Destinations we know inside out

Kashmir Srinagar Dal Lake, shikara evenings, Mughal gardens and the old city — the natural base for any Kashmir trip. 5 journeys Kashmir Gulmarg Alpine meadow in summer, one of India’s best ski slopes in winter, and a gondola with a serious view. 1 journey Kashmir Pahalgam River valleys, pine forest and the trailhead for Kashmir’s best-known treks. 1 journey Kashmir Sonamarg The meadow of gold — glaciers, alpine rivers and the gateway to Ladakh. 1 journey Kashmir Doodhpathri A wide, quiet meadow an hour from Srinagar that most itineraries still miss. Explore Kashmir Gurez Valley A remote border valley of wooden villages, the Kishanganga river and Habba Khatoon peak. 1 journey Kashmir Yusmarg Pine-ringed meadows and easy walking, an hour south-west of Srinagar. Explore Ladakh Leh Ladakh’s capital — monasteries, a walkable old town, and the base for everything beyond. 2 journeys Ladakh Nubra Valley Cold desert dunes, double-humped camels and the green ribbon of the Shyok river. Explore Ladakh Pangong Lake A 134 km high-altitude lake that changes colour through the day. Explore Ladakh Khardung La One of the world’s highest motorable passes, on the road from Leh to Nubra. Explore Ladakh Tso Moriri A quieter, higher lake in the Changthang plateau, well away from the crowds. Explore Pilgrimage Amarnath The cave shrine at 3,888 m, reached from Pahalgam or Baltal during the annual yatra. 2 journeys Pilgrimage Vaishno Devi The hill shrine above Katra, reached by a 12 km walk, pony, palki or helicopter. Explore Pilgrimage Katra The base town for Vaishno Devi, with the registration counters and most hotels. 1 journey