Destination story · No. 22 of 52

Kashmir

Jammu and Kashmir, India

Meadows below snowy peaks, Pahalgam, Kashmir
Meadows below snowy peaks, Pahalgam, Kashmir

Photo: Soubhagya Maharana, Pexels License · via Pexels

A seasonal travel letter

Kashmir changes its character with the season, so I plan around the landscape rather than forcing one fixed itinerary. A shikara ride, local crafts, warm food and mountain views each offer a different way to understand the valley. I keep the schedule flexible and check current conditions before travelling between areas.

A travel-vlogger’s story

Kashmir’s beauty changes with the season: spring blossoms, green summer valleys, gold and russet autumn trees, and snow-covered winter landscapes. On Dal Lake, the slow movement of a shikara gives the day a different pace; farther out, mountains and meadows open up new scenes. I would build a trip around the season rather than trying to see everything at once. The region’s crafts, food and hospitality are as much a part of the experience as its famous views.

Fascinating facts i can tell you of

  1. Dal Lake includes floating gardens and cultivated areas.
  2. Traditional Kashmiri houseboats are often decorated with carved wood.
  3. Pashmina, carpets, papier-mâché and wood carving are important local crafts.
  4. The scenery changes markedly between spring, summer, autumn and winter.

My tips to travellers

Check current travel advisories and road conditions, choose activities for the season and keep plans flexible in mountain areas.

Keep exploring

More destination stories

All 52 stories
  • Agra, India

    Taj Mahal

    At the Taj Mahal, I notice that the monument changes with the light. Soft morning tones reveal details in the marble and stone inlay that…

    Destination story

  • Jaipur, India

    Amber Fort

    Amber Fort changes mood as I move through it: defensive gateways give way to courtyards, decorated halls and mirror work. I try to imagine…

    Destination story

  • Assam, India

    Kaziranga National Park

    In Kaziranga, I learn that a wildlife sighting is a gift, not a guarantee. I listen to birds over the grasslands and wetlands and scan the…

    Destination story

  • Karnataka, India

    Hampi

    Hampi feels like two landscapes sharing the same horizon: monumental ruins and great rounded boulders. I begin early while the stones are…

    Destination story

Your next holiday is one conversation away.

Tell us where your heart is set — or let us surprise you. Our travel experts will craft a plan and a transparent quote, free of charge.

Postcard · Holiday Besties

Travel inspiration, straight to your inbox.

Seasonal offers, new destinations and insider tips — no spam, unsubscribe anytime.

— your besties

Esc