Priya Sharma
Priya is a travel writer and Kashmir specialist who has spent three months each year in the valley for the past decade. She writes about culture, food, and offbeat destinations.
1. Dal Lake — The Crown of Kashmir
Dal Lake is not just a lake — it's an entire ecosystem of houseboats, floating gardens, and shikara rides that define the Kashmir experience. Stay aboard a heritage houseboat and wake up to the Himalayas reflected in still water.
Floating on the Dal at dawn with mist rising from the water and snow peaks turning pink — there is nothing quite like it on earth.
2. Gulmarg — Asia's Highest Cable Car
The Gulmarg Gondola whisks you up to 13,400 ft for panoramic views across four mountain ranges. In winter, it transforms into one of Asia's best ski destinations. In summer, the meadows bloom with wildflowers.
3. Pahalgam — Valley of Shepherds
Pahalgam is where the Lidder River cuts through pine forests and the air smells of cedar. The Betaab Valley (named after the 1983 Bollywood classic) and Aru Valley are highlights not to miss.
4. Sonamarg — Meadow of Gold
At 2,800 metres, Sonamarg serves as the gateway to Ladakh and the base for several Himalayan treks. The Thajiwas Glacier offers snow activities even in July.
5. Mughal Gardens
Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, and Chashme Shahi — three terraced Mughal gardens built in the 17th century — showcase the finest Indo-Islamic garden design on the shores of Dal Lake.