Adventures are always a fun and learning experience, and if you are anything like us, you seek thrill in every trip you take. So, grab your bags and head to these adventure destinations in Jammu & Kashmir for experiences of a lifetime! By Anushka Goel
Earlier this week, the authorities in Kishtwar, a beautiful region in Jammu & Kashmir, announced the launch of adventure-based activities in a bid to boost tourism to the destination. This comes soon after Astanmarg, near Srinagar, launched activities such as paragliding.
Over the years, the erstwhile state (and now union territories) of Jammu & Kashmir (and Ladakh) have been popular as travel destinations, with the region being home to the mighty Himalayas, pilgrimage destinations such as Amarnath and Vaishno Devi, scenic lakes such as Chandratal and Pangong and some of the most adventurous roads in the entire world.
In the last few years, constant efforts have been taken to reintroduce tourism to the region, with special packages, stunning new hotels and a lot more to ease travel. Srinagar’s Dal Lake is filled with houseboats and shikaras that offer a unique, mesmerising experience when exploring the region. And not to forget, the food here is a gastronomical delight, especially for meat lovers, with the various curries and gravies Kashmir is known for. So, if we’ve convinced you enough, check out these adventure tourism destinations in Jammu & Kashmir and plan a visit ASAP!
Adventure destinations in Jammu & Kashmir
Kishtwar
View this post on Instagram
Kishtwar is the latest region in Jammu & Kashmir to have been developed as an adventure tourism destination, in a bid to boost travel in the region. The stunning place is home to some of the most beautiful treks and hikes in the union territory, and now, some activities such as zorbing ball, sky jumpers, trampoline and paragliding are set to be introduced in the area to attract tourists.
Known for its saffron production, the pristine region of Kishtwar is also known for mountaineering to the Cerro Kishtwar and Tupendo, along with treks from here till Padum and Srinagar.
Astanmarg
View this post on Instagram
Among the latest destinations developed in the region for adventure tourism is Astanmarg, which offers an amazing paragliding experience with some stunning views of the Himalayas, Dal Lake, Mughal Gardens and a lot more. The activities are among the must-have experiences when travelling to Kashmir, and will excite both kids and adults alike!
Zanskar
View this post on Instagram
Among the most popular adventure destinations in Jammu & Kashmir is Zanskar, the stunning location is known for its natural beauty, valley views, surrounding mountains and rivers. Experience whitewater rafting, camping, trekking, motorbiking and a host of other adventures in the lap of nature and make memories of a lifetime this summer!
Pahalgam
View this post on Instagram
Another great destination to visit for whitewater rafting and other adventure sports is Pahalgam. The stunning destination is also known for its jeep safaris, serene natural beauty and calm, and some challenging roads to go mountain biking on, making it a great trip to take with your adventure-loving buddies.
Gulmarg
View this post on Instagram
Among the most popular tourist destinations in Jammu & Kashmir is Gulmarg, known for its stunning snow-capped beauty, lush greenery, clear skies and crisp air. What makes the destination even more special is the variety of adventure activities one can opt for here. From dining in (and staying at) igloos to snow fights, gondola cable rides, skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, trekking and much more, there’s something for everyone here.
Leh
View this post on Instagram
Reaching Leh, especially via road, is an adventure in itself, especially if you travel via the Manali route. From stunning passes to snow-capped peaks and stunning lakes, the journey allows you to witness the best of the Himalayan destination, and when in Leh, there’s a lot more to explore. Go on hikes and treks, explore the many monasteries or travel to nearby destinations for your dose of adventure.
Ladakh
View this post on Instagram
We’ve separated Leh and Ladakh because the latter, as a region, has so much more to offer! From delectable butter tea on the roadside shacks to camel rides in Nubra Valley, road tripping to Pangong Lake and more, there’s a host of activities to indulge in when in Ladakh that will fill your heart with memories you’ll cherish forever.
Srinagar
View this post on Instagram
Another stunning adventure destination in Jammu & Kashmir, Srinagar, the capital city, offers everything from Shikara rides to houseboating experiences, nature walks, treks, delectable cuisine and a lot more to make your trip a thrilling and fulfilling one.
Hero and Featured Image: Courtesy of Raisa Nastukova/Unsplash
Anushka Goel
Digital Features Writer
Anushka has previously worked with publications such as the Times of India and Being Indian. A graduate from Xavier Institute of Communications, she specialises in entertainment, food and travel. She also likes to write about sustainability and beauty. When not working, you can catch her reading a book, tending to her plants, cooking or playing an instrument.
