Top 5 Hidden Tourist Places in Jammu and Kashmir

Jammu and Kashmir is that incredible part of India which most resembles paradise on earth. While scores of people fly down to visit famous tourist places in Jammu and Kashmir, not many are aware of the spectacular places that are akin to hidden gems in the region. If you wish to visit a scenic place this vacation, book cheap last-minute flights to India and come explore some of the most spectacular hidden tourist places in Jammu and Kashmir.

BEAUTIFUL UNEXPLORED PLACES OF JAMMU AND KASHMIR

 There are plenty of lesser-explored hidden tourist places in Jammu and Kashmir that are sure to blow your mind away! To make planning your itinerary for the trip easier, we’ve managed to narrow down the endless list of these magnificent hidden gems to five spectacular places.

1. Kokernag

Apart from the stunning places to visit in Srinagar, about 70 km from Srinagar lays the scenic, sprawling garden of Kokernag. Although lesser-known, Kokernag is one of the most beautiful hidden tourist places in Jammu and Kashmir. The Kokernag spring is famous for being the largest freshwater spring in Kashmir and emerges at seven different locations amidst lush greenery forming stunning pools of crystal clear water. An interesting historical fact about this spectacular place is that Abul Fazl, the legendary Emperor Akbar’s court historian stated famously that the waters of this spring have medicinal properties.

2. Dal Lake

The most celebrated and most recognized of all tourist attractions and places to visit in Srinagar is the stunning Dal Lake. Home to a myriad of fabulous things such as colorful shikaras, beautifully carved wooden houseboats, and vibrant floating gardens, the Dal Lake is one of the most stunning tourist places in Jammu and Kashmir. At the backdrop of this gorgeous lake is the magnificent Pir Panjal mountain range adding to its picturesque beauty. The best time to see the Dal Lake is during sunrise and sunset as the lake looks absolutely ethereal bathed in the sun’s golden rays.

3. Martand Temple

Located near Anantnag, this 8th-century Sun temple is one of the most spectacular hidden tourist places in Jammu and Kashmir. Recognized as the zenith of temple architecture in Kashmir, it was built by the Karkota Dynasty’s Lalitaditya Muktapida. Standing atop an elevated plateau, the temple offers the most breathtaking views of the valley beneath. In addition to the Sun temples at Konark and Modhera, the Martand temple is among the most significant Sun temples in the country.

4. Verinag

Known now as the source of the River Jhelum, Verinag once upon a time housed a stunning Mughal garden. One of the best hidden tourist places in Jammu and Kashmir, there are ruins of historical architecture that one can still explore today. In the early 1600’s Emperor Jehangir built an octagonal tank meant to stand at the center of a palace. In fact, Jehangir was so in love with this beautiful place that he wished to be laid to rest here – a wish that was unfortunately disregarded by his courtiers. You can still see the ruins of hamams and palaces as you move along downstream.

5. Drangyari

Although it’s among the most uncommon travel destinations in India, this picturesque hill station is one of the most stunning tourist places in Jammu and Kashmir. Untouched by pollution and accessible only via ponies, you will get to experience nature at its raw best here. Though not as well-known, Drangyari is fast becoming famous among nature lovers who wish to take a break from stressful city life. Book cheap business class flights and come experience nature at Drangyari like never before. Replete with mystifying natural beauty and lush greenery all around, this is one of the must-visit tourist places in Jammu and Kashmir.

BEST TIME TO VISIT JAMMU AND KASHMIR

 While winter which brings with it a beautiful blanket of white snow and is not a bad time to visit Jammu and Kashmir, not many will find the cold climate comfortable enough to explore the stunning albeit hidden tourist places in Jammu and Kashmir. The best time to visit Jammu and Kashmir is between March and October. This time span covers a total of three seasons – spring, summer, and autumn – and you can choose whichever one you’d like to enjoy the most. While you can book flights and arrive at the Srinagar airport, alternately, you can book cheap flights to Delhi and arrive there first as well.