Whenever a discussion takes place related to the most scenic places of India, the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir always find a place for itself. Here, we will talk about the places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir and how you can spend a week here with your loved ones. Jammu & Kashmir is home to several picturesque valleys, water bodies, and snow-covered mountains peaks. Given the natural beauty, pleasant weather, and hospitality of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, this place has been a preferred tourist destination for tourists across India and worldwide for several decades. Apart from being naturally gifted, Jammu and Kashmir is home to several rich and vibrant cultures. These consist of famous handicrafts and much-loved dining options. Jammu & Kashmir is also known for its religious and spiritual offerings, transforming it into an epicenter of religious tourism in the county. In this blog, we will be talking in detail the best places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir and will help you to plan your whole week trip to this amazing place in such a way that you experience the best of what Jammu & Kashmir has to offer.
Day 1: Jammu City
Coming from Delhi or any other Indian state, we would suggest that you start with Jammu, the winter capital of Jammu & Kashmir. Given the location of this place, it has always been a preferred destination for tourists and is always considered an option for a weekend getaway from Delhi, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and other states of India. Jammu, also known as ‘City of Temples’ offers several ancient temples. You can start the trip by visiting the famous Raghunath temple located in the city center. Also, do not miss out on several historically significant places like Bahu Fort and Amar Mahal Palace which will give you a glimpse of the erstwhile Dogra rulers of Jammu and Kashmir.
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While in Jammu, relish several north Indian delicacies at the famous Pahelwan’s. We strongly recommend their rajma chawal and lassi.
Day 2: Katra and Patnitop
The second day of your trip, head to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine in Katra, just 49 km from Jammu city. We are sure you will love the buzz of the city infused with the divinity present in the atmosphere. Post this visit, we recommend you drive towards the beautiful hill station of Patnitop. To make the most out of your visit to this scenic location, we recommend you to experience India’s highest ropeway at Skyview Patnitop. Additionally, you can also make the most out of a gamut of adventure activities like zipline, tubing sledge, and India`s first magic carpet.
The adventure destination also offers several mouth-watering dining options. In Patnitop, don’t forget to ride a horse through the beautiful meadows and parks and visit the 600-year-old Nag temple. Your day full of fun and adventure at Patnitop may have come to end but evenings in Patnitop are more beautiful given to its misty weather and over-night stay at this pleasing destination.
Day 3: Road Trip from Patnitop to Srinagar
This 200 km can be the best part of your trip given the view the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway offers. However, before leaving Patnitop don’t forget to taste the mouth-watering sweets such as patisa, kaju barfi at Kud market. This road trip is full of excitement and fun and will allow you to explore the famous 9 km long Dr Syama Prasad Mukherjee Tunnel and various streams and rivers all the way till Srinagar.
Day 4: Srinagar City
Srinagar is one of the most beautiful places to visit in jammu and kashmir and has a lot to offer to every visitor given the number of Mughal Gardens located at the bank of Dal lake such as Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Garden, Chashma Shahi, Pari Mahal etc. Also, visit to several shrines of different Sufi saints in the old town of Srinagar that can be interesting and provide you with a spiritual experience like no other. While in Srinagar, don’t forget to try the Kashmiri Wazwan at the famous Mughal Darbar restaurant and spend your night in a beautifully crafted houseboat on Dal lake.
Day 5: Gulmarg
Gulmarg is one of the most famous hill stations in India. Located 55 km from Srinagar, it is a destination for every season and one of the best places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir.
During the summers, the meadows are a delight while winters here offer a view from a postcard as this extremely popular destination receives a significant amount of snowfall. Gulmarg is also known as the best winter sports destination in India.
Day 6: Pahalgam
Pahalgam is another beautiful places to visit in Jammu & Kashmir located at an altitude of 2740 meters above sea level. This beautiful town features pristine valleys such as Betaab valley, Chandan Wari, etc. This place is also an important religious tourist destination and is associated with the Amarnath Yatra. Pahalgam is home to several glaciers which ensure the roaring Lidder river is full of water during the entire year.
Day 7: Return
On the 7th day, you can return to your origin with the lasting memories of your trip to paradise on earth.
So here it is, your one-week itinerary for Jammu and Kashmir. We hope you enjoy your trip.
