Embarking on a journey to the breathtaking valleys and picturesque landscapes of Kashmir is a dream come true for many travelers. At least once in a lifetime, one must visit Kashmir. With its snow-capped mountains, serene lakes, and lush green meadows, the Kashmir trip offers an unparalleled experience that captivates the senses. There may be a situation you may not have more than 5 days to visit including travel.In this blog post, we will guide you through a meticulously planned 5-day itinerary for a self-planned Kashmir trip, ensuring you make the most of your visit to this heavenly destination.
Table of Contents
Mobile Connection and local sim
It is also important to note that only a post-paid network works in Kashmir.It is advisable to have at least two mobile in the family that is in working condition during Kashmir trip. Just after Srinagar airport arrival, you will find a mobile shop offering local Sim at a cost of Rs 500/- which will have enough data and call for the trip. Get at least two for in a family, you will get call and internet facility.
Best time for Kashmir trip
It depends on what you like but for sure every weather will offer you something or other. If you are a snow lover, in January and February you can plan.If you want to see colorful flowers and Tulip Garden, you should plan for April.If you want the cheapest travel, August to November may be best. Nothing to add for May or June, you can enjoy the best time there. In August and September, you can see the apple garden.
Where to stay during Kashmir trip
You must experience staying in a houseboat in Srinagar. There are two lakes that provide houseboat stay, one is the famous Dal Lake and the other is Nigeen Lake. Nigeen Lake is a quieter place surrounded by beautiful range of mountains and peace lovers would love the place. We stayed for two days in Vanda Houseboat at Nigeen Lake. One Night in a hotel in Srinagar and one night in Pahalgam. You decide after reading the entire blog but on day 1, you must spend on a houseboat. This is my suggestion
Local Transport
As there is no convenient local transport for tourists are available in Srinagar, it is best to hire a cab for full day purposes for next 4 days during Kashmir trip, till dropped to the airport in return. Per day cab may cost around 2500-3500 /- depending upon which type of cab you looking for,in terms of seating capacity and make.For reference, we got Ford Tavera for Rs 3000/- per day.If you ask in a comment,I will suggest some names but you can check online and offline as well. Every day with new cab and new driver is not a very convenient way to enjoy unless you experience a bad experience.
Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar for Kashmir trip
. If you check in around 1 pm, then after settling in the room, you can plan your evening at Dal Lake enjoying Shikara Ride. But make sure that you reach Dal Lake before dark. If you reach late in the evening and are tired then you can enjoy tea or kahwa at the houseboat and take a rest.
Day 2: Day visit to Gulmarg
I believe you have already booked your cab for this Kashmir trip and the second day is for Gulmarg visit and back to the hotel/houseboat in the evening. Known as the “Meadow of Flowers,” Gulmarg boasts lush green meadows adorned with vibrant wildflowers, making it a visual treat for visitors. The highlight of this picturesque destination is its world-famous ski resort, Gondola Ride, which attracts skiing enthusiasts from around the globe. With its powdery snow-covered slopes and thrilling cable car rides, Gulmarg provides an unforgettable winter wonderland experience. Visit to Gulmarg without a Gandola ride is incomplete. But ensure that you book tickets in advance and it is available only online.
Click here for online booking for the gondola ride
You will enjoy a whole day in Gulmarg. Start your day as early as possible from Srinagar.No need for any guide on the way. You may hire shoes to save your own shoes in between.
Day 3: Local visit to Srinagar
Srinagar Day Visit Itinerary:
1. Shankaracharya Temple:
Start your day early and head to Shankaracharya Temple, which is located on Shankaracharya Hill. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and offers stunning panoramic views of Srinagar city and the surrounding mountains.Shankaracharya Temple, located in Srinagar, is a significant religious site in the Kashmir Valley of India. Perched atop the Shankaracharya Hill, also known as Takht-e-Suleiman, the temple holds immense historical and spiritual importance. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to have been built in the 9th century AD by the famous philosopher and saint, Adi Shankaracharya. The temple’s architectural beauty and serene surroundings attract pilgrims and tourists alike. As visitors climb the steep steps leading to the temple, they are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Srinagar city and the majestic Dal Lake below. The Shankaracharya Temple serves as a sacred place for devotees to seek blessings, meditate, and connect with the divine in the tranquil ambiance of this ancient shrine
2. Hazratbal Shrine:
This is the only domed mosque in Srinagar, built with a blend of Kashmiri & Mughal architectural styles. To date, the place offers Friday prayers which attract Muslim residents in large numbers. Besides, it affords a picturesque view of the serene Dal Lake and the surrounding mountain
3. Explore Lal Chowk:
Lal Chowk is a famous commercial area in Srinagar and serves as the city center. You can take a stroll around this bustling market to experience the local life and shop for souvenirs, handicrafts, and traditional Kashmiri clothing.Lal Chowk, located in the heart of Srinagar, is a prominent square and commercial center in the capital city of Jammu and Kashmir, India. Known as “Red Square,” Lal Chowk holds historical and political significance. It has been a site for various political rallies, protests, and public gatherings
4. Visit Mughal Gardens:
Kashmir trip will be incomplete if you dont vist the wonderful Mughal garden. After lunch, head to the beautiful Mughal Gardens. Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh are two famous gardens that you can explore. These gardens are well-known for their meticulously manicured landscapes and breathtaking views of Dal Lake.
5. Shikara Ride on Dal Lake:
In the late afternoon, experience the serenity of Dal Lake with a Shikara ride. The Shikara is a traditional wooden boat decorated with vibrant colors and floral motifs. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the lake, and if you’re interested, you can visit the floating gardens and houseboats.The Shikara ride in Dal Lake also offers a glimpse into the lives of the locals as you pass by charming houseboats and floating markets. Watching skilled artisans crafting intricate handicrafts right on their floating workshops is a mesmerizing sight, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region.
6. Watch the Sunset at Dal Lake:
Stay on the Shikara until evening to witness the mesmerizing sunset over Dal Lake. The reflections of the setting sun on the tranquil waters create a picturesque scene that you’ll cherish forever. This will be your best time of Kashmir trip.
You tell your cab driver about these places, and depending upon your location, he may suggest an order of visit. But ensure, it ends with Dal Lake. It is always a joy to Shikara ride in the evening. Never go for very long ride in one go,like a three-hour ride. Bargain for best rate for one hour and go for the same duration.I got at Rs 600/- for an hour , again after some time I took another with a different route in Dal Lake
Day 4 : Srinagar to Pahalgam Transfer
There are two options,one is a day trip to Pahalgam and come back to Srinagar in night.I will suggest to night stay at Pahalgam Club & Convention Centre. It is J &K government tourism property, very beautiful location.For online booking,please click
online booking Pahalgam Club & Convention Centre
It is A day excursion from Srinagar to Pahalgam is an enjoyable adventure that reveals Kashmