Here’s a top 10 list of palaces and royal heritage sites to visit in Kashmir (and nearby Jammu & Kashmir region) — perfect for history, architecture, and culture lovers:

🏰 Top 10 Palaces & Royal Heritage Sites in Kashmir

1. Gulab Bhavan (The LaLiT Grand Palace), Srinagar – Historic palace-turned-heritage hotel overlooking Dal Lake, built for the Dogra maharajas with elegant European-Kashmiri design.

1. Pari Mahal, Srinagar – The “Palace of Fairies,” a terraced Mughal-era palace on Zabarwan Hills with panoramic views of Dal Lake and Srinagar.
2. Maharaja Palace, Gulmarg – Once a royal residence built by Maharaja Hari Singh, showcasing exquisite woodwork and period architecture.
3. Sher Garhi Palace, Srinagar – Historic royal palace on the Jhelum River, former residence of Afghan and Dogra rulers, now partly housing museums.
4. Gulmarg Palace (Heritage Site) – A classic Kashmir palace structure reflecting European style in the scenic hill town of Gulmarg (distinct from the hotel above).
5. Hari Parbat Fort & Palace Complex, Srinagar – Historic hilltop fortress with royal structures and temples, offering views over the valley.
6. Mubarak Mandi Palace, Jammu – Grand palace complex with multiple royal halls and courtyards from Dogra rule (worth a side trip from Kashmir).
7. Amar Mahal Palace, Jammu – 19th-century palace with art gallery and royal collections (including a 120 kg golden throne) now a museum.
8. Hari Niwas Palace, Jammu – Elegant early 20th-century Art Deco palace, former royal residence later converted into a heritage hotel.
9. Ramnagar Palace & Sheesh Mahal (near Udhampur/Jammu) – Traditional royal residence with intricate mirror work and painted walls (extendable stop on a cultural route).

Note: Several famous Mughal gardens in Srinagar (e.g., Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh) were originally royal retreats and while not strictly “palaces” they reflect imperial heritage and are often paired with palace visits.

📍 Tips for Visiting

• Most palaces in Srinagar are in or near the city and can be combined with a Dal Lake tour.
• Gulmarg Palace makes a great stop if you’re visiting the hill resort of Gulmarg.
• Jammu palaces like Mubarak Mandi, Amar Mahal, and Hari Niwas are in the Jammu region — ideal for a heritage excursion before or after the Kashmir Valley trip.

Would you like a map itinerary connecting these palaces with sightseeing suggestions (best days to visit & entry info)? 😊