Ans: Definitely. The region sees hundreds of thousands of people every year. Tourist-friendly destinations include Srinagar, Gulmarg, Jammu, and Pahalgam.
Things to Do in Jammu & Kashmir
Surrounded by the grand Himalayas, Jammu & Kashmir is known as the “Heaven on Earth.” With its snow-covered peaks, sparkling lakes, flower-filled gardens and lively culture, this northernmost part of India is a dream for all travellers.
Whether you are looking for adventure, nature, spirituality or a couple’s romantic holiday, there are countless things to do in Jammu and Kashmir that will leave you awe-inspired.
From skiing on the slopes of Gulmarg to taking a serene shikara ride on Dal Lake, exploring the ancient temples of Jammu to eating authentic Kashmiri Wazwan, everything is equally beautiful yet still a part of tradition.
Top Categories of Activities in Jammu & Kashmir
01
Adventure Activities
Jammu and Kashmir is home to some of India’s finest adventure activities. You can ski down incredible slopes and snowboard in Gulmarg or enjoy the famous Gondola cable car ride to the Apharwat peak.
Adventure fans will also enjoy river rafting in Pahalgam and Sonmarg, trekking in the Pir Panjal, and paragliding in Patnitop. If you don’t enjoy such tough adventures, consider pony rides, camping next to lakes, and hiking to more remote, indigenous villages for an experience in nature.
Winter sports in Gulmarg and trekking on Tarsar Marsar, Great Lakes, and Vaishno Devi hill tracks make Jammu and Kashmir one of India’s finest adventure locations.
02
Nature & Sightseeing Experiences
The scenery in Kashmir is postcard-worthy. From the Tulip Garden in Srinagar to the tranquil hills of Pahalgam, as well as the high-altitude pastures of Sonmarg, there is no shortage of gorgeous views.
You can enjoy several popular sightseeing experiences, including Dal Lake, Betaab Valley, Aru Valley, Nigeen Lake, and Yusmarg. Scenic places you can visit in Jammu include Bagh-e-Bahu Garden, Mansar Lake, and Patnitop Meadows, each of which allows for a refreshing getaway.
These beautiful destinations are some of the most well-known in Jammu and Kashmir for photography, picnicking, and leisure as you wander around.
03
Cultural & Heritage Tours
The cultural identity of Jammu & Kashmir is as vibrant as its natural beauty. In Jammu, the Mubarak Mandi Palace, Amar Mahal Palace, and Bahu Fort all have insights into the Dogra royal history. In Kashmir, exploring Old Srinagar reveals centuries-old mosques, wooden houses, and markets bursting with spices, paper-mâché crafts, and shawls.
Local festivals such as Navroz, Baisakhi, and Eid demonstrate the vibrant melting pot of Hindu, Muslim, and Buddhist influences that have shaped Jammu & Kashmir’s unique culture.
04
Spiritual & Temple Visits
For spiritual pilgrims, Jammu & Kashmir is a land of immense sanctity. The Vaishno Devi Temple at Katra draws in millions of pilgrims every year, and temples like the Raghunath Temple, Peer Kho Cave Temple, and Kheer Bhawani Temple are of great importance to religious people.
These temples are located amidst beautiful hills and rivers in an ambience of peace, faith, and natural beauty, which makes them places where every form would find invigorating and rejuvenating.
05
Lakes, Gardens & Photography Spots
The union territory boasts beautiful lakes like Dal Lake, Wular Lake, and Mansar Lake. The Mughal Gardens of Srinagar embody the elegance of Persian architecture, with Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, and Chashme Shahi all being great spots for photography aficionados.
With every season, Kashmir has stunning new colours: tulips bloom in the spring, summer brings lush green, autumn dazzles in gold, and winter covers the valleys with snow.
06
Shopping, Local Crafts & Food Experiences
Any visit to Jammu and Kashmir is not complete without some shopping for well-known items found in Jammu and Kashmir, such as Pashmina shawls, Kashmiri carpets, saffron, decor items made of papier-mâché, and dry fruits.
Markets well-known, such as Raghunath Bazaar, Lal Chowk, and Polo View Market, are filled with handicrafts and local food products. And for those who love food, Kashmir is a paradise because it has the fragrance of food like Kashmiri Wazwan, Rogan Josh, Modur Pulao, Kahwa tea, and delectable street snacks.
Must-Do Activities in Jammu & Kashmir
Shikara Ride on Dal Lake (Srinagar)
A Shikara ride on Dal Lake is one of the most recognised things to do in Jammu and Kashmir, a tranquil experience and one filled with beauty. As you float across the still waters surrounded by mountains and floating gardens, you will see the real beauty of Srinagar.
