Top 5 places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir

5. Pangong Lake, Leh Ladakh

The famous and sparkling blue Pangong lake is situated near leh-Ladakh in the Himalayas, approximately at the height of 4350 meters. This endorheic lake is 12 kilometres long and extends from India to Tibet, with two-thirds of it lying in the latter. Owing to its altitude, the temperature here ranges from -5°C to 10°C as a result of which the lake freezes completely during winters in spite of its salinity. A unique feature of the lake is that it does not remain blue throughout the year or even the day, rather it changes colours from azure to light blue to green and grey too! It has been a tourist attraction for a very long time and has gained further popularity after being a 'hot-spot' for many film shoots, apart from being an essential for anyone travelling to Leh - Ladakh. The sublime beauty, crystal waters and gentle hills of Pangong Lake are an exceptional example of the beautiful landscape of the region.

4. Aru Valley

Nestled between towering mountains, and flowing streams, Aru Valley is as pristine as it gets. Lush green meadows welcome you here. Once you move past the small village, numerous meadows and lakes await you. If you are up for it, some multi-day treks from here can take you to places, you won’t believe exist! The locals pronounce it as आडू (Aadu) and not अरु (Aru) or आरू (Aaru). Don’t get confused with the pronunciations. Aru is only about 100 kms from Srinagar and the journey takes about 2 hours .the roads are good fror most part till pahalgam. you can shop for kashmir willow cricket bats from the innumerable shops that dot this highway. Also available, are various crafts shops. Most people visiting Pahalgam make a day trip to aru.

3. Nathatop, Patnitop

One reaches Nathatop after a short trek from Patnitop. The hill station is covered with snow during winters thereby enhancing its beauty two times. One can happily go skiing in these mountains. Nathatop has become very famous for its paragliding and sometimes people from different parts of the country travel to experience the beauty and these experiences offered by the place. One gets an excellent and clear view of the Himalayas from the peak of these hills. It has an altitude of about 2711m. Nathatop has a variety of roadside food vendors who sell yummy delicacies to fill the bellies of the visitors coming there. It has a pleasant climate and is fun to hang out at. It is a must-visit place for the nature lovers and those who love to sit quietly at one place and enjoy the serenity of a place. It is a peaceful place away from the fast moving lives of the city. Pir Panjal Mountains, when visited during winters, are filled with snow all over and are a treat for the eyes! Snow is replaced by lush green grass in summers.

2. Amarnath Cave

Amarnath Yatra is one among the four major pilgrimages of India, and flock of devotees trek through the south Kashmir Himalayas to the Holy Cave Shrine of Shri Amarnathji every year. The temple is opened for devotees only during summers, in the month of July to August. People rush to see the Ice image of Lord Shiva that is formed in the shape of a Lingam - stalagmite. The image incredibly waxes and wanes with the sight of Moon. People of Hindu faith in India consider this religious journey as one of the major tasks of their life that can fairly show them the path to heaven. This year the Yatra was started on 28th of June and it will end on 26th of August that is for 2 months. 1500 pilgrims are allowed per day and they should fall in the age of 14 to 74 years.

1. Kongdori , Gulmarg 

Asia’s largest and highest cable car project lead to Kongdori Mountain perched at an altitude of 3099.6 meters from the resort situated in Gulmarg. A bowl shaped area, it is known for its abundant opportunities for enjoyable sessions of powder skiing and snowboarding. As a popular destination for skiing, Kongdori has earned fame as one of the best Gulmarg tourist places to visit. A lofty mountain that adjoins Apharwat peak, Kongdori can rightly be called the skier’s paradise. Jammu & Kashmir tourism department credit Kongdori for catching the eyes of travel enthusiasts. Rendering a perfect blend of adventure and recreation, Kongdori is a little paradise in its own right.