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Kashmir holds some of the most diverse landscapes in India – valleys, lakes, lively markets, tiny remote villages, tall mountain ranges, and even a dangerous yet adventurous mountain pass. With such stunning scenery and rich cultural history, Kashmir offers some unusual or unique places. From hiking across the lakes to camping at the foot of mountains, and fishing in the turquoise waters of Vishansar Lake – a trip to Kashmir can be a truly unique experience.
With so many popular destinations, attractions, and historic sites to explore we thought it would be a great idea to list some of the most unique places to visit in Kashmir all in one place. Below are some of the most remarkable attractions available in Kashmir, which will take you off the beaten track to a side of the valley that you’ve probably never seen before.
1. Lidderwat Village
One of the most stirring villages in the region, Lidderwat is a location adorned with beautiful meadows, thick forest, and lush green heaths. Lidderwat is set at a distance of 22 km from Pahalgam. With an elevation of 3048m above sea level, Lidderwat serves as an ideal spot for camping. Another charm of Lidderwat village is the Lidder river that flows through the extent of the village which gives the place a virtually storybook definition of what fairytale villages must appear like. Lidderwat is the maiden point for the trekking passage to Kolahoi glaciers. The immersing vista of the hills, its open grasslands, and the forest lined with maple trees and pine will surely refresh your mind and soul.
Best Time to Visit: April to October.
2. Chatpal
Traced by valleys along the Southern part of Kashmir, Chatpal is a village of imperial beauty. An authentic sanctuary of tranquillity and peace, this beautiful village has so much to offer to travelers looking for something placid. The village is girdled by thick forest, meadows adorned with wildflowers, and profound luxuriant mountains contoured by expanses of pine forests, serving as a perfect break from the hustle and bustle of the city. Chatpal village is regarded an experience of heaven on earth with flocks of sheep grazing the meadows, an energetic river rushing by, mud houses sitting on gracefully, and the modest lifestyle of the native Gujjar community bringing the village to life with a calm demeanor.
Best Time to Visit: March to June.
3. Yusmarg
One of the least visited places in Kashmir, Yusmarg village offers a stunning vista of hefty wooded alpine forest and luscious green meadows of Pine and Fir. The term Yusmarg which means “ Jesus Meadow ” is located 45 Km from Srinagar in Kashmir’s Budgam district. Yusmarg, a hill station is girdled by snow-capped mountains. regarded to be the jewel of the Budgam district, Yusmarg harbors numerous picture-perfect sites. The mighty natural slopes of Yusmarg give skiing openings to adventure enthusiasts. Away from the confines of the mundane, Yusmarg is a little heaven in its own right.
Best Time to Visit: October to February
4. Lolab Valley
Also known as Wadi-e-Lolab, or the Land of Love and Beauty, Lolab valley is one of Kashmir’s best-kept secrets and a sheltered gem. The vale and its surroundings are graced with paddy fields, springs, and beautiful apple farms. The valley is also known as “ the fruit bowl of Jammu and Kashmir ” since fruit trees like apple, cherry, apricot, walnut, and peach are found here. This pristine piece of Earth is roughly 170 Km from Srinagar. Lolab is a conflation of three valleys- Kalaroos Valley, Putnam Valley, and Brunei Valley. It's possible to witness the Lahwal River and the springs of Lavnag and Gauri from this place.
Best Time to Visit: April to September
5. Daksum
One offbeat destination that will surely prove to be a delight for anyone visiting the place, Daksum is a trekker’s paradise. Situated at an altitude of 2438m above sea level, the destination will make anyone fall for its charm. The village is enclosed by the snow-covered Pir-Panjal range in Kashmir. Daksum is covered with coniferous forests, babbling streams and grassy meadows with the melodious sound of the gushing Bringi River. Daksum offers everything from the beauty of natural springs to rural simplicity. It is a great place for adventurers and nature lovers. The calm and serene surroundings, densely clad hills, the invigorating mountain air, and the snow-capped mountains in the background all make Daksum a memorable experience.
Best Time to Visit: April to June in Summer, November to February in Winter.
6. Karnah
Karnah is an attractive scenic track in the western corner of the Kashmir valley in between the mountainous ranges of Qazi Nag and Nanga Parbat. Many small traditional villages add to the charm of Karnah Valley. This area is full of natural splendor and comprises high mountains, snowy peaks, forests, scattered houses, and habitations on the slopes of mountainous ranges, with favorable climatic conditions. Karnah village reveals the memories of the past through its forts, palaces, statues, weapons, and utensils found hereafter excavation. An ideal place for an adventurous soul, one can enjoy thrilling activities like rock climbing, skiing, and snowboarding.
Best Time to Visit: March to July.
7. Warwan Valley
A charming tourist destination, Warwan Valley is located 150 Km away from Srinagar. A tranquil place, immune to the harmful effects of modern life, the Warwan Valley in the Kishtwar district is a paradise for trekkers. Warwan valley has towering lush green buttes which are astounding and the waterfalls, clear sky, and cool breeze which amaze you every passing minute. The beautiful and melodious gushing of Warwan River, the source of which is the mighty Kanital Glacier provides a whole new experience of bliss and tranquillity to the tourists.
Best Time to Visit: May to September
8. Gurez
An enticing destination that is famous for its picturesque valley, Gurez is hidden among the high mountains. Located 130 Km from Srinagar, Gurez Valley lies along an old Silk Route which linked Kashmir and Gilgit. The valley is surrounded by snow-coated mountains and exudes a sparkling view of the presence of the Kishanganga River flowing through the valley. Gurez is a picturesque destination but taking photographs in many areas of the valley is still prohibited for security reasons. The journey is a treat with pine trees on both sides of the road refreshing visitors with its cool breeze.
Best Time to Visit: June to September
Abundant with awe-inspiring landscapes and unique experiences, Kashmir is a hotspot for backpackers and tourists. The valley’s vibrancy in its history, culture, and natural beauty is well-known. So, on your next trip to Kashmir, make sure you add these offbeat places in Kashmir to your list in order to have the true Kashmiri experience and make it an unforgettable one.
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