Kashmir is more than a destination for beautiful mountain views. From peaceful Shikara rides and traditional houseboats to snow adventures, scenic valleys, local food and romantic experiences, there are countless ways to experience the beauty of the Kashmir Valley.
If you are planning a trip and looking for the best 15 Best Things to Do in Kashmir, this guide covers 15 experiences that can make your holiday more memorable. Whether you are travelling as a couple, with family or on an adventure trip, you can mix these activities into your Kashmir itinerary.
Quick Answer: What Are the Best Things to Do in Kashmir?
Some of the most memorable Kashmir experiences include taking a Shikara ride on Dal Lake, staying on a traditional houseboat, riding the Gulmarg Gondola, enjoying snow activities, exploring Pahalgam and Sonamarg, visiting Mughal gardens, discovering Doodhpathri and Yusmarg, tasting Kashmiri cuisine and shopping for traditional handicrafts.
Take a Shikara Ride on Dal Lake
A peaceful Shikara experience on Dal Lake.
A Shikara ride on Dal Lake is one of the most iconic experiences in Srinagar. The traditional wooden boats move gently across the lake while the surrounding mountains and houseboats create a memorable Kashmir landscape.
Early morning and evening are particularly pleasant for a relaxed ride. Couples can also enjoy a quieter Shikara experience away from the busiest parts of the lake.
Stay in a Traditional Kashmir Houseboat
Traditional houseboats are an important part of the Dal Lake experience.
Spending a night on a traditional Kashmir houseboat is another experience worth adding to your itinerary. Many houseboats feature beautifully decorated interiors, wooden detailing and views of Dal Lake.
A houseboat stay is particularly popular with couples and travellers who want something different from a conventional hotel.
Ride the Gulmarg Gondola
Mountain scenery around Gulmarg.
The Gulmarg Gondola is one of the most popular experiences in Kashmir. The cable car takes visitors higher into the mountains, offering impressive views of the surrounding Himalayan landscape.
In winter, Gulmarg becomes a major attraction for snow lovers, while the warmer months offer lush green mountain scenery.
Enjoy Snow Activities in Gulmarg
Snow-covered mountains and pine forests in Gulmarg.
If you visit Kashmir during winter, Gulmarg is one of the best places to experience snow. Depending on weather and local conditions, visitors can enjoy activities such as skiing, snowboarding and playing in fresh snow.
Even if you do not participate in adventure sports, simply experiencing the winter landscape is one of the memorable things to do in Kashmir.
Explore Pahalgam and the Lidder Valley
Mountain scenery around Pahalgam.
Pahalgam is known for its green valleys, mountain scenery and the Lidder River. It is an excellent destination for travellers who want a combination of relaxation and outdoor exploration.
You can spend time beside the river, explore nearby valleys, enjoy scenic drives and simply take in the peaceful surroundings.
Visit Betaab Valley
Betaab Valley near Pahalgam, surrounded by Himalayan scenery.
Betaab Valley is one of the scenic attractions around Pahalgam. Its combination of green meadows, mountain slopes and flowing streams makes it a popular stop for sightseeing and photography.
The valley works well as part of a Pahalgam day excursion and is especially attractive during the warmer months when the landscape becomes lush and green.
Explore Aru Valley
Mountain scenery in Aru Valley near Pahalgam.
Aru Valley offers a quieter and more peaceful side of the Pahalgam region. The valley is surrounded by mountains and provides beautiful views for nature lovers and photographers.
It is also a popular starting point for longer mountain excursions and trekking routes in the surrounding region.
Take a Scenic Trip to Sonamarg
Green valleys and mountain scenery in Sonamarg.
Sonamarg, meaning “Meadow of Gold,” is known for its dramatic mountain scenery, green valleys and river landscapes.
A day trip to Sonamarg is a popular addition to a Kashmir itinerary. The drive itself is scenic, making the journey part of the overall experience.
Walk Through Srinagar's Mughal Gardens
Mughal-style gardens with the Kashmir mountains in the background.
Srinagar's historic Mughal gardens offer a peaceful break from sightseeing. Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh and other garden areas showcase terraced layouts, water channels and mountain views.
These gardens are ideal for a relaxed walk and photography, particularly when flowers are in bloom.
Discover Doodhpathri
Peaceful natural scenery around Doodhpathri.
Doodhpathri is a beautiful meadow destination in the Budgam region of Kashmir. It is known for green landscapes, streams, pine and deodar forests and a quieter atmosphere compared with some of Kashmir's busier tourist destinations.
If you prefer peaceful landscapes and nature photography, Doodhpathri can be an excellent addition to your Kashmir trip.
Escape to Yusmarg
A peaceful landscape in Yusmarg.
Yusmarg is another peaceful destination for travellers looking for meadows, forests and mountain scenery. It is especially appealing to visitors who want to spend time away from crowded tourist areas.
Depending on the season, you can enjoy walks, photography and peaceful views of the surrounding landscape.
Taste Authentic Kashmiri Cuisine
Traditional Kashmiri cuisine and Wazwan.
Food is an important part of experiencing Kashmir. Traditional dishes such as Rogan Josh, Yakhni, Dum Aloo, Gushtaba and the elaborate Wazwan feast offer a taste of the region's culinary traditions.
For a lighter experience, try Kashmiri tea such as Kahwa, traditionally prepared with spices, saffron and nuts.
