Kashmir in Summer : Sun-Kissed Paradise
Kashmir is the northernmost region of India and has been a jewel of the Indian subcontinent. It has been referred to as “Paradise on Earth” because of its scintillating beauty, serene lakes, lush green meadows, snow-capped mountains, and rich cultural heritage. Though the region is famous for winter beauty with the landscapes all white for skiing and winter sports, Kashmir truly blooms in summer. From the vibrant colors of blooming flowers to the cooling, crisp air that provides the most ideal respite from the scorching heat of summer, Kashmir during summer is a picture that is nothing short of breathtaking. Throughout this extended guide, we’ll learn about the top reasons for which Kashmir becomes one of the hot summer destinations along with its must-visit places and experiences that make your summer tour unforgettable.
Why Kashmir Should be the Best Summer Destination
- Weather Conditions
The summer season between May and August, however, is a good time to visit Kashmir, which would provide much-needed relief from the torrid heat of most Indian cities. The region has a cool, pleasant climate, ranging between 15°C and 30°C. Compared to the scorching heat of Delhi, Rajasthan, or even the plains of the Indian subcontinent, Kashmir provides an atmosphere refreshing enough to make it ideal for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and relaxation.
- Splendid Beauty in Full Flower
Summer has been a reason enough for people to fall in love with Kashmir due to absolutely breathtaking, natural scenery-from lovely valleys to lush green meadows and lake-lined backdrops mirroring the showmanship of a great snow-covered peaks-when summer comes, the region blooms. Flowers blossom in gardens, grass is green, and rivers and lakes shine with warm sun lights.
- A Leisurely Land into the Great Open
Kashmir is a heaven for the adventure loving hearts. It is a beautiful summer destination. There is wonderful trekking and camping, beautiful golfing courses, thrilling paragliding, exciting river rafting, and many other such adventure activities. When this is allied with cool climatic conditions and clear sky conditions, it can be quite dramatic. Such as, the treks to the valley, or rafting to the rivers or an evening ride in the Shikara of Dal Lake.
- Silent Retreat into Nature
Other than the scenic view, peace and serenity confer on the land of Kashmir to become a paradise for one who would wish to retreat from the city chaos. Cool winds, birds’ chirps, and valleys create a setting which will ideally serve a person on his/her summer holidays by allowing one to finally unwind.
Ideal Period to Visit Kashmir during Summers
The best time to visit Kashmir is from March to October, as the region remains in its prime beauty and at its most pleasant weather during this period. But during summer, May to August is the peak period to plan if you want to relish the summer season.
May: the weather gets warmer after winter, and this region seems to wake up in its first flush of flowers along with lush greens.
June and July: That is the high tourist season in Kashmir, when the whole region is peaking in landscape terms, including flowers in full bloom and everything in tourist spots moving full swing.
August: Still too pleasant because of some rains that happen due to monsoon rains occurring randomly. Great time for trekking and other forms of outdoor leisure.
Best Summer Destinations in Kashmir
Kashmir is a country that has an irresistible charm to tourists; the stunning sites for which the interest runs diverse from all corners. The people here like any other culture enjoy traveling around for adventure or cultural explorations and relaxing amidst nature. This summer, go visit Kashmir in these following spots.
- Srinagar: The Heart of Kashmir
Srinagar is Jammu and Kashmir’s summer capital-an effervescent city of its Mughal gardens, serenity of the lakes, boisterous bazaars, and cultural significance. It cannot be measured how beautiful the place is, and the best treasures bring out the destination if visited during summer.
- Dal Lake: No visit to Srinagar would ever be considered complete without visiting Dal Lake. Houseboats enclose the entire Dal Lake from all sides along with wooden made Shikaras. You may wish to glide gently in afloat flow flowers majestically toward Himalayas.
- Mughal Gardens: Mughal Gardens such as Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, and Chashme Shahi are in their full bloom during summer. The design of the gardens is perfect, and it gives a touch of grand Mughal architecture through fountains with a fall, green foliage, and vibrant colors in the flower beds.
- Shopping at Lal Chowk: Lal Chowk is the busiest market of Srinagar. You will find Kashmiri handicrafts, Pashmina shawls, Kashmiri carpets, and saffron. Never miss the taste of local specialties like Kahwa (Kashmiri green tea) and Gushtaba (meatballs).
- Shankaracharya Temple: This is an old temple situated on the top of a hill. The city view of Srinagar and Dal Lake is visible from the top. It is a little bit difficult to reach the top, but the top view is amazing.
