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The beauty and allure of Kashmir go beyond what words can capture! In October, with the summer fading, Kashmir embraces the incoming autumnal weather with a hint of dropping temperatures. The cool weather and crisp mountain air brings a refreshing vibrancy, beckoning travellers with a variety of exciting adventures. Adventure beckons with trekking trails, serene lakes, and majestic meadows. Explore historical sites, indulge in local cuisine, or simply soak in unparalleled beauty with the best places to visit in Kashmir in October. This guide unveils Kashmir’s hidden gems and iconic destinations, ensuring an unforgettable October sojourn for your upcoming holiday.
10 Places To Visit In Kashmir In October
With these best places to visit in Kashmir in October, you too can indulge in the enchanting beauty and plethora of experiences offered by the place.
1. Srinagar
Photo: Kreativeart / Wikimedia Commons
Kashmir’s captivating capital boasts the majestic Dal Lake, a haven for shikara rides and houseboat stays. However, the beauty of Srinagar doesn’t limit itself here. You can explore Mughal marvels like Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh, or ascend Shankaracharya Hill for panoramic vistas. A short walk from the main city also leads you to Nigeen Lake, which is believed to be part of Dal Lake. A visit down to the Shah Kashmir Arts Emporium familiarises you with the beauty of terraced gardens, further enriching your time in the city.
Temperature: Ranging between 18°C to 4°C
Top Tourist Attractions: Dal Lake, Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, Shankaracharya Hill, Hazratbal Shrine
Top Experiences: Shikara rides, houseboat stays, Mughal garden exploration, pilgrimage to Hazratbal Shrine
Nearest Airport: Srinagar International Airport (SXR)
Nearest Railway Station: Srinagar Railway Station
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Srinagar In Winter
2. Betaab Valley
Photo: Alinamidhat / Wikimedia Commons
Nestled in Pahalgam, this valley rose to fame with the film “Betaab.” Lush meadows, cascading waterfalls, and the serene Lidder River create a picture-perfect backdrop for nature enthusiasts. Trekking and camping on the green meadows are a key highlight for tourists in October. With hiking being an option during that time, the landscape and trails come to life with chinar, deodar, pine, willows & poplars. Pahalgam is only 7 km from Betaab Valley, making it a must-explore spot while you are there.
Temperatures: Ranging between 10°C to 25°C
Top Tourist Attractions: Lidder River, Betaab Valley meadows
Top Experiences: Scenic walks, pony rides, photography, picnicking
Nearest Airport: Srinagar International Airport (SXR)
Nearest Railway Station: Srinagar Railway Station
3. Pulwama
Photo: Indrajit Das / Wikimedia Commons
Famed for its saffron fields and captivating natural beauty, Pulwama offers a glimpse into Kashmiri rural life. Visit Achabal Mughal Garden or explore the scenic Pahalgam-Anantnag road. The beauty of Pulwama lies in its pilgrimage and religious sites like Payer temple, Avantiswami temple and Hundur monastery. There are a few shrines including the Asar Sharief Pinjoora Shrine and Shrine of Shah Hamdani that are worth checking out as well. Another one of the best places to visit in Kashmir in October is Shikargarh, a nearby village, which is usually less crowded and can be your escape from regular life.
Temperatures: Ranging between 10°C to 25°C
Top Tourist Attractions: Aharbal Waterfall, Tarsar Lake, Shikargah
Top Experiences: Picnicking by waterfalls, exploring saffron fields, and nature walks
Nearest Airport: Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport, Srinagar
Nearest Railway Station: Anantnag Railway Station
Suggested Read: Forts in Jammu
4. Doda
Photo: Dodacommunity / Wikimedia Commons
A lesser-known name, but a haven for adventure seekers, Doda offers trekking trails like the challenging Sinthan Pass trek and the scenic Bhaderwah Valley trek. Explore the historical Thathri Fort or visit the enchanting Bhaderwah town. The natural beauty of the place is further enhanced with coniferous forests of deodar, oak, and rhododendron, which are prominent during October. Places like Seoj Meadow, Bhal Padri and Chinta Valley need to be part of your itinerary to witness the brilliance manifestation of Mother Nature. Offer your prayers at the Gupt Ganga temple and seek blessings while you are there.
Temperatures: Ranging between 10°C to 25°C
Top Tourist Attractions: Seoj Meadow, Bhaderwah Fort, Jai Valley
Top Experiences: Trekking through meadows, visiting ancient forts, and birdwatching.
Nearest Airport: Jammu Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Pathankot Railway Station
5. Bijbehara
Photo: Ishtiaq Ali Khan / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
An off-beat paradise, Bijbehara offers breathtaking views of the Kashmir Valley. Explore the meadows adorned with wildflowers or embark on a serene hike through the captivating landscape. The reason why it’s one of the best places to go in Kashmir in October is because it is the season of famous Kashmiri apple harvest. The town is 50 km from Srinagar and is home to the oldest chinar tree in the area. One of the key attractions there is the Shiva Temple, Vijeshwara temple, which was built during the reign of Raja Partap Singh and shows the brilliance of Kashmiri architecture.
