Top 10 Places to Visit in Maharashtra

1. Dal Lake (Srinagar)

Famous for its houseboats, shikara rides, and floating gardens.
Location: Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir.

Dal Lake in Srinagar provides a unique combination of natural beauty and cultural activities. You can begin by staying on a classic houseboat, which offers a relaxing and immersive experience on the water. These houseboats are often tastefully designed and provide breathtaking views of the lake and neighbouring mountains. Aside from them, you may explore adjacent Mughal gardens such as Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh, which provide insight into the region's rich history and breathtaking scenery. The lake offers opportunities for photography, bird viewing, and relaxing in a peaceful environment.

Best time to visit:

April-October (for Shikara rides, houseboat stays, and blooming gardens).
Winter (December-February): Frozen areas of the lake create a surreal snowy landscape.

Location and Accessibility

Location: Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir (city centre).
The nearest airport is Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport in Srinagar, which is 20 kilometres away.
The nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi, which is 300 km away and can be reached by car in 6-7 hours.

2. Pahalgam – The Valley of Shepherds

A scenic valley with lush greenery, the Lidder River, and a base for the Amarnath Yatra. Location: Anantnag district, around 90 km from Srinagar.

Pahalgam, which means "Village of Shepherds" and is also known as Pahalgom, is one of Kashmir's most beautiful hill stations. It is well-known for its verdant meadows, pine trees, and as the beginning of the Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage. It is tucked away along the Lidder River.

Places to visit in Pahalgam:

**1. Betaab Valley

The Betaab Valley is one of Pahalgam's main attractions and experiences. This valley, which takes its name from the 1983 Bollywood film Betaab, is a haven of verdant meadows, glistening streams, and snow-capped mountains. Activities include photography, picnics, and horseback riding. Distance from Pahalgam: 15 km.

**2. The Aru Valley

Often referred to as "Kashmir's Mini Switzerland," this tranquil valley is encircled by majestic mountains. Activities include camping, trout fishing, and trekking (to Tarsar-Marsar Lakes). Distance from Pahalgam: 12 km.

**3. The River Lidder

A glacier river that's ideal for riverbank picnics and moderate-level white-water rafting. The best location is close to Pahalgam Market.

**4. Mini-Switzerland's Baisaran Valley

An expansive view of the Himalayas from a verdant meadow. Activities include nature walks, trekking, and pony rides. Distance from Pahalgam: 5 km (accessible by pony or trek).

**5. Chandanwari (Base Camp for the Amarnath Yatra)

the beginning of the journey to the sacred Amarnath Cave, known as the Amarnath Yatra. renowned for its picturesque beauty and snow bridges. Distance from Pahalgam: 16 km

**6. Trekking to Kolahoi Glacier

A strenuous hike to the 3,850-meter-high Kolahoi Glacier, also referred to as the "Goddess of Light." Trek Length: 3–4 days (suitable for seasoned hikers).

**7. Lake Sheshnag

A beautiful high-altitude lake on the way to Amarnath Cave, so called because of its seven-peak serpentine shape. June through August is the best time to visit.

3.Yusmarg

A lesser-known paradise with meadows, pine forests, and trekking routes. Location: Budgam district, about 50 km from Srinagar.