8 Places To Visit In Jammu & Kashmir As Tourism Flourishes In Union Territory

With rising tourism in Jammu & Kashmir, it is time for you to prepare an itinerary and enjoy your winter vacation.
Krati Purwar

According to a Mint report, tourism influx in Jammu & Kashmir is the highest this year since the independence of India. Piyush Goyal, the Union Trade and Industries Minister, tweeted, “Kashmir coming alive!”

He even added that about 16.2 million tourists have visited the Union Territory since January 2022. The highest footfall of travellers this year means the ‘Paradise of India’ must be on your bucket list to explore this winter season.

Here is a list of places to visit in Jammu & Kashmir on your vacation:

1 Nathatop, Jammu

Nathatop is a short trek from Patnitop but a must-visit place in Jammu in winter. It experiences snowfall and offers a panoramic view of the surroundings. From paragliding to skiing, one can enjoy many adventurous activities here.

The hill station offers a clear view of the Himalayas and is a paradise for people who like to spend time in nature. In the summers, the snow is replaced by lush greenery.

2 Sonmarg, Kashmir

Situated about 2,730 m above sea level, Sonmarg is a connecting point of many Himalayan peaks. It offers a glaring view of the Sindh River flowing through the valley and its water making gushing sounds.

There are several beautiful lakes to visit here, including Gadsar Lake, Krishnasagar Lake, Vishansagar Lake, etc. You can enjoy ice skating, skiing and other activities around the place.

3 Nandini Wildlife Sanctuary, Jammu

If you are an animal lover, you must add Nandini Wildlife Sanctuary to your itinerary. It is home to abundant fauna, and many species of plants grow here.

You can spot Indian mynah, grey langurs, Indian peafowl, chakor, pheasants, boars, blue rock pigeons, etc.

4 Dal Lake, Kashmir

Dal Lake is known as ‘The Jewel of Srinagar’, and it deserves the title. Spanning over 26 km, the hillside lake offers a view of wooden houseboats, colourful Shikaras and floating markets. 

You can take a ride on houseboats featuring intricate carvings and floral motifs. Many of them also come equipped with luxury suites and fully-furnished single rooms. During winters, the place becomes a ground for ice skaters flaunting their skills.

 

5 Akhnoor Fort, Jammu

Akhnoor Fort is famous for its military architecture. It features two-storeyed watchtowers, sturdy walls and stunning interiors. It serves as a residence for Raja Alum Singh, monarch of the fort.

It is a monument of historical significance. According to old records, it was built on ancient remains of Manda, an Archaeological town that existed during the Harappan civilisation.

6 Pulwama, Kashmir

Pulwama has the title of ‘Rice bowl of Kashmir’. It offers a quaint view of valleys, cascading waterfalls, saffron fields and natural springs. It is a place where you can forget that you ever had a hectic life in the city.

It is also a perfect hill station for adventurers. They can take part in skiing, snowboarding, trekking and other such thrilling activities.

7 Mansar Lake, Jammu

Fringed by low-lying hills, parks and forests, Mansar Lake is a popular picnic site in Jammu. Tourists also prefer to visit the nearby Surinsar - Mansar wildlife sanctuary. The lake also has some spiritual importance. 

Many communities bring babies here for their mundan (first haircut) ceremony. People also travel here with families so that kids can enjoy the site of fish, seasonal birds and tortoises elevating the panoramic view. 

8 Gulmarg, Kashmir

Also called the ‘Meadow of flowers’, Gulmarg is the ski resort of India. It is a sight to behold after a fresh snowfall. Surrounded by pine trees, it offers a place to ski, trek, hike and snowboard.

Before going to Gulmarg, you must always check for any kind of unrest due to civil issues or weather. Prices of hotels here often drop here during winter. 

 
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