Who knew there was skiing in Kashmir? Those must be some steep slopes. High in the Himalayas is a ski resort called Gulmarg, where you are pretty certain to find some of the most uncharted and untouched snow in the world. Indeed, you might be alone all day, with an entire mountainside to yourself. Years ago, Kashmir was associated with danger for different reasons. Sporadic fighting and tensions between India and Pakistan put the region on the “no-go” list for all but the most adventure-seeking travelers. But one of the most beautiful areas in the world is now safer and seeing many more visitors. If you are looking for something a little less heady and more accessible than Gulmarg, at the foot of the Pir Panjal range is the stunning Dal Lake. Here everyone lives in houseboats and you can explore the lake and its “floating” markets by water taxi in a spectacular natural setting.