Temperatures: Ranging between 10°C to 22°C
Top Tourist Attractions: Martand Sun Temple, Vijeshwara temple
Top Experiences: Exploring ancient temples, scenic drives, and cultural immersion
Nearest Airport: Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport, Srinagar
Nearest Railway Station: Anantnag Railway Station
Suggested Read: Betaab Valley In Winter
6. Pampore
Photo: Umarsami / Wikimedia Commons
Renowned for its saffron cultivation and apple orchards, Pampore offers a glimpse into Kashmir’s agricultural heritage. Visit the saffron fields during harvest season (late September to mid-October) or savour the region’s fresh produce. Besides these experiences, Pampore is one of the good places to visit in Kashmir in October to indulge in shopping at the local Pampore market. Awantipora Ruins, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is a short drive from Pampore and worth visiting to witness the beauty of the bygone era that still is captured in the ruins. Include the Jamia Masjid and Pampore Gardens in your itinerary as well.
Temperatures: Ranging between 10°C-25°C
Top Tourist Attractions: Saffron Fields, Awantipora Ruins, Jama Masjid
Top Experiences: Saffron harvesting experience, heritage site visits, shopping for local handicrafts
Nearest Airport: Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport, Srinagar
Nearest Railway Station: Anantnag Railway Station
7. Pahalgam
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
Often referred to as the “Valley of Shepherds,” Pahalgam is a haven for nature lovers. It’s one of the best places in Kashmir for trekking expeditions. Some of the most popular ones include a trek to Kolahoi Glacier, or towards Chandanwari to unveil its natural and scenic beauty. The two nearby valleys – Aru and Betaab Valley, also add to the experience of the place and have the most stunning landscape. When it comes to activities, golfing is an option too. Don’t miss out on some of the iconic sightseeing spots around including Sheshnag Lake, Baisaran Hills and Deno Valley.
Temperatures: Ranging between 5°C to 20°C
Top Tourist Attractions: Betaab Valley, Aru Valley, Chandanwari
Top Experiences: White-water rafting, trekking to glaciers
Nearest Airport: Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport, Srinagar
Nearest Railway Station: Anantnag Railway Station
Suggested Read: Pahalgam Trekking
8. Gulmarg
Photo: Aka Sai Krishna / Wikimedia Commons
The best destination to visit in Kashmir in October is Gulmarg without any doubt. Although snow isn’t common, Gulmarg transforms into a photographer’s paradise in October. The combination of the lush green meadows with the touch of autumn takes the place’s beauty to another level. Take a scenic gondola ride to Phase 1 and Phase 2, while witnessing the panoramic vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas all around. Don’t miss out on witnessing the Apharwat Peak or the Alpather Lake while you are there. Even Strawberry Valley comes to life in October.
Temperatures: Ranging between 0°C to 15°C, with occasional snowfall
Top Tourist Attractions: Gulmarg Gondola, Apharwat Peak, Gulmarg Golf Course
Top Experiences: Skiing, snowboarding, gondola rides, golfing
Nearest Airport: Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport, Srinagar
Nearest Railway Station: Jammu Railway Station
9. Patnitop
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
Nestled amidst verdant forests in the Udhampur district, Patnitop offers a refreshing escape. Enjoy adventure activities on scenic trails, explore the Nullah Mata temple, or embark on a trek to the picturesque Nathatop. If you want to witness natural springs, it’s one of the places to travel in Kashmir in October. The gentle slopes and lush deodar trees make it the perfect stop for families to enjoy some time to themselves. There are sacred shrines and temples like Sudh Mahadev, and Naag Mandir that are worth exploring to satisfy your religious seeking.
Temperatures: Ranging between 5°C to 20°C
Top Tourist Attractions: Nathatop, Shiva Garh, Patnitop Circular Road
Top Experiences: Paragliding, trekking, camping amidst pine forests
Nearest Airport: Jammu Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Udhampur Railway Station
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Patnitop
10. Kupwara
Photo: Roshan Shehab / Wikimedia Commons
A lesser-known gem, Kupwara boasts captivating natural beauty. Explore the Lolab Valley, renowned for its meadows and tranquillity, or visit the nearby Bangus Valley for a riveting experience. There are multiple religious places like Shaloora Shrine and Kheer Bhawani Ashthapan, which are a must-visit. Not to forget the splendid architecture of the revered religious sites of Markazi Jamia Masjid Shareef. The nearby Shahnagri, which is known for its “seven rooms underground historical cave,” is worth exploring as well. Above all, take the time to soak in the beauty of the place and relax in a chill and serene environment.
Temperatures: Ranging between 10°C to 25°C
Top Tourist Attractions: Lolab Valley, Bangus Valley, Handwara
Top Experiences: Exploring offbeat valleys, trout fishing, birdwatching
Nearest Airport: Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport, Srinagar
Nearest Railway Station: Baramulla Railway Station
Kashmir in October unveils a mesmerising tapestry of nature’s artistry. From vibrant autumn foliage to pleasant weather and exciting activities, it offers an unforgettable experience. This guide has tried to equip you with the knowledge of the best places to visit in Kashmir in October. So, get ready to plan your next holiday with TripXL for the best deals and hassle-free bookings.
Cover Photo: Aetazazii / Wikimedia Commons
