Day 01: Arrival in Srinagar & Dal Lake

Arrival: Upon arrival at Srinagar airport or Banihal train station, you will be greeted by your tour manager.

Travel Details:

From Srinagar Airport (SXR): The distance to Dal Lake is approximately 28 kilometers, with a travel time of about 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic.

From Banihal Train Station (BAHL): The distance to Dal Lake is around 101 kilometers, and the scenic drive takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours.

Visiting Places:

Houseboat at Dal Lake: Check into a traditional, elegant houseboat for a unique and memorable stay.

Shikara Ride: In the evening, enjoy a peaceful shikara ride on the iconic Dal Lake, gliding past floating gardens and enjoying the serene views of the surrounding mountains and houseboats.

Dinner and Stay: Dinner and overnight stay in a houseboat at Dal Lake, Srinagar.

Day 02: Srinagar Local Delights

Morning: After breakfast, check out from your houseboat.

Visiting Places:

Mughal Gardens: Explore the exquisite Mughal gardens, including Nishat Bagh (the Garden of Joy) and Shalimar Bagh (the Abode of Love), known for their terraced lawns, cascading fountains, and vibrant flowerbeds.

Shankaracharya Temple: Visit this ancient temple perched on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of Srinagar city and Dal Lake.

Pari Mahal: Also known as the "Palace of Fairies," this seven-terraced garden overlooking the city provides a stunning view and a glimpse into Mughal architecture.

Dinner and Stay: Check in to your pre-booked hotel or resort for dinner and an overnight stay in Srinagar.

Day 03: Srinagar to Pahalgam a scenic Drive

Morning: Check out from your hotel in Srinagar after breakfast.

Travel Details: Drive from Srinagar to Pahalgam, a distance of approximately 90 kilometers. The journey takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, offering picturesque views of the countryside and the Lidder River.

Visiting Places:

Pahalgam: Known as the "Valley of Shepherds," Pahalgam is a beautiful hill station where you can relax and soak in the natural beauty.

En Route: You will pass through the famous saffron fields of Pampore and the beautiful towns of Awantipora and Anantnag.

Dinner and Stay: Check in to your hotel or resort for dinner and an overnight stay in Pahalgam.

Day 04: Pahalgam to Srinagar

Morning: Enjoy the scenic beauty of Pahalgam.

Visiting Places:

Betaab Valley: Visit this picturesque valley, named after the Bollywood movie shot here, with lush meadows and clear streams.

Aru Valley: An alpine meadow with stunning views, serving as a base camp for several treks. You can take a pony ride to explore the area.

Chandanwari: The starting point of the Amarnath Yatra, known for its snow bridges and natural beauty.

Afternoon: Drive back to Srinagar.

Travel Details: The return journey to Srinagar is about 90 kilometers, taking roughly 2.5 to 3 hours.

Dinner and Stay: Check in to your hotel or resort in Srinagar for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 05: The Meadow of Flowers, Gulmarg

Morning: Embark on a full-day trip to Gulmarg, the "Meadow of Flowers."

Travel Details: The distance from Srinagar to Gulmarg is around 50 kilometers, with a travel time of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.

Visiting Places:

Gulmarg Gondola: Take a ride on the Gulmarg Gondola, one of the highest cable cars in the world. The ride has two phases, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas.

Gulmarg Golf Course: Visit the highest green golf course in the world.

St. Mary's Church: Explore this historic Victorian-style church.

Evening: Drive back to Srinagar.

Dinner and Stay: Dinner and overnight stay in Srinagar.

Day 06: The Golden Meadows of Sonmarg

Morning: Leave for a day trip to Sonmarg, the "Meadow of Gold."

Travel Details: The distance from Srinagar to Sonmarg is about 80 kilometers, and the drive takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours.

Visiting Places:

Thajiwas Glacier: The main attraction, accessible by pony ride from Sonmarg. This glacier is a stunning sight, with snow-capped peaks and beautiful landscapes.

Baltal Valley: See the base camp for the Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage.

Sindh River: Enjoy the serene banks of the Sindh River, a perfect spot for photography and relaxation.

Evening: Drive back to Srinagar.

Dinner and Stay: Dinner and overnight stay in Srinagar.

Day 07: Departure

Morning: After breakfast, check out from your hotel.

Travel Details: You will be transferred to either Srinagar airport or Banihal train station for your onward journey, carrying the beautiful memories of your trip to Kashmir.

To complete your journey for Kashmir we are mentioning below all major tourist attractions for your adding in above tour plan to visit. Before book your trip please check and advise us if any changes or replace ‘customize this trip plan’  

Srinagar, often called the "Venice of the East," is a city of immense natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. From serene lakes and vibrant gardens to ancient shrines, there is a lot to explore. Here are some of the top tourist places to visit in Srinagar:

TOURIST ATTRACTIONS OF SRINAGAR

Lakes and Waterways:

Dal Lake: Known as the "Jewel in the Crown of Kashmir," this iconic lake is a must-visit. You can enjoy a relaxing shikara ride (a traditional wooden boat), stay in a beautiful houseboat, and even visit the unique floating market.

