Jammu and Kashmir, known as the “Paradise on Earth,” is one of the most breathtaking destinations in India. Blessed with stunning landscapes, snow-covered peaks, serene valleys, and a rich cultural heritage, it attracts millions of travelers every year. Whether you’re looking for a spiritual retreat, a family vacation, or an adventure-filled getaway, Jammu and Kashmir offers everything you need for a memorable trip.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll cover:

• Top tourist destinations with details on what to do, entry fees, and best timings
• How to reach each place and travel distances
• Adventure activities and hidden gems
• Budget, mid-range, and luxury options
• Safety tips, best seasons, and travel hacks

Top 10 Tourist Places in Jammu and Kashmir

1. 🌄Srinagar – Jewel of Kashmir

Location: Kashmir Valley
Altitude: 1,585 meters
Best Season to Visit: April to October (for sightseeing), December to February (for snow)
Distance from Jammu: 260 km (8–9 hours by road)

How to Reach Srinagar

• Flight: Direct flights from Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru to Srinagar Airport
• Train: Nearest station is Jammu Tawi (270 km)
• Bus: Government bus from Jammu to Srinagar – ₹600 (8–9 hours)

Things to Do in Srinagar

✔️ Shikara Ride on Dal Lake – ₹500–₹1,000 for 30 to 60 minutes (Best time: Early morning)
✔️ Mughal Gardens – Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, and Chashme Shahi – ₹24 per person (9:00 AM – 6:00 PM)
✔️ Shankaracharya Temple – Free entry (6:00 AM – 8:00 PM)
✔️ Floating Market on Dal Lake – Free (Only accessible by Shikara)
✔️ Hazratbal Shrine – Free (Open 24/7)

Local Cuisine

• Rogan Josh – ₹200
• Gustaba – ₹250
• Yakhni – ₹150
• Kahwa – ₹50

Best Places to Stay in Srinagar

• Budget: Zostel Srinagar – ₹800–₹1,500 per night
• Mid-Range: Hotel City Palace – ₹2,500–₹4,500 per night
• Luxury: The Lalit Grand Palace – ₹10,000+ per night

Best Places to Shop in Srinagar

• Lal Chowk Market – Pashmina shawls, carpets
• Polo View Market – Handicrafts, wood carvings

Hidden Tip:

Take the Shikara ride early morning to avoid crowds and witness the floating vegetable market.

Srinagar Nearby Tourist Spots

• Gulmarg – 50 km (2 hours)
• Pahalgam – 95 km (3 hours)

2. 🎿 Gulmarg – The Adventure Capital of Kashmir

Location: 50 km from Srinagar
Altitude: 2,650 meters
Best Season to Visit: December to March (for snow), May to October (for sightseeing)

How to Reach Gulmarg

• Taxi: ₹1,500 from Srinagar (2 hours)
• Bus: Government bus from Srinagar – ₹100

Things to Do in Gulmarg

✔️ Gondola Ride – ₹740 (Phase 1), ₹950 (Phase 2) – (10 AM – 5 PM)
✔️ Skiing and Snowboarding – ₹1,500–₹3,000 for gear rental
✔️ Golfing at Gulmarg Golf Course – ₹1,200 per round (9 AM – 6 PM)
✔️ St. Mary’s Church – Free entry (8 AM – 6 PM)

Local Cuisine

• Trout Fish – ₹300
• Dum Aloo – ₹150
• Kashmiri Wazwan – ₹300

Best Places to Stay in Gulmarg

• Budget: Pine View Resort – ₹1,200 per night
• Mid-Range: Hotel Hilltop – ₹4,000 per night
• Luxury: The Khyber Himalayan Resort – ₹12,000+ per night

Best Places to Shop in Gulmarg

• Main Market – Handwoven shawls and dry fruits

Hidden Tip

Book your Gondola ride online to avoid long queues.

