7 Best Adventure Sports In Kashmir To Try Out This Year
1. Trekking
Ever imagined walking through paradise? Trekking in Kashmir is as close as you can get! Amidst the breathtaking mountains and serene valleys in Kashmir, trekking is the perfect way to soak it all in
This adventure sport in Kashmir will have you traversing scenic routes, crossing wooden bridges, and gasping at the sheer beauty around every corner. Think of it as a magical journey where every step leads to a picture-perfect moment!
Why To Do It?
Witness Stunning Scenery: Capture the vibrant colours of nature in your memories.
Physical Fitness: Get your heart pumping and your muscles working.
Off the Grid Experience: Disconnect from the chaos and connect with nature.
Cultural Exploration: Meet locals and explore the unique traditions of Kashmir.
Places to do it-
Gulmarg: For beginners and snow trekking enthusiasts.
Pahalgam: Known for its lush valleys and pristine lakes.
Sonamarg: Ideal for high-altitude trekking experiences.
Great Lakes Trek: For those who want an intense, long-distance trek.
Best Time To Do It
Summer in Kashmir, specifically between May and August, are ideal for trekking adventures.
2. Skiing:
Skiing is the most popular adventure sport in Kashmir. Gulmarg is the most famous skiing destination in Kashmir and offers a variety of slopes for skiers of all levels.
Places to do it-
Gulmarg: Known for its world-class ski resorts.
Pahalgam: A hidden gem for skiing lovers.
Sonamarg: Pristine and less crowded, offering a unique skiing experience.
Tangmarg: Ideal for beginners looking to find their ski legs.
Best Time To Do It
December to February, when the snow is thick and the slopes are ready!
3. River Rafting:
River rafting is a thrilling adventure sport that can be enjoyed in Kashmir. The Lidder River and the Sindh River are popular destinations for river rafting in Kashmir.
Places to do it-
River Lidder in Pahalgam: Known for its challenging rapids.
River Sindh in Sonamarg: Offers a more laid-back rafting experience.
Zanskar River: For the truly daring, multi-day rafting expedition.
Best Time To Do It
The best time for rafting in Kashmir is from April to September.
4. Paragliding:
Being in mid-air amid the snow-capped peaks is a magical moment that is possible in the Kashmir Valley. Various spots are located in Kashmir for paragliding. The Yusmarg and Sanasar areas are popular destinations for paragliding in Kashmir.
Places to do it-
Some of the popular places for paragliding in Jammu and Kashmir are Jammu, Sanasar, Kud, Batote and Nathatop in Jammu division and Astanmarg, Srinagar, Sonamarg, Gulmarg in Kashmir division.
5. Hot Air Ballooning:
Hot air ballooning is a unique adventure activity that can be enjoyed in Kashmir. The activity offers stunning views of the region’s landscapes and valleys.
Places to do it-
Patnitop, Gulmarg, Srinagar, Sansar, Valleys of Suru and Zanska
6. Shikara Ride:
Gently gliding on the serene waters, a Shikara Ride in Kashmir is an experience straight out of a dream. Think of a quiet moment amidst the majestic Himalayas, where the only sound is the soft rowing of your boatman.
Unlike the usual adrenaline-pumping adventure sports in Jammu and Kashmir, the Kashmir Shikara Ride offers a peaceful escape, letting you soak in the unparalleled beauty of nature.
Places to do it-
Dal Lake: The iconic heart of Srinagar.
Nigeen Lake: A quieter alternative with pristine views.
Manasbal Lake: Famous for its lotus flowers and bird watching.
Jhelum River: Experience the city’s history while on the water.
Best Time To Do It
Experience the charm during Kashmir in September for a mild climate and fewer crowds.
7. Ice Skating:
Last up on this list of adventure activities in Kashmir is Ice skating. Well, just imagine gliding gracefully on a sheet of ice, surrounded by snow-covered mountains and the calming beauty of nature.
That’s what ice skating in Kashmir offers you! This winter wonderland transforms into an icy playground, where both beginners and experts can have a ball. As one of the adventure sports in Kashmir, ice skating lets you experience the region’s serene landscapes in a fun and unique way.
Places to do it-
Gulmarg: Known for its winter sports, the frozen lake here is a skater’s paradise.
Pahalgam: Another stunning location with natural ice rinks during the winter.
Srinagar: Frozen ponds in the city also offer a local experience.
Leh: For the more adventurous, try the higher altitudes of Leh’s frozen rivers.
Best Time To Do It
Late December to early February is the ideal period for ice skating in Kashmir.