How to reach Jammu and Kashmir

By air – The closest airport to Jammu & Kashmir is the Sheikh Ul-Alam International Airport in Srinagar. It is situated approximately 15 kilometers away from the city centre. Direct flights to Srinagar are available from India’s major cities. If you are travelling from Mumbai or Delhi, note that flying to Jammu is another option. Kushok Bakula Rimpocche Airport at Leh has connectivity with Mumbai, Delhi & Chandigarh. Once you reach the Srinagar airport, you could hire a taxi or cab to your desired destination. You can also avail state and private buses to Jammu & Kashmir and other frequented tourist destinations such as Gulmarg, Leh, Jammu and Ladakh. This airport which is also a military airbase that serves Srinagar is well-equipped with various amenities and services. It comprises luggage facilities such as baggage services that can be availed by the passengers at the Srinagar terminal. Snacks and refreshments are also available to make sure you don’t remain hungry as you wait for your flight to arrive. It would be advisable to book your tickets well in advance, especially if you are travelling in the peak season. The airlines that operate to and from Srinagar are Air Asia, Air India, Go Air, Indigo, SpiceJet and Vistara. 

By train – The nearest railhead to reach Jammu & Kashmir is the Jammu Tawi Railway Station, situated 305 kilometres from the main city centre. This railway station also enjoys good connectivity with cities such as New Delhi, Pune, Chennai, Kolkata and Mumbai.  New Delhi-Jammu Tawi Rajdhani Express, Jammu Mail and Jammu Tawi Express are some of the trains that run to and from Jammu and New Delhi. Reach Jammu and you will find several options to travel to Jammu & Kashmir and Srinagar plied outside the station. Some of them are shared cabs, taxis, buses that will take you to the city.

By road –   If you are looking for a road trip and wish to enjoy the journey as much as the destination; Jammu & Kashmir is the perfect travel destination for you. You are in for a treat if you are travelling from Jammu, with Jammu & Kashmir being only a seven to eight-hour drive along with a few halts en route. You could also hire a private taxi or cab with a local driver who would be able to get you through the uphill climb and narrow roads as you make your way to Jammu and Kashmir. Daily state and private buses are available from Jammu to Jammu & Kashmir. This also gives you a list of options to choose from such as air-conditioned, non-air-conditioned, Volvo and sleeper buses. Keeping your budget, comfort and safety in mind, weigh your options carefully before you choose your mode of transport. The most preferred and convenient way to reach Jammu & Kashmir is to board an overnight bus, however you could also hop on to buses that operate during the daytime as well. State and private buses run to and from Chandigarh and Amritsar as well. The route from Amritsar takes you via Gurdaspur & Pathankot in Punjab and Patnitop and Anantnag in Jammu & Jammu & Kashmir. If you are travelling from Chandigarh, you will pass Pathankot, Udhampur, Anantnag, Hoshiarpur.

Places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir

Jammu and Kashmir tour spurs up images of plush, cosy shikaras that float along serene languid Dal lake, blankets of snow and jaded green villages painted in highland deserts. Perennial monasteries that spell tranquility, dashing down the snowy slopes of Gulmarg valley and finally digging into Jammu & Kashmir’s sinful Roghan Josh. This hamlet rewards all kinds of adventures. Jammu & Kashmir tourism pivots around cities and towns such as Srinagar, Gulmarg, Sonmarg and Leh. To let you contemplate a little further, here are a few places to visit in Jammu & Kashmir.

Jammu and Kashmir is indeed heaven on earth with hidden valleys, tucked away cottages and opulent lakes that reflect the beauty of their surroundings. Get ready to feel like a child again as you open your eyes wide in wonderment, awestruck by this wonderland’s sheer beauty.

Srinagar

Wooded balconies of vibrant houseboats, colourful shikaras and floating flowers dot the opulent waters of Dal Lake. Loiter around the bustling markets of Raghunath Bazaar and Lal Chowk and take home some old-world souvenirs such as embroidered scarves, pashminas and Jammu and Kashmiri carpets. Stroll through a bed of popping tulips at the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden amidst the backdrop of mighty mountains and open, blue skies. 

