Top 20 Things To Do In Pulwama Kashmir | Pulwama Travel Guide

Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, verdant meadows, and fragrant orchards, Pulwama offers a tranquil escape amidst the majestic Himalayas. 

From adventurous outdoor activities to immersive cultural experiences, there’s no shortage of things to do in this enchanting region. Do not forget to go through the Travel Tips To keep in Mind while Visiting Kashmir.

Join us as we explore the top attractions and hidden gems of Pulwama, each promising an unforgettable journey into the heart of Kashmir’s unparalleled beauty and charm

Kashmir: An Overview

The region of Kashmir is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, which include snow-capped mountains, verdant valleys, pristine lakes, and meandering rivers. The iconic Dal Lake in Srinagar, the capital city of Jammu and Kashmir, is one of the most famous attractions, known for its scenic beauty and houseboats.

In addition to its natural splendor, Kashmir is rich in cultural heritage and history. The region has been a melting pot of various cultures, including Hindu, Muslim, and Buddhist influences, which is reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions. Make sure you visit the Restaurants in Kashmir to taste their finest local cuisine.

Top 20 Things to do in Pulwama Kashmir:

Visit the Aharbal Waterfall: 

Marvel at the stunning Aharbal Waterfall, also known as the “Niagara Falls of Kashmir.” Enjoy the scenic trek to the waterfall and witness the majestic cascade amidst lush greenery.

Explore Tarsar Lake: 

Embark on a trek to Tarsar Lake, a serene alpine lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains and meadows. Camp by the lake to experience the tranquility of the Himalayan wilderness.

Experience the Beauty of Shikargarh: 

Explore the historic ruins of Shikargarh, an ancient hunting lodge surrounded by picturesque landscapes. Capture panoramic views of the valley from this vantage point.

Hike to the Sun Temple at Martand: 

Discover the ancient Sun Temple at Martand, dedicated to the Hindu sun god Surya. Marvel at the impressive architecture and panoramic views of the Kashmir Valley.

Rafting on the Lidder River: 

Experience the thrill of white-water rafting on the Lidder River. Navigate through rapids amidst stunning scenery and lush forests for an adrenaline-pumping adventure.

Visit the Jama Masjid: 

Explore the Jama Masjid in Pulwama, a historic mosque known for its exquisite Mughal architecture and intricate craftsmanship. Take a moment for reflection amidst its serene surroundings. Check out more Religious places in Kashmir with the help of our Guide.

Enjoy a Picnic at Aripal Nag: 

Relax amidst nature at Aripal Nag, a beautiful picnic spot surrounded by dense forests and rolling hills. Pack a picnic basket and enjoy a day of leisure by the tranquil waters.

Admire the Beauty of the Shalbugh Shrine: 

Pay homage at the Shalbugh Shrine, a revered religious site surrounded by lush greenery and scenic beauty. Experience the spiritual ambiance of this sacred place.

Bird Watching at Pulwama Wildlife Sanctuary: 

Explore the Pulwama Wildlife Sanctuary and spot a variety of bird species in their natural habitat. Bring your binoculars and camera for a memorable bird-watching experience. This is one of the best wildlife sanctuaries in Kashmir.

Trek to the Kolahoi Glacier: 

Embark on a challenging trek to the Kolahoi Glacier, one of the largest glaciers in the Kashmir Valley. Traverse through pristine landscapes and witness the breathtaking beauty of the glacier.

Explore the Aripal Tral Gardens: 

Wander through the enchanting Aripal Tral Gardens, known for their colorful flowers, manicured lawns, and serene ambiance. Enjoy a leisurely stroll amidst nature’s splendor.

Shopping for Kashmiri Handicrafts: 

Explore local markets in Pulwama and shop for exquisite Kashmiri handicrafts, including Pashmina shawls, handwoven carpets, embroidered clothing, and intricate woodwork. Take a look at the guide about Shopping in Kashmir for more Clarity.

Camping at Nagberan: 

Experience the thrill of camping amidst the picturesque surroundings of Nagberan. Set up tents by the riverbanks and enjoy a night under the starry sky, surrounded by nature’s tranquility.

Photography at Tulip Garden: 

Capture the vibrant hues of the Tulip Garden in Pulwama, one of the largest tulip gardens in Asia. Photograph the colorful blooms against the backdrop of the majestic Zabarwan Range.

Attend a Cultural Show: 

Immerse yourself in Kashmiri culture by attending a traditional music and dance performance. Experience the rhythmic beats of folk music and graceful movements of traditional Kashmiri dance forms.

Savor Kashmiri Cuisine: 

Indulge in the flavors of authentic Kashmiri cuisine at local eateries in Pulwama. Sample delicacies like Rogan Josh, Dum Aloo, Gushtaba, and Kebabs, accompanied by fragrant Kashmiri rice.

Visit the Avantishwar Temple: 

Seek blessings at the Avantishwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Explore the temple complex and admire its architectural beauty and spiritual significance. For all the Shiva devotees, you must check out the Shri Kedarnath Shop in Kashmir.

Mountain Biking in the Aru Valley: 

Embark on an exhilarating mountain biking adventure in the scenic Aru Valley. Explore rugged trails and picturesque landscapes while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Relax at the Pari Mahal: 

Unwind amidst the tranquil surroundings of the Pari Mahal, a historic monument surrounded by terraced gardens and offering panoramic views of the Dal Lake. Enjoy a peaceful retreat in this idyllic setting.

Visit the Saffron Fields of Pampore: 

Explore the saffron fields of Pampore, known for producing the finest quality saffron in the world. Learn about the cultivation process and witness the vibrant blooms during the harvesting season.

Best time to visit Pulwama:

May to August

The optimal time to visit Pulwama, Kashmir, is during the summer months, from May to August. During this period, the weather in Pulwama is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from comfortable to mildly warm, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. 

The days are long, allowing ample time to explore the scenic beauty of the region, trek through the lush landscapes, and indulge in adventure sports such as trekking and rafting.

Additionally, the summer months coincide with the blooming season of the famous tulip gardens in Pulwama, particularly the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden, which is in full bloom during April and May, offering a breathtaking display of colorful tulips against the backdrop of the Himalayas.

However, it’s important to note that Pulwama experiences distinct seasons, with cold winters and moderate summers. 

The winter months, from November to February, can be quite chilly, with temperatures dropping below freezing point, especially in higher altitude areas. Do go through our guide about Winter in Kashmir.

While Pulwama transforms into a winter wonderland during this time, with snow-capped peaks and opportunities for snow-related activities, it may not be suitable for everyone due to the cold weather.

Overall, the summer months offer the best weather conditions for exploring Pulwama and enjoying its natural beauty to the fullest. 

Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply want to admire the scenic landscapes, visiting Pulwama during the summer ensures a memorable and enjoyable trip.

Best Places to Visit in Pulwama:

Shikargah Ruins: 

Explore the ancient ruins of Shikargah, nestled amidst scenic landscapes. This historic site, believed to be a former hunting lodge, offers a glimpse into Pulwama’s rich past and architectural heritage.

Naina Batpora: 

Discover the charming village of Naina Batpora, known for its lush orchards and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Take a leisurely stroll through the village, interact with locals, and savor the tranquility of rural life.

Tarsar-Marsar Lakes Trek: 

Embark on a multi-day trek to the pristine Tarsar and Marsar lakes, hidden gems nestled in the heart of the Kashmir Valley. Traverse through picturesque meadows, dense forests, and alpine landscapes to reach these breathtaking high-altitude lakes. Do not forget to take a look at the best Lakes in Kashmir.

Shangergund Park: 

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and unwind at Shangergund Park, a peaceful oasis surrounded by towering pine trees and flowering gardens. Enjoy a leisurely picnic, go for a nature walk, or simply relax amidst nature’s tranquility.

Sir Syed Memorial Park: 

Pay homage to Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, a renowned scholar and reformer, at the Sir Syed Memorial Park in Pulwama. Explore the beautifully landscaped gardens and learn about the life and legacy of this visionary leader.

Aharbal Gardens: 

Discover the serene beauty of Aharbal Gardens, located near the majestic Aharbal Waterfall. Stroll through lush green lawns, admire vibrant flowers, and enjoy panoramic views of the waterfall cascading down the mountainside.

Naristan Temple: 

Visit the historic Naristan Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and soak in the spiritual ambiance of this sacred site. Located amidst scenic surroundings, the temple offers a peaceful retreat for meditation and reflection.

