Kashmir, Often called the ‘Paradise of India‘, is a popular travel destination among travelers during the winter season.
The name was given by the Mughal emperor Due to its unforgettable picturesque landscape. Kashmir has different colors depending on the season you visit. If you visit in the winter here, you will see the blue and white colors everywhere. As the snow blankets the landscape and creates a picturesque backdrop for unforgettable memories.
If you visit during the summer season from June to August, you will see lush green nature and blue sky everywhere.
Nested in the heart of the Himalayan region, Kashmir is a great place to visit especially in the winter season from November to February. The snow-capped mountains, Frozen lakes, and snowfall transform Kashmir into a winter wonderland.
In this guide, we will explore the top 10 Instagram-worthy places to visit in Kashmir during the winter. So whether you are looking for breathtaking wonders of nature, or seeking romantic spots, these destinations will not only mesmerize you but also provide the perfect backdrop for your Instagram feed.
So, let’s embark on a virtual journey to discover the beauty that Kashmir unfolds in its winter glory.
10 Best Places To Visit In Kashmir During The Winter
Here’s a list of top winter destinations in Kashmir for couples as well as solo travelers to visit.
Gulmarg: The Winter Paradise of India
Our first stop on this Instagram-worthy journey is Gulmarg, truly a winter paradise. Nested near the distance of 31 km from the Baramulla district, in the range of Pir Panjal. Gulmarg is a quaint hill station that transforms into a snow-covered haven during winter, offering a sight scene to the visitors.
If you are an adventure enthusiast, then there are tons of best things to do in Gulmarg. Skiing, mountain biking, and trekking in Gulmarg will fill you with excitement.
Another must-do activity that you should not miss out on while visiting Gulmarg is to Capture the beauty of the Gulmarg Gondola, the second-highest cable car in the world, and share your awe-inspiring experiences with the hashtag #GulmargWinterMagic. This ski resort town is undeniably one of the 10 Instagram-worthy places to visit in Kashmir in winter.
Pahalgam: A Snowy Wonderland
Pahalgam, with its charming riverside views and snow-laden landscapes, is another jewel in the crown of Kashmir. Pahalgam of Jammu and Kashmir is a famous tourist destination for couples. It is situated in the valley of the Pir Panjal range and is known for its beauty, mountains, rivers, and quaint atmosphere.
Pahalgam is used as a starting base camp for Amarnath Yatra. This city is the starting base point of the Amarnath yatra which takes place every year during the months of July-August. In Pahalgam, snow-covered mountains, grasslands, lakes, waterfalls, and rivers flowing like milk add to the beauty of Pahalgam. The beauty of this place is at its peak during snowfall.
Apart from this, you can explore other tourist places in Pahalgam like Betab Valley, Mamal Temple, Sheshnag Lake, Aru Village & Valley, Baisaran Hills, Avantipur Temple, Tulian Lake, and Lolab Valley. The tranquility of this winter wonderland will surely mesmerize your followers, making Pahalgam a must-visit destination for Instagram enthusiasts.
Read More: Unveiling the Best Places to Visit in Bangalore for Couples in One Day
Shalimar Bagh: Winter Elegance Unveiled
Shalimar Bagh is one of the biggest Mughal gardens in the Kashmir Valley. This garden is one of the three Mughal gardens of Srinagar. The garden is also known as ‘Faiz Baksh’, ‘Garden of Char Minar’, and ‘Farah Baksh’.
Shalimar Bagh is considered to be the most beautiful among all the Mughal gardens of Srinagar. This garden is built amidst the Zabarvan mountain ranges and next to the Dal Lake. The garden has four tiers of stairs, one above the other. The tall Chinar trees on its banks have further enhanced the beauty of this garden.
This Mughal garden, blanketed in snow, offers a captivating backdrop for your Instagram feed. to showcase the harmonious blend of nature and history that this garden encapsulates, making it one of the most Instagram-worthy places in Kashmir during the winter season.
Read More: 6 Best Picks for Place to Visit in Lakshadweep
Dal Lake – Frozen Tranquility
Dal Lake is the most famous tourist destination of Srinagar, also known as the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir. This Dal Lake is considered the jewel of Srinagar.
This lake is very famous for its wooden boathouse called Shikara. When colorfully decorated shikaras descend on Dal Lake, watching it from a distance is as beautiful a sight as sitting in those shikaras and viewing the surrounding views.
Dal Lake transforms into a winter wonder with its frozen surface reflecting the surrounding snow-capped mountains. There are many beautiful sites to visit, many of which are important to the cultural heritage of Srinagar. Apart from Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh, some other places visited by tourists are Shankaracharya Temple, Green Mountain, Nigeen Lake, Glass Royal, Hazratbal Shrine, etc.