- Gulmarg: Meadow of Flowers
Gulmarg is one of the most renowned hill stations in the world and is situated 50 km from Srinagar. The famous Gondola, one of the highest cable car rides, exists here and this hill station has been known for its picturesque meadows and fresh air. It gives the look of a sea of colors with wildflowers during summer. Thus, it’s one of the most beautiful destinations in Kashmir.
- Gondola Ride: Gulmarg Gondola will take you up to Apharwat Peak. Glorious view of surrounding meadows, forests, and snow capped mountains are provided. It is a thrilling ride, and the summit is great for photographs.
- Trekking and Hiking: The treks here are excellent from the Gulmarg base. Some of the popular treks are Khilanmarg, which is an excellent trek with scenic views, and Alpather Lake, which is a tough adventure, as it leads you to a glacial lake.
- Golfing: A golf lover can see the highest golf course in the world here. Lush green against the backdrop of snow-covered mountainous surroundings will give you an exquisite golfing experience, silent and serene.
- Pahalgam: Riverside Paradise
Located 95 km from Srinagar is the beautiful town, Pahalgam, which is sitting on the Lidder River. For its soothing ambience and beautiful views, Pahalgam has turned out to be the dream destination for many nature lovers seeking refuge and rejuvenation amidst green valleys and gigantic mountain ranges.
- Horse Riding: Pahalgam is famous for horse-riding treks to the Baisaran meadows, which is called “Mini Switzerland.” It is a great way of relishing the charm of the town. The ride passes through thick pine forests and rolling meadows.
- Aru Valley and Betaab Valley: There are two valleys near Pahalgam, which offer great views of glaciers, rivers, and alpine meadows. Aru Valley is perfect for trekking and camping, while Betaab Valley is perfect for a quiet picnic or nature walk.
- Trekking and Pilgrimages: Pahalgam also is the point from where one embarks upon Amarnath Yatra that is one of the most important pilgrimage for the Hindus. This town is covered by trek routes, which would lead to old temples, lakes, and the distant villages.
- Sonamarg: The Meadow of Gold
Sonamarg literally means “Meadow of Gold.” Sonamarg is a valley and is about 80 km from Srinagar. Sonamarg presents dramatic landscapes of attracting tourists. The beauty of Sonamarg lies best during the summer season since it is bounded by mountains towered with sparkling glaciers and rivers.
- Thajiwas Glacier Trek: Trek to Thajiwas Glacier offering scenic views of snow-capped peaks and meadows. Trail not too grueling, makes the perfect wild get-away.
- Fishing: River Sindh, Sonamarg, is a bountiful destination for some excellent fishing. Rivers and streams with plenty of trout remain there in abundance. Fish also in an enchanting aura.
- Camping and Star Gazing: The sky and environment here is so clear that this place is ideal for camping and star gazing. Spend one night under the open sky, just enjoying nature.
- Yusmarg: The Hidden Gem
Yusmarg is one of the least known gems in Kashmir. It is 50 kilometers from Srinagar, and it has serene, ripened forests and rivers and snow-clad mountains surrounding it. Since it is secluded, it is a great place for someone who is seeking peace and solace.
- Nature Walks and Picnics: Yusmarg offers quiet meadows where one can take long nature walks or enjoy quiet picnics by the river.
- Horse Riding: Riding through the lush meadows of Yusmarg on horse is one of the very serene experiences to have a peek at the view from the sides.
Things to Do in Kashmir in Summer
Kashmir is no sightseeing place; it’s heaven for the adventure-seeker too. It may be that one needs the thrill of some kind of adrenalin-junkie kind of activities, or perhaps just lying down and soaking up the splendor of nature – summer is an absolute treasure trove full of things to do in Kashmir.
1. Treks and Walks
Trekking in the State of Kashmir has been very well-covered since Kashmir is frequently known for trekking. You can trek from easy day hike routes to much-challenging multi-day routes. Some of the popular routes are listed below:
- The Great Lakes Trek: This is a serious trek that allows you to view the beautiful alpine lakes of Kashmir: Vishansar Lake, Krishansar Lake, Gangbal Lake.
- Aaru Valley to Lidderwat: The trekkers here walk through heavy forests and meadows of high alpine altitude towards Lidderwat, one of the picture camp sites nearer Pahalgam.
- Sonmarg to Vishansar Lake: Trek to the beautiful lakes amidst Kashmir amidst snow-tipped peaks
2. Paragliding
It is one of the hottest paragliding spots where one can see the meadows and mountains from such heights while sitting in the skies. The adventure is really electrifying and the best to experience for all those who want some adventure in life.