Gulmarg Nearby Tourist Spots

• Khilanmarg – 5 km (Pony ride ₹500)
• Drang Waterfall – 10 km

3. 🏞️Pahalgam – Valley of Shepherds

Location: Anantnag District
Altitude: 2,740 meters
Best Season to Visit: April to October

How to Reach Pahalgam

• Taxi: ₹2,000 from Srinagar (3 hours)
• Bus: Government bus from Srinagar – ₹150

Things to Do in Pahalgam

✔️ Betaab Valley – ₹100 (10 AM – 5 PM)
✔️ Aru Valley Pony Ride – ₹300–₹500
✔️ Lidder River Rafting – ₹500–₹1,500 (May to July)
✔️ Kolahoi Glacier Trek – ₹300 permit required

Local Cuisine

• Tabak Maaz – ₹200
• Kashmiri Pulav – ₹150

Best Places to Stay in Pahalgam

• Budget: Hotel Pahalgam – ₹1,500
• Mid-Range: Pahalgam Retreat – ₹3,500
• Luxury: Pahalgam Hotel – ₹10,000+

Best Places to Shop in Pahalgam

• Main Bazaar – Woolen shawls and carpets

Hidden Tip

Visit early to avoid large crowds and enjoy quieter trails.

Nearby Tourist Spots in Pahalgam

• Aru Valley – 12 km
• Lidder River – 2 km

4. ❄️Sonmarg – Meadow of Gold

Sonmarg, meaning “Meadow of Gold,” is a stunning valley surrounded by snow-capped mountains and glaciers. The breathtaking views of the Sindh River and the Thajiwas Glacier make it a favorite among adventure seekers and nature lovers. Sonmarg is also the base for the famous Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage. In summer, the meadows bloom with colorful wildflowers, while in winter, it becomes a snow-covered paradise ideal for snow activities.

Entry Fees and Timings

• Thajiwas Glacier Trek: ₹700–₹1,000 for pony rides
• Fishing at Sindh River: ₹500 for permit
• Camping: ₹1,000–₹2,000 per night

How to Reach Sonmarg

• Distance from Srinagar: 80 km (2.5 hours by road)
• How to Reach:
  • Taxi: ₹2,000 from Srinagar
  • Bus: Government bus from Srinagar (₹150)

Things to Do in Sonmarg

✔️ Trek to Thajiwas Glacier – Best done between May and September
✔️ Camping by the Sindh River – Perfect for stargazing
✔️ Pony ride to the glacier – ₹700–₹1,000
✔️ Fishing at Sindh River – Permit available at ₹500

Local Cuisine

• Kashmiri Saag – ₹150
• Rogan Josh – ₹200
• Sheermal (Kashmiri Bread) – ₹30

Best Places to Stay in Sonmarg

• Budget: Hotel Glacier Heights – ₹1,500 per night
• Mid-Range: Sonmarg Glacier View – ₹4,500 per night
• Luxury: Rah Villas – ₹12,000 per night

Best Places to Shop in Sonmarg

• Main Market – Handicrafts and woolen clothing

Hidden Tip

Carry cash since most local vendors don’t accept digital payments.

Nearby Tourist Spots in Sonmarg

• Baltal Valley – 15 km
• Zojila Pass – 12 km

5. 🏔️ Leh and Ladakh – The Land of High Passes

Leh and Ladakh offer some of the most rugged and surreal landscapes in the world. Famous for its Buddhist monasteries, crystal-clear lakes, and high-altitude mountain passes, Ladakh is a paradise for adventure lovers. The stunning Pangong Lake and the breathtaking Nubra Valley are the region’s highlights. Ladakh also offers thrilling bike rides through the Khardung La Pass — the world’s highest motorable road.

