“Gar firdaus bar rue zameen ast/hameen asto, hameen asto, hameen asto (If ever there is Paradise on Earth, it is here, it is here, it is here!)”
These lines by famous writer Amir Khusrau make you wonder at the ecstatic beauty of Jammu & Kashmir. The state is blessed with terrific landscape in abundance. If you are planning to book your tickets this summer to head towards the paradise land, then we give you top five tourists spots, which you must not forget to visit.
Gulmarg
One of the most popular tourist spot in the valley, Gulmarg is situated nearly 56 kms from Srinagar. Often referred to as the 'Meadow Of Flowers', Gulmarg is a hill station where people love to spend their summer vacations. The green grass during May-June gives you a lush feel whereas the natural meadows of the spot get covered with snow during winters. The place is famous for sporty activities like skiing, snowboarding and heli-skiing on the slopes of Mount Apharwat. One travels by a cable car called Gondola. You cannot afford to miss this one for sure.
Pahalgam
This indeed is a paradise on earth. Situated in the Anantnag district of the valley, this beautiful place is full of greenery in summer months and turns snow-capped during winter months. It remains one of the favourite hotspots of many Bollywood filmmakers for shooting. Chandanwari, is located 16kms away from Pahalgam and also serves as the base camp for the Holy Amarnath Yatra.
Vaishno Devi
Vaishno Devi is one of the 108 shakti peeths of the Maa Durga. The Vaishno Devi shrine is one of the most visited pilgrimages in the country. Situated at the Trikuta Mountains of Jammu and Kashmir, the Hindu temple can be reached through Katra town in Jammu. The uphill walk from Katra to Maa Vaishno Devi's Bhawan covers around 13 kms.
Patni Top
Patni Top is one of the most popular tourist spots in the state of Jammu & Kashmir. Situated in the Shiwalik belt of theHimalayas, Patnitop is at an altitude of 2,024m (6,640 ft). It is located in Udhampur district of the state. Adjoining Patnitop is Kud and Batote—two of the most beautiful spots. Kud is famous for its sweet called 'patissa' and Batote has beautifully rich scenic presence.
Sonmarg
Also called the 'Meadow of Gold', Sonmarg is situated in Gandherbal district of the valley. The place lies at an altitude of 2800 metres above sea level. The best time to visit Sonmarg is during summers, as the place is shut in winters. It is beautifully placed in the an alpine valley at the bank of Nallah Sindh. People can literally fall in love with the place once visited. Do not miss this one for sure!