Gulmarg

In Gulmarg, life is a bed of roses. Ranging from bubbling brooks, dense coniferous forests and blankets of snow, Gulmarg satiates travelers from all walks of life. The adventure seeker in you will be thrilled with picturesque skiing, trekking and ice-skating points. If you are religiously inclined make your way to the Shiva temple, St Mary’s Church and Baba Reshi shrine.

Sonmarg

A quiet contemplation by the lake or a raging rafting expedition at Shutkari Bridge, Sonmarg has a wide range of activities for you to indulge in. Pick your favourite picnic spot by the Krishnasar Lake and spend some quality time with your family. Or glide through the royal and vast snow cover on an ice scooter at the Thajiwas Glacier.

Pahalgam

This tourist town is home to the spectacular Lidder and Seshnag Rivers that frolic down spectacular deep cut mountain valleys enveloped in firs and yews. Endless alpine meadows and the nippy air drive you to hike extensive trails. Make your way to Aru, a quaint mountain village that is a major base for all the hikers out there.

Jama Masjid, Srinagar

This mighty mosque stands tall with the support of 350 deodar tree trunks serving as pillars. Unlike other mosques, which usually have domes and minarets, this one is ornamented with spires. Identified as one of the most religious places in Srinagar, this monument is surrounded by a giant and green courtyard with monumental spires acting as gatehouses at all four directions.

Shankaracharya Hill

This endearing timbered hill is a must visit for those who are religiously inclined. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, a climb of 250 steps will take you to this age-old temple dating back to the ninth century. This ancient temple is carved out of grey stones and is certainly an antique. The extensive climb will reward you with breathtaking views of Srinagar.

Parihaspora

This town is dotted with quiet Buddhist monasteries and ancient ruins that are certain to intrigue you. Resting on the banks of the Jhelum river, this hamlet is located 22 kilometers northwest of Srinagar in the beautiful valley of Jammu & Kashmir. What makes this town a must visit are the age-old archaeological monuments at Pattan Bazaar and Parihaspora Pattan.

Best hill stations in Jammu and Kashmir:

Individuals mainly plan a trip to Jammu and Kashmir for its fascinating hill station experience. Here are some of the most popular ones you can consider checking out:

• Gulmarg: This town is not only a famous hill station but also one of the most visited tourist places in Jammu and Kashmir. Individuals make a trip to Gulmarg to check out its nearby attractions, witness the picturesque flower-filled meadows, experience the marvellous Gondola Cable Car ride, soak in the scenic beauty of the area from the Apharwat Peak, etc. It is also a popular hub for winter adventure activities, including trekking, skiing, snow sledging, etc.
  
  
• Patnitop: It is another well-known hill station in the region, approximately 110 kilometres from Jammu. Nestled at an altitude of 2,024 metres, Patnitop offers some of the greatest panoramic views of the vast surrounding greenery and the snow-clad Himalayan mountain peaks. Alongside its captivating natural beauty, it is also one of the highly preferred adventure hubs, offering activities like trekking, paragliding, skiing, etc.
  
  
• Yusmarg: Sitting at a distance of 50 kilometres from Srinagar, Yusmarg is one of the most charming hill stations in Jammu and Kashmir. The meaning of its name literally translates to “Meadow of Jesus”, which amplifies the natural elegance of the region. From lush greenery and gushing rivers to trekking trails and beautiful lakes, Yusmarg offers a lot in terms of tourism.

Best honeymoon destinations in Jammu and Kashmir:

The immense beauty and charm of Jammu and Kashmir truly justifies its nickname, “Paradise on Earth”. It is one of the most romantic places in the country and a popular holiday destination for couples. Here are the most iconic honeymoon spots within Jammu and Kashmir that you can consider:

• Pahalgam: The small hill town of Pahalgam is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir. The region is blessed with captivating natural landscapes composed of vast green meadows, smooth-flowing river streams, dense forests and towering hills. It is a perfect place to visit around the year. Besides enjoying the jaw-dropping natural beauty of the region, couples can also partake in fun activities like trekking, picnics, water rafting, pony riding, etc. You can check out this Jammu and Kashmir honeymoon tour package that includes Pahalgam.
  