Chandpora Village: 

Experience rural life in Kashmir by visiting Chandpora Village, a quaint hamlet known for its traditional Kashmiri architecture and warm hospitality. Interact with locals, explore the village lanes, and immerse yourself in the local cuisine. Make sure you try the food of the best restaurants in Kashmir.

Aharbal Meadows: 

Trek to the picturesque Aharbal Meadows, situated at the base of the Aharbal Waterfall. Surrounded by lush meadows and dense forests, these pristine meadows offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Tomb of Makhdoom Sahib: 

Pay your respects at the Tomb of Makhdoom Sahib, a revered Sufi shrine located in Pulwama. Experience the spiritual tranquility of this historic shrine and learn about the teachings of Sufism.

Places to stay in Pulwama Kashmir:

Pulwama Inn: 

Located in the heart of Pulwama, Pulwama Inn offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, TV, and 24-hour room service. The hotel also features an on-site restaurant serving delicious Kashmiri cuisine.

Nagichat Resort: 

Nestled amidst lush greenery, Nagichat Resort offers cozy cottages and rooms with picturesque views of the surrounding mountains. Guests can relax in the beautifully landscaped gardens or enjoy traditional Kashmiri hospitality at the on-site restaurant.

Hotel Himalayan: 

Situated near the main market area, Hotel Himalayan offers spacious rooms equipped with all essential amenities for a comfortable stay. The hotel also features a multi-cuisine restaurant serving a variety of dishes to suit every palate.

Kashmir Comforts: 

Offering a blend of modern comfort and traditional charm, Kashmir Comforts provides well-appointed rooms with amenities like heating facilities, hot water, and satellite TV. Guests can enjoy stunning views of the Himalayas from the hotel’s rooftop terrace.

Hotel Green Hill: 

Surrounded by apple orchards and rolling hills, Hotel Green Hill offers a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The hotel features cozy rooms, a garden restaurant, and friendly staff dedicated to ensuring a memorable stay.

New Suhail Palace: 

Conveniently located near the bus stand, New Suhail Palace offers budget-friendly accommodation with clean and comfortable rooms. Guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast and access to amenities like free Wi-Fi and parking.

Pulwama Heritage Houseboat: 

For a unique experience, consider staying at a houseboat on the Jhelum River. Pulwama Heritage Houseboat offers beautifully furnished rooms with traditional Kashmiri decor, along with personalized service and scenic views of the river.

Hotel Bilal Palace: 

Situated amidst picturesque surroundings, Hotel Bilal Palace offers spacious rooms and suites with modern amenities. The hotel also features a rooftop restaurant serving delicious Kashmiri and Indian cuisine.

Pulwama Residency: 

Located in a tranquil area, Pulwama Residency offers comfortable accommodation with essential amenities for a relaxing stay. Guests can unwind in the peaceful ambiance and enjoy personalized service from the hospitable staff.

Hotel Dar Manzil: 

Offering a perfect blend of comfort and convenience, Hotel Dar Manzil provides well-appointed rooms and personalized service to ensure a memorable stay for guests visiting Pulwama.

History of Pulwama Kashmir:

The region’s name is believed to have originated from the Sanskrit words “Pul” and “Awam,” meaning “the place of bridges” or “the land of bridges,” owing to the numerous bridges that once spanned the Jhelum River, which flows through the area.

Throughout history, Pulwama has been a strategically significant region, situated at the crossroads of various ancient trade routes that connected Central Asia with the Indian subcontinent. 

Traces of its ancient past can be found in the archaeological remains scattered across the region, including ancient temples, Buddhist stupas, and ruins of forts and palaces.

During the medieval period, Pulwama came under the rule of various dynasties, including the Mughals, the Afghans, and later, the Sikhs. 

The region flourished as a center of trade, agriculture, and craftsmanship, with Pulwama’s saffron and apple orchards gaining renown for their quality produce.

In the 20th century, Pulwama, like the rest of Kashmir, became part of the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir, under the rule of the Dogra Maharajas. 

The region witnessed significant socio-political developments during this period, including movements for self-governance and autonomy.

In the modern era, Pulwama has been at the center of the Kashmir conflict, which erupted following the partition of British India in 1947. 

The region has witnessed periods of unrest, insurgency, and political turmoil, with tensions often flaring between separatist groups, militants, and Indian security forces.