Kashmir is known as ‘Heaven on Earth.’ There isn’t a soul on earth that can argue with it. But what makes Kashmir one of the most beautiful places on Earth? What exactly do you do when you go there?

Here are the top reasons why Kashmir tourism should be your next destination:

  1. To indulge in a skiing experience

Gulmarg is the place to be if you are in Kashmir during the winter and want to ski. The skiing season begins around Christmas. Undoubtedly, it is an experience you must have at least once in your lifetime.

  1. To go on a thrilling winter trek or hike

If you like living life on the edge, this activity is for you. Go for a hike across the enchanting valleys of Kashmir. There is hardly any dearth of adventure destinations. The following list is worth noting:

  • Zoji La Pass
  • Betaab Valley
  • Mount Harmukh
  • Sheshnaag Lake
  • Frozen Alpather Lake
  1. To Experience Heli-Skiing

Guess what? Kashmir is one of the two places in India where you can enjoy Heli-Skiing. So go on, add this to your must-do list. For the uninformed, the adventure begins with a chopper taking you to the top of an inaccessible summit. The real thrill comes after this as you ski rapidly downwards. Feel the adrenaline pumping through your body while enjoying breathtaking views.

  1. To indulge in an Actual Kashmiri retail therapy

Not a thrill seeker? Or even if you are, want some exciting downtime? Well, the best handicrafts await you in Kashmir. Get textiles, dry fruits, Kahwa, willow baskets, and spices. Visit the Kokar Bazar and Maharaja Bazar for a great time.

  1. To enjoy the Shikara ride with your favorite Bollywood song

How many times have you visually gorged on the stunning Shikara shots in Bollywood movies? Go for a Shikara ride to experience the thrill of a lifetime. These traditional boats are one of the best-known elements that make Kashmir absolute heaven for travellers. Play a song or two and lap it all up.

  1. To get a glorious camping experience with snow all around you

Another one for thrill seekers! You can pitch your tent in a snow-covered valley and gaze at the stars all night. The feeling of being surrounded by snow is unforgettable. Some of the best camping spots in Kashmir are:

  • Manasbal Lake
  • Sonmarg
  • Kolahoi
  • Chandanwari
  • Naranag
  • Aru Valley
  1. To bask in the Kashmiri culture and for a joyride in Pahalgam

One of the top attractions in Kashmir during winter is the Snow Festival. It takes place in January, attracting people from all over India. The activities that take center stage during the festival include skiing, cycling, and ice skating, and snowboarding. Mountain bikers also take part amidst loud cheers from the crowd.

Indulge more by exploring the beautiful valleys of Kashmir on the back of a pony. It is, undoubtedly, one of the best activities to do in Kashmir. Go cruising through destinations like Baisaran, Aru Valley, Chandanwari, and Aru Valley.

Pro-tip: ponies or horses can also be hired to ascend steep mountains.

  1. To devour Kashmiri Delicacies

Local delicacies provide a deep insight into a region’s culture. Kashmir is no exception either. Mutton Rogan Josh, Kashmiri Saag, Gogji Rajma, Tshock Wangan, and Paneer Chaman are some dishes you will relish. Additionally, don’t forget to try the famous Noon Chai with Sheermal, Lavasa, and Tchot.

  1. To play ice hockey and go ice skating

Kashmiri winters see temperatures dropping to zero and below. Now, you know what that means, don’t you? Ice and snow! The pools and lakes freeze up, turning into perfect ice skating and hockey spots. Don’t worry if you are a beginner. Trainers are there to help you skate away in all glory!

  1. To make your Christmas dreams come true by sleighing with your friends

Kashmir may not be the north pole, but the sleighing experience is one you are sure to fall in love with. The sleigh is like a wooden carriage swooping down snow-covered mountains and hills. You can even sleigh on a plain snow-covered surface. All you need is someone to pull the sleigh as you ride it and enjoy. Sonmarg is the place to be if you want to go sleighing in Kashmir

Visit and explore shrines, meadows, frozen rivers, and lakes. But most importantly, design an itinerary that takes you through Srinagar, Pahalgam, Sonmarg, and Gulmarg!

Book your Thomas Cook Kashmir Package here and experience the trip of a lifetime!