For riders, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of embarking on an adventure to the breathtaking land of Kashmir. Nestled amidst the mighty Himalayas, Kashmir is often referred to as “Paradise on Earth” for its awe-inspiring landscapes, cultural richness, and warm hospitality.
Setting the Wheels in Motion
The first day of our motorcycle journey took us to the bustling city of Jammu. We spent the night here as we got up late, and left in the afternoon from Make My Ride. After ensuring our bikes are in top-notch condition the following day, we eagerly set forth towards the valley, leaving behind the hustle and bustle of the city. As we ride through the winding roads of the Jammu region, the landscape transitions from lush green fields to the grandeur of the Himalayas, and the refreshing breeze carries the scents of pine trees, fuelling our enthusiasm for the adventure ahead.
Rajmah and Peerah—a love story like none other
Rajmah, a quintessential dish from the Jammu region takes centrestage at Peerah. This flavorful red kidney bean stew celebrates earthy spices and rich flavours, simmered to perfection over a slow flame. The secret to the delectable Rajmah lies in the meticulous preparation and use of traditional spices, resulting in a dish that brings a smile to your face, every time. We stopped at the old Khajuria Dhaba, where a full plate of Rajmah, Rice and Desi Ghee helped us forget the traffic at Jammu, and the heat of the plains we had left behind.
Srinagar and the Kashmir valley
Resuming our journey, we continue our ascent towards Srinagar, the heart of the Kashmir Valley. As we approach the city, the breathtaking Dal Lake welcomes us with its floating gardens and elegant houseboats. The Mughal gardens—Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, and Chashme Shahi—delight our senses with their symmetrical beauty, reflecting the region’s rich historical legacy.

Houseboat Experience on Dal Lake
Embracing the allure of Srinagar, we decide to spend a night on a traditional houseboat, immersing ourselves in the romantic ambience of the Dal Lake. The gentle rocking of the boat and the moonlit reflections on the water create an unforgettable experience. As the sun sets, the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colours, mesmerising us as we lounge on the houseboat’s impressive balcony.
Visiting the most important landmarks of Srinagar in a day
We had planned a rest day in Srinagar, but decided to spend it sightseeing. After all, who comes on a holiday to spend time in a hotel room? We woke up at the crack of dawn and headed for Hazratbal Dargah to catch a glimpse of the sun shining on the shimmering waters of the Dal. Afterwards, we headed towards Shankaracharya Hill to see Srinagar in all its glory. We then went to Chaai Jaai for breakfast and then headed towards the famous Mughal gardens to spend our evenings around the promenade. Here’s what you will see in these amazing places:
Visiting Hazratbal Dargah and the Shankaracharya Hill

Hazratbal and Shankaracharya Hill offer visitors a chance to immerse themselves in Kashmir’s spiritual and cultural aspects. These places hold significant historical and religious value, making them must-visit locations for anyone travelling to Srinagar.
Hazratbal Shrine
Hazratbal is a revered Muslim religious site located on the northern shores of the Dal Lake. The shrine houses a relic believed to be a hair strand of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. It is displayed to the public on special occasions, attracting thousands of devotees from around the region. The shrine’s architecture is impressive, and its distinctive white marble structure with a stunning backdrop of the Himalayan mountains and Dal Lake makes it a picturesque sight.
When visiting Hazratbal, it’s essential to respect the site’s religious significance. Modest dressing is recommended, and visitors are expected to maintain decorum inside the shrine premises. The atmosphere around the shrine is serene and peaceful, offering a unique insight into Kashmir’s Islamic heritage and spiritual practices.
Shankaracharya Hill
Shankaracharya Hill is a prominent hill located to the southeast of Srinagar. The Shankaracharya Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva stands at the hill’s summit. The temple is believed to date back to the 6th century and is named after the great philosopher and saint Adi Shankaracharya, who is said to have visited the site during his travels.
To reach the temple, visitors have to climb a flight of stairs. The effort is rewarded with panoramic views of the entire city of Srinagar, along with the picturesque Dal Lake and the surrounding mountains. It’s an excellent spot to witness a breathtaking sunrise or sunset over the valley.
Note: When visiting Shankaracharya Hill, wear comfortable shoes suitable for climbing stairs, and carry some water with you. As with any religious site, dress modestly and respect the temple’s customs and practices.
The Mughal Gardens of Srinagar
Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, and Chashme Shahi are among the region’s most famous and picturesque Mughal gardens and are a must-visit in Srinagar.
Shalimar Bagh
Built in the 17th century by Emperor Jahangir for his wife, Empress Noor Jahan, Shalimar Bagh is the largest among the three gardens. It is renowned for its stunning layout and intricate design. The garden is divided into three terraces, each representing a different style. The terraces are adorned with lush green lawns, vibrant flowerbeds, beautiful fountains, and pavilions, making it a perfect place for a leisurely stroll and a glimpse into Mughal-era architecture and landscaping.

