Ultimate Kashmir Travel Guide: Detailed Itinerary, Travel Tips & Must-Visit Places

Kashmir – often called “Paradise on Earth” – is a dream destination for travelers seeking mesmerizing landscapes, snow-capped mountains, serene lakes, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re planning a short trip or an extended stay, this detailed itinerary ensures you make the most of your time in Kashmir. From exploring Srinagar’s famous Dal Lake to skiing in Gulmarg, visiting the picturesque valleys of Pahalgam, and marveling at the golden meadows of Sonmarg, this guide covers everything you need to know for an unforgettable Kashmir trip.

✈ How to Reach Kashmir?

By Air:

The Srinagar International Airport (SXR) is the main airport in Kashmir and is well-connected with major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Kolkata.

• From Delhi: 1.5 hours (Direct flights available)

• From Mumbai: 2.5 hours (Direct flights available)

• From Bangalore/Kolkata: Connecting flights via Delhi

🚖 Airport to City Transfers:

• Prepaid taxis are available at the airport (₹700-₹900 to Lal Chowk)

• Local cabs & private taxis (₹600-₹1200 based on distance)

• Auto-rickshaws (only for short distances)

• Many hotels also offer pickup services

By Train:

The nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi (JAT) (~270 km from Srinagar).

• From Delhi: Rajdhani Express (~10 hours)

• From Mumbai: Swaraj Express (~20 hours)

• From Jammu, you can take a shared cab (₹800-₹1200 per person) or a private taxi (₹4000-₹6000) to Srinagar (7-8 hours).

By Road:

• From Jammu to Srinagar: 7-8 hours via NH44 (scenic but winding roads)

• From Delhi to Srinagar: ~15-18 hours (overnight Volvo buses available)

🏨 Where to Stay in Kashmir?

Your accommodation choice should depend on your budget and preference. Here are the best areas to stay in each region:

1. Srinagar:

2. Gulmarg:

3. Pahalgam:

4. Sonmarg:

📍 Best Kashmir Itinerary (4N/5D to 7N/8D)

🔹 Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar – Explore the City

🚖 Transfer from Srinagar Airport → Check-in at Houseboat/Hotel

• Enjoy a Shikara Ride on Dal Lake

• Visit the Mughal Gardens (Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, Chashme Shahi)

• Explore Shankaracharya Temple for a panoramic city view

• Stroll through Lal Chowk Market for Kashmiri Pashmina & handicrafts

• Overnight stay in Srinagar

🔹 Day 2: Srinagar to Gulmarg – A Day of Adventure & Snow

🚗 Travel: 2-hour drive (~50 km)

• Visit Gulmarg Gondola (Asia’s highest cable car) – Book in advance

• Try Skiing & Snowboarding (Dec-March) or ATV rides & Pony rides (Summer)

• Walk through the Strawberry Valley & Outer Circle Walk

• Enjoy a cup of Kahwa (Kashmiri tea) at a local café

• Overnight stay in Gulmarg

🔹 Day 3: Gulmarg to Pahalgam – The Valley of Shepherds

🚗 Travel: 4-hour drive (~140 km)

• Visit Awantipora Ruins en route

• Explore Betaab Valley, Aru Valley & Chandanwari (Hire local cabs)

• Go for white-water rafting in Lidder River (March-June)

• Enjoy a leisure walk near the meadows & pine forests

• Overnight stay in Pahalgam

🔹 Day 4: Pahalgam to Sonmarg – The Meadow of Gold

🚗 Travel: 5-hour drive (~180 km)

• Visit Thajiwas Glacier (Pony ride recommended)

• Enjoy the Zoji La Pass scenic drive (if open)

• Optional: River Rafting in Sindh River

• Overnight stay in Sonmarg

🔹 Day 5: Sonmarg to Srinagar – Local Sightseeing & Departure

🚗 Travel: 2.5-hour drive (~80 km)

• Visit Hazratbal Shrine

• Enjoy Kashmiri Wazwan Cuisine before departure

• Transfer to Srinagar Airport for onward journey

🔥 Pro Tips for a Budget-Friendly Kashmir Trip

✔️ Book flights 2-3 months in advance for cheaper fares

✔️ Travel in April-June (Spring-Summer) or Oct-Dec (Snow season)

✔️ Use shared cabs or JKSRTC buses for budget travel

✔️ Book hotels & houseboats in advance (especially in peak season)

✔️ Try local Kashmiri dishes like Rogan Josh, Dum Aloo & Modur Pulao

❓ FAQs for Kashmir Travel

✈ Now that you have the perfect itinerary, it’s time to plan your Kashmir adventure! 🌿🏔️ Click Here to see Kashmir Packages!

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