Adventure & Outdoor Activities

Adventure Tourism & Activities

Jammu & Kashmir is a paradise for adventure seekers, offering a diverse range of thrilling activities. From snow-covered mountains to fast-flowing rivers and high-altitude deserts, the region is perfect for trekking, skiing, river rafting, paragliding, and more. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or a nature enthusiast, J&K has something exciting for you.

A. Winter Sports in Kashmir

1. Skiing & Snowboarding (Gulmarg)

• Gulmarg is India's top skiing destination, with Asia’s highest ski slopes.
• Best time to visit: December – March.
• Popular Skiing & Snowboarding Spots:
  • Apharwat Peak (Gondola ride to Phase II)
  • Kongdoori (Ideal for beginners)
  • Outer Gulmarg (For expert skiers)

2. Snow Trekking & Ice Climbing

• Explore snow-covered landscapes through trekking and ice climbing.
• Best Locations:
  • Pahalgam & Aru Valley (Moderate difficulty)
  • Sonmarg & Zoji La Pass (Challenging trails)
  • Drass (Ladakh) – One of the coldest inhabited places on Earth.

3. Heli-Skiing (Gulmarg)

• Heli-Skiing is an extreme adventure sport where skiers are dropped on untouched snow slopes by helicopter.
• Gulmarg offers the best heli-skiing experience in India.

B. Trekking & Mountaineering

J&K is home to some of India’s most scenic trekking routes, ranging from easy hikes to challenging expeditions.

4. Kashmir Great Lakes Trek

• Duration: 7-9 days
• Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult
• Highlights:
  • Stunning alpine lakes (Vishansar, Gadsar, Nundkol, and Gangbal).
  • Lush green meadows and snow-covered peaks.

5. Tarsar Marsar Trek

• Duration: 6-7 days
• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Famous For:
  • Twin glacial lakes (Tarsar & Marsar).
  • Vibrant meadows and breathtaking landscapes.

6. Stok Kangri Trek (Ladakh)

• Duration: 8-10 days
• Difficulty Level: Extremely Challenging
• Elevation: 6,153m (Highest trekking peak in India).
• Ideal for experienced trekkers looking for a high-altitude challenge.

7. Amarnath Yatra Trek

• Duration: 3-5 days
• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• A sacred pilgrimage trek to Amarnath Cave, where a naturally formed ice Shiva Linga is worshipped.

C. River Rafting & Water Sports

8. White-Water Rafting (Lidder & Zanskar River)

• Lidder River (Pahalgam) – Best for beginners (Grade II & III rapids).
• Zanskar River (Ladakh) – India’s most thrilling rafting experience (Grade III to V rapids).
• Best time to visit: June – September.

9. Shikara Ride & Houseboat Stay (Dal Lake, Srinagar)