3. White-water Rafting
White-water rafting can be enjoyable at Lidder River in Pahalgam. The Lidder River, flowing between forests and towering mountains makes an adventure thrilling for its lovers.
4. Golfing
Golfing in Gulmarg and Srinagar can be said some of the globe’s most scenic golf courses. Being played among mountains, it is nothing but a unique thing.
5. Shikara Ride on Dal Lake
An iconic Shikara ride on Dal Lake is a must when one is in Srinagar. Gliding through the still waters while taking in the scenic views of the floating gardens and houseboats is the ideal manner of unwinding and absorbing the beauty of the lake.
6. Cuisine
No visit to Kashmir is ever complete without the relishing rich and aromatic food of the place. The delicacies of this region are more spicy and aromatic that it has captured the hearts of the food lovers.
- Rogan Josh: This is one of the famous Kashmiri dishes, tender lamb cooked in a rich aromatic gravy with a combination of spices.
- Yakhni: Yogurt curry of mutton with cardamom, saffron, and cinnamon
- Gushtaba: Meatballs of spices served with rice
- Kahwa: This is the original traditional, cardamom flavored, almond-smoothed, dried rose-petal green tea from Kashmir.
Conclusion
There is no place like summer in Kashmir as it is basically a destination and an abode of mix natural beauties combined with outdoor adventures, all taken with an experience of some culture. Whether you are hiking through the grasslands of Gulmarg, trekking up to alpine lakes, enjoying a Shikara ride along Dal Lake, or savoring the delicacies of the local cuisine, there is something in Kashmir for everyone. The pleasant cool weather of this region, in addition to the majestic landscapes and the cultural heritage that it boasts of, makes Kashmir the perfect summer holiday destination. So pack your bags and experience the heavenly beauty of Kashmir and create your own memories.
How to book Kashmir tour?
Contact a travel agency that specializes in Kashmir tours. You can reach out to the following for assistance:
- Phone:
- +91 7889 655596
- +91 7006 891267
- Email:
Inquire about tour packages, itineraries, and pricing, and confirm your booking for a memorable winter experience!
People Also Ask
Why is summer the best time to visit Kashmir?
Summer is the best time to visit Kashmir because of the pleasant weather with temperatures ranging between 15°C to 30°C, making it an ideal escape from the scorching heat in other parts of India. The lush green landscapes, serene lakes, and snow-capped mountains provide a refreshing environment for outdoor activities.
What is the weather like in Kashmir during summer?
Summer in Kashmir (from June to August) is characterized by warm but comfortable temperatures. Daytime temperatures typically range from 15°C to 30°C, while the evenings remain cooler. The weather is perfect for sightseeing, trekking, and outdoor activities, with no extreme heat or humidity.
When does summer start in Kashmir?
Summer in Kashmir begins in late May and lasts until August. By June, the valley experiences the peak of its summer season, with clear skies and a comfortable climate perfect for exploring the region.
What are the best places to visit in Kashmir during summer?
The best places to visit in Kashmir during summer include Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg, and Leh-Ladakh. These places are known for their cool weather, beautiful landscapes, adventure activities, and natural beauty during the summer season.
Is summer a good time for a Shikara ride on Dal Lake?
Yes, summer is a fantastic time to enjoy a Shikara ride on Dal Lake. The pleasant weather and the blooming of flowers around the lake enhance the experience, making it one of the most serene activities to do in Srinagar during summer.
Can I visit Gulmarg during summer?
Yes, Gulmarg is a top destination to visit in summer. The meadows are lush and green, and the weather is perfect for activities like trekking, nature walks, golfing, and enjoying the breathtaking views from the Gulmarg Gondola.
What outdoor activities can I do in Kashmir during summer?
In summer, you can indulge in activities such as trekking, nature walks, Shikara rides on Dal Lake, horse riding, fishing, camping, golfing in Gulmarg, and visiting famous gardens and lakes like Nishat Bagh and Pahalgam.
Is summer a good time for trekking in Kashmir?
Yes, summer is the best time for trekking in Kashmir. With mild temperatures and clear skies, trekking routes such as the Great Lakes Trek, Kashmir Valley Trek, and the trek to Thajiwas Glacier in Sonamarg are accessible and offer stunning views of the landscapes.
What are the best gardens to visit in Kashmir during summer?
Kashmir is home to several beautiful Mughal gardens, including Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, Chashme Shahi, and Shalimar Bagh. These gardens are in full bloom during summer, making it the perfect time to visit and enjoy the vibrant flowers, fountains, and greenery.
