The snow has melted into glistening streams. Meadows are carpeted with vibrant wildflowers, and the air carries just the right hint of crispness.
That, my friend, is Jammu & Kashmir in May. The weather is absolutely perfect—not too cold to chill your bones and not too warm to dampen your spirit.
And let’s not forget the riot of colors as apple and cherry blossoms paint the valleys like a dream.
May opens up a treasure trove of experiences in Jammu & Kashmir. In this article, we will talk about 15 things to do in Jammu & Kashmir in May that’ll make you fall in love with this Himalayan paradise.
Best Time To Visit Kashmir:
The best months to visit Kashmir would be from March to October. During this time you can experience three seasons in Kashmir: spring, summer, and autumn.
By far, my personal favorite would be autumn. Autumn in Kashmir is truly magical. You can find the entire valley is painted in the fiery hues of Chinar.
Spring, on the other hand, provides great weather and vivid scenery. You can also find snow in some of the places, as this time around, the snow just begins to melt after the chilly winters.
Temperatures in these months are pleasant, ranging from 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F), making them ideal for outdoor activities and tourism.
List Of The 15 Best Things To Do in Jammu & Kashmir in May
Shikara Ride on Dal Lake:
Timings: 6:00 am – 5:00 pm
Cost: INR 150 to 500
One activity you cannot and must not miss during your visit to Kashmir is a shikara ride on the gorgeous Dal Lake. Shikara is a traditional wooden boat that floats on the lake.
You can also choose to visit floating gardens that overlook serene rivers and lakes, as well as breathtaking mountains. A shikhara will transport you to a floating market where you can immerse yourself in the vivid local culture.
You can also find boathouses where you can choose to stay. Believe me, this will be a great experience as you can witness the sunrise and sunset on Dal.
The Dal reflects the ochre ombre sky, and the sky seems to meet the lake at the horizon, painting everything in the vibrant colors.
Enjoy the gorgeous landscape along the way, and make sure to take in Kashmir’s natural beauty.
Visit the Mughal Gardens:
Cost: INR 24 Per Person(Approx)
Timing: 9:30 am to 6:30 pm
The exquisite Mughal Gardens built during the Mughal dynasty are well-known in Kashmir. Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, and Chashme Shahi are three must-see gardens.
These gardens showcase a beautiful blend of Persian and Indian architectural traditions. These well-maintained gardens provide peaceful places decorated with vibrant flowers, fountains, and historical architecture.
Enjoy a picnic, a walk, or simply rest while admiring the breathtaking views.
Experience the Floating Vegetable Market on Dal Lake:
Dal Lake is well-known for both its Shikara ride and its distinctive floating vegetable market.
Witness the bustling scene as traders sail past with their boats loaded with fresh produce, including scented spices and lovely fruits.
Immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of this vibrant market and have a chat with friendly locals.
It allows you to get to know the actual daily life of the people of Kashmir.
Ride the Gulmarg Gondola:
Timings: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Cost: INR 700 Gulmarg to Kungdoor (First Phase), INR 900 Kungdoor to Aparwath (Second Phase), INR 300 (Chair Lift)
While you are there, exploring markets and enjoying sunsets, don’t forget to try the Gulmarg Gondola Ride. This cable car is among the highest in the world.
It offers stunning views of the Pir Panjal range’s snow-capped peaks.
The two-stage ride leads you to Kongduri Mountain, where you may ski and snowboard while admiring the beautiful scenery.
The Gulmarg Gondola provides a truly unforgettable experience.
Enjoy a Houseboat Stay on Dal Lake:
Experience a traditional houseboat known locally as the “Shikara”. These wonderfully crafted houseboats provide comfortable accommodations with breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
Wake up to the lovely sound of splashing and gurgling of water and experience the friendly welcome of your hosts.
Oftentimes, you can enjoy the traditional Kashmiri cuisines offered by these owners for which you will have to make additional payments.
Enjoy the calm of the lake and create an unforgettable experience.
Visit the Iconic Hazratbal Shrine:
Hazratbal Dargah, located on the banks of Dal Lake, is a shrine of great religious significance for Muslims.
This respected shrine has an important relic: a little bit of hair believed to be of the Prophet Muhammad. The beautiful white marble edifice with a golden dome is well worth a visit.
Visit during religious festivals to witness the lively celebrations and strong spiritual zeal of the Kashmiri people.
Explore The Ancient Ruins Of Martand Sun Temple:
Visit Martand Sun Temple to learn about Kashmir’s rich history. Built in the eighth century, this ancient Hindu temple honors the Sun God.
