Things To Do In Jammu and Kashmir

The houseboats and shikaras in the Dal Lake, adventure sports in Gulmarg, Buddhist monasteries in Ladakh, and lush green scenery of Aru Valley: Jammu & Kashmir has something to offer to all kinds of travelers. This makes the state an ideal tourist destination in both summers as well as winters.  There is much more than sightseeing in the valley state of India that makes your holiday an unforgettable experience. Here are the things to do in Jammu and Kashmir.

Your trip to Jammu and Kashmir is incomplete without a shikara ride on the waters of Dal and Nagin lakes. The slow movement of these boat rides gives you a relaxing experience with a view of the colourful houseboats on the banks of the lakes. The rides can be availed from 6 am to 5 pm all days of the week. The price may vary from 150 INR to 250 INR per person.

The winter capital of the state, Jammu has many delights to offer to the unsuspecting tourist. Besides the awe-inspiring views, there are a number of cultural destinations which give you a unique perspective of the region. Visit the Amar Mahal Palace, a former royal palace which has now been turned into a museum. The Bahu Fort, Baag-e-Bahu, and the Bawe Wali Mata Temple are all intriguing sightseeing destinations in Jammu.

Kashmir, the summer capital of the state of Jammu and Kashmir, has many attractions. Visit the oldest mosque in Kashmir, the Khanqah-e-Moula, built as early as 1395 AD. Standing right opposite the Khanqah, on the left bank of the Jhelum river, is Naev Masheed (also known as Pathar Masjid). This unique mosque which is architecturally different from the other mosques of the region was built by Emperor Jehangir's wife, Noor Jehan during the early 17th century.

If you like a high adrenaline rush and adventure sports is your forte, you should not miss out on going skiing in your trip to Jammu and Kashmir. Skiing in the snow-covered mountains and slopes of the Himalayas is the numero uno attraction for the adventure seekers. The ideal places for skiing are Pahalgam, Gulmarg,Valley and Thajiwas in Sonamarg. There are exclusive government owned accommodations for skiers at Patnitop, Gulmarg, and Sanasar. 

Ladakh is predominantly a Buddhist region with numerous monasteries. If you are seeking spirituality and want to escape from the hustle and bustle of the chaotic city life, a visit to a monastery is a must. Thiksey Monastery, located around 20 km away from Leh is the largest monastery in Ladakh. The monastery is characterized by various Buddha statues in it. Some other popular monasteries are Diksit, Stok, Spituk, and Likir monastery.

Jammu and Kashmir is famous for handicrafts and textiles made by the locals. Kashmiri shawls and carpets should be included in your shopping itinerary. The state is also known for dry fruits, Kashmir silk, copper, and silverware. There are traditional as well as modern shopping centers across the state.

You are in Jammu and Kashmir. A close encounter with the snow clad hills and passes is a must. The state beckons hoards of mountaineering enthusiasts every year. Some of the well-known peaks for Mountaineers are Nun-Kun of Zanskar Ranges, Gulap Kangri, and Kang Yatsey.