Kashmir, famously known as the “Paradise on Earth,” is a land of breathtaking natural beauty. Kashmir’s two natural advantages are its mountains on the one hand, and lakes and rivers on the other. These waterways enhance the beauty of the land and are among the chief sources that attract tourists to its verdant valleys. But more than just a means of pleasure, the waterways are an activity-oriented way of discovering new leisure sports.

The magnificent snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and glistening rivers make it a perfect destination for adventure enthusiasts. The state of Jammu and Kashmir has an extensive network of water bodies and offers a variety of water sports for travelers to enjoy. In this article, we will discuss some of the best water sports in Kashmir.

The very first thing which comes to our mind when we think about Water Sports is Rafting. It is one of the most popular water sports in Kashmir, and it is gaining immense popularity among adventure enthusiasts. The state has many rivers that are perfect for rafting, including the Indus, Lidder, and Zanskar. The thrill of maneuvering through the rapids and navigating the turbulent waters is an experience that every adventure lover should try. The rivers offer varying levels of difficulty, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters.

The Lidder River, located in Pahalgam, is a perfect spot for beginners. The river has a gentle current and provides an excellent opportunity for rafters to experience the beauty of the Kashmir valley while enjoying the sport. For experienced rafters, the Zanskar River, located in Ladakh, is a perfect choice. The river flows through steep gorges, and the rapids are challenging, making it an exciting adventure. Apart from Rafting, Canoeing, and kayaking are also popular water sports in Kashmir, and the Dal Lake in Srinagar is the perfect spot for these activities. The lake is vast, and the calm waters provide an excellent opportunity for travelers to explore the beauty of the surroundings while enjoying the sport. The lake has several small islands and beautiful gardens that one can visit while canoeing or kayaking.

Water skiing is also one of the choices these days and it’s a thrilling sport that is gaining popularity in Kashmir. The sport involves skiing on water using a ski board pulled by a motorboat. The Dal Lake and the Nagin Lake in Srinagar are popular spots for water skiing. The calm waters of the lakes provide an excellent opportunity for beginners to learn the sport, while the more experienced skiers can enjoy the thrill of skiing on the waves.

The state has many rivers and streams that are perfect for fishing. SO, Fishing is another popular water sport in Kashmir. Trout fishing is a popular activity in the Lidder River, located in Pahalgam. The river is known for its crystal-clear waters and is home to brown and rainbow trout. The Sindh River in Ganderbal is another popular spot for fishing. The river is home to a variety of fish, including trout, mahseer, and carp.

One thing without which a Kashmir trip can never be completed is a Shikara ride. It’s a must-do activity when in Kashmir. The Shikara is a traditional wooden boat that is used to navigate through the calm waters of the lakes. The Dal Lake in Srinagar is the most popular spot for Shikara rides. The boat ride takes travelers through the beautiful Mughal Gardens, floating vegetable gardens, and the famous houseboats.

In conclusion, Water sports in Kashmir offer a unique and thrilling experience for adventure enthusiasts. The state has a vast network of water bodies, including rivers, lakes, and streams, that provide excellent opportunities for water sports. These sports not only provide an adrenaline rush but also allow travelers to explore the beauty of the surroundings. So, if you’re planning a trip to Kashmir, don’t forget to add water sports to your itinerary.