Kashmir unveils its breathtaking beauty in a kaleidoscope of colours during the month of July. Lush meadows painted emerald green, snow-capped mountains piercing the azure sky, and serene lakes reflecting the vibrant hues of nature – Kashmir in July is a paradise for nature lovers. Tourists can explore top places to visit in Kashmir in July and enjoy experiences like Shikara rides on Dal Lake, wander around the saffron fields of Pulwama, enjoy bird watching in Nilgai Park, and trek in Lolab Valley. To give tourists a rundown of the best spots in Kashmir in July, we have compiled a comprehensive guide.
Top 10 Places To Visit In Kashmir In July
From Gulmarg’s pleasant weather to the thick blanket of green in Srinagar, here are some of the top places to visit in Kashmir in July:
1. Srinagar
Photo: Sudhakarbichali / Wikimedia Commons
What’s a Kashmir tour if you don’t start with the capital city? Srinagar is hands-down one of the most breathtaking places to visit in Kashmir in July. By this season, the flowers are at their maximum bloom, so the meadows look like art, and the lakes look serene. Tourists can visit the Dal Lake to enjoy a Shikara ride, and can also indulge in some quick delicacies from the floating market vendors. Another attraction of this area is the well-manicured and blooming flowers of the Mughal Gardens that come alive in July.
Weather: Pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 18°C to 28°C
Top Tourist Attractions: Dal Lake (Shikara rides, houseboats), Mughal Gardens (Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh), Hazratbal Shrine, Shankaracharya Temple, Pari Mahal
Top Experiences: Shikara ride on Dal Lake, exploring Mughal Gardens, witnessing the vibrant flower beds at Indira Gandhi Tulip Garden
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Kashmir
2. Gulmarg
Photo: Vinayraj / Wikimedia Commons
While snowfall is not expected during July, a trip to Kashmir would be incomplete without including Gulmarg. This city is a destination to visit in Kashmir in July as it is a treat for nature lovers, especially with its verdant meadows, majestic mountains, and an aerial view of the city’s landscape from the Gondola ride. July is considered off-season for Gulmarg tourism, so you can expect fewer crowds at this time. This makes this the perfect season for hiking, trekking, and other adventure activities. Also, don’t miss out on the Gondola ride to witness the magic of Gulmarg in July.
Weather: Average temperatures range from 10°C to 22°C
Top Tourist Attractions: Gulmarg Golf Course, Apharwat Peak, Gulmarg Gondola, Strawberry Valley
Top Experiences: Taking a ride on the Gulmarg Gondola, golfing amidst breathtaking scenery, exploring meadows carpeted with wildflowers, and horse riding
3. Pahalgam
Photo: Pranshu Goyal / Pixahive
Among all the best places to visit in Kashmir in July, Pahalgam is another spot you can’t miss. If you want to witness splendid meadows and lush greenery, Pahalgam is the place to be. Due to the pleasant weather in July, there are plenty of activities tourists can enjoy here like horse-riding, hiking, trekking and white-water rafting. But it is important to be prepared for large crowds in Pahalgam during this month as the Amarnath Yatra, a Hindu pilgrimage to the Amarnath Cave, takes place in July and August.
Weather: Average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C
Top Tourist Attractions: Betaab Valley, Aru Valley, Chandanwari (starting point for Amarnath Yatra), Baisaran Valley
Top Experiences: Horse riding, trekking in Aru Valley, white-water rafting on the Lidder River
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Pahalgam
4. Pulwama
Photo: Divya Gupta / Wikimedia Commons
Pulwama is one of the good places to visit in Kashmir in July as the weather here is pleasant at this time. Tourists can enjoy the lush green landscapes and the vibrant culture of this region. Also, Pulwama is famous for its aromatic saffron fields, which are worth visiting. The beauty of the waterfalls is primal and the lakes and rivers are full, further enhancing the beauty of the place. Some of the best places to go in Kashmir in July include the ancient caves of Patalachiran, the Achabal Mughal Garden, and the Awantipora Temple Complex.
Weather: Average temperatures ranging from 18°C to 28°C
Top Experiences: Witnessing the saffron harvest, exploring Patalachiran caves
5. Sonamarg
Sonamarg is a scenic place to visit in Kashmir in July with enchanting landscapes and golden meadows. The glittering sun provides one of the most stunning views against the lush greenery in the meadows alongside the wildflowers across the grass. Tourists can also go on trekking and hiking expeditions here. July sees a dip in tourists, so things are quite slow and relaxing in the valley. Some of the top highlights here include boating at Krishnasar Lake, pony rides at Thajiwas Glacier and exploring the high altitude Gangabal Lake.
