Top 15 Things to Do in Kashmir During Your Kashmir Trip

Enjoy a Shikara Ride on Dal Lake

A shikara ride on Dal Lake is arguably the most iconic experience in Kashmir and should be high on every first-time visitor’s itinerary. These traditional wooden boats glide across the lake, passing floating gardens, houseboats, mountain views and floating vendors. An early-morning ride offers a particularly atmospheric experience, when the lake is quieter and Srinagar gradually comes alive around the water. Couples can choose a peaceful ride around sunset, while families can enjoy exploring the floating market and lake surroundings. The official Incredible India tourism portal also highlights Dal Lake and its shikara rides as an essential Srinagar experience.

Best for: Couples, families, photography and first-time visitors.

Travel tip: Ask about the duration, route and inclusions before starting the ride and confirm the total price beforehand.

Stay on a Traditional Houseboat

A houseboat stay in Kashmir is much more than an alternative to a conventional hotel. It allows tourists to experience one of Srinagar’s most distinctive traditions while waking up beside the peaceful waters of Dal or Nigeen Lake. Many traditional houseboats feature intricate Kashmiri woodwork, comfortable rooms and common spaces overlooking the water. Couples can particularly enjoy a quiet evening on the deck, while families can experience the novelty of staying on the lake. Houseboat accommodation is also officially highlighted as one of the signature experiences of Srinagar.

Best for: Honeymoon couples, families and cultural experiences.

Travel tip: Check whether your selected houseboat is located on Dal Lake, Nigeen Lake or another waterway and understand how transfers to the property work.

Explore Srinagar’s Mughal Gardens

The Mughal Gardens of Srinagar provide an opportunity to experience Kashmir’s history alongside its natural beauty. Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh and Chashme Shahi are particularly famous for their terraces, fountains, landscaped lawns, flowers and mountain views. Rather than rushing through all three, spend time walking through the terraces and appreciating the relationship between the gardens, Dal Lake and the surrounding Zabarwan Range. Spring and warmer months are particularly attractive for garden lovers and photographers. The official tourism itinerary for Srinagar recommends combining the Mughal Gardens with a Dal Lake shikara ride.

Best for: Families, couples, history lovers and photographers.

Travel tip: Combine the gardens with Dal Lake and other nearby Srinagar attractions to make the day’s sightseeing more efficient.

Ride the Gulmarg Gondola

The Gulmarg Gondola is one of Kashmir’s most memorable mountain experiences. The cable car takes visitors towards higher elevations and offers spectacular views of the surrounding Himalayan landscape. In winter, Gulmarg becomes particularly popular for snow sports, while warmer months provide a different perspective of the meadows and mountains. The experience can be enjoyed by tourists who are not interested in skiing as well, making it suitable for families and couples. Weather conditions can affect operations, so checking the latest status before travelling is sensible.

Best for: Families, couples, adventure enthusiasts and photographers.

Travel tip: Mountain weather can change quickly, so avoid building your entire day’s itinerary around the Gondola without allowing some flexibility.

Experience Snow Activities in Gulmarg

If you are visiting Kashmir during the winter season, Gulmarg snow activities should be among your priorities. Depending on conditions and operating arrangements, visitors can enjoy skiing, snowboarding and other snow-based experiences. Gulmarg is internationally recognised as one of India’s major winter sports destinations, and official tourism information specifically highlights skiing and snowboarding there.

Beginners should consider taking instruction rather than attempting slopes beyond their ability. Families can enjoy simpler snow experiences, while experienced adventure enthusiasts may seek more challenging terrain under appropriate professional guidance.

Best for: Adventure lovers, couples and winter holidaymakers.

Travel tip: Wear proper winter clothing and use equipment and instructors from reputable operators.

Explore the Scenic Valleys of Pahalgam

Pahalgam is best experienced slowly. Instead of treating it as merely a sightseeing stop, spend time around its rivers, forests and surrounding valleys. Aru Valley and Betaab Valley are among the popular excursions, while the Lidder River provides a beautiful backdrop for walks and photography. Pahalgam is also associated with trekking, fishing and rafting activities, making it suitable for both relaxed holidays and adventure-focused itineraries. Official tourism information describes Pahalgam as a destination where nature and adventure come together.

Best for: Families, honeymoon couples, nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

Travel tip: Allow at least a full day for Pahalgam rather than trying to cover its surrounding attractions in just a few hours.

Go Trekking in the Kashmir Mountains

For tourists who enjoy walking through nature, trekking in Kashmir provides an opportunity to move beyond conventional sightseeing. Areas around Aru and Pahalgam provide access to several trekking routes, including trails towards Tarsar Lake, Marsar and Kolahoi Glacier. Sonamarg is another important area for mountain trekking and alpine landscapes.