Entry Fees and Timings

• Pangong Lake: Free
• Magnetic Hill: Free
• Khardung La Pass: Free (Permit Required – ₹600)

How to Reach Leh and Ladakh

• Distance from Srinagar: 420 km (12–14 hours by road)
• How to Reach:
  • Flight: Direct flight from Delhi to Leh Airport
  • Road: Via Manali or Srinagar by shared taxi (₹2,500)

Things to Do in Leh and Ladakh

✔️ Visit Pangong Lake – Crystal blue waters at 4,350 meters
✔️ Ride to Khardung La Pass – Highest motorable road in the world
✔️ Visit Thiksey Monastery – Largest monastery in Ladakh
✔️ Explore Magnetic Hill – Experience the mysterious gravitational pull

Local Cuisine

• Momos – ₹100 (Steamed dumplings)
• Thukpa – ₹150 (Noodle soup)
• Butter Tea – ₹50

Best Places to Stay in Leh and Ladakh

• Budget: Himalayan Guest House – ₹800–₹1,200 per night
• Mid-Range: Hotel Namgyal Palace – ₹3,500–₹5,000 per night
• Luxury: The Grand Dragon – ₹12,000+ per night

Best Places to Shop in Leh and Ladakh

• Leh Market – Tibetan artifacts, prayer wheels, and woolen clothing

Hidden Tip:

Acclimatize for 24 hours before exploring to avoid altitude sickness.

Nearby Tourist Spots in Leh and Ladakh

• Nubra Valley – 120 km
• Tso Moriri Lake – 250 km

6. Patnitop – Hill Station for Adventure

Patnitop is a hill station known for its pleasant weather and adventure activities. Surrounded by lush pine forests, Patnitop is ideal for trekking, paragliding, and skiing during winter. The Nag Temple is an important pilgrimage site here. The nearby Sanasar Lake offers boating and horse riding.

Entry Fees and Timings

• Paragliding: ₹1,500
• Nag Temple: Free
• Skiing: ₹800 for gear rental

How to Reach Patnitop

• Distance from Jammu: 110 km (3 hours)
• How to Reach:
  • Taxi: ₹2,000 from Jammu
  • Bus: ₹250 from Jammu

Things to Do in Patnitop

✔️ Trek to Madhatop – 5 km trail
✔️ Paragliding – ₹1,500 for 15 minutes
✔️ Visit Nag Temple – Free entry

Local Cuisine

• Rajma Chawal – ₹150
• Kalari Cheese – ₹100

Best Places to Stay in Patnitop

• Budget: Hotel Subash Palace – ₹1,000 per night
• Mid-Range: Vardaan Resort – ₹4,000 per night
• Luxury: Hotel Green Top – ₹8,000 per night

Best Places to Shop in Patnitop

• Main Market – Dry fruits and handicrafts

Hidden Tip:

Visit Madhatop early morning for clear views.

Nearby Spots:

• Sanasar Lake – 20 km

7. 🏔️ Kupwara – Offbeat and Untouched

Kupwara is known for its breathtaking valleys and unexplored beauty. The Bangus Valley and Lolab Valley offer scenic landscapes perfect for photography and trekking.

How to Reach Kupwara

• Distance from Srinagar: 90 km (3 hours)
• How to Reach: Taxi from Srinagar – ₹2,000

Things to Do in Kupwara

✔️ Visit Bangus Valley – Free entry
✔️ Trekking and camping – ₹500 per person
✔️ Explore Lolab Valley – Free entry

Local Cuisine

• Rista – ₹200
• Nadur Yakhni – ₹150

8. 🌼 Doodhpathri – The Valley of Milk

Doodhpathri, which means “Valley of Milk,” is a hidden gem in the Budgam district of Kashmir. The valley gets its name from the white froth created by the fast-flowing streams running over the smooth meadows. Surrounded by pine and deodar trees, Doodhpathri remains relatively unexplored compared to other Kashmir destinations, making it ideal for nature lovers and peace seekers. The place is rich in medicinal plants and offers a surreal view of the snow-covered Pir Panjal range.

