarg), Private Picnic (Yusmarg) |
| Places to go in Jammu and Kashmir with family | Family Activities, Spiritual Visits, Adventure | Vaishno Devi Temple, Srinagar, Sonamarg, Jammu | Pilgrimage (Vaishno Devi), Family Trekking (Sonamarg), Boating (Srinagar), Nature Walks |
Want to Learn More? You can explore a longer North India tour and look at North India trip packages too, many of which have a stop in Jammu and Kashmir, and other popular locations.
Also, looking for things to do in Jammu and Kashmir will not be boring at all. For skiing, you can visit Gulmarg and if you like trekking, you can trek in Pahalgam. You can even maybe take a boat ride in the famous Dal Lake. You could then sample the local cuisine too and try many famous foods of Jammu and Kashmir, and the local hot beverage Kashmiri Kahwa, which certainly goes well with the Rogan Josh and Yakhni.
Are you excited about your crazy travel plans? From a spiritual traveler to adventure traveler, family, or on honeymoon, these amazing places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir have something for every type of traveler. Whether you are planning places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir in summer, or places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir in December that are covered in snow, visiting this heavenly land will surely be delightful. And If you really want to add something special to your trip, then try to explore Himachal Pradesh tourist places also as these two areas are similarly historic and equally beautiful.
Related FAQs of Jammu and Kashmir Tourist Destinations
Q1: Jammu and Kashmir is most renowned for what?
A1: Jammu & Kashmir is most renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty (“Heaven on Earth”), such as Dal Lake, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam. It’s also known for the Vaishno Devi Shrine and beautiful Pashmina handicrafts.
Q2: How many days are needed for a Jammu Kashmir tour?
A2: A 6-7 day journey is generally ideal to get a good overview of the major sights of the Kashmir Valley. Short (4-5 days) or extended (8-10+ days) journeys are feasible based on desired depth and coverage.
Q3: What is the most picturesque part of Jammu and Kashmir?
A3: The Kashmir Valley (Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg) is widely regarded as the most picturesque part, with its tranquil lakes, snow-clad mountains, and green meadows.
Q4: Which are the major tourist destinations of Jammu and Kashmir?
A4: Major destinations are Srinagar (Dal Lake, Mughal Gardens), Gulmarg (Gondola, skiing), Pahalgam (valleys), Sonamarg (glacier), and Vaishno Devi Shrine in the Jammu region.
