As said in the title, Kashmir is the crown of India. It is located in the northwest part of Indian subcontinent. In the middle of the first millenium Kashmir became important centre of Hinduism and later of Buddhism. In the following photos you can see why this region of India is unique and beautiful.

Dal Lake

If you want to witness the jewel of India, visit Dal Lake in Srinagar… a crystal clear water on which gondola like taxi boats let you have an experience like never before.

11 Most Shining Jewels in the Crown of India - Kashmir

Image by Basharat Alam Shah via Flickr

Betaab Valley

Where to go for a romantic vacation than to the elated, blissful and charming Betaab Valley? Got its name from the Bollywood movie called Betaab!!

11 Most Shining Jewels in the Crown of India - Kashmir

Image by Dr. Partha Sarathi Sahana via Flickr

Gulmarg

Relish some rare moments of solitude at the most splendid tourist destination of India, Gulmarg. It is a breathtaking spot with beautiful landscapes, serene lakes, cool ambience and flowering gardens.

11 Most Shining Jewels in the Crown of India - Kashmir

Image by Colin Tsoi via Flickr

Gulmarg Gondola

Also hailed as Gondola lift/ride, this is an amazing attraction in Gulmarg proffering a majestic sight of snow covered mountain peaks and wild flowers, which are a feast to the eyes!!

11 Most Shining Jewels in the Crown of India - Kashmir

Image by Vineet Radhakrishnan via Flickr

Kashmir Houseboat

An ethereal experience of the Kashmir houseboats is no less than a dream!! Impeccable service, world class facilities, warm hospitality and lip-smacking cuisines can be relished on one of these wooden boats.

11 Most Shining Jewels in the Crown of India - Kashmir

Image by Doniv79 via Wikimedia

Nagin Lake

Named after the trees nearby the lake, Nagin Lake is a fascinating tourist place with a number of houseboats floating in the deep blue waters.

11 Most Shining Jewels in the Crown of India - Kashmir

Image by Indraneel Biswas via Flickr

Pahalgam Valley

Indulge yourself in the heavenly exquisiteness and adventure options at a fairy land- “Pahalgam Valley”. This lush green valley is nestled at a height of 2130 m above sea level in Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir.

11 Most Shining Jewels in the Crown of India - Kashmir

Image by KennyOMG via Wikimedia

Shalimar Bagh

Well laid out sprawling gardens with a gentle wind sweeping through it, Shalimar Bagh is one of the must visit places in Srinagar.  The charming beauty of this place will certainly give you enough reasons to visit this place again and again.

11 Most Shining Jewels in the Crown of India - Kashmir

Image by June West via Flickr

Thajiwas Glacier

Tendering scores of adventurous routes with superb green water and snowy mountains, Thajiwas glacier is the perfect place for relishing a sledge ride on the white snow.

11 Most Shining Jewels in the Crown of India - Kashmir

Image by Rajesh via Flickr

Amarnath

A heaven on Earth, Amarnath is the walk to the sacred abode of Lord Shiva at an elevation of 12,756 in the capital of Jammu and Kashmir.

11 Most Shining Jewels in the Crown of India - Kashmir

Image by Gktambe via Wikimedia [Public Domain]

Drass

A superbly poised to tender an experience that is both unique as well as real! Drass is the place to be. Scouting its attractions will offer you a deep insight into the culture and mores of the local people.

11 Most Shining Jewels in the Crown of India - Kashmir

Image by Narender9 via Wikimedia

About Author:

Pawan Kotiyal is an avid traveller, who likes to trudge to far-flung and lesser-explored destinations in India. Trekking and photography keeps him busy while he is out exploring the unknown destinations. He also likes to pen his travelling experience in order to help those with similar interest in travelling, trekking and photography.