Ditch Gulmarg And Add These Offbeat Places In Kashmir On Your List

by Yogita Chainani
Ditch Gulmarg And Add These Offbeat Places In Kashmir On Your List

Kashmir is heaven on earth, and we cannot agree more with it. The warm hospitality, snow-capped mountains, beautiful valley views, and the majestic Dal Lake prove that nothing is more beautiful than Kashmir in India. And when we talk about Kashmir, people often travel to only Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam. However, there is more to Kashmir than these places. And if you are planning to explore this state, then here are five offbeat places in Kashmir that should be on your list.

Offbeat Places You Must Visit In Kashmir 

1. Yusmarg

Located 45KM from Srinagar in the Badgam region, Yusmarg is famous for its apple, lime, mint farming, and heavy wooded alpine woods. If you want to experience a European vibe in India, Yusmarg is your place to be. The landscape of Yusmarg will transport you to Europe, and the Nilang lake will make you fall in love with Kashmir.

Pic Credit: Wikicommons

2. Gurez

Located 130Km from Srinagar, Gurez is known for the picturesque lakes it has to offer. The road to Gurez valley offers vistas of Manasbal and Wular lakes, located on the outskirts of North Kashmir. And while reaching Gurze, you will also spot Kishenganga River and varied other streams. For the valley, it is located as part of the old Silk Route that linked Kashmir with Gilgit. With the wooden log houses, dainty hamlets, and stunning naturescapes to offer, Gurez valley will remind you of pre-independent India.

3. Aru Valley

Located 12Km from Pahalgam, Aru Valley is the state’s smallest hill station. If you love waterfalls, hikes, nature, and pine landscapes, this place is for you. And while you are there, visit the famous Lidderwat Valley, which also serves as the starting point for treks to the Kolohoi Glacier and Tarsar-Mansar Lake. Besides, Betaab Valley and Baisaaran are two nearby interests that you must visit.

Pic Credit: Wikicommons

4. Tulail Valley

Your Kashmir trip is incomplete without visiting this place. Rightly known as the hidden gem of Kashmir, this valley can be covered along with Gurez Valley and should be on your list. While reaching Tulail Valley, you will pass beautiful villages like Barnai, Chakwali, Kashpat, and Zargai.

5. Lolab Valley

Popularly known Wadi-e-Lolab- is one of Kashmir’s most serene locations. Lovely apple orchards, a lake, springs, and paddy fields are just some of the attractions. The picturesque majesty of Nagmarg Meadows, which divides Lolab from Bandipora District, is a sight that you cannot miss. From village walking to photography, this valley is perfect for explorers.