Can I visit Sonamarg in summer?
Yes, Sonamarg is one of the best places to visit in Kashmir during summer. The valley’s meadows are covered with wildflowers, and the nearby glaciers provide opportunities for trekking and outdoor adventures, making it a peaceful and scenic destination.
What is the best time for a houseboat stay in Kashmir?
Summer is the ideal time to stay on a houseboat in Srinagar. The weather is warm but comfortable, and you can enjoy the calm waters of Dal Lake while surrounded by the beauty of the lush landscape and the snow-capped mountains in the distance.
How crowded is Kashmir in summer?
Kashmir experiences a moderate influx of tourists during summer, especially in June and July. However, it is still less crowded compared to major tourist destinations in India. Popular tourist spots like Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam can get busier, but it’s still possible to find peaceful locations to enjoy the natural beauty.
Is it safe to travel to Kashmir in summer?
Yes, Kashmir is generally safe for tourists in summer. The region is peaceful during this season, and the pleasant weather makes it an ideal time for a family vacation, honeymoon, or adventure trip. However, it’s always advisable to check travel advisories before planning your trip.
What should I pack for a summer trip to Kashmir?
For a summer trip to Kashmir, pack lightweight clothes for the daytime, comfortable walking shoes, a light jacket or sweater for the evenings, sunglasses, and sunscreen. A hat or scarf will also help protect you from the sun during outdoor activities.
Can I experience the Saffron Harvest in Kashmir during summer?
The saffron harvest in Kashmir usually occurs in autumn (October-November). However, you can visit the saffron fields in Pampore in summer and enjoy the scenic beauty, even though the harvest season won’t be in full swing during this time.
What are the best food experiences to try in Kashmir during summer?
Summer in Kashmir is the perfect time to enjoy the famous Wazwan feast, which includes dishes like Rogan Josh, Yakhni, Dum Aloo, and Gushtaba. Also, try seasonal fruits like cherries, apricots, and apples, which are available during summer, along with refreshing Kashmiri drinks like Kahwa.
Can I enjoy fishing in Kashmir during summer?
Yes, Kashmir is known for its beautiful rivers and lakes, which offer great fishing opportunities during summer. You can try your hand at fishing in places like Pahalgam, Sonamarg, and Dal Lake. Trout fishing is a popular activity here.
What wildlife can I spot in Kashmir during summer?
Summer is a great time for wildlife enthusiasts. You can spot a wide variety of wildlife, including Himalayan brown bears, leopards, musk deer, and a diverse range of bird species. Dachigam National Park and Hemis National Park are good places for wildlife spotting.
How do I travel to Kashmir during summer?
Kashmir is well-connected by air, road, and rail. You can fly into Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport (Srinagar) from major cities across India. Additionally, the region is connected by national highways, and trains run to Jammu, from where you can take a bus or taxi to Srinagar.
What are the best places for shopping in Kashmir during summer?
Srinagar’s Lal Chowk, along with local markets, offers a variety of Kashmiri handicrafts such as Pashmina shawls, carpets, woolen clothes, paper-mâché items, and walnut wood products. Summer is a great time to shop as you can explore the markets in comfortable weather.
Can I enjoy a picnic in Kashmir during summer?
Yes, summer is an excellent time for a picnic in Kashmir. The pleasant weather, lush green meadows, and scenic views make places like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and the gardens in Srinagar perfect for a relaxing outdoor picnic.
Is it the right time to visit Pahalgam in summer?
Pahalgam is one of the top destinations to visit in Kashmir during summer. With its cool weather, lush meadows, and picturesque views of the Lidder River and surrounding mountains, Pahalgam offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.
Can I enjoy adventure activities in Kashmir during summer?
Yes, summer is ideal for adventure activities in Kashmir. You can enjoy trekking, paragliding, rafting, mountain biking, and golfing in Gulmarg. The pleasant weather and diverse landscapes make Kashmir an adventure lover’s paradise in summer.
How long should I stay in Kashmir during summer?
A 5-7 day trip is ideal for exploring Kashmir during summer. This allows you to visit Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg, along with enjoying outdoor activities, sightseeing, and cultural experiences at a relaxed pace.
What are the best places for a honeymoon in Kashmir during summer?
Kashmir is one of the most romantic destinations for a honeymoon. Popular honeymoon spots include Srinagar (for houseboat stays), Gulmarg (for scenic beauty and adventure), Pahalgam (for peaceful retreats), and Sonamarg (for serene landscapes and trekking). Summer is the perfect time to visit these places for a romantic getaway.
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