Kashmir excursions include some of the popular travel destinations near the valley. All these places are famous for their picturesque beauty. Be it the scenic Wullar Lake or the spring of Verinag or the Mughal Gardens of Achabal, each place charms with its splendor. Then, there are the wonderful walks of Daksum and Yusmarg that leave you completely at peace with yourself. Excursions around Kashmir are also for those interested in bird watching like the Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary, near Wullar Lake. A trip to Kashmir would be incomplete without inclusion of these excursions in your itinerary. Some of the popular excursions around Kashmir valley in India are: Achabal, Daksum, Kokernag, Verinag, Watlab, Wullar Lake, Yusmarg, Aharbal etc.
Achabal
Achabal is situated at a distance of 58 km from the district of Srinagar. Reached via Anantnag, Achabal served as the pleasure retreat of the Mughal Empress Nur Jehan. Situated at a height of 1,677 m, Achabal is a visual treat for the eyes. Achabal is adorned with one of the best Mughal Gardens in India.
Daksum
As you drive past the Mughal Gardens of Achabal, you will come across the picturesque Daksum. Situated amidst the magnificent grandeur of the Kokarnag springs, it presents an awe-inspiring sight. Standing at an altitude of 2438 m in a densely forested gorge, Daksum offers peace and tranquility.
Kokernag
Situated at a height of 2,020 m, Kokernag is approximately 70 km from the district of Srinagar. Blooming gardens surround this spring, which bubbles at seven places at the foot of the forested mountain. The water of Kokernag in Kashmir is believed to have medicinal and digestive properties.
Verinag
Verinag is situated at a distance of approximately 80 km from Srinagar. Reached through the link road, it is located at a height of 1,876 m. It is believed that the Verinag spring in Kashmir is the chief source of the river Jhelum. There is an octagonal base at the spring, surrounded by a covered passage.
Watlab
If you want to experience the real Kashmir then a trip to Watlab is a must for you. As you move away from the well-traversed areas of the valley, slowly and steadily, you will get to see the Kashmir you have never seen before.
Wullar Lake
Wullar Lake is approximately 60 km from the city of Srinagar, between the towns of Bandipore and Sopore. Spreading over an area of 125 km, Wular Lake is said to be one of the largest fresh water lakes in Asia. The Wular Lake of Kashmir changes character after every few miles of its course.
Yusmarg
Yusmarg is approximately 47 km from the Srinagar and lies in the Badgam district of Jammu and Kashmir. The two-hour drive to the place is an enjoyment in itself. Grassy pastures stretching to acres of land, the dense forests full of pine trees, with the backdrop of splendid snow capped mountains leave you almost speechless.