Nishat Bagh
Constructed by Asif Khan, brother-in-law of Emperor Jahangir, Nishat Bagh is adjacent to Shalimar Bagh and is known for its breathtaking views of Dal Lake and the Zabarwan Mountain Range. Nishat Bagh translates to “Garden of Joy,” and its name truly reflects the serenity and beauty of the place. The garden features twelve terraces, each representing a zodiac sign, and boasts numerous Chinars (a type of tree native to the region), cypress trees, and colorful flowerbeds. Nishat Bagh is an ideal spot for enjoying the scenic beauty of Kashmir while immersing yourself in its rich history.
Chashme Shahi
Literally translating to “Royal Spring,” Chashme Shahi was developed around a natural freshwater spring in the 17th century. It is the smallest of the three gardens but is no less captivating. Its terraced layout is the garden’s main attraction, adorned with Persian-style water cascades, ornamental shrubs, and vibrant flowers. It provides a refreshing and tranquil ambience, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to relax and rejuvenate.
We ended the day with a relaxing Shikara ride on the Dal lake. We were exhausted to the core, but had the next day to ourselves, so we weren’t in a hurry.
Exploring Old Srinagar and checking out the food scene
The next day, we set out to explore the historic streets of Old Srinagar. The bustling bazaars, resonating with the echo of traders and shoppers, offer diverse local handicrafts, including Pashmina shawls, intricate carpets, and traditional Kashmiri jewelry. The revered Jama Masjid, a beautiful example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, is a testament to the region’s syncretic culture.
Eating out in Srinagar
Srinagar offers a delightful culinary experience, combining Kashmiri, Mughlai, and Indian cuisine. Also, keep in mind that the availability of certain dishes may vary depending on the season and local preferences. Here are some popular food options and places to eat out in Srinagar:

Chai Jaai
A new chahkhaana, Chai Jaai is where we went for breakfast almost daily. Laid back, relaxed, and perfect for a lazy summer morning. The freshly baked breads and Kashmiri Nun-Chaah are the perfect start to your day. Don’t miss this!
Ahdoos
You can’t go wrong with a restaurant that has been around for over a hundred years. Ahdoos is a renowned restaurant offering authentic Kashmiri dishes, Mughlai cuisine, and delectable desserts. We had Yakhni, Goshtaba, Rista, Nadru, Seekh Kebabs, and steamed rice. The ambience, the food, the décor, and everything else are just out of this world.
Shamyana
If you cannot decide what to eat, go to Shamyana. There’s something for everyone at this fantastic restaurant. They serve traditional Kashmiri, Indian, and Chinese food. As this is right next to the dal lake, it was our go-to-place whenever we were hungry.
Mughal Darbar
I went here with a Kashmiri friend, and I’m hooked! We had Egg Bhurjia, Chicken Korma, Rogan Josh, and ate till we were totally stuffed! Highly recommended!
Le Delice
Le Delice is a French-Kashmiri bakery that will blow your mind with its world-class preparations. Be ready to be amazed by the desserts on offer.
Jehangir Bakery
Look no further if you’re craving traditional Kashmiri bread or an outstanding fruit crème. Jehangir Bakery is a pocket-friendly place in Srinagar for amazing fruit cream or Kashmiri bread. The owners are very friendly and will help you choose what you need.
Street food in Srinagar
We were fortunate to have a local Kashmiri classmate who took us around. The dishes we tried with her include Halwa and Parantha outside Hazratbal, Hanz haak maaz (sag growing in the dal lake cooked with mutton), Palak-kokur-nadru (spinach, chicken and lotus stem), and Masal Czot (chhole kulche or chickpeas with onion chutney stuffed in a tandoori bread). The only thing I missed was Harissa, which is a mutton stew made exclusively in the winter. If you’re in Srinagar in late September, head straight to Aali Kadal, and look for Aijaz Ahmad Bhat’s eatery. You will not be disappointed.
Sonamarg: The Meadow of Gold