  
• Srinagar: Apart from being Jammu and Kashmir summer capital, Srinagar is also a popular honeymoon destination. It boasts a variety of attractions, including historical landmarks, religious shrines, lush gardens, premium hotels, massive shopping districts, etc. Two of the most popular bucket list items for couples in Srinagar include spending a few days at the houseboats by the enchanting Dal Lake and going on Shikara boat rides. You can check out this Jammu and Kashmir honeymoon tour package that includes Srinagar.
  
  
• Bhaderwah: It is an ideal destination for an off-beat honeymoon in Jammu and Kashmir. This charming small town is also called by its nickname, “Chota Kashmir” (Mini Kashmir) due to its breathtaking scenic beauty, especially in the winter. It is also a well-known adventure hub in the region. Bhaderwah works as a getaway to various prominent tourist attractions, making it one of the most versatile honeymoon destinations in Jammu and Kashmir. 

Things to do in Jammu and Kashmir

Jammu and Kashmir spells timeless beauty and is brimming with culture and interesting activities. Our Jammu and Kashmir packages make sure they capture each and every experience. Here are some things to do while you are in Jammu & Kashmir. Make sure you add them to your shortlisted Jammu & Kashmir tour packages.

• Ski through sheets of snow : It is no secret that Jammu & Kashmir is a white nirvana, and paradise for all the adventure seekers out there. Winter is the best time to embark on a skiing adventure with your family. Make your way to Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Thajiwas glacier in Sonamarg that are world-famous skiing destinations. Dash through the snow..not on a one-horse open sleigh but a ski!
  
  
• Go apple-picking: Meander through the endless green orchards of Jammu & Kashmir and pluck plump and cherry red apples that bend mossed cottage trees. Srinagar is dotted with flourishing green trees that are covered with juicy, shiny apples. Note that the best time to visit these orchards are during the months of September and October. 
  
  
• Gulmarg Gondola: The highest cable car- ride in Asia hurtles you up over 400 metres to give you staggering views of drifting peaks from Kongdori Mountain. This is certainly the most rewarding activity to undertake in Gulmarg. Whiz up through the towering stands of pines towards the Mt Affarwat ridge on the two-stage Gulmarg Gondola.

It is now no secret that there are a range of activities and things to do in Jammu and Kashmir. This combination of pristine lakes, overwhelming culinary experiences, flamboyantly painted shikaras and hidden villages is what entices you to opt for our Jammu & Kashmir tour packages. What are you waiting for? Head to our Thomas Cook India website and book your Jammu & Kashmir family tour package or Jammu & Kashmir honeymoon package right away!

Adventurous things to do in Jammu and Kashmir:

Jammu and Kashmir is also regarded as one of the best destinations in India for adventure tourism. There are tons of thrilling activities individuals can consider participating in, such as:

• Horse riding : Horseback riding is a fun activity available at nearly every corner of Jammu and Kashmir, including Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Srinagar, Lolab Valley, etc. However, for an adventurous horse riding experience, individuals can visit Pahalgam. Horse riding on the Pahalgam to Mini Switzerland trail is one of the most beautiful and thrilling activities offered in Jammu and Kashmir and is a must-try adventure.
  
  
• Ziplining: Ziplining is a fast-paced, adrenaline-rushing adventure that individuals can try during their Jammu and Kashmir holidays. It is a fun activity that doesn’t require a lot of skill and only involves gliding through the air at rapid speeds while being attached to a long steel cable by a harness. It is usually a safe activity and offers a great way to experience and witness the surrounding beauty of the region. Pahalgam and Patnitop are two of the best places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir for ziplining.
  
  
• River rafting: Tourists visiting Jammu and Kashmir often go for river rafting. It is a high-rush recreational activity that involves navigating through a turbulent river on an inflatable raft by using paddles. There are a number of places in the region where individuals can experience river rafting, and among them, the Sindh River near Sonamarg and the Lidder River near Pahalgam are the two most popular choices.
  
  
• ATV riding: Another fun adventure that individuals can be a part of during their Jammu and Kashmir holidays is ATV riding. ATV stands for all-terrain vehicle, which is a specially designed four-wheel bike that individuals can steer at thrilling speeds over a variety of uneven terrain. Gulmarg is the best place to go for ATV riding adventures in Jammu and Kashmir.

Interesting Facts about Jammu and Kashmir

• Individuals planning a trip to Jammu and Kashmir may find the following facts interesting:
• Till around the 14th century, the Mauryan Empire ruled Srinagar, which is now a part of Jammu and Kashmir. It is also believed that Buddhism was introduced to Kashmir valley by Emperor Ashoka.
• The Pir Panjal Railway Tunnel, also known as the Banihal-Qazigund Railway Tunnel, in Jammu and Kashmir, is considered the longest railway tunnel in India. It is a part of the well-known Jammu-Baramulla line and stretches around 11.215 kilometres.
• The first-ever floating post office in India was established in Srinagar on a houseboat within the western section of Dal Lake.
• Kashmir was the favourite holiday destination of various Mughal rulers and officials.
• Jammu and Kashmir are home to several historical Mughal Gardens, which are still found in pristine condition and allow tourists to visit. Some examples of such Mughal gardens in the region include Shalimar Bagh, Pari Mahal, Chashma Shahi, Nishat Bagh, etc.
• The most popular ski destination in Jammu and Kashmir, Gulmarg, was initially called “Gaurimarg”. It was a name given by the local shepherds to honour the Hindu deity, Goddess Parvati.
• The largest tulip garden in Asia is currently located in Jammu and Kashmir. It is called Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden, just 10 km from Srinagar city centre.
• The Vaishno Devi Temple in Jammu and Kashmir is one of the most sacred places in the country and is a popular Hindu pilgrimage spot. Every year, more than 80 lakh devotees and tourists visit the temple. It has also won the award of the “Cleanest Religious Place” in India.

What to shop in Jammu and Kashmir?

Besides going sightseeing and participating in adventure activities, make sure to shop for regional crafts and speciality products. Here are some must-buy things and places to visit for shopping in Jammu and Kashmir:

• Pashmina blankets and shawls: Pashmina products are popular regional items tourists purchase during a trip to Jammu and Kashmir. It is a high-quality material with an extremely comfortable and soft texture. It is mainly used for making things like blankets and shawls, which offer great warmth. They are made from pure sheep wool and are usually priced a bit on the premium side.
  
  
• Where to buy: Numerous stores and markets across Jammu and Kashmir deal in Pashmina blankets and shawls. Tourists can check out the main markets and stores in Jammu, Srinagar and Pahalgam for this product.
  
  
• Dry fruits: Jammu and Kashmir is one of the best places in India where you can buy dry fruits of the highest quality. It tends to be a delicious and healthy thing to buy for yourself or as a gift for your relatives. From walnut and cashews to hazelnuts and almonds, you can get nearly all kinds of dry fruits in the region.
  
  
• Where to buy: Stores in Jammu and near Dal Lake in Srinagar offer high-quality dry fruits at great prices. Make sure to check them out and even do a bit of bargaining.
  
  
• Wooden decors and products: From furniture to cricket bats, the wood carving skills of the local artisans in Jammu and Kashmir are of the finest quality. If you are interested in purchasing wooden home decor or other products, it is the best place to visit. Wooden products in Jammu and Kashmir are very durable and of high quality. You can find all kinds of items, including ashtrays, photo frames, miniature figurines, wall hangings, etc., in the region. These tend to be perfect products to buy during souvenir and gift shopping.
  
  
• Where to buy: Raghunath Bazar in Jammu is one of the best places in the region to shop for wooden artefacts.