Trekking difficulty varies significantly, so visitors should select a route according to their fitness, experience, available time and current trail conditions. High-altitude trekking should not be attempted casually without appropriate preparation and local guidance.

Best for: Adventure tourists, hikers, photographers and nature enthusiasts.

Travel tip: Check weather, trail accessibility, permits and local conditions before beginning a trek.

Experience River Rafting and Outdoor Adventures

Kashmir offers more than snow activities. River rafting and other outdoor adventures can be enjoyed in suitable locations and seasons, particularly around the Pahalgam region. The Lidder River is associated with white-water rafting and other river-based experiences, while the Jhelum around Srinagar also features adventure activities.

The experience you choose should depend on river conditions, the season and your previous experience. Beginners should use established operators and appropriate safety equipment rather than choosing an activity solely because it appears adventurous.

Best for: Adventure enthusiasts, young groups and active couples.

Travel tip: Activity availability depends on water levels and local operating conditions, so verify availability before travelling.

Visit Sonamarg and Enjoy Its Mountain Landscapes

Sonamarg, popularly known as the “Meadow of Gold,” is one of Kashmir’s most spectacular mountain destinations. The journey itself is part of the experience, with changing landscapes, rivers, meadows and dramatic Himalayan peaks along the route. Tourists can enjoy scenic walks, photography and suitable outdoor activities depending on the season. Official tourism information describes Sonamarg as a destination particularly suited to trekkers and nature enthusiasts.

Winter creates a completely different landscape, while the warmer season reveals green meadows and mountain trails.

Best for: Nature lovers, photographers, families and adventure tourists.

Travel tip: Keep additional time for the return journey because mountain traffic and weather can affect travel schedules.

Explore Kashmir’s Local Markets and Shop for Handicrafts

A Kashmir trip is incomplete without spending time exploring its local handicrafts and traditional markets. Kashmir is known for products such as handwoven carpets, pashmina, papier-mâché, walnut woodwork, embroidery and copperware. Srinagar’s markets provide opportunities to see the craftsmanship behind many of these products. The official Srinagar tourism information also highlights Kashmiri crafts including copperwork, rugs, embroidered textiles and carved furniture.

Shopping should be treated as a cultural experience rather than simply a commercial activity. Ask about the material, craftsmanship and origin of products before making expensive purchases.

Best for: Culture lovers, families and shopping enthusiasts.

Travel tip: For high-value items such as carpets or pashmina, request proper documentation and purchase from reputable sellers.

Taste Authentic Kashmiri Cuisine

Food is an important part of understanding Kashmir. Tourists should make time to try traditional dishes such as Rogan Josh, Yakhni, Dum Aloo, Gushtaba, Modur Pulao and Kashmiri Kahwa, depending on dietary preferences.

For a deeper culinary experience, visitors can choose a traditional Kashmiri meal rather than limiting themselves to hotel restaurants. Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options are available, although tourists with dietary restrictions should communicate clearly with the restaurant.

Kashmiri cuisine is particularly known for its distinctive use of spices and cooking techniques, making a food experience an important part of a well-rounded Kashmir holiday.

Best for: Food lovers, couples, families and cultural tourists.

Travel tip: Ask locals or your hotel for reputable restaurants serving traditional Kashmiri dishes.

Visit Shankaracharya Temple for Spiritual and Panoramic Views

The Shankaracharya Temple sits on a hill overlooking Srinagar and provides both a spiritual experience and panoramic views of the city and Dal Lake. The site has deep historical and religious significance and is one of Srinagar’s prominent landmarks. Official tourism information identifies the temple as an important attraction and notes its elevated position overlooking the city.

Visitors should dress respectfully and follow the rules applicable at the religious site. The climb and security arrangements should also be considered when travelling with elderly visitors or young children.

Best for: Spiritual tourism, history, photography and panoramic views.

Travel tip: Combine the visit with nearby attractions in Srinagar to make better use of your sightseeing time.

Watch the Sunset from Pari Mahal

Pari Mahal, or the “Palace of Fairies,” is a beautiful historical monument positioned on the Zabarwan slopes above Srinagar. Its elevated setting provides impressive views over the city and Dal Lake, making it especially appealing around sunset. The monument can be combined with nearby Chashme Shahi and other attractions around the Zabarwan foothills. Official tourism information also highlights the connection between Pari Mahal, Dal Lake and the Mughal Gardens.

