Express Wanderlust: Here’s what you should know before your trip to Kashmir

About the place: Situated in the northernmost part of the country, Kashmir is predominantly a mountainous region with deep, narrow valleys, and high, barren plateaus. It is hailed as 'Paradise on Earth' owing to its scenic beauty, stunning snowfall and warmth of the local people. Being one of the top tourist destinations, this place has a lot to offer. (Source: Getty/Thinkstock)

How to reach: It is well connected to the major cities, making air, railways and road travel convenient and feasible. If you are thinking og taking a flight, you can land directly at the Srinagar airport. (Source: Getty/Thinkstock)

Best time to visit: Kashmir is an all-season tourist attraction. If you are a winter lover and want to enjoy snowfall, December and January are the best months for you. But, if you want to enjoy the picturesque landscape, you should plan your visit between March and May. During this period, you will also get to enjoy fresh Fruits and flowers. (Source: Getty/Thinkstock)

Places to visit: Srinagar is famous for its houseboats and gardens. It's a place where you can easily spend hours wandering along the old city streets near the Jhelum river. (Source: Getty/Thinkstock)

Dal Lake: It is the major attraction of Srinagar. You will find hundreds of houseboats to accommodate you and your family, and take you around the lake. You'll also find tourist markets in-between. Spending a night in one of the boats will be a memorable experience. (Source: Getty/Thinkstock)

Nishat Bagh: Also known as 'the garden of bliss', it is set on the banks of the Dal Lake. It offers a great sunset view of the lake. The picture above is of its autumnal beauty, which is between September and November. (Source: Getty/Thinkstock)

Shalimar Garden: It is located on the outskirts of Srinagar city. The garden was built by Mughal Emperor Jahangir for his beloved wife, Noor Jahan. It is now a public park, also known as the "Crown of Srinagar". (Source: Getty/Thinkstock)

Gulmarg: It is an ideal place for nature and adventure lovers. Gulmarg is a popular destination for skiing. Taking a ropeway ride is a must, if you want to enjoy the aerial view. (Source: Getty/Thinkstock)

Pahalgam: The natural beauty of Pahalgam and the verdant Lidder Valley attracts tourists. It provides an ideal setting for activities like hiking, trekking, and fishing. It is also the starting point of the annual pilgrimage to the holy shrine of Amarnath. (Source: Getty/Thinkstock)

Patnitop: From endless meadows and the panoramic landscapes of the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, to activities like skiing and trekking, this place has it all, making it a popular tourist destination. (Source: Getty/Thinkstock)

Kashmiri cuisine: The region offers a wide array of food items, particularly authentic non-veg cuisines made of chicken, mutton and fish, some of which have become hugely popular across the nation. Some of its main dishes are 'rogan josh' and 'wazwan and harissa'. Rice is the staple food of Kashmir. The two types of tea here are 'noon chai', or 'sheer chai' and 'kahwah' -- must for tea lovers. (Source: Getty/Thinkstock)

Shopping: Do not return without having shopped for Kashmiri shawls and stoles, which are famous worldwide. Dry fruits, kahwah chai, and fruits like apples, and cherries must be on your shopping list. Also, if you are an antique-jewellery lover, you will find the Kashmiri jewellery elegant and perfect. (Source: Getty/Thinkstock)