Read More: 7 Best Places to Visit in Pondicherry for Couples
Jamia Masjid : A Snowy Serenity
Jamia Masjid located in Srinagar is known for its unique blend of spirituality, winter charm, and Indo-Saracenic architecture. This mosque is built on 370 wooden pillars. The calm environment here attracts tourists due to its separation from the outside noise.
Jamia Masjid, the most popular mosque in Kashmir Valley is located in Nowhatta, which is also called downtown. This mosque is home to many Muslim devotees from across the valley.
visit the historic Jamia Masjid in Srinagar. The snow-covered courtyards and the architectural grandeur of this mosque make it a captivating spot for winter photography. Share your cultural experience with #JamiaMasjidWinterCharm, showcasing the coexistence of tradition and nature.
Sonamarg: Meadow of Gold in Winter Garb
Sonmarg is a popular tourist destination in Jammu and Kashmir. It is famous all over the world for its natural beauty, lakes, passes, and mountains. Situated at an altitude of about 2,800 meters above sea level, Sonamarg is usually covered with snow.
Sonamarg is also called the meadow of gold. It is the gateway to Ladakh and is known for its lush green and picturesque valleys and snow-capped peaks.
Thajwas Glacier, located a few kilometers away from Sonamarg, is a beautiful spot of a snowy mountain. Tourists are attracted by the views of snowy growth, sparkling lakes, and snow-capped mountains.
Sonamarg offers glaciers like Kalahoi Peak and trekking routes leading to Vishansar Lake, Krishnasar Lake, Gangabal Lake, and Gadsar Lake in the Himalayas.
Apharwat Peak – Majestic Heights
Gulmarg Hill Station of Jammu and Kashmir is known for its natural beauty, adventure, and panoramic views of the snow-covered Himalayas. Snowfall can be enjoyed here in December and January.
Apart from this, sports like trekking, skiing, and golf can also be played here. Gulmarg also has the world’s highest golf course. Gulmarg is also counted among the best places in the world for skiing.
Nishat Bagh – Winter Tranquility Unleashed
As you explore the shores of Dal Lake, make sure to visit Nishat Bagh, Nishat Bagh is another stunning 12-terraced Mughal garden built near Dal Lake in Srinagar. It is also known as the “Garden of Bliss”. It is the second-largest Mughal garden in Kashmir after Shalimar Bagh.
Nishat Bagh is also called the “Garden of Happiness”. This garden is considered to be the most beautiful among all the Mughal gardens of Srinagar. The garden has several fountains and a Mughal central water channel, surrounded by tall Chinar trees.
Nishat Bagh was built in the year 1633 by Asif Khan, elder brother of Mughal queen Noorjahan. This garden is built against the backdrop of the Jabarwan mountain range in the Kashmir valley. Tourists come from all over the country and abroad to see the rare types of beautiful flowers grown here.
Yusmarg – The Hidden Gem
Yusmarg, located in the western region of Jammu and Kashmir, is a beautiful hill station. Escape the tourist crowds and discover the hidden gem of Yusmarg. There are lush green fields, beautiful trees, snow-clad peaks, lakes, and waterfalls that make Yusmarg a perfect place to visit in Kashmir during the winter season.
For the natural beauty of Kashmir, it is also called ‘Heaven on Earth’. The best time to visit Kashmir to witness snowfall is in the winter months (December to February).
Hemis – Winter Festival Delight
If your visit coincides with the Hemis Winter Festival, you’re in for a treat. This cultural extravaganza against the backdrop of snow-covered mountains provides a unique Instagram-worthy experience.
Hemis Monastery is located at a distance of about 40 kilometers from Leh. It is a famous Buddhist monastery that is known to be visited extensively during religious festivals. It is believed that its existence dates back to the 11th century.
The Hemis Festival features the unfurling of exquisite thangkas, and elaborately painted Buddhist scrolls depicting various deities, mandalas, and sacred symbols. Every 12th year, the largest thangka in Ladakh is unveiled on the first day of the festival.
Final Words For Places to Visit in Kashmir in Winter Season
In this blog post, we have concluded 10 10 Instagram-worthy places to visit in Kashmir during winter, which offer a glimpse of the magical charm of the region. From snow-capped mountains to Beautiful Lakes and valleys, each destination provides a unique backdrop for creating unforgettable memories.
So, pack your winter gear, charge your camera, and embark on a journey to capture the essence of Kashmir’s winter wonderland, making your Instagram feed a testament to the unparalleled beauty of this enchanting region.