The lake has floating markets that will make for amazing photographs!
Best time: April to October for nice weather
Tip: If you prefer calm waters and the best lighting, try to go early in the morning.
Stay in a Traditional Houseboat
Staying overnight in a houseboat in Kashmir is quite simply magical. Each houseboat comes decorated with wooden carvings and Kashmiri carpets, keeping you comfortable and showcasing the amazing lake views. To add to this experience is the fabulous local hospitality, making it one of the most famous Jammu and Kashmir experiences.
Skiing & Snow Adventures in Gulmarg
Referred to as India’s winter sports capital, Gulmarg features world-class skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. The slopes of Gulmarg are suitable for all ability levels, and the snow-sprinkled pine forests provide a storybook backdrop.
Gulmarg Gondola Cable Car Ride
You won’t want to miss riding the Gulmarg Gondola, Asia’s highest cable car. This lift ascends close to 14,000′, offering spectacular views of the peaks of the Pir Panjal range. You can easily secure your tickets online ahead of time, one of the more exciting things to do in Jammu all year round.
Try Authentic Kashmiri Cuisine
Food holds great significance in Jammu and Kashmir. Don’t miss Wazwan, the traditional multi-course Kashmiri meal with Rogan Josh, Gushtaba, and Yakhni. And, of course, pair it with the saffron-flavoured Kahwa Tea and Modur Pulao for a delightful culinary experience.
Trek to Vaishno Devi Temple (Katra)
The Vaishno Devi Temple is one of the holiest and widely visited temples in the country, situated in the Trikuta hills. The scenic 13 km trek from Katra to the temple has several facilities for ponies, palkis, and even helicopter rides. Pilgrims from across the globe each year to take part in the holiness of the Mata Vaishno Devi.
Explore Mubarak Mandi Palace (Jammu)
The Mubarak Mandi Palace complex, formerly the royal residence of Dogra kings, boasts a combination of Rajasthani, Mughal, and European architecture. Its impressive courtyards, halls, and galleries tell the royal story of Jammu.
Leisure Walk at Bagh-e-Bahu
Bagh-e-Bahu is a terraced garden situated close to Bahu Fort. The landscaped garden provides views over the Tawi River, and it has its share of lawns and fountains, as well as an aquarium, making it a calming spot for both locals and visitors. One of the more serene and relaxed things to do in Jammu.
Boating at Mansar Lake
Mansar Lake is surrounded by forested hills and is a great spot for boating, bird-watching, and visiting temples. The tranquil atmosphere makes it a family favourite for picnics and gatherings.
Seek Blessings at Raghunath Temple
The magnificent Raghunath Temple, dedicated to Lord Rama, is located in Jammu city and is recognized for its architectural magnificence and standing as a religious emblem for numerous worshippers.
Explore Amar Mahal Palace & Museum
Founded in Tawi River, the magnificent red sandstone palace with its collection of original paintings, artefacts, and the Dogra rulers assessed the most famous golden throne in the Jammu region, is housed. This is one of Jammu’s famous things to see for history lovers.
Ride the Patnitop Ropeway
The scenery from the Patnitop Skyview Ropeway presents incredible views of meadows and pine trees, simply breathtaking. Adventure lovers may also go ziplining and mountain riding.
Walk Through Old Srinagar Streets
Stroll through the narrow streets of Old Srinagar, where you can gaze at wooden houses and visit aromatic spice stores. The historic Jamia Masjid, the Shah Hamdan Mosque, and the local markets at Zaina Kadal will all give you insight into Kashmir’s cultural soul.
Visit Kheer Bhawani Temple
Kheer Bhawani Temple is dedicated to the Goddess Ragnya Devi. It is built over a holy spring whose clarity and colour are said to predict good or bad events in the future. It is one of the top-revered sites and is well-known in the Jammu and Kashmir religious landscape.
Pony Ride in Pahalgam
The best way to experience the greenery of Pahalgam’s valleys and meadows is on a pony ride. Local guides will take you on the ride along beautiful scenic trails, including Aru Valley and Baisaran, both of which present stunning mountain views.
Visit Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden
Located at the foothills of the Zabarwan Range, the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden is Asia’s largest tulip garden, blooming with more than 60 varieties of tulips each spring. One of the most colourful things to do in Jammu & Kashmir, you must visit in April.
Explore Shalimar Bagh (Mughal Garden)
Part of the Mughal architecture, Shalimar Bagh was commissioned by Emperor Jahangir and features cascading fountains, terraced lawns, and beautiful chinar trees. The symmetry of the garden and its elegance make it a must-see for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Discover Bahu Fort
Bahu Fort is one of the oldest structures in Jammu city. The fort is an excellent viewpoint of the entire Jammu region and has the Mahakali Temple (Bahu wali Mata) inside. It is an arena of culture, history, spirituality, and amazing scenic beauty.
