India
Kashmir
Houseboats, gondolas and meadows that feel painted on.
Overview
The Kashmir Valley is built around three classic stays — Srinagar's Dal lake houseboats, the gondola town of Gulmarg and the river-meadow village of Pahalgam. Snow in winter, saffron in autumn, and tulips in spring.
Best time
March–May (tulips), Sep–Oct (golden), Dec–Feb (snow).
How to reach
Fly to Srinagar (SXR); road via Jammu (290 km).
Top experiences
- Shikara ride at sunrise
- Gulmarg Gondola Phase-2
- Betaab & Aru valleys
- Mughal gardens trio
Local food to try
Rogan joshYakhniKahwaSheermal
Planner’s tip
Book Gulmarg gondola tickets the previous evening to skip queues.