Weather: Average temperatures ranging from 8°C to 20°C
Top Experiences: Pony rides to Thajiwas Glacier, witnessing the beauty of Krishnasar and Gangabal Lakes, trekking to nearby meadows like Gadsar and Shounter
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Sonmarg
6. Yusmarg
Photo: Arsalanyahya / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
This serene town in Kashmir offers some of the most breathtaking views of the surroundings. Enjoy a pleasant view of the meadows here that are resplendent with wildflowers. Also, if you have always wanted to camp under the stars, this is your chance to make it happen. Expect occasional showers in the valley, so make sure you pack an umbrella or raincoat. Besides sightseeing around Doodhganga, you can go for guided treks as well but make sure you keep a check on the weather forecast.
Weather: Average temperatures ranging from 12°C to 22°C
Top Tourist Attractions: Doodhganga River, Nilgai Park (wildlife sanctuary), Lower Lake (boating)
Top Experiences: Bird watching in Nilgai Park, Boating on the Lower Lake, Trekking to nearby meadows
7. Kupwara
Photo: Umar Bin Ilyaas / Wikimedia Commons
Often known as the land of forests and lakes, Kupwara is one of the best places to visit in Kashmir in July if you want a break from your busy routine. The gushing rivers, lakes, and waterfalls are a treat to the eye. Don’t miss out on exploring the Bangus valley, which is a hidden gem known for its forests, waterfalls and glaciers. Tourists can also explore the largest freshwater lake in Jammu & Kashmir, Wular Lake, by houseboat, and go trekking, boating or fishing at Lolab Valley.
Weather: Average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C
Top Tourist Attractions: Lolab Valley (meadow with a stream), Lolab Lake, Wular Lake
Suggested Read: Offbeat Places In Kashmir
8. Budgam
Photo: Akhter Jan / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Did you know that Budgam is one of those underrated spots in Kashmir known for its historical significance? It is located around 20 km away from Srinagar and has some of the most stunning views of the landscape. Some of the must-visit spots in Budgam include the Sukhnag Falls, the tomb of Sheikh Noor-ud-Din, and Nilnag Lake, to name a few. Tourists can also explore the architectural wonders of Pari Mahal, enjoy the serenity of Shalimar Bagh, and visit the shrine of Charar-e-Sharief.
Weather: Average temperatures ranging from 18°C to 28°C
Top Tourist Attractions: Pari Mahal (fairy’s palace – Mughal architecture), Shalimar Bagh (Mughal Garden), Charar-e-Sharief (shrine of Sufi saint)
9. Tarsar Marsar
Photo: Aetazazii / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Among all the places to see in Kashmir in July, tourists have probably not heard of Tarsar Marsar. It is a trek lover’s paradise and offers adventurous trails that meet all difficulty levels. As tourists embark on a trek here, they can enjoy panoramic views of Aru Valley. The melting snow can make these trails slightly slippery, so make sure you wear good hiking boots. Some of the top tourist attractions you can enjoy here include the high altitude alpine Tarsar Lake, as well as its twin, Marsar Lake.
Weather: Average temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C
Top Experiences: The Tarsar Marsar trek (requires permits and guides), camping amidst meadows, and witnessing the beauty of the alpine lakes
Ideal Trip Duration: 5 – 7 days (trekking expedition)
Suggested Read: Trekking In Kashmir
10. Sanasar
Lastly, one of the top places to visit in Kashmir in July is Sanasar, which offers a picturesque retreat for every traveller. If you want a quiet escape from the hustle bustle of city life, make your way to Sanasar. It is a quaint town, so not many people flock here or overcrowd the spot. Due to the pleasant weather, there are many activities tourists can enjoy in Sanasar like paragliding, wilderness adventure camps, trekking, etc. Also visit the Shank Pal temple, which is a popular pilgrimage site in Sanasar.
Weather: Average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C
Top Tourist Attractions: Patnitop (hill station with scenic views), Nathatop (meadow with a golf course)
Top Experiences: Boating on Nallah Lake, Golfing amidst meadows at Nathatop
Are you ready to plan your next trip to Kashmir? With this guide to some of the best places to visit in Kashmir in July, you can enjoy scenic Shikara rides, trek across hilly landscapes, and go on pony rides. To make this trip more seamless and memorable, you can leave all your planning hassles to TripXL and relax as you secure the best deals.
Cover Photo: Madhumita Das / Wikimedia Commons