Shop at Raghunath Bazaar
For shopping enthusiasts, the Raghunath Bazaar market at Jammu is a must-shop venue for Pashmina shawls, dry fruits, saffron, and handicrafts, which are considered the most famous things to shop for in Jammu and Kashmir.
Visit Peer Kho Cave Temple
Peer Kho Temple in Jammu is an ancient and historical cave shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva that is carved out naturally from the rock structure. A visit to the Peer Kho Temple is a serene spiritual visit, especially during Shivratri.
Best Time to Visit Jammu & Kashmir
Jammu and Kashmir can be visited at any time of the year, with each season offering something different to enjoy.
Season : Spring (March–May)
The best time for tulip gardens and sightseeing, and the climate is pleasant.
Season : Summer (June–August)
The best time for trekking, boating, and visiting lakes and gardens.
Season : Fall (September–November)
The best time for taking photographs, especially with golden chinar leaves.
Season : Winter (December–February)
The best time for snow activities and skiing in Gulmarg.
No matter your interest in spiritual travel, adventure, or relaxation, there is incredible stuff to do in Jammu and Kashmir every season of the year.
Tips for Planning Your Jammu & Kashmir Trip
Climate and Clothing
Winters call for heavy woollens and summers for light jackets.
Permits
Some border areas might require travel permits for foreign nationals.
Safety
In general, J&K is safe for tourists. Follow local advisories and stay updated about weather predictions.
Accommodation
Luxury hotels and houseboats are available at Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam. Budget hotels and lodges are available in Jammu and Katra.
Transportation
The best form of intra-city travel is by taxi and shared cab. Advance online booking for Gondola or ropeway tickets is preferable.
Recommended Itineraries Based on Trip Type
3-Day Quick Kashmir Trip
Day 1: Arrive in Jammu: Visit Raghunath Temple, Bahu Fort, Bagh-e-Bahu.
Day 2: Depart for Katra: Trek to Vaishno Devi Temple.
Day 3: Relax at Mansar Lake before departing.
5-Day Kashmir Family Trip
Day 1-2: Srinagar: Dal Lake, Shalimar Bagh, Tulip Garden, Houseboat stay.
Day 3: Day trip to Gulmarg, Gondola and snow fun.
Day 4: Visit Pahalgam: Pony rides, rugged river views.
Day 5: Shopping at Lal Chowk and Raghunath Bazaar.
6–7 Day Kashmir Romantic/Honeymoon Trip
Day 1: Arrival and Shikara ride on Dal Lake.
Day 2-3: Houseboat stay, visit Mughal Gardens and Tulip Garden.
Day 4: Gulmarg: Gondola ride and ski.
Day 5-6: Pahalgam: Riverside walks, Aru Valley.
Day 7: Go shopping, enjoy leisure time, and depart.
7–10 Day Kashmir Adventure Trip
Day 1-2: Srinagar: acclimatisation and sightseeing.
Day 3-5: Trekking in Sonmarg or Tarsar Marsar trail.
Day 6-7: Gulmarg skiing and gondola.
Day 8-10 Patnitop ropeway, paragliding, rafting near Pahalgam.
FAQs – Things to Know Before Visiting J&K
Q1. Is Jammu & Kashmir safe for tourists?
Q2. What are the best adventure activities in Jammu & Kashmir?
Ans: Skiing, trekking, rafting, paragliding, and the Gulmarg Gondola ride are rated the highest for adventures.
Q3. How to book Gondola tickets?
Ans: You can book tickets online through the official Gulmarg Gondola website to avoid long lines in person.
Q4. Where to shop in Jammu & Kashmir?
Ans: Raghunath Bazaar (Jammu), Lal Chowk, and Polo View Market (Srinagar) are good spots to shop for handicrafts, saffron, and Pashmina shawls, among other things.
Q5. When does the Tulip Garden open?
Ans: The Indira Gandhi Tulip Garden opens from late March to early May, coinciding with the blooming season each year.
Conclusion
From the holy temples of Jammu to the snow-capped valleys of Kashmir, every area here has its own story to tell you. Whether you’re floating on Dal Lake, meandering through Mughal gardens, skiing in Gulmarg or trying the spicy Wazwan cuisine, the things to do in Jammu and Kashmir will never end. A fantastic combination of beauty, adventure and culture, the memories of J&K will last a lifetime. So, pack your bags, follow this guide, and start planning your trip to Jammu & Kashmir today, and experience the real meaning of paradise on earth.
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