25 Best Things to Do in Kashmir 2026 – Activities & Experiences

Kashmir – A Paradise of Experiences

Kashmir isn't just about scenic views — it's a destination packed with unforgettable activities for every type of traveller. From serene shikara rides on Dal Lake to adrenaline-pumping skiing in Gulmarg, from spiritual walks in Mughal Gardens to heart-racing white water rafting in Pahalgam, there's something for everyone. Here are 25 must-do activities curated by our local Kashmir experts, complete with costs and best times.

1-5: Iconic Water Experiences

1. Shikara ride on Dal Lake (₹500-1,000/hour) — the most iconic Kashmir experience. Best at sunset. 2. Stay on a houseboat — floating hotels with carved walnut wood interiors, from ₹1,500/night. 3. Visit the floating vegetable market on Dal Lake — early morning (5-7 AM), a photographer's dream. 4. Kayaking on Dal Lake — available May-September, ₹500-800/hour. 5. White water rafting on Lidder River in Pahalgam — Grade II-III rapids, May-September, ₹1,000-1,500. These water activities make Kashmir unlike any other hill station in India.

6-10: Adventure & Snow Activities

6. Gulmarg Gondola ride to Apharwat Peak (₹1,500 both phases) — world's second-highest cable car with Himalayan panoramas. 7. Skiing in Gulmarg (Dec-Mar) — India's best slopes, equipment rental ₹1,500-2,500/day, lessons ₹2,000-3,000. 8. Snow sledging at Thajiwas Glacier, Sonmarg — available even in summer, ₹200-400/ride. 9. Pony riding in Pahalgam valleys — explore Betaab, Aru, and Baisaran on horseback, ₹500-1,500. 10. Trek to Tarsar-Marsar Lakes — a 4-day moderate trek starting from Aru Valley, one of India's most scenic treks.

11-15: Culture, Food & Heritage

11. Try authentic Wazwan feast — a 36-course Kashmiri meal with rogan josh, gushtaba, and yakhni. Best at Ahdoo's or Mughal Darbar in Srinagar (₹500-800). 12. Visit Mughal Gardens — Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, Chashme Shahi — masterpieces of Persian garden design. Free to ₹25 entry. 13. Explore the old city around Jama Masjid — 600-year-old mosque with 370 wooden pillars. 14. Shop for Pashmina shawls at Lal Chowk — genuine Pashmina from ₹3,000, always ask for GI certification. 15. Attend a Sufi music night at a local shrine — Khanqah-e-Moula hosts spiritual gatherings, a soul-stirring experience.

16-20: Nature & Photography

16. Sunrise at Shankaracharya Temple — 1,000-foot hilltop temple with 360° valley views, open from 6 AM. 17. Visit the Tulip Garden in April — Asia's largest with 1.5 million tulips, entry ₹50. 18. See saffron fields in Pampore (October-November) — purple crocus flowers carpeting the fields, free access. 19. Drive on the Srinagar-Leh Highway — one of the world's most dramatic road trips (June-October). 20. Photograph Pangong Lake — the colour-changing lake at 4,350m made famous by '3 Idiots'.

21-25: Unique & Offbeat Experiences

21. Learn paper mâché craft from Srinagar artisans — workshops available for ₹500-1,000. 22. Visit Doodhpathri (Valley of Milk) — a hidden gem with rolling green meadows, 42 km from Srinagar. 23. Camp under stars at Yusmarg — untouched meadow with minimal tourists, camping from ₹1,500/night. 24. Play golf at Gulmarg's Royal Springs Golf Course — world's highest green golf course at 8,694 ft, green fee ₹2,000. 25. Take a heritage walk through Srinagar's old quarters — discover centuries-old bridges, shrines, and traditional Kashmiri architecture with a local guide (₹500-1,000).

Frequently Asked Questions