Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar Transfer to Hotel (35 mins Drive) | Local Sightseeing
Upon your arrival at Srinagar International Airport, you will be welcomed by our representative, who will assist and escort you to your waiting vehicle. The 35-minute drive to your hotel takes you through the heart of New Srinagar, passing the Abdullah Bridge, which connects the banks of the Jhelum River, meandering toward the north-western frontier of Kashmir. After hotel check-in, proceed for local sightseeing, including visits to the famous Mughal Gardens: Cheshma Shahi (Royal Spring), Nishat Bagh (Garden of Pleasure), Shalimar Bagh (Abode of Love). These beautiful gardens, laid out in the 16th century, line the banks of Dal Lake in central Srinagar. You'll also visit the Shankaracharya Temple, located on a hilltop and offering panoramic views of the city, Dal Lake, and the Jhelum River. En route, visit a handloom centre famous for Pashmina and Shahtoosh shawls and world-renowned Kashmiri carpets.
Overnight Stay in Srinagar
Day 2: Srinagar to Sonmarg – Day Trip (90 km / 3 hrs one way)
After breakfast, drive to the majestic mountain resort of Sonmarg. The route offers a picturesque countryside drive through rolling hills, lush forests, sparkling streams, and blooming rice fields. Pass through Kangan, which caters to the local region's needs, and continue to Mammar, known for its trout farm. Stop at Gagangir, a scenic spot in the middle of the Sindh River, resembling an island surrounded by snow-covered glaciers. In Sonmarg, enjoy a 3-hour walk, horseback ride, or local union cab ride to Thajiwas Glacier (on direct payment basis). Later, explore the town market or simply observe the daily routine of the local people. Return to Srinagar in the evening.
Overnight Stay in Srinagar
Day 3: Srinagar to Gulmarg (50 km / 2 hrs)
A pleasant drive through rolling countryside and pine-covered slopes. En route, stop at Tangmarg for local handicrafts or tea. The final 14 km climb from Tangmarg to Gulmarg offers spectacular Himalayan vistas and snow views during winter months.
Overnight Stay at Gulmarg
Day 4: Srinagar to Pahalgam (90 km / 2.5–3 hrs)
A scenic drive along the Lidder River takes you through picturesque valleys and saffron fields. En route, visit Awantipora Ruins and Anantnag Sulphur Springs, or stop at Apple Orchards and Bat Factories near Pampore. The journey offers breathtaking countryside views and glimpses of Kashmiri village life.
Overnight Stay at Pahalgam
Day 5: Departure from Srinagar
After an early breakfast, transfer to Srinagar Airport for your return flight. Our driver will assist you with your luggage and ensure a smooth drop-off at the terminal.
End Of Tour
FAQs
Kashmir Valley (Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg):
March to October (Spring & Summer for flowers, greenery, and pleasant weather).
December to February (Winter for snow and skiing in Gulmarg).
July to August is a good time to visit for the Amarnath Yatra
Thajiwas Glacier in Sonmarg offers snow even during early summer (May–June).
Jammu Region (Vaishno Devi, Patnitop):
October to April (Pleasant climate for pilgrimage and leisure).
Yes, the tourist areas in Jammu & Kashmir are generally safe and secure. The Indian Army and local authorities ensure the safety of visitors. Always check travel advisories and stay in touch with your tour operator.
Indian citizens: No permit is required for most tourist destinations.
Foreign nationals: Require a permit for certain border areas (like Nubra Valley, if visiting Ladakh).
Kashmir Valley and Jammu are open without restrictions.
Kashmir Valley: Srinagar (Dal Lake, Mughal Gardens), Gulmarg (skiing), Pahalgam (Betaab Valley), Sonamarg (Thajiwas Glacier).
Jammu Region: Vaishno Devi Temple (Katra), Patnitop, Shivkhori Cave Temple, Bhaderwah.
Enjoy Shikara rides, Gondola rides, trekking, camping, paragliding, skiing, river rafting, shopping for pashmina, carpets, saffron, walnuts and more.
By Air: Srinagar and Jammu airports are well-connected to major Indian cities.
By Train: Jammu Tawi and Udhampur are major railway stations.
By Road: NH44 connects Jammu with the rest of India. Private taxis, buses, and shared cabs are available.
Luxury: The LaLiT Grand Palace, Khyber Resort (Gulmarg), Vivanta Dal View (Srinagar).
Mid-range: Welcome Heritage Gurkha Houseboats, Hotel Heevan.
Budget: Guesthouses, budget hotels, homestays in almost every major town.
Houseboats: Unique stays on Dal and Nigeen Lake in Srinagar.
Prepaid SIMs from outside J&K do not work in Kashmir Valley due to security restrictions.
Postpaid connections (Airtel, Jio, BSNL) work well.
Internet is available but may be slower or subject to temporary restrictions.
Wi-Fi is available at hotels.
Summer (Apr–Oct): Light woolens, sunglasses, sunscreen, walking shoes.
Winter (Nov–Feb): Heavy woolens, gloves, thermal wear, snow boots.
Rain protection (umbrella or raincoat) for unpredictable showers.
Valid ID proof and photocopies.
It’s highly recommended, especially during peak seasons (May–June, December–January). Advance bookings ensure availability for hotels, vehicles, and guides. Helicopter tickets for Vaishno Devi should be booked early. Gondola rides to be booked online in advance, especially during peak tourist season and snow months.
Local guides are available for gardens, shrines, and city tours. Houseboat hosts also help plan itineraries.
Carry your personal medications.
Altitude sickness is rare in Kashmir but carry preventive meds for higher altitudes.
Drink only bottled or filtered water.
Stay hydrated and avoid overeating during treks.
Some of the useful emergency contacts are
Tourist Police (Srinagar): +91-194-2455161
Jammu & Kashmir Tourism: 0194-2502270
Ambulance: 102
Police: 100
Fire: 101
Try the Wazwan Thali (multi-course Kashmiri feast), Gushtaba, Tabak Maaz, Rogan Josh, Dum Aloo, Yakhni, Kashmiri Kehwa and Noon Chai (Pink tea)
Jammu offers Rajma-Chawal, Kalari cheese, and Kachalu chaat.
Vegetarian and Jain options are also available at most places.
Respect religious sentiments, especially near mosques and temples.
Dress modestly in villages and religious places.
Ask permission before photographing locals, especially in rural areas.
Yes, Gulmarg, Sonamarg, and Pahalgam receive heavy snowfall between December and February, ideal for snow sports.
ATMs are available in major towns.
Card payments are accepted in hotels and restaurants in cities, but in remote areas, carry adequate cash.
Srinagar is known for its beautiful Dal Lake, houseboats, Mughal gardens, Shikara rides, Kashmiri handicrafts, and wazwan cuisine.Some of the top attractions are Dal Lake & Nigeen Lake
Mughal Gardens (Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, Chashme Shahi)
Hazratbal Shrine
Shankaracharya Temple
Floating vegetable market
Local bazaars (Lal Chowk, Polo View)
Yes, houseboats are available on Dal Lake and Nigeen Lake. They range from budget to luxury and include meals and Shikara access. A stay of 2–3 nights is ideal to explore key sights and enjoy the lakeside charm.