Entry Fees and Timings

• Entry Fee: Free
• Timing: Open 24/7

How to Reach Doodhpathri

• Distance from Srinagar: 42 km (1.5 hours)
• How to Reach:
  • Taxi: ₹1,500 from Srinagar
  • Bus: Government bus available from Srinagar (₹100)

Things to Do in Doodhpathri

✔️ Trekking – Several beginner-friendly trails through the pine forest
✔️ Camping – ₹1,000–₹2,000 per night for a tent rental
✔️ Pony Ride – ₹400–₹600 for a 30-minute ride through the meadows
✔️ Fishing – Trout fishing at the Shaliganga River (permit required)
✔️ Picnic at the Meadows – Ideal for a family outing

Local Cuisine

• Kashmiri Rajma Chawal – ₹150
• Dum Aloo – ₹100
• Sheermal (sweet bread) – ₹30
• Noon Chai (Pink Salt Tea) – ₹40

Best Places to Stay in Doodhpathri

• Budget: Local guesthouses – ₹800–₹1,500 per night
• Mid-Range: Doodhpathri Alpine Resort – ₹3,000–₹4,500 per night
• Luxury: The Orchard Retreat & Spa (in Srinagar) – ₹12,000+ per night

Best Places to Shop in Doodhpathri

• No major markets – Local vendors sell handmade woolen items and honey

Hidden Tip

Carry warm clothing even in summer — temperatures drop quickly in the evening.

Nearby Tourist Spots in Doodhpathri

• Tosamaidan – 10 km (known for lush green meadows)
• Yusmarg – 25 km

9. 🏔️ Anantnag – Gateway to Kashmir

Anantnag, meaning “Land of Springs,” is known for its ancient temples, natural springs, and Mughal-style gardens. It is the starting point for the sacred Amarnath Yatra and is surrounded by lush green hills and orchards. The town is home to the famous Martand Sun Temple, an architectural masterpiece built during the 8th century. Anantnag’s rich cultural history, spiritual significance, and natural beauty make it one of the most versatile destinations in Kashmir.

Entry Fees and Timings

• Martand Sun Temple: Free entry (8:00 AM – 6:00 PM)
• Kokernag Garden: ₹20 (9:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
• Verinag Spring: ₹10 (9:00 AM – 6:00 PM)

How to Reach Anantnag

• Distance from Srinagar: 53 km (2 hours)
• How to Reach:
  • Taxi: ₹1,500 from Srinagar
  • Bus: Government bus available from Srinagar (₹150)
  • Train: Anantnag Railway Station is well connected to Jammu and Srinagar

Things to Do in Anantnag

✔️ Visit Martand Sun Temple – Free entry (Best during sunset)
✔️ Relax at Kokernag Garden – Lush botanical garden with freshwater springs
✔️ Verinag Spring – The origin of the Jhelum River
✔️ Shopping in Lal Chowk – Famous for Pashmina shawls and handicrafts
✔️ Temple Tour – Visit Shiva Temple and Bhawan Temple

Local Cuisine

• Nadur Yakhni (Lotus Stem Curry) – ₹150
• Mutton Rogan Josh – ₹200
• Kashmiri Kulcha – ₹30
• Kashmiri Pulao – ₹150

Best Places to Stay in Anantnag

• Budget: Hotel Hilltop Anantnag – ₹1,000–₹2,000 per night
• Mid-Range: Hotel Himalaya House – ₹4,000 per night
• Luxury: Hotel Alpine Ridge – ₹8,000 per night

Best Places to Shop in Anantnag

• Lal Chowk Market – Pashmina shawls, spices, saffron
• Anantnag Handicraft Centre – Embroidered shawls and carpets

Hidden Tip:

Visit Verinag Spring early morning for clear reflections and peaceful vibes.

