Kashmir romantic destinations

Let’s begin with the ‘Heaven on Earth’ analogy because no matter how oft repeated, this remains the most befitting description of the tranquil beauty of Kashmir. Despite its troubled history and decades of unrest, Kashmir has managed to retain the splendour of quiet retreats and breathtaking locales that few destinations around the world can match. Moreover, the unhurried serenity of Kashmir makes the perfect canvas for a tale of love. Here are the most romantic places in Kashmir that offer everything you need for a cosy getaway with your significant other:

Srinagar

srinagar

The capital city of Srinagar takes the crown in offering romantic retreats. In the heart of the Kashmir valley, sitting on the banks of the meandering Jhelum, surrounded by lush green mountains with snow-capped peaks and dotted with water bodies, Srinagar boasts of a landscape that can take your breath away. Of course, the biggest charm here is the Dal Lake where you can ride on Shikaras, enjoy a pampering stay at the boat houses and pick up flowers from the floating market (and have your own Yeh Chand Sa Roshan Chehra moment). Water skiing on the Nagin Lake, a stroll through the picturesque Mughal gardens, visiting monuments like the Jama Masjid, Hazratbal Shrine, and the Shankaracharya temple, and indulging in some delectable Kashmiri delicacies and shopping for local crafts is just what you need to add dimension to your romantic escapade. If you time your visit right, you can watch migratory birds at the Dachigam Wildlife Sanctuary, see an array of colourful bulbs in bloom at the famous Tulip Garden, and enjoy a memorable night-time Shikara ride on the Dal Lake on a full moon night.

Pulwama

Of the many things that Kashmir is popular for, its premium variety of saffron is one of the most sought after. The saffron fields of Pulwama are just as mesmerizing as the fragrant tiny strands of this exotic spice. Explore these sprawling saffron fields with your significant other and lose yourselves in the beauty of their unique multihued character. The air heavy with the fragrance of saffron is all you need to feel the heady rush of emotions. Beyond these fields, lies a town brimming with rich culture, hospitable locals, tranquil lakes of Marsar, Tarsar and Nagberan, natural springs of Aripal Nag, and the exotic wildlife centre of Shikargarh.

Pahalgam

pahalgam

The first thing that strikes you when you hear the name Pahalgam is the Amarnath Yatra, as this small town serves as a base camp for the annual pilgrimage. However, not many know that Pahalgam is the quintessential slice of ‘Heaven on Earth’ that Kashmir is revered as. This charming town, with sprawling green meadows merging into the surrounding foothills, clear river waters gushing over a rocky bed and towering conifers and soothing blue skies, is the ideal retreat for spending some unadulterated quality time with your significant other. The mesmerizing landscape and scenic charm of Pahalgam spills over to its surroundings, giving way to some spell-binding attractions such as the Tulian Lake, Betaab Valley, Aru Valley, Baisaran and Sheshnag. You can plan a picnic on the banks of Lidder River, escape into the lush Apple Orchards, go hiking on the mountain trails and even get your dose of adventure with white water rafting.

Patnitop

Privacy and having some quiet time to yourself are the most crucial elements for a romantic holiday. If you are looking for a destination as breathtaking as the popular tourist spots in Kashmir but minus the teeming crowds, Patnitop is your go-to place. About a 110 km from Jammu, this beautiful hill spot remains largely unexplored by the average traveller. Offering a panoramic view of the Shivalik ranges, this destination—dotted with a dense cover of cedar and pine trees—offers you all the peace and quiet you need. Spend a weekend cocooned in a wooden cottage in the midst of the towering trees to spark up the romance. There is a host of activities such as horse riding, rappelling, paragliding, rock climbing and camping to keep you engaged during your trip. Else, just pack a picnic basket and settle anywhere on the hillslope for a lazy day out in the sun.

Gulmarg

gulmarg

Gulmarg, which literally means ‘the meadow of flowers’, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kashmir. With miles of pathways dotted with flowers during summer and a thick blanket of pristine snow during winter, Gulmarg has all the elements needed to stir in some romance to your explorations. It is also the ideal destination for couples who like a romantic getaway spiked with a generous dose of adrenaline rush. Boasting of ski trails, snowboarding and the highest Gondola rides in the world, Gulmarg is a destination that will quite literally keep you on the edge. And then of course there is trekking, mountain biking, fishing, golfing, and attractions like the Frozen Lake, Bota Pathri and Khilanmarg, to make your Kashmiri holiday all the more alluring.

The next time you have a big occasion coming up or just need some alone time with your partner away from the everyday routine, you know where to take them.

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