Explore Srinagar's Local Markets
Traditional Kashmiri handicrafts and craftsmanship.
Exploring Srinagar's markets is a good way to discover Kashmiri craftsmanship and local products. Depending on your interests, you can look for Pashmina products, Kashmiri handicrafts, papier-mâché items, carpets, spices and traditional souvenirs.
Popular shopping areas include Lal Chowk, Polo View Market, Residency Road and Zaina Kadal in the Old City. Take time to compare quality and ask about the material and craftsmanship before purchasing expensive handicrafts.
Enjoy Scenic Drives and Photography
One of the simplest but most rewarding things to do in Kashmir is to enjoy the journey itself. Roads connecting Srinagar with destinations such as Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg pass through changing landscapes, villages, forests, rivers and mountains.
Keep your camera ready for scenic viewpoints and natural landscapes. However, always choose safe stopping points rather than stopping on busy roads.
Enjoy a Romantic Kashmir Experience
Kashmir is particularly popular with couples because of its combination of lakes, mountains, gardens and peaceful valleys.
Couples can combine a Shikara ride, houseboat stay, scenic drives, mountain sightseeing, local dining and relaxed evenings to create a memorable honeymoon or romantic holiday.
For more planning ideas, read our Kashmir honeymoon guide .
Best Things to Do in Kashmir in Winter
Winter transforms parts of Kashmir into a snowy landscape. Gulmarg is particularly popular during the snow season, while Srinagar, Pahalgam and Sonamarg can also offer beautiful winter scenery depending on weather and accessibility.
- Experience snowfall and winter scenery in Gulmarg.
- Ride the Gulmarg Gondola when operating conditions permit.
- Enjoy a cozy houseboat stay in Srinagar.
- Explore Srinagar's winter landscapes.
- Enjoy Kashmiri Kahwa and traditional cuisine.
Best Things to Do in Kashmir for Couples
Couples can combine relaxing experiences with scenic sightseeing for a balanced Kashmir holiday.
- Take a private Shikara ride on Dal Lake.
- Stay on a traditional houseboat.
- Enjoy the mountain scenery of Gulmarg.
- Explore Pahalgam and its surrounding valleys.
- Enjoy a peaceful evening with traditional Kashmiri cuisine.
- Take photographs together at scenic viewpoints.
Which Kashmir Destination Is Best for You?
| Destination | Best For | Popular Experiences |
|---|---|---|
| Srinagar | First-time visitors, couples and families | Shikara rides, houseboats, gardens, food and shopping |
| Gulmarg | Snow lovers and adventure travellers | Gondola, skiing and mountain scenery |
| Pahalgam | Nature lovers and families | Valleys, rivers and scenic drives |
| Sonamarg | Mountain and landscape lovers | Scenic drives, valleys and mountain views |
| Doodhpathri | Peaceful nature escapes | Meadows, forests and photography |
| Yusmarg | Quiet getaways | Meadows, forests and scenic walks |
How Many Days Do You Need for Kashmir?
A 4 to 5 night Kashmir trip is a good starting point for first-time visitors. It gives you enough time to experience Srinagar along with popular destinations such as Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg.
If you have more time, you can add quieter destinations such as Doodhpathri or Yusmarg and spend additional nights enjoying Srinagar at a relaxed pace.
For a practical day-by-day plan, see our Kashmir itinerary for 5 days .
When Is the Best Time to Enjoy Kashmir Activities?
The ideal time depends on the experiences you want. Spring and summer are excellent for green valleys, gardens and sightseeing. Autumn brings beautiful colours, while winter is the season to experience snow in destinations such as Gulmarg.
Read our detailed best time to visit Kashmir guide to choose the season that matches your travel plans.
Ready to Experience Kashmir?
From peaceful Shikara rides and houseboats to Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg and offbeat Kashmir destinations, GoldenBird Travels can help you plan a comfortable Kashmir holiday around your preferred travel style and duration.
Explore Kashmir Tour PackagesFrequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Kashmir
1. What are the best things to do in Kashmir?
Popular experiences include a Shikara ride on Dal Lake, staying on a houseboat, visiting Gulmarg, exploring Pahalgam and Sonamarg, visiting Mughal gardens and tasting Kashmiri cuisine.
2. What are the best things to do in Kashmir for couples?
Couples can enjoy Shikara rides, houseboat stays, mountain sightseeing, scenic drives, peaceful valleys and traditional Kashmiri dining.
3. What are the best things to do in Kashmir in winter?
Winter activities include experiencing snow in Gulmarg, enjoying the Gulmarg Gondola when operating, exploring Srinagar and enjoying the region's winter scenery and cuisine.
4. What are the best things to do in Srinagar?
Shikara rides on Dal Lake, houseboat stays, Mughal gardens, local markets, Kashmiri cuisine and sightseeing around the city are among the most popular experiences.
5. What are the best things to do in Gulmarg?
Visitors can ride the Gulmarg Gondola, enjoy mountain scenery and participate in suitable snow activities during winter.
6. How many days are enough for a Kashmir trip?
A 4 to 5 night trip is a good starting point for visiting Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg. Additional days allow you to explore quieter destinations at a more relaxed pace.
Combining Srinagar's lakes and gardens with Gulmarg's mountains, Pahalgam's valleys and quieter destinations such as Doodhpathri and Yusmarg can give you a much more complete Kashmir holiday.