PAHALGAM : Situated in the Anantnag district, about 90km away from Srinagar, Pahalgam is a beautiful hill station and a popular tourist attraction of Jammu & Kashmir. Pahalgam is located on the banks of the Liddar River, and the rugged terrains, green meadows, and snow-capped mountains make it a perfect spot for adventure enthusiasts. Kolahi trek via a beautiful village named Aru is one of the popular trekking regions. Sheshnag Lake, situated near Pahalgam, is another bliss altogether.
In addition, the long stretches of rivers in Pahalgam are the perfect site for people who enjoy trout fishing. Baisaran, also called the mini switzerland, is a beautiful destination 6 kms away from Pahalgam. With tranquil meadows, pristine lakes and picturesque settings, you can just stroll down the area or sit down to have a picnic. Baisaran also offers activities like pony rides, zorbing, etc.
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GULMARG : Situated at an altitude of 2730 m above sea level, Gulmarg is a popular skiing destination located in Pir Panjal Range of Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Surrounded by snow-covered lofty Himalayas, meadows of flowers, deep ravines, evergreen forested valleys, Gulmarg also has the world's second-highest Gondola ride. Gulmarg is one of the top honeymoon destinations in India. Gulmarg has also been developed as an adventure hub as the Indian Institute of Skiing, and Mountaineering is located here. A lot of courses on trekking, mountaineering, skiing, and snowboarding are offered by IISM.
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SRINAGAR : Famously known as 'Heaven on Earth, Srinagar is located in the union territory of Jammu & Kashmir, on the banks of river Jhelum. Srinagar is known for the stationary houseboats and gondola-type rowboats- Shikaras on Dal Lake . Adorned with tranquil Dal Lake & Nigeen Lake, Srinagar is the dream destination for honeymoon and family holidays.
The tourists use Shikaras to see attractions like the Floating Vegetable Markett and the Mir Bahris – a lively community of people who live on the lake itself. In addition, there are a lot of houseboats that provide a beautiful and unique stay experience on the lake. Srinagar is home to some of India's most exquisite Mughal-age gardens, with the top attractions being Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh and Chashm-E-Shahi Garden. It is also home to Asia's largest tulip garden.
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DAL LAKE : The Jewel of Srinagar, the Dal Lake is synonymous to a visit to Srinagar and is almost a visual definition of the town. Spread over 15 kms, it is the second-largest lake in Jammu & Kashmir. The mirror-like Dal Lake reflects the snow-dusted peaks of the Pir Panjal mountains while the colourful shikaras (gondolas) float around.
The houseboats and shikaras are its main attractions. The Dal Lake of Srinagar is also popular for the floating market (known as Raad) where vendors have their own Shikaras and are not shy of approaching tourists with their most endearing handicrafts, saffron, edibles and even ice-creams in tow. Ice skating during winter on the frozen Dal Lake also attracts many tourists.
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YUSMARG : Considered by some as the best place in Jammu and Kashmir, mostly because of its undisturbed landscape, a less frequented but extremely beautiful hill station, Yusmarg is now connected by a very good motorable road. With the government working on its roads and connectivity, Yusmarg too, will soon become a tourist hub. At the moment, for those who enjoy trekking long distances and in the remotest of area.
Yusmarg has forests with maple trees in them. Overall, Yusmarg is a beautiful place and can actually be called a mini hill stationed is a one of the most romantic places in the state. At a distance of 47 kms from Srinagar, it can also be called Switzerland or at least something close to it. It's the quietest place out of all tourist destinations in Kashmir and is also an amazing trek spot. Trek enthusiasts would definitely love it here! If you want to enjoy some greenery and peace.
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ARU VALLEY : situated in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir is a serene and enchanting tourist attraction located 12 km from Pahalgam. This tranquil hill station is nestled amidst green grasslands with a stunning view of the majestic Himalayan ranges. The valley serves as a base camp for numerous treks. It also provides opportunities for skiing, heli-skiing, horse riding, wildlife and bird watching. Aru Valley's natural beauty and adventure offerings make it an appealing destination for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. At the heart of Aru Valley lies its pristine meadows, misty valleys, and snow-capped mountains, making it an ideal spot for a picnic.
This small village serves as the starting point for famous treks like the Sonamarg trek and the trek to Kolahoi Glacier, catering to trekkers of all expertise levels. Moreover, camping and fishing are other popular activities to be enjoyed here. Aru Valley also offers an exhilarating bird's eye view of the stunning landscapes with its paragliding experience. Additionally, the valley boasts enchanting waterfalls and crystal-clear water streams that add to its natural charm.
AMARNATH : located in union territory of Jammu and Kashmir is one of the most important pilgrimage in India for the worshippers of Lord Shiva. The Amarnath cave has an enshrined Shivaling formed naturally with ice, which resembles Lord Shiva. Amarnath is visited by millions of tourists every year from all across the world for a challenging mountainous trek called 'Amarnath Yatra'. Legend has it that, this place is regarded to be the same cave where Lord Shiva revealed the secret of life and eternity to Goddess Parvati.
Amarnath Cave is accessible only during the Sharavan months of July-August. There are two routes available for undertaking the Amarnath Yatra - via Baltal or Pahalgam. The Baltal route, though shorter, has a steeper trekking route. The Pahalgam route is longer but is generally preferred by most of the devotees. It usually takes 3-5 days to reach Amarnath from the base point. Helicopter services are now available by private operators on both these routes. The devotees need to make advance bookings and get registered to undertake the holy pilgrimage to Amarnath.
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