If you’re dreaming of misty mountains, vibrant culture, and postcard-perfect landscapes, Kashmir is where your heart needs to be. Nestled in the northernmost part of India, it’s a place where every moment feels like a scene from a romantic movie—minus the cheesy soundtrack (unless you bring your own playlist).
From the peaceful Dal Lake mornings to the adrenaline-pumping treks in the Himalayas, Kashmir offers an experience that sticks with you long after you leave. Here are 8 unforgettable things to do in Kashmir—and trust me, each one is worth adding to your travel plans.
1. Take a Shikara Ride on Dal Lake
Let’s start with the classic—because no trip to Kashmir is complete without a dreamy shikara ride on Dal Lake in Srinagar. These beautifully decorated wooden boats gently glide across the water, offering views of floating gardens, houseboats, and distant snow-capped peaks.
Whether you ride at sunrise for calm golden views or at sunset for soft pink reflections, it’s incredibly peaceful and a must-do for first-timers.
Pro tip: Don’t forget to sip on some hot kahwa during your ride. It’s the Kashmiri way!
2. Stay on a Traditional Houseboat
While hotels are great, houseboats in Srinagar are something special. These floating homes have their own charm—carved wooden interiors, creaky floors, and cozy vibes you won’t get anywhere else. Some are luxurious, others more modest, but all come with that magical lakefront view.
You’ll wake up to the sound of water gently lapping beneath you and birds calling in the distance. It’s peaceful, nostalgic, and uniquely Kashmiri.
3. Wander Through the Mughal Gardens
Kashmir’s Mughal gardens are straight out of a fairytale. Designed during the Mughal era, places like Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, and Chashme Shahi are perfectly manicured, with cascading terraces, fountains, and vibrant blooms.
I loved just strolling through the paths, watching locals enjoy picnics and couples posing for photos. In spring and summer, the colors are unreal—tulips, roses, and so much green. Bring a book or just people-watch with some snacks in hand.
4. Explore the Winter Wonderland of Gulmarg
If you visit during winter, Gulmarg turns into a snow-covered wonderland. And yes, it’s just as magical as it sounds. You can go skiing, snowboarding, or even take a ride on the Gulmarg Gondola, which is one of the highest cable cars in the world!
Even if you’re not into sports, the snow-capped landscape and cozy cafés will charm you. And in summer? It transforms into a gorgeous meadow perfect for hiking and pony rides.
5. Visit Sonamarg—the “Meadow of Gold”
Sonamarg is one of those places where you’ll pause and say, “How does this even exist?” The mountains here feel closer, the rivers louder, and the meadows endlessly green. It’s quieter than some of the more popular spots, which makes it feel like a secret you’ve been lucky enough to discover.
I recommend packing a picnic, sitting by the Sindh River, and just soaking in the views. You can also hire a pony to explore the nearby Thajiwas Glacier—a cool experience, literally and figuratively.
6. Try Kashmiri Cuisine (Don’t Skip the Wazwan!)
Let’s talk food—because Kashmiri cuisine deserves a spotlight. From Rogan Josh to Gushtaba to the heavenly Yakhni, every dish is rich with flavor and history.
If you get the chance, try a traditional Wazwan feast—it’s an elaborate multi-course meal that locals usually serve at weddings. Even if you’re vegetarian, there’s a lot to enjoy—like Dum Aloo and Haak Saag.
Wash it all down with a cup of noon chai (salty pink tea) or Kashmiri kahwa, and you’ll be dreaming about the flavors for days.
7. Trek to the Stunning Lakes
For adventure lovers, Kashmir is a trekking paradise. If you’re up for a challenge, try the Tarsar Marsar Trek or the legendary Great Lakes Trek. These trails take you through pine forests, meadows full of wildflowers, and up to crystal-clear alpine lakes that feel untouched by time.
Even shorter hikes around Pahalgam or Aru Valley offer views that will leave you breathless (partly because of the altitude—but mostly because of the beauty!).
8. Experience Local Life in a Village
Some of my favorite moments in Kashmir came from the quietest places—small villages where life moves slowly and people still cook over wood fires. Spending time in places like Yusmarg or Gurez Valley offers a completely different side of the region.
Here, you can interact with locals, taste fresh mountain-grown food, and maybe even learn a few words in Kashmiri. It’s humbling, peaceful, and honestly—healing.
Planning Your Trip? Here’s a Thought.
Kashmir has so much to offer—from the serene to the adventurous, from nature to culture, and everything in between. If you’re dreaming about this trip but not sure where to begin, you might want to look into Kashmir tour packages or Kashmir holiday packages.
These packages often include stays in houseboats, guided tours to places like Gulmarg and Sonamarg, and transportation—all the logistics taken care of, so you can just focus on the beauty around you. Whether you’re a solo traveler or planning a family getaway, these packages can be a huge help.
So, is Kashmir calling your name yet? Because I’m already thinking about going back.
Let me know which of these experiences you’re most excited about—and stay tuned for more from my Kashmir travel series!