The attraction is particularly rewarding for photographers and couples looking for a quieter experience away from the lakefront crowds.

Best for: Couples, photographers, history lovers and sunset views.

Travel tip: Check the attraction’s current visiting hours before heading there, particularly if you want to visit around sunset.

Explore Kashmir’s Wildlife and Natural Landscapes

Kashmir’s appeal extends beyond its famous lakes and mountains. Nature enthusiasts can consider visiting Dachigam National Park near Srinagar, which is known for its wildlife and conservation of the Hangul, or Kashmir stag. The park also provides opportunities to see other Himalayan wildlife and bird species, subject to park rules and sightings.

Wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed, so the experience should focus on appreciating the habitat rather than expecting to see a particular animal.

Best for: Wildlife enthusiasts, photographers and nature lovers.

Travel tip: Follow Park regulations and maintain a respectful distance from wildlife.

Spend Time Simply Enjoying Kashmir’s Scenic Beauty

One of the most underrated must-do things in Kashmir is to leave part of your itinerary unplanned.

Sit beside the Lidder River in Pahalgam, watch the mountains from a valley, enjoy Kahwa overlooking Dal Lake or simply spend an evening on your houseboat. Kashmir’s appeal lies not only in its attractions but also in the quiet moments between them.

The official tourism portal describes Kashmir through its combination of lakes, valleys, mountains and cultural experiences, and that combination is best appreciated when tourists avoid rushing from one attraction to another.

Best for: Honeymoon couples, families, photographers and anyone seeking a relaxed holiday.

Travel tip: Keep at least one slower day in a week-long Kashmir itinerary.

How to Plan These Things to Do in Kashmir

Trying to complete all 15 activities during a short holiday may make your trip unnecessarily hectic. Instead, group activities according to location.

During Your Srinagar Stay

Prioritise:

• Shikara ride on Dal Lake
• Houseboat stay
• Mughal Gardens
• Shankaracharya Temple
• Pari Mahal
• Local markets
• Kashmiri cuisine

During Your Gulmarg Visit

Prioritise:

• Gulmarg Gondola
• Snow activities in winter
• Skiing or snowboarding
• Mountain photography
• Leisure walks during the warmer season

During Your Pahalgam Stay

Prioritise:

• Aru Valley
• Betaab Valley
• Lidder River
• Trekking
• Rafting or fishing where available
• Scenic nature walks

During Your Sonamarg Excursion

Prioritise:

• Mountain sightseeing
• Photography
• Trekking where conditions permit
• Snow experiences during winter
• Outdoor activities

Things to Do in Kashmir for Honeymoon Couples

Couples can create a particularly romantic Kashmir experience by combining sightseeing with slower activities.

The most memorable choices include:

Shikara ride on Dal Lake: Enjoy a peaceful ride away from the busiest periods.

Houseboat stay: Spend an evening overlooking the water and mountains.

Gulmarg: Ride the Gondola and enjoy the mountain scenery.

Pahalgam: Spend time beside the Lidder River and explore the surrounding valleys.

Mughal Gardens: Walk through Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh and Chashme Shahi.

Sunset at Pari Mahal: Enjoy panoramic views over Srinagar.

Things to Do in Kashmir for Family Tours

Families can focus on activities that combine sightseeing with relaxation.

A practical family itinerary can include a Dal Lake shikara ride, Mughal Gardens, Srinagar sightseeing, Gulmarg Gondola, Pahalgam valley excursions and local shopping.

Families travelling with young children or senior citizens should avoid packing too many mountain excursions into a single day. Allowing sufficient rest between long drives can make the holiday considerably more comfortable.

Things to Do in Kashmir for Adventure Tours

Adventure enthusiasts can make Kashmir the centre of an active Himalayan holiday.

Depending on the season and local operating conditions, activities can include:

• Skiing in Gulmarg
• Snowboarding
• Trekking
• Camping
• River rafting
• Fishing
• Mountain walks
• Wildlife exploration
• High-altitude excursions

The important point is to choose activities according to experience and season. Official tourism information highlights skiing and snowboarding in Gulmarg and trekking, fishing and rafting around Pahalgam as significant adventure experiences.

Best Time to Enjoy These Activities in Kashmir

The ideal season depends on the activity.

Spring and summer: Best suited to gardens, sightseeing, valley excursions, trekking and many outdoor experiences.

Autumn: Excellent for photography, sightseeing and enjoying Kashmir’s changing foliage.

Winter: Best for snowfall, skiing, snowboarding and winter experiences, particularly around Gulmarg.

Because mountain weather can change quickly, tourists should verify current weather, road conditions and activity availability before travelling.