Drass Valley ranks second in the list of coldest inhabited places of the world, the first being Oymyakon in Siberia. However, the position now seems to have changed contrary to the existing list as global warming has pushed back Siberia to the second place and ranks Drass Valley at the top. It is situated at an altitude of 3230 m. Being a tight valley with cold winds blowing constantly, Drass is colder than many high altitude places on earth.
Jammu and Kashmir
Pari Mahal, Kashmir
Constructed by Shah Jahan’s son Dara Shikoh in the year 1650, Pari Mahal is a beautiful work of architecture. It was named after Dara Shukoh’s wife Nadira Begum, who was also called as Pari Begum. Situated at the top of Mountain Zabarwan, the six-terraced garden overlooks Srinagar.
Tulip Garden, Kashmir
Lying on Zabarwan Mountains foothills, the Indira Gandhi Tulip garden is a delight to your senses. Considered Asia’s biggest tulip garden, it receives footprints in great numbers from various parts of the world. The garden was ready for public view in the year 2006. There are over 70 different varieties of tulips in the 30-acre garden, which is home to over one million tulips.
Mughal Gardens, Kashmir
Mughal Gardens in Kashmir is a magnificent display of the Mughal architecture. Three gardens that combine to form the Mughal Gardens include Nishat Bagh, Chashma Shahi and Shalimar Gardens.
Gangbal Lake, Kashmir
Also known as Gangabal Lake, it is one of the high altitude lakes in Kashmir. The lake is considered to be the original source of Ganga. Gangbal trek is considered the most important and sacred pilgrimage and this place are referred to as ‘Haridwar of Kashmir’.
Manasbal Lake, Kashmir
Manasbal Lake is situated amidst scenic landscape. On one side is Aha-thung, a low hill and on the other is a plateau. The depth of the lake makes it most beautiful and this is the deepest lake in Kashmir. Located 30 km from Srinagar, the place is birdwatcher’s haven as it is home to many aquatic birds. The well-maintained garden adds beauty to the lake.
Nagin Lake, Kashmir
Nagin Lake lies at the foot of Zabarwan Mountain. It is a part of the famous Dal Lake. Willow trees and poplar trees surround the lake. Though the lake is smaller when compared to Dal Lake, it is quieter and nice. The serenity of the place, birds flying around and the beautiful sunset render magic to the atmosphere.
Dal Lake, Kashmir
The second largest lake in Kashmir, Dal Lake, is one of the leading attractions in Kashmir. The view of the lake is stunning with mountains on its three sides and lush greenery on its banks. Houseboats not only give you an excellent opportunity to travel the length and breadth of the lake but they also provide you unique experience that will remain fresh in your memory for long.
Top 10 Places To Visit In And Around Leh-Laddakh
Leh, the former capital of the kingdom of Laddakh and now known as Leh district in the state of Jammu and Kashmir, is the second largest district in the republic of India. Leh is situated at an altitude of 3542 meters above sea level in the lap of the Himalayas. If you like the chilly cold and snow-capped mountains and a knack for adventure, Leh is the perfect getaway for you. We have made a list of 10 places to visit in and around Leh that offer serene but majestic environment to a traveller.