11 Kashmir Travel Tips for Safe and Scenic Travel

6. Prioritize scenic spots wisely for maximum payoff

Kashmir’s iconic spots reward a paced schedule. Start with Srinagar’s Dal Lake for a shikara at dawn and the old city for carved wooden architecture. Gulmarg offers a scenic gondola ride that climbs high for alpine views and is family friendly when weather is clear. Pahalgam serves as a gateway to Betaab and Aru valleys—the meadows are perfect for easy walks and wide-open photos. Sonamarg’s glaciers and river valleys are dramatic, but road access may vary by season. For quieter scenery, Yusmarg and Daksum have fewer crowds and lovely trails. Use TripAdvisor and local tourism boards to check current access and seasonal closures. Allow extra time for travel between sites—you’ll often gain the best photos during relaxed, slower moments like a tea stop with a view. Plan two to three day stops rather than rush visits; a slower pace reduces risk and deepens the experience.