Kashmir mesmerises in every season but spring brings out the most colours and blooms in the valley!
Kashmir is a beautiful dream come true in the spring season with the valley looking its best in full bloom. It is also the time when the famous Tulip Garden opens for the public. March is the beginning of spring with temperatures rising slowly and snow melting in the lower regions. Spring remains in Kashmir from March to May and often sees an unpredictable weather. In fact, locals often refer to people’s sudden losing of cool as “April showers”. The weather in the valley might be cool and unpredictable but spring brings different hues to it with flowers blooming, miles and miles of mustard fields and fruit blooms.
If you’re still not convinced, here are some other reasons for visiting Kashmir and attractions you don’t want to miss
Who doesn’t love nature? Kashmir has everything from snow-covered mountains, lush meadows to lovely waterfalls, and grasslands creating a spectacular scenery. Whether it’s the beauty of Aru valley or lovely gardens of Srinagar, saffron fields with backdrop of Zabarwan mountain range or roads lined by almond and chinar trees – Kashmir is truly a heaven on earth. Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg – just 1 hour drive from Srinagar make for perfect getaways which everyone loves to visit again and again.
A trip to Kashmir is incomplete without a boat ride in the iconic Dal Lake which is an invaluable part of Srinagar, a lifeline of the city. It is also one of the favourite destinations of photographers and photography enthusiasts to capture the exquisite scenes of shikaras, floating markets and just locals carrying on with their daily work. Other popular lakes include Wular Lake – the largest freshwater lake in Asia, Manasbal lake and Nigeen Lake – all of which offer serenity and a break away from chaos of the city. One can also enjoy a shikara ride or stay at one of the luxurious houseboats for an ultimate Kashmir experience.
Explore the rich culture and heritage of Kashmir by visiting its museums that exhibits paintings, copper utensils, pottery and other handicrafts. Some of these museums were palaces that have been converted into museums and art galleries. Some famous ones include Amar Mahal, Dogra Art and Stok Palace Museum which can be visited if you want to check out beautiful paintings, old utensils and pottery, musical instruments and textiles.
The rich heritage of Kashmir is part of its attraction and the state boasts a number of massive forts, impressive palaces and ancient temples as well as mosques for tourists to get an idea of the vast history and heritage Kashmir holds. Shankaracharya temple, Khanqah Maula, Patthar Masjid, Pir Haji Muhammad Sahib, Jama Masjid, Hari Parbat Fort and Pari Mahal are some of the most popular historical monuments here.
Kashmir is famous for its wazwan – a multi-course meal in Kashmiri cuisine where people are served meat dishes along with some vegetarian options. When here, don’t miss rogan josh, yakhni and methi maaz if you’re non-vegetarian. Vegetarians can try Dum Aloo, Kashmiri Saag, and Nadur Churma. Kahwa and noon chai are some of the most popular drinks in Kashmir.
Another reason for visiting Kashmir is its amazing adventure activities. If you are someone who loves adventure and want to try your hands at a range of adventure activities, this is the place to be! Mountain biking, skiing, camping, snowboarding and golfing are some of the most popular sports here. Gulmarg in Kashmir is also home to second highest cable car network in the world where tourists can enjoy a gondola ride and take in the breath-taking views of the Himalayas.
Most people book summer trips in Kashmir but if you don’t mind the cold and want to experience the bloom with stunning cherry blossom, almonds trees and bursting mustard fields, spring season is great for you. You will not only see the valley in its best but also experience snow in upper regions of Gulmarg, Sonamarg and Pahalgam. So, what are you waiting for? Book your Kashmir trip now