How Safe is Kashmir for Tourists? A Complete Safety Guide

Friends, we all dream that one day we will visit Kashmir, which is called the paradise of India and the world as well, but a question comes to our minds first. How Safe is Kashmir for Tourists? The situation in Kashmir has been complex and fluid, and the safety of travellers can vary depending on the current security situation. In recent years, there has been a decrease in violence in some areas of Kashmir, but the region remains sensitive, and there is still a risk of violence and terrorism. The Indian government has implemented various security measures, including restrictions on movement and communication, to maintain stability and security.

However, it is important to stay informed about the latest developments and to follow the advice of local authorities and travel agencies. Travellers are advised to avoid large gatherings and to be aware of their surroundings at all times. Overall, it is best to consult with the local authorities and with your travel agency before planning a trip to Kashmir and to keep informed about the latest developments and safety guidelines. So friends, welcome to my new blog. I will try to answer all your questions. Everything you read in this article is my own feelings. I am going to share my own experience with you through this article. So let’s get started.

About Kashmir:

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Friends, Kashmir is a very beautiful state of India. It is called the paradise of the world. Earlier it was a state. But now it has been declared a Union Territory. The capital of Kashmir is Srinagar. It is a very beautiful city, but we always have a question in our mind: “Is Kashmir safe for tourists?” Don’t worry; your worries will go away today. It is a major winter state.

With temperatures hovering around 0 to -10 degrees Celsius in winter and 5 to 20 degrees Celsius in summer, the main language of the people here is Kashmiri. The style of dress and food of the people here is very different from ours. 

How Safe is Kashmir for Tourists?

Occasionally minor incidents happen here; for this reason, we cannot tell the whole of Kashmir is unsafe. Here are a few checkpoints a little further away where you can check and move on. Mind it, Kashmir is home to one of the largest military bases in India. You must see Indian Army personnel here. These areas are always safe for the army. Is it especially safe to travel to Kashmir now? There are many beautiful places to visit in Kashmir, like Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg, Kargil, etc., and now is Kashmir open for tourism.

Also Read: Top 10 Cheapest Countries to Visit from India in 2025 | Travel Guide

How to Reach Kashmir:

Srinagar, kashmir

If you want to come to Kashmir, you can get a direct flight from any city in India to Srinagar, Kashmir. And if you are coming from another country and you are not getting a flight to Srinagar, then you move to Delhi and get a direct flight from Srinagar. And if you want to come by road, then you have to come to Jammu City. Jammu and Kashmir used to be a single state but was later separated by the Indian government. And is it safe to visit Kashmir after Article 370? And if you are coming by road, then you can enjoy many beautiful views during your journey. On the way from Jammu to Srinagar. So don’t think more; it is your time to visit Kashmir. Is Kashmir safe for tourists?

You will come across a hilly road. Roads have been made by cutting down hills. Be a little careful if you are afraid of heights, because you get scared when you see bad roads and landscapes here. And whenever you come to Kashmir, bring extra time for a day or two because the roads here are sometimes closed, and from the TRC located here you can find out when the road will be closed and when it will be open.

How do local Kashmiris deal with tourists?

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We hear on news channels that Kashmiris do not treat us better, and I don’t know why Kashmir has an unknown fear, but friends, believe me, there is no such thing. Kashmiris are very good people; their behaviour is also very good. I had an unknown fear in my mind when I was travelling alone in Kashmir. I felt very alone in those crowded places in Srinagar. Just then a man saw me bored and came and sat next to me and started talking to me, and he told me, Friend, you’re so lonely; it’s so bad to see me. I came to talk to you. Just think about how safe Kashmir is for tourists.

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He sat with me for about three hours and told me about other things in Kashmir, such as what is famous in Kashmir. What is the main festival here? And he also talked about the various places of interest here. What a famous fruit here, everything. And he was even happier when he knew that I was from Kolkata and I had come so far alone to travel to Kashmir.

He lets me call my house from his phone, and he invites me to his house, and I am staying at his house at least one day, but I could not go there due to lack of time. My friends, I have met so many people in Kashmir; many invited me to come to their house, and they were very nice people. We can’t judge people by watching news channels or reading newspapers. There are good and bad people in the world, but for a few bad people, good people are also infamous. So then you will know from here HOW SAFE IS KASHMIR FOR TOURISTS.

Kashmiri Hospitality:

Dal Lake, kashmir

I was in Hotel Iceland in Srinagar. It was a houseboat. The name of the owner of that houseboat was Asif Hassan. Asif and his father run the hotel together, and their behaviour was so good with every tourist that it can’t be overstated. He treated me so well that I felt like I was with my family. He would sit with us and tell his own story, like where they used to live before and how they came to Srinagar, and many more. This means that they will not treat you like you are from somewhere outside.

They will treat you like their own family. And why just in Srinagar? Everyone in Kashmir, where I was staying, was very well behaved, and especially since I was travelling so far and solo, that’s why they were treating me very well. I hope you understand how safe Kashmir is for tourists. Especially if you are going solo, you will not have any problem. Kashmir has a bit of a network problem; like any other state’s SIM card, it didn’t work in Kashmir. Nothing to worry about; every hotel here has WiFi facilities. If your network does not work, then you can call and contact anyone.

