Far away from the maddening crowd lies Kashmir, the crowning glory of India. Blessed with numerous lakes, mountains and gardens, it captivates your senses and leaves you speechless. We're on the constant lookout for places where we can just sit back, relax and soak in the beauty of nature and Kashmir has myriads of locales to satiate your wanderlust, so grab your camera and get set to capture the great view from these places.

1. Shankaracharya Temple

An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, this place gives a beautiful aerial view of Srinagar - talk of antiquity and beauty! Though you need to climb over a 100 steps to get there, it is totally worth the effort. The view of Dal Lake dotted with houseboats and shikaras is absolutely mesmerizing. Cameras are not allowed inside the temple but you can click pictures outside.

Where | Durgjan

2. Hari Parbat

Steeped in mythical history, this is a hill overlooking Srinagar. Hari Parbat possesses great religious significance since it houses a temple, a mosque and a gurudwara. Kashmiri Pandits often frequent the Sharika Temple (Kheer Bhawani) which, supposedly, has mystical qualities. The view from the fort is breathtaking!

Where | Nohata

3. Pari Mahal

It's rightly named Fairies’ Abode since it is nestled in the Zabarwan Hills and the altitude ensures a bird’s eye view of Srinagar. Located near Chashme Shahi, Pari Mahal is practically in ruins but the greenery, colourful flowers and a small spring will make you fall in love with this place. And did we mention it is a seven-terraced garden? Do you really need more reasons to head on over?!

Where | Near Chashme Shahi

4. Gulmarg Gondola

Gulmarg has Asia's second highest cable cars *hurray!* and so the Gondola ride is surely the highlight of everyone’s trip since the entire valley opens up to you. The narrow pathways, pine trees, horses, cattle, even the tiniest of details come into view. Enjoy a cup of tea with fresh and piping hot paranthas at the first checkpoint, Kongdoori. Food with a view!

Where | Kongdoori, Gulmarg

5. Pampore

‘The Saffron town of Kashmir’- Pampore is known for its expansive saffron fields. In November, the flowers are in full bloom from which the saffron threads are plucked out. The annual Saffron Festival is organized during the harvest season attracting tourists from far and wide. The sight of purple flowers in a field surrounded by hills is a visual delight.

Where | Pampore

6. Zabarwan Park

This is unlike other parks and gardens in Kashmir since it is home to a gigantic aero-balloon. It can hold about 4-5 people at once and takes you to an elevation of about 120 metres which is good enough to give you a gorgeous view of the nearby Dal Lake and the mountains. Let your eyes feast on lush green hills and snow capped peaks as the wind caresses your soul!

Where | Boulevard Road

7. Daksum

This one is kind of a hidden gem. Flocks of sheep, verdant landscapes, and the Bringhi river gushing by, it is the ideal spot for spending a peaceful day in the lap of nature. The trek to Kishtwar and Sinthan also goes through Daksum. And if you’re not into trekking, you can even organize a picnic amidst the sweet smelling flowers and just absorb the lush beauty around.

Where | Anantnag

8. Martand Sun Temple

Remember the song ‘Bismil’ from Shahid Kapoor’s Haider; the elaborate play-in-a-dance sequence? The song was shot in the ruins of this ancient sun temple. It's considered to be an excellent specimen of architecture and one can still see the intricate carvings on the remaining walls. During winters, the temple is swathed in slow, making it a beauteous spot.

Where | Surya Mandir Road, Anantnag

Why live on photoshopped wallpapers when the real deal is so much better?

Kashmiri Trailblazer