Nearby Tourist Spots in Anantnag

• Achabal Garden – 8 km
• Pahalgam – 30 km
• Aru Valley – 37 km

Government Bus Timings

• Jammu to Srinagar: 6 AM, 8 AM, 10 AM – ₹600
• Srinagar to Gulmarg: Every hour from 7 AM – ₹100
• Srinagar to Pahalgam: 6 AM to 5 PM – ₹150
• Srinagar to Sonmarg: 7 AM to 3 PM – ₹200

Jammu and Kashmir Tourist Places Map

Jammu and Kashmir Hidden Travel Tips

✔️ Always carry a valid ID — checkpoints are common in the region.
✔️ Book hotels in advance during peak season (April–June).
✔️ Local SIM cards are hard to find; use a postpaid connection for better service.
✔️ Try to hire local guides for offbeat trails and hidden spots.
✔️ Carry cash — ATMs are limited in remote areas.

💰 Trip Budget (Per Person for 5 Days)

7-Day Itinerary for Jammu and Kashmir

A 7-day trip to Jammu and Kashmir is ideal for experiencing the region’s highlights while balancing adventure, culture, and relaxation. This itinerary is designed to give you the best of Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonmarg, and Patnitop — with time for spiritual visits, local cuisine, and offbeat experiences.

Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar – The Jewel of Kashmir

Location: Kashmir Valley
Altitude: 1,585 meters

How to Reach

• Flight: Direct flights from Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru to Srinagar Airport
• Train: Nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi (270 km)
• Bus: Government bus from Jammu to Srinagar – ₹600 (8–9 hours)

Things to Do in Srinagar

✔️ Shikara Ride on Dal Lake – ₹500 to ₹1,000 for 30 to 60 minutes (Best time: Sunset)
✔️ Visit the Mughal Gardens – Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, and Chashme Shahi – ₹24 per person (9:00 AM – 6:00 PM)
✔️ Shankaracharya Temple – Free entry (6:00 AM – 8:00 PM)
✔️ Hazratbal Shrine – Free entry (Open 24/7)
✔️ Floating Market on Dal Lake (early morning visit recommended)

Local Cuisine

• Rogan Josh – ₹200
• Gustaba – ₹250
• Kahwa – ₹50
• Yakhni – ₹150

Where to Stay

• Budget: Zostel Srinagar – ₹800–₹1,500 per night
• Mid-Range: Hotel City Palace – ₹2,500–₹4,500 per night
• Luxury: The Lalit Grand Palace – ₹10,000+ per night

Best Places to Shop

• Lal Chowk Market – Pashmina shawls and Kashmiri carpets
• Polo View Market – Paper-mâché items and walnut wood carvings

Hidden Tip:

Take the Shikara ride early morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the sunrise over Dal Lake.

Day 2: Srinagar to Gulmarg – The Adventure Capital (50 km, 2 hours)

Altitude: 2,650 meters

How to Reach:

• Taxi: ₹1,500 from Srinagar
• Bus: ₹100 from Srinagar

Things to Do in Gulmarg

✔️ Take the Gulmarg Gondola – ₹740 for Phase 1; ₹950 for Phase 2 (10 AM – 5 PM)
✔️ Try Skiing and Snowboarding – ₹1,500–₹3,000 for gear rental (December to March)
✔️ Golfing at Gulmarg Golf Course – ₹1,200 per round (9 AM – 6 PM)
✔️ Visit St. Mary’s Church – Free entry (8 AM – 6 PM)
✔️ Trek to Khilanmarg – Pony ride ₹500

Local Cuisine

• Trout Fish – ₹300
• Dum Aloo – ₹150
• Kashmiri Wazwan – ₹300

Where to Stay:

• Budget: Pine View Resort – ₹1,200 per night
• Mid-Range: Hotel Hilltop – ₹4,000 per night
• Luxury: The Khyber Himalayan Resort – ₹12,000+ per night

Hidden Tip

Book your Gondola ride online in advance to avoid long queues during peak season.