Despite being in ruins, the temple’s stunning architecture and rich carvings serve as a reminder of its previous greatness.
Enjoy the surroundings while exploring the temple’s remnants.
Take A Leisurely Walk Through The Beautiful Betaab Valley:
Betab Valley is one of Kashmir’s most beautiful and serene regions. It is located in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir.
This picturesque valley is called after the Bollywood film “Betaab,” which was shot here. It has vivid grasslands, massive pine trees, and fast-flowing rivers.
To truly appreciate the solitude of this gorgeous setting, take a stroll along the meandering roads and bask in the fresh mountain air.
Try Skiing or Snowboarding in Gulmarg:
Gulmarg is also known as the “Plain of Flowers” and transforms into a winter paradise during the snowy season. It is a skier’s and snowboarder’s dream.
With excellent slopes and breathtaking scenery, it is an amazing place to visit with your spouse.
Gulmarg boasts a range of slopes appropriate for skiers of all skill levels, regardless of experience. Strap on your skis or snowboard and enjoy the thrill of gliding down magnificent snow-covered mountains.
Explore Pahalgam and Trek in the Surrounding Mountains:
Pahalgam is located in Kashmir’s Anantnag district and is known as a lovely hill station with breathtaking natural scenery.
Pahalgam is an excellent destination for nature enthusiasts. It is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, and gently running rivers.
Take a great hiking vacation and explore gorgeous routes that lead to sites like Chandanwari, Betab Valley, and Aru Valley.
Pahalgam is one of the must-see destinations in Kashmir, thanks to its breathtaking landscape and fresh mountain air.
Shop at the Traditional Markets of Srinagar:
Srinagar, the capital of Kashmir, provides a magnificent experience with its lively traditional marketplaces.
Lal Chowk and Residency Road are two well-known venues for learning about local culture and traditional Kashmiri items.
Pashmina shawls, beautifully embroidered clothing, handcrafted woodwork accessories, and stunning Kashmiri jewelry are among the items featured.
Remember to negotiate and savor the delectable flavors of authentic Kashmiri cuisine served by street food vendors.
Visit the beautiful Tulip Garden
This stunning tulip garden is a must-see on every trip to Kashmir. It is Asia’s largest tulip garden, the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden.
Aside from tulips, other garden plants include hyacinths, daffodils, and ranunculus. March to May is the best time to visit this garden.
Every year in April, there is a tulip festival when visitors may enjoy the stunning views of the garden in full bloom.
Chadar Lake Trek
The Chadar walk is considered one of India’s most difficult hikes. And, if you are brave enough, don’t hesitate to embark on this trip.
It may be challenging for you, but the beauty and beast of nature that it offers may entice you to fall in love with it. The trail crosses the frozen Zanskar River during the winter.
The entire route requires you to travel through the most tough and sensitive areas, all of which are ice-covered.
The walk will take you to an elevation of 11,123 feet and challenge your body in temperatures ranging from -15 to -30 degrees.
Explore The Vibrant Culture And Cuisine Of Kashmir:
Kashmiri culture is diverse and dynamic, and immersing yourself in it is an essential part of any trip to the region.
Immerse yourself in the warm hospitality of the locals and enjoy traditional music and dance performances.
Discover traditional Kashmiri food, which is known for its delightful scent and unique blend of spices. Taste iconic foods such as Rogan Josh (a delectable Kashmiri lamb curry), Kashmiri Pulao (an fragrant rice dish with nuts and dry fruits), and Kahwa (traditional Kashmiri green tea steeped with saffron, cardamom, and saffron).
Visit the Beautiful Aru Valley:
Aru Valley, located in the Anantnag area, is a magnificent resort known for its scenic surroundings and exhilarating adventure activities.
It is surrounded by lush green pastures, snow-capped mountains, and swiftly flowing rivers. It provides the ideal setting for relaxation and exploration.
Horseback riding, camping, and trekking to surrounding places such as Lidderwat, Tarsar Lake, and the Kolahoi Glacier are all offered.
Conclusion:
Kashmir, with its breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural legacy, and exciting adventures. Offering a wide range of experiences for every traveler.
From the tranquil lakes and Mughal gardens of Srinagar to the thrilling slopes of Gulmarg, this paradise on Earth has it all.
Immerse yourself in Kashmir’s stunning scenery, see its colorful marketplaces, savor its delectable cuisine, and make memories to last a lifetime.