Leaving behind the urban charms of Srinagar, we venture towards Sonamarg, “The Meadow of Gold.” As we ascend, the landscape undergoes a transformation, revealing awe-inspiring views of the snow-capped peaks and glaciers. The verdant meadows, adorned with colorful wildflowers, seem to stretch to eternity, beckoning us to explore further.
Thajiwas Glacier: An Icy Wonderland
From Sonamarg, we continue our journey towards the majestic Thajiwas Glacier, a mesmerizing natural wonder accessible via a thrilling horse ride or a short trek. The glacier’s gleaming ice formations and glistening streams captivate our senses, offering a unique opportunity to witness the raw power of nature up close.

Gulmarg: A Winter Wonderland Transformed
Next on our itinerary is Gulmarg, a destination synonymous with winter sports and unmatched natural beauty. Although we were there in the summer, Gulmarg’s charm is undeniable. The Gulmarg Gondola, one of the highest cable cars in the world, offers a breathtaking aerial view of the valley as we ascend to Apharwat Peak. From there, the vistas of the Nanga Parbat range and the snow-clad peaks are simply awe-inspiring.
Aru Valley: A Tranquil Escape
Heading eastwards, we ride towards the lesser-known gem of Aru Valley. A paradise for nature lovers, Aru Valley boasts lush meadows, dense forests, and gurgling streams that make for a picturesque setting. The serene ambience and tranquillity of this place provide the perfect opportunity to unwind and connect with nature.
Betaab Valley: Where Romance Meets Nature
As we ride further, we arrive at Betaab Valley, named after the famous Bollywood movie “Betaab” shot amidst its enchanting surroundings. Enclosed by lush greenery and the Lidder River, the valley’s beauty is captivating. The gentle rustle of the leaves and the melody of flowing water create a harmonious symphony that invigorates our spirits.

Pahalgam: An Idyllic Retreat
Our journey ended at Pahalgam, a popular hill station known for its stunning landscapes and serene atmosphere. Situated at the confluence of the Lidder and Sheshnag rivers, Pahalgam offers a delightful mix of adventure and relaxation. From trekking to the picturesque Tulian Lake to exploring the ancient Mamleshwar Temple, Pahalgam caters to every traveler’s desire. We stayed the night here before leaving for Verinag the next day.
Verinag: The Source of Serenity
Leaving Pahalgam, we head south to Verinag, where the Jhelum River originates from the Verinag Spring. This historical site holds immense significance, dating back to the reign of Emperor Jahangir. The octagonal spring surrounded by a Mughal-style garden transports us back in time, and the cool waters are a welcome respite from the day’s warmth.
Final thoughts
Our motorcycle journey through the picturesque Kashmir Valley has been nothing short of a mesmerizing odyssey, offering a kaleidoscope of natural wonders, cultural diversity, and soul-stirring experiences. From the vibrant streets of Srinagar to the tranquil meadows of Sonamarg, and the snowy peaks of Gulmarg, the entire Kashmir region is nothing short of magical. Don’t take our word for it—rent a bike and experience Kashmir first-hand. You will love it for sure!