Day 3: Gulmarg to Pahalgam – Valley of Shepherds (95 km, 3 hours)

Altitude: 2,740 meters

How to Reach

• Taxi: ₹2,000 from Gulmarg
• Bus: ₹150

Things to Do in Pahalgam

✔️ Visit Betaab Valley – ₹100 entry (10 AM – 5 PM)
✔️ Take a pony ride to Aru Valley – ₹300–₹500
✔️ River Rafting on the Lidder River – ₹500 to ₹1,500 (May to July)
✔️ Trek to Kolahoi Glacier – ₹300 permit required

Local Cuisine

• Tabak Maaz – ₹200
• Kashmiri Pulao – ₹150
• Sheermal – ₹30

Where to Stay

• Budget: Hotel Pahalgam – ₹1,500 per night
• Mid-Range: Pahalgam Retreat – ₹3,500 per night
• Luxury: Pahalgam Hotel – ₹10,000 per night

Hidden Tip

Take a morning pony ride to Aru Valley to enjoy the peace before the crowds arrive.

Day 4: Pahalgam to Sonmarg – Meadow of Gold (90 km, 3 hours)

Altitude: 2,730 meters

Things to Do in Sonmarg

✔️ Trek to Thajiwas Glacier – Pony ride ₹700–₹1,000
✔️ Fishing at Sindh River – ₹500 for permit
✔️ Camping under the stars – ₹1,000–₹2,000 for tent rental

Local Cuisine

• Saag with Rice – ₹150
• Mutton Curry – ₹250

Where to Stay

• Budget: Hotel Glacier Heights – ₹1,500 per night
• Mid-Range: Sonmarg Glacier View – ₹4,500 per night
• Luxury: Rah Villas – ₹12,000 per night

Hidden Tip

Carry cash since ATMs are limited in Sonmarg.

Day 5: Sonmarg to Patnitop – Hill Station Adventure (110 km, 4 hours)

Altitude: 2,024 meters

Things to Do in Patnitop

✔️ Paragliding – ₹1,500 for 15 minutes
✔️ Visit Nag Temple – Free entry
✔️ Trek to Madhatop – 5 km trail

Local Cuisine

• Kalari Cheese – ₹100
• Rajma Chawal – ₹150

Where to Stay

• Budget: Hotel Subash Palace – ₹1,000 per night
• Mid-Range: Vardaan Resort – ₹4,000 per night
• Luxury: Hotel Green Top – ₹8,000 per night

Day 6: Patnitop to Doodhpathri – The Valley of Milk (120 km, 4 hours)

✔️ Trekking and Camping – ₹1,000 for tent rental
✔️ Pony rides – ₹400
✔️ Fishing at Shaliganga River – ₹500 permit

Day 7: Back to Jammu (110 km, 3 hours)

• Visit Raghunath Temple
• Last-minute shopping at Raghunath Bazaar

💰 7 Day Estimated Budget

Experience the Best of Jammu and Kashmir

Jammu and Kashmir truly live up to their name as the “Paradise on Earth.” From the peaceful Shikara rides on Dal Lake in Srinagar to the adventure-filled slopes of Gulmarg and the cultural richness of Leh and Ladakh, this region offers a perfect mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation.

Whether you’re exploring the top 5 places in Jammu and Kashmir or venturing into hidden gems like Kupwara and Doodhpathri, every moment here is magical. Enjoy the thrill of skiing in Gulmarg, trek through the meadows of Pahalgam, and unwind in the scenic beauty of Sonmarg.

✅ Best time to visit: April to October (for sightseeing), December to March (for snow)
✅ Must-try activities: Shikara rides, skiing, trekking, and shopping at Lal Chowk
✅ Don’t miss local cuisine like Rogan Josh, Gustaba, and Kashmiri Kahwa

Whether you’re on a budget or seeking luxury, Jammu and Kashmir promise an unforgettable experience. So pack your bags and get ready to explore one of the most beautiful destinations in the world!

👉 Start your adventure in Jammu and Kashmir today!