The summer is upon us and our search history is full of destinations that might be ideal to visit without becoming a sweaty mess. One of the top destinations that’s always in demand for beating the heat is Kashmir. It’s up north on our map and full of promising views, winding roads, and sceneries that imprint your mind. Plus, if you’re a Bollywood fanatic, these summer destinations are full of surprises for you. All the songs where the actors dance amidst jaw dropping backdrops or scenes where the place is covered in a blanket of snow are hidden somewhere right within your reach. Let’s retrace some of the best hits and where they were shot as you take a tour of Kashmir.
Famous Destinations Where Movies Were Shot
Aru Valley
A short ride from Pahalgam will take you to the destination where a scene from the movie Highway by Imtiaz Ali was shot. You’d recognize the picturesque views right away as it’s displayed beautifully in one of the stills of the film.
The big stretch of greenery is the perfect spot for a long walk or setting up a picnic. It’s one of those places that lack activities and allows you some respite from the vigorous daily routine. You can even know more about the culture of the people there if you introduce yourself to gypsies. They have their homes around Aru Valley in huts made of mud and usually come off as a bit shy in the beginning. But once you’ve made them feel comfortable, they sure do love to exchange information about their way of life!
Pahalgam
Pahalgam was the place where Lord Shiva left Nandi (his vehicle) before proceeding his journey to Amarnath. It also serves as the base point for the famous Amarnath Yatra for many devotees. At this very place was also shot a movie that’s one of the best Bollywood adaptations of Shakespeare’s Hamlet. We’re talking about Haider! The entire movie was shot in different parts of Kashmir, Pahalgam being one of the major ones.
Dotted with tall conifers and pine trees, Pahalgam is where you find solace amidst nature. You can choose something adventurous and embark on the thrilling treks like the Tulian Lake Trek and Amarnath Trek via Sheshnag. Or go rafting in the Pahalgam River where you ride the notorious tides. There are fun activities like zorbing and a short zipline at Mini Switzerland in Betaab Valley. For something calmer, you can walk amongst the blooming Lavender fields and shop for exquisite Kashmiri items from the Pahalgam Market.
Price For Zipline: INR 350
Price For River Rafting: Starting From INR 1,500
Gulmarg
In 2013, after watching Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani in the theaters, we all dreamt of a trip to Manali with our friends. Here’s a fun fact you probably weren’t aware of – a lot of the movie was actually filmed in various parts of Kashmir and not Manali! So, this summer, visit Gulmarg with your friends and make memories that last a lifetime!
Visit the Kongdoori mountain for a flashback of the final scene where Naina and Bunny climbed the highest peak. It’s an area between Gulmarg and Apharwat Peak. If you’re too cozy to trek till there, you can book tickets and experience riding the longest Gondola Ride in all of Asia. Kongdoori is the first phase of the cable car that it’ll take you to some magnificent views of the Pir Panjal range of the Himalayas. Once you’re there, you can go wild and fill your gallery with pictures of the beautiful Kashmir and take a breath of fresh air.
Price For Gulmarg Gondola: INR 944
Ladakh
One movie that always makes us laugh and cry till our vision is blurry, and comforts us endlessly is 3 Idiots. Remember the very ending where they finally find Aamir Khan near the lake? It was shot at India’s Own Moonland. Ladakh is considered to be India’s coldest desert, making it perfect for a summer holiday. The destination and the journey to get there are filled with unmatchable views and dreamy scenery.
Before going to Ladakh, you’ll have to spend two days in Leh to get acclimated. Don’t worry, you can do some laidback sightseeing and hog on Tibetan cuisine during that time. Once you leave for Ladakh, make your way to Pangong Tso Lake that’s at an altitude of 4,350 m above sea level. You’ll know that you’ve arrived at the destination when scenes from the movie flicker in your mind.
The crystal clear blue waters reflect the sky and all the other surroundings, making it entrancing. It’s also a great spot for bird lovers where you’ll find some migratory birds like the black-necked cranes and Brahmani ducks flying in all glory.
Sonamarg
If you’re in Sonamarg for the summer, you’ll probably hear some locals mention the tearjerker movie Bajrangi Bhaijaan. The climax of the movie was shot at Thajiwas Glacier which is at a height of 2794 m. This ethereal destination enhances the silvery tones of melted snow and the sparkling verdant hues.
For all the thrill seekers, Thajiwas Glacier provides a challenging trek that takes you through some amazing backdrops. Plan a trek only if you dare to face the challenges. Or you can simply find a nice spot to sit in the lap of nature and soak in the ambience around you.
Dal Lake
Any movie that has the word notebook in it has always displayed great romance. The Bollywood movie Notebook was shot in the jewel of Srinagar – the Dal Lake. With the most gorgeous views of the Pir Panjal Mountains, the lake is dotted with vibrant houseboats for the tourists to stay in a unique accommodation.
At Dal Lake you’ll also see wooden carved boats of different sizes that give a cultural taste of Kashmir. As you float through the pristine waters, you’ll see beautiful lotuses and a floating market – the highlight of the ride! You can buy saffron and spices as the shopkeepers approach you. They might even offer the authentic Kashmiri kahwa. There are also photographers that click pictures of you in traditional clothes that you can later get framed!
Price: Starting From INR 770
Summing Up
Now you can retrace all your favorite movies and click pictures at the very same spot where all the actors stood. Not only that, but it adds to the excitement of going on a trip to Kashmir to escape the summer. All you have to do is pack your bags and make the perfect summer holiday itinerary!
FAQs
Where Should I Go In Summer?
Heading to destinations that have harsh summers means fewer tourists and better deals since it is their off-season. Ideally, avoid any mainstream tourist attractions, and head instead to offbeat locations during summer.
Is It A Good Time To Book A Vacation?
Summer season sees a hike in tourist numbers since many head out for holidays. As a result, you may find expensive rates and locations that are mostly flocked by other travelers.
Which Is The Coolest Place In India During Summer?
The Himalayas are undoubtedly the coolest destinations in India in the summer, with the higher altitudes seeing snow year round.
Which Hill Station Is Good For A Summer Holiday?
Hill stations enjoy pleasant weather during the summers, which is why people tend to flock to them to escape the heat. As mentioned, head to hill stations that are offbeat, like Kalimpong (West Bengal), Paderu and Horsley Hills (Andhra Pradesh), and Kanatal (Uttarakhand).
Why Is Srinagar Famous For?
Srinagar, the state capital, is approximately 1585 meters above sea level. Gardens, lakes, and houseboats are popular attractions in the city. It’s also well-known for Kashmiri handicrafts and dried fruits. The city is situated on both banks of the Jhelum River, known as Vyath in Kashmir.
Which Is The Best Time To Visit Srinagar?
April to June is considered the best time to visit Srinagar. The temperature ranges between 10°C and 30°C.
What Is The Famous Food Of Srinagar?
Kashmiri Wazwan cuisine is known for its non-vegetarian dishes, the most renowned of which is Rogan Josh.
Why Is Pahalgam Called Mini Switzerland?
The whole of Pahalgam isn’t referred to as Mini Switzerland. However, Baisaran Valley that’s at a distance of 5 km from Pahalgam is given the name because of the tall trees, verdant mountains, and misty mountains.
