10 Must-Visit Places in Kashmir This Spring

When the last of the winter snow begins to melt and the almond blossoms burst into colour across the Badamwari gardens, Kashmir transforms into one of the most beautiful corners of the Himalayas. Spring, from mid-March through May, is arguably the finest window to experience the valley — the meadows turn emerald, the tulips bloom in their millions, and the crisp mountain air carries the scent of chinar and pine. In this guide, our local team shares the ten places we send travellers to first.

Start in Srinagar, the summer capital, where a shikara ride across the glassy waters of Dal Lake at dawn is an experience you never forget. Drift past the floating vegetable markets, visit the centuries-old Mughal gardens of Nishat and Shalimar, and spend a night aboard a hand-carved cedar houseboat. From here the whole valley opens up.

"Kashmir in spring is not a destination you visit — it is a feeling you carry home. The colours, the calm and the warmth of the people stay with you long after the journey ends."

The valleys you cannot miss

An hour and a half from the city, Gulmarg — the "meadow of flowers" — lives up to its name in spring, its slopes carpeted in wildflowers once the ski season ends. Ride the Gondola, one of the highest cable cars in the world, up towards Apharwat Peak for uninterrupted views of the snow-clad ranges. Further east, Pahalgam and the Betaab and Aru valleys reward you with pine forests, the rushing Lidder river, and gentle pony trails perfect for families.

• Dal Lake & the Mughal gardens of Srinagar
• Gulmarg and the Gondola ride to Apharwat
• Pahalgam, Betaab Valley and the Aru meadows
• Sonamarg — the "meadow of gold" and Thajiwas glacier
• The tulip gardens of Indira Gandhi Memorial, in full bloom

For travellers chasing something quieter, Doodhpathri and Yusmarg offer rolling alpine meadows without the crowds, while Sonamarg is the gateway to the Thajiwas glacier and some of the most dramatic drives in the region. Wherever you go, pack layers — spring mornings are cool, afternoons are mild, and the light on the mountains is at its most magical in the golden hour. When you are ready to plan, our team can tailor any of these into a seamless itinerary with private transfers, handpicked stays and local guides.