Nigeen Lake: A quieter and more serene alternative to Dal Lake, Nigeen Lake is surrounded by willow and poplar trees. It's an ideal spot for a peaceful shikara ride and enjoying the tranquility.

Wular Lake: One of the largest freshwater lakes in Asia, Wular Lake is a designated Ramsar Site and is known for its stunning natural beauty and rich ecosystem, making it a great spot for birdwatching and photography.

Gardens:

Mughal Gardens: These terraced gardens are a testament to the Mughal emperors' love for nature and architecture. The most famous ones include:

1.   Shalimar Bagh: Built by Emperor Jahangir for his wife, Nur Jahan, this is the largest Mughal garden in the valley.

2.   Nishat Bagh: Known as the "Garden of Bliss," it's the second-largest Mughal garden, offering breathtaking views of the Dal Lake and Zabarwan Mountains.

3.   Chashme Shahi: Famous for its natural spring with believed therapeutic properties, this garden is a serene and charming retreat.

Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden: Located at the foothills of the Zabarwan Range, this is Asia's largest tulip garden. It's a spectacular sight during the spring season when the annual tulip festival is held.

Religious and Historical Sites

Shankaracharya Temple: Located atop Gopadri Hill, this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva offers panoramic views of Srinagar, including Dal Lake and the surrounding valleys.

Hazratbal Shrine: Situated on the western banks of Dal Lake, this is one of the most revered Muslim shrines in Kashmir. It is believed to house a relic of the Prophet Muhammad.

Hari Parbat: This hill houses a fort built by Emperor Akbar and is a site of religious significance with a temple, a mosque, and a gurdwara, symbolizing the region's religious harmony.

Pari Mahal: Also known as the "House of Fairies," this is a beautiful seven-terraced garden with a historic monument, offering a blend of Mughal and Persian architectural styles.

Shopping and Local Culture:

Lal Chowk and Polo View Market: These are the perfect places to shop for authentic Kashmiri handicrafts, including Pashmina shawls, papier-mâché products, and other local souvenirs.

Shri Pratap Singh Museum: This museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts and antiques from the history of Jammu, Kashmir, and other surrounding regions.

TOURIST ATTRACTIONS OF SONMARG

Sonmarg, which translates to "Meadow of Gold," is a captivating hill station in Jammu and Kashmir. Situated at an altitude of 2,730 meters, it's a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts, with a stunning landscape of alpine meadows, glaciers, and snow-capped peaks.

Top Places to Visit and Things to Do in Sonmarg

Thajiwas Glacier: This is one of the most famous attractions in Sonmarg. The glacier is accessible via a short trek or a pony ride, and it offers breathtaking views of pristine snow, waterfalls, and scenic landscapes. It's a great spot for snow activities and photography, even in summer.

Zoji La Pass: A high mountain pass that connects Kashmir to Ladakh, Zoji La is known for its stunning and dramatic landscapes. The drive is an adventure in itself, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas. The pass is often closed during winter due to heavy snowfall.

Nilagrad River: Known for its reddish water, this gushing river is believed to have medicinal properties. It's a picturesque spot for a relaxing picnic or a nature walk.

Vishansar Lake: Part of the famous Kashmir Great Lakes Trek, this stunning blue lake is surrounded by lush green meadows and alpine flowers. It's a perfect spot for trekking, camping, and trout fishing.

Baltal Valley: Located 15 km from Sonmarg, this valley serves as a base camp for the Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage. It's a beautiful location with waterfalls, glaciers, and lush meadows, ideal for camping and trekking.

The Kashmir Great Lakes Trek: Sonmarg is a popular starting point for this renowned trek. The multi-day trek takes you through a series of stunning high-altitude lakes, including Vishansar, Krishnasar, Gadsar, and Gangabal, offering an unforgettable experience for serious trekkers.

Adventure Activities: Sonmarg is an ideal destination for adventure lovers. You can enjoy various activities, including trekking, camping, horse/pony riding, and even white water rafting on the Indus River.

Best Time to Visit Sonmarg:

The best time to visit Sonmarg is during the summer months, from April to June. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and the valley is adorned with vibrant flowers and lush greenery. The Srinagar-Leh highway, which leads to Sonmarg, is also open.

While Sonmarg is a year-round destination, the winters (October to March) are characterized by heavy snowfall, making some areas inaccessible. However, if you are a snow lover and want to experience winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, this season can be a great choice.

TOURIST ATTRACTIONS OF GULMARG

Gulmarg, which translates to "Meadow of Flowers," is a breathtaking hill station in Jammu and Kashmir. Known as a premier ski destination, it also offers stunning natural beauty and a wide range of activities throughout the year. Here is a guide to the top places and activities in Gulmarg.

Top Attractions and Activities

Gulmarg Gondola: This is the main highlight of any trip to Gulmarg. It's the second-highest and second-longest cable car in the world. The ride is divided into two phases:

1.   Phase 1: Takes you from Gulmarg to Kongdoori Station, offering spectacular views of the surrounding meadows and mountains.

2.   Phase 2: Continues from Kongdoori to Apharwat Peak, reaching an altitude of over 13,000 feet. This phase provides access to prime ski slopes and breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas.

Apharwat Peak: Located at the end of the second phase of the Gondola, this peak is a paradise for adventure seekers. It's a popular destination for skiing, snowboarding, and trekking.

Alpather Lake: Situated at the base of the Apharwat Peak, this beautiful high-altitude lake is often referred to as the "Frozen Lake" because it remains frozen for most of the year, from November to June. It's a great spot for a scenic trek or pony ride.

Gulmarg Golf Course: Situated at an altitude of 2,650 meters, this is one of the highest green golf courses in the world. It's a picturesque spot for both golf enthusiasts and casual visitors who want to enjoy the serene environment.

St. Mary's Church: A charming and historic Victorian-era church with a steep green roof, it stands as a reminder of the colonial past and offers a peaceful setting amidst the meadows.

Strawberry Valley: A hidden gem with lush meadows, this valley is covered in wild strawberries during the summer months. It's a great place for a peaceful walk, picnic, and photography.

Khilanmarg: A picturesque meadow located a short distance from Gulmarg, offering stunning views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks. It's accessible by a pony ride or a short trek and is a popular spot for skiing in winter.

Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve: This reserve is home to a variety of rare and endangered flora and fauna. It's a great place for nature walks and birdwatching.

Drung Waterfall: A mesmerizing natural wonder that is particularly popular in winter when the water freezes, creating a spectacular wall of ice and icicles.

Skiing and Snowboarding: Gulmarg is renowned as one of the best skiing destinations in India. The winter months (December to March) are ideal for these activities, with a variety of slopes available for all skill levels, from beginners to experts.

Best Time to Visit:

Summer (April to June): This is the best time for sightseeing, trekking, and enjoying the pleasant weather. The meadows are covered in a carpet of colorful wildflowers, and the scenery is vibrant and lush.

Winter (December to March): If you're a winter sports enthusiast, this is the ideal time to visit. The entire valley is blanketed in snow, creating perfect conditions for skiing, snowboarding, and other snow activities.

TOURIST ATTRACTIONS OF PAHALGAM

Pahalgam is a stunning hill station in Jammu and Kashmir, often referred to as the "Valley of Shepherds." It is a serene and picturesque town located on the banks of the Lidder River, surrounded by dense pine and deodar forests, meadows, and snow-capped peaks. It's a popular starting point for various treks and a key destination for pilgrims heading to the Amarnath Cave.

Top Places to Visit and Things to Do in Pahalgam:

Aru Valley: Located about 12 km from Pahalgam, Aru is a small yet beautiful village serving as a base camp for treks to the Kolahoi Glacier and Tarsar Lake. The valley is famous for its lush green meadows, alpine meadows, and breathtaking views, making it a perfect spot for nature walks and photography.

Betaab Valley: Named after the Bollywood film "Betaab" which was shot here, this valley is a visual treat. Surrounded by snow-covered mountains, pine trees, and the flowing Lidder River, it's a great spot for a picnic and enjoying the natural beauty.

Chandanwari: This place is of great religious significance as it is the starting point of the annual Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage. Located 15 km from Pahalgam, it's known for its snow bridge and is a popular spot for snow sledging during winter.

Baisaran Hills: Often called "Mini Switzerland" due to its lush green meadows and resemblance to the landscapes of Switzerland, Baisaran is a scenic hilltop meadow. You can reach it by pony ride and enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Lidder Valley and Pahalgam town.

Lidder River: This gushing river is a central part of Pahalgam's landscape. You can enjoy various activities like river rafting, trout fishing, and simply relaxing on its banks, soaking in the serene environment.

Pahalgam Golf Course: Located at a high altitude, this 18-hole golf course is set against a backdrop of majestic mountains and is a treat for both golfers and those who appreciate scenic beauty.

Kolahoi Glacier: This is a mesmerizing hiking experience for adventure lovers. The trek to the glacier from Aru Valley offers spectacular views of waterfalls, lush green meadows, and the Himalayas.

Overa-Aru Wildlife Sanctuary: A protected area in the Aru Valley, this sanctuary is a great place for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. It's home to various species of flora and fauna, including the musk deer and brown bear.

Best Time to Visit Pahalgam:

Pahalgam is a destination that can be visited year-round, with each season offering a unique experience:

Summer (April to June): This is the peak tourist season. The weather is pleasant and comfortable, making it ideal for sightseeing, trekking, and other outdoor activities. The meadows are in full bloom with vibrant flowers.

Monsoon (July to September): While there may be occasional rainfall, the valley becomes incredibly lush and green during this time. The Amarnath Yatra also takes place during these months, so the area can be crowded with pilgrims.

Winter (October to March): Pahalgam transforms into a snow-covered wonderland. The temperatures drop, and it's the perfect time for snow lovers to enjoy activities like skiing and sledging. The scenery is surreal, with a thick blanket of snow covering the landscapes.