Kashmir has been everyone’s dream vacation for a while now. Everyone wants aesthetic photos in a shikara ride, sipping on warm kahwa while candidly looking at the beautiful lake. Even though I would love to make this vision a reality, I know how crowded these places are. Tourists wait for the onset of winter to witness the snowy Kashmir. But it’s no fun when you’re stuck in a jam to see the most popular spot. So, here’s how you can visit other offbeat places in Kashmir to enjoy the snow and have fun this winter.

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1. Doodhpathari

Doodhpathari, or the valley of milk, is among the hidden gems of Kashmir. The place got its name from the Kashmiri saint who once prayed here. When he was looking for water in the meadows, he tried to penetrate the ground and milk started oozing out. But do you know how the name is still relevant? Doodhpathari, surrounded by pine forests, gets completely covered in white snow in winter which makes it look like a valley of milk. If you want to witness Gulmarg-like snow without the crowds, you must visit Doodhpathari.

How to reach: Take a train to Jammu and drive to Srinagar. Alternatively, you can fly directly to Srinagar.

Where to stay: If you want an authentic experience, you can stay in igloos here. However, it is advisable to stay in a nearby hotel in Srinagar, as these snow huts lack proper facilities.

Things to do: Trekking and camping are some of the most favoured activities here.

2. Astanmarg

This is the most underrated spot in Srinagar. Do you want to see a 180-degree view of Dal Lake along with Kohe Suleiman, Hari Parbat, and the Golf Course? All you need to do is take the narrow road to reach the Zabarwan mountains and drive carefully to the road’s endpoint. Voila! You will see an epic view of almost the entire city of Srinagar.

How to reach: Take a train to Jammu and drive to Astanmarg. You can also book a flight to Srinagar and hire a bus or taxi to reach Astanmarg.

Where to stay: You can stay in hotels or resorts nearby starting from ₹1,600 per night.

Things to do: Catch the beautiful sunset, and if you’re adventurous enough, do paragliding.

3. Hemis

If you want to experience the serenity of Kashmir, head over to the Ladakhi Monastery town of Hemis Gompa. You must also visit Hemis National Park to see a range of rare wildlife including Asiatic ibex, snow leopards, mountain weasel, red pandas, red foxes, Tibetan wolves, and more.

How to reach: Reach Jammu Tawi railway station by train and drive to Hemis. Or take a flight to Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh. Hire a bus or cab to reach Hemis.

Where to stay: You can stay near the Hemis Monastery or camp in nearby villages like Rumbak and Sku located within the Hemis National Park.

Things to do: Trek at Ladakh Sham Valley, visit Gotsang Gompa, and see the frozen river at Zanskar.

4. Aru Valley

This is a spectacular place to visit in Kashmir during the winter season. Aru Valley in Pahalgam offers a scenic location for a snowy getaway. You can walk around the valley and stop for a tea break to enjoy some warmth in the chill. People often visit Aru Wildlife Sanctuary to see some of the rare plants and animal species. Don’t forget to do horse riding to have a classic Aru Valley escapade.

How to reach: Take a train to Jammu Tawi railway station and drive to Pahalgam. Or take a flight to Srinagar and hire a bus or cab to reach Pahalgam.

Where to stay: There are many hotels available in Pahalgam starting from ₹1,800 per night.

Things to do: Trek to the Kolahoi Glacier or Tarsar & Marsar lakes. Furthermore, you can go camping, relax at Aru Eco Resort, and go wildlife watching.

5. Verinag

Verniag, also known as the Gateway of Kashmir, is among the lesser-known places to visit in winter. The valley was named after the Verinag Spring and Mughal Garden. The fact that it can never dry up or overflow makes the place quite interesting. Verinag often witnesses pleasant snowfall in winter and a frozen spring. However, if you go in summer, you can even bathe in the fresh waters of the spring.

How to reach: Travel by train to Jammu Tawi or Anantnag railway station and drive to Verinag. Or fly to Srinagar and hire a bus or cab to reach Verinag.

Where to stay: There are many hotels available in Verinag, Srinagar, and Pahalgam starting from ₹1,100 per night.

Things to do: You can go sightseeing around Verinag Spring and Mughal Garden, Achabal Garden, Martand Sun Temple, and Sinthan Top. 

6. Gurez Valley

You must have heard people referring to Kashmir as a Mini Switzerland. The reason for this is the beautiful Gurez Valley. This place is not on everyone’s radar, making it cleaner than the other tourist spots of Kashmir. Located between Srinagar and Bandipora, Gurez is surrounded by the snowy Himalayas. The flock of sheep and horses grazing on the lush green meadows will make you extend your trip because you don’t wanna take your eyes off the view.

How to reach: You can travel by train to Banihal and hire a cab or bus to Gurez Valley. You can also fly to Srinagar and then take a bus or taxi to Bandipora. From there, you can drive to Gurez Valley.

Where to stay: You can find hotels in Srinagar and Bandipora starting from ₹2,000.

Things to do: Try trekking and water rafting here. You can also hike to Habba Khatoon Peak, drive through Razdan Pass, spot wildlife, and try local cuisines.

7. Yusmarg

Yusmarg or Yousmarg is a lush green meadow in Kashmir with an intriguing tale behind its name. It is believed that Jesus Christ once stopped by this place along with his followers on one of his journeys around the world. This is why it is called Yusmarg or Jesus Meadow. If you complete the trek at Yusmarg, you’ll be able to see a frozen lake that is full of pleasant, peaceful sounds.

How to reach: Jammu Tawi is the nearest railway station to Yusmarg from where you can take a bus or taxi to Srinagar. Or you can directly book a flight to Srinagar.

Where to stay: You can find hotels in Srinagar starting from ₹2,000.

Things to do: Horse riding, camping, fishing, trekking, and hiking are some of the prominent activities to do here.

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