Kashmir is often called “Paradise on Earth”, and anyone who has visited this magical destination knows exactly why. With its snowy peaks, sparkling lakes, green valleys, and peaceful lifestyle, Kashmir is a dream location for every traveler. Whether you love nature, adventure, culture, or food, the list of things to do in Kashmir is endless.
This guide covers the 10 best activities you must experience in Kashmir, along with useful tips to help you plan a perfect trip. If you are looking to explore this beautiful valley in a comfortable, budget-friendly, and well-organized way, you can always choose from the best Kashmir tour packages, which include hotels, transportation, and guided sightseeing.
1. Enjoy a Shikara Ride on Dal Lake
A Shikara ride on the famous Dal Lake in Srinagar is one of the most iconic things to do in Kashmir. These colourful wooden boats offer a slow and relaxing journey across calm waters surrounded by mountains.
You can watch floating gardens, local markets on boats, and beautiful houseboats lined along the shore. Early mornings and evenings are the best time to enjoy the lake’s peaceful beauty.
2. Stay in a Traditional Houseboat
Kashmir is one of the few places in the world where you can experience luxury houseboat stays. These floating homes come with wooden interiors, cosy rooms, and warm hospitality.
This activity perfectly complements a Shikara ride and is one of the most unique experiences in Srinagar.
If you want your trip to be smooth and comfortable, you can explore the best Kashmir tour packages that include premium houseboat stays and curated sightseeing.
3. Experience Snow Adventures in Gulmarg
Gulmarg is a paradise for adventure lovers. It is one of the top ski destinations in Asia and offers thrilling snow activities such as:
Skiing
Snowboarding
Snowmobile rides
Sledging
During winter, the entire region looks like a white wonderland. Even in summer, Gulmarg is perfect for nature walks and photography. No list of things to do in Kashmir is complete without a visit to this stunning hill resort.
4. Ride the Gulmarg Gondola - Asia’s Highest Cable Car
The world-famous Gulmarg Gondola takes you up to the breathtaking Apharwat Peak. It’s one of the highest cable cars globally and offers a thrilling journey above mountains and deep valleys.
From the top, you can enjoy snow activities, stunning views, and cool temperatures throughout the year. The Gondola ride is a must-try for families and adventure seekers alike.
5. Explore the Meadows of Pahalgam
Pahalgam is known for its peaceful beauty, evergreen forests, and scenic valleys. It is one of the best places for nature photography, relaxing walks, and riverside picnics.
Popular attractions in Pahalgam include:
Aru Valley
Betaab Valley
Lidder River
Baisaran (Mini Switzerland)
Exploring these valleys is one of the most refreshing things to do in Kashmir, especially for nature lovers.
6. Visit the Tulip Garden - Asia’s Largest Tulip Field
The Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden in Srinagar is Asia’s largest tulip garden and blooms with millions of colorful flowers every spring (March-April).
Rows of red, yellow, pink, and purple tulips make the entire garden look like a painting. It’s a dream spot for photography and family visits.
7. Explore the Mughal Gardens of Srinagar
The Mughal Gardens are living examples of Kashmir’s royal history and stunning landscaping. Some must-visit gardens are:
Shalimar Bagh
Nishat Bagh
Chashme Shahi
These gardens feature fountains, terraced lawns, and flowing water channels perfect for peaceful walks and photography. Adding this to your itinerary is one of the essential things to do in Kashmir.
8. Discover the Beauty of Sonamarg
Sonamarg, meaning “Meadow of Gold,” is famous for its golden-yellow flower fields, snow-covered peaks, and glacier views.
Popular activities include:
Trekking
Pony rides
Glacier visits (especially Thajiwas Glacier)
The views along the Srinagar-Sonamarg road itself make the journey unforgettable.
9. Taste Local Kashmiri Cuisine
A trip to Kashmir is incomplete without enjoying its rich and flavourful cuisine. The blend of spices, herbs, and traditional cooking techniques makes Kashmiri food special.
Don’t miss these dishes:
Rogan Josh
Yakhni
Kashmiri Pulao
Nadru Monje
Harissa (winter speciality)
Kahwa tea
Trying local cuisine is one of the most delicious things to do in Kashmir, especially for food lovers.
10. Shop for Authentic Kashmiri Handicrafts
Kashmir is world-famous for its handicrafts and handwoven items. Popular local products include:
Pashmina shawls
Carpets
Walnut wood carvings
Papier-mâché items
Saffron
Dry fruits
You can explore local markets like Lal Chowk, Polo View Market, and floating markets on Dal Lake.
Why Choose the Best Kashmir Tour Packages?
Planning a holiday in Kashmir can be overwhelming due to the many attractions and experiences. This is where the best Kashmir tour packages can help. These packages usually include hotels, transportation, meals, guided tours, and special experiences like houseboats or Shikara rides.
Benefits of choosing a good Kashmir tour package:
Saves time and effort
Cost-effective travel
Local assistance during the trip
Safe transportation
Customizable plans
Comfortable stays
Whether you’re travelling with family, friends, or your partner, a package ensures your trip is smooth and memorable.
Best Time to Experience Kashmir
Kashmir is beautiful in every season, but different months offer different experiences.
Winter (December-February):
Perfect for snow, skiing, and winter activities.
Spring (March-April):
Ideal for tulip gardens, blooming flowers, and cool weather.
Summer (May-August):
Great for sightseeing and outdoor adventures.
Autumn (September-November):
Known for golden chinar trees and crisp weather.
Choose the season based on the things to do in Kashmir that interest you most.
Travel Tips for a Smooth Kashmir Trip
To make your holiday comfortable and stress-free, keep these tips in mind:
Carry warm clothes regardless of the season.
Hire local guides to learn more about culture and history.
Keep a power bank and travel bag for long sightseeing days.
Always book hotels and cabs in advance, especially during peak season.
Respect local customs and traditions.
Avoid crowded areas at night.
Final Thoughts
Kashmir is a destination that stays in your heart forever. From snowy mountains and peaceful lakes to colourful gardens and rich culture, this beautiful valley gives you endless memories. The list of things to do in Kashmir is long, and these 10 activities are just the beginning of your adventure.
