Everybody hurries to Dal Lake and Gulmarg in Kashmir, but we believe they are missing out on something special. Avantiswami Temple in Avantipura is unlike - it's not a typical tourist destination. It's a 9th-century temple located 30 kilometres from Srinagar, and sincerely, half the excitement is the drive there.
King Avantivarman constructed this site a long time ago, and although it is largely destroyed these days, there is something magical about the site. The ancient stone pillars remain, with carvings that leave you thinking about the humans who created them. It is not as filtered-out, Instagram-perfect as some other places are, but that is precisely why we adore it.
The best part? Chances are you'll have the entire complex to yourself. No selfie sticks, no groups of tourists - just peace with the mountains looming above all. We've had people sit there for hours, just thinking or drawing or doing nothing.
If you are on the lookout for less-explored places to visit in Kashmir that go beyond the usual stuff, this temple is something you should not miss on your next Kashmir Trip.