Visit Kashmir During Ramzan:

If you are going to visit Kashmir in the Ramzan, one thing to keep in mind is that you should not eat or drink anything in front of the local Kashmiris. They do not eat anything during the day during this month; we should also respect them. Actually, I went to Kashmir during Ramadan, and by mistake, I was eating singara in front of a local Kashmiri. They told me not to eat in front of them and to eat somewhere else. And I realised that I had made a mistake. 90 percent of Kashmiris are Muslims, and they do not eat anything during the day during the month of Ramadan. Many food shops in Kashmir are closed during the day, but you don’t have to worry; if you are a non-Muslim, then there are many Hindu restaurants there too.

Don’t forget to take your voter ID:

When you visit Kashmir, keep in mind that your Aadhaar card has no value in Kashmir. You will only need your Aadhaar card to check in or check out at the hotels. Moreover, with an Aadhaar card, you cannot buy any SIM card there. Only postpaid SIMs work there; prepaid SIMs will not work. So you have to buy a SIM in Kashmir, and they have a rule that they do not give SIMs on Aadhaar cards; they will ask you for your voter ID card (original copy), and without a voter ID card, you will not get a SIM. So definitely take your voter ID; I had a lot of problems there. I did not take my voter ID card and could not go there and pick up the SIM. I used to communicate with my friends and family at home using hotel and other people’s wifi.

Don’t Consume Alcohol Front of Kashmiris:

First of all, I would like to say that alcohol is very bad for our health and body. It is better not to eat it for you. Even if you want to have it, I can tell you that there are very few liquor shops in Srinagar. But you will not find liquor shops in Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg; Kashmiris do not consume alcohol. a few liquor shops in Srinagar for tourists, And one thing to keep in mind is that you don’t go outside the hotel after drinking; you stay inside the hotel after drinking. If they care for us so much, then we also have some duties too.

My Travel Experience in Kashmir:

Gulmurg, Kashmir

When I was coming to Srinagar from Banihal, I met a Kashmiri friend on the train, and he talked with me for a long time, and the whole way we were together, when he knew that I was from Kolkata, he was very happy and invited me to his house. His stay was in Baramulla, about 50 km from Srinagar. His name was Amir. He gave me his phone number and said that you will call me tomorrow and come to my house. I said, “Okay, I will definitely go, and I also had to experience the Baramulla train journey from Srinagar.

And the next day I left Srinagar for his hometown, Baramulla. When I reach their house, they take care of me very well. Then friends understand how safe Kashmir is for tourists. After that, he even took me around a bit in the vicinity of Baramulla. The food at their house was very tasty. I ate very well and said goodbye to them in the afternoon and moved to Srinagar. There was no difference of race or religion between us. We are all children of one God. This nation’s religion was created by humans. And one more thing: travellers like us have no country, no religion, and no race. We think of the world as our own.

Some places to visit in Kashmir:

Kashmir is a beautiful and culturally rich region located in the northern part of India. It is known for its scenic beauty, rich heritage, and unique cultural traditions. Here are some of the best places to visit in Kashmir:

Srinagar: Srinagar is the largest city in Kashmir and is located on the banks of the Jhelum River. It is known for its beautiful lakes, gardens, and houseboats, as well as its rich cultural heritage.

Gulmarg: Gulmarg is a picturesque hill station located in the Pir Panjal Range. It is known for its ski slopes, golf course, and scenic beauty and is a popular destination for adventure sports enthusiasts.

Pahalgam: Pahalgam is a beautiful valley located in the foothills of the Himalayas. It is known for its scenic beauty, as well as its trekking routes, and is a popular destination for adventure sports enthusiasts.

Leh: Leh is a mountainous region located in the northern part of India. It is known for its scenic beauty, as well as its rich cultural heritage and unique traditions.

Sonamarg: Sonamarg is a scenic mountain valley located in the eastern part of Kashmir. It is known for its trekking routes, scenic beauty, and its proximity to several lakes and glaciers.

Dal Lake: Dal Lake is a beautiful lake located in the heart of Srinagar. It is known for its floating gardens, houseboats, and scenic beauty and is a popular destination for boating and fishing.

Mughal Gardens: Kashmir is home to several beautiful Mughal-style gardens, including the Nishat Bagh, Chashma Shahi, and Shalimar Bagh. These gardens are known for their scenic beauty, as well as their rich cultural heritage.

These are just a few of the many beautiful places to visit in Kashmir. Whether you are interested in scenic beauty, adventure sports, cultural heritage, or simply relaxing, there is something for everyone.

Best time to visit Kashmir:

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The best time to visit Kashmir depends on the type of experience you are looking for. Here are some general guidelines:

Summer (April to June): Summer is the best time to visit Kashmir if you are interested in exploring the valley’s scenic beauty and lush greenery. During this time, the temperature is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as trekking, boating, and fishing.

Monsoon (July to September): Monsoon season is characterised by heavy rain, which can make it difficult to travel around the valley. However, if you are looking for a peaceful and serene experience, this may be the ideal time to visit, as the lush greenery and waterfalls are at their most picturesque.

Winter (October to March): Winter is the best time to visit Kashmir if you are interested in skiing and snow sports. During this time, the higher elevations receive heavy snowfall, making it ideal for ski enthusiasts. However, the temperature can be quite cold, so be prepared for harsh weather conditions.

Spring (March to May): Spring is also a good time to visit Kashmir, as the temperature is mild and the flowers are in full bloom. This is a great time to visit the valley’s famous Mughal gardens and see the cherry blossoms in full bloom.

Overall, the best time to visit Kashmir depends on your individual interests and travel plans, so be sure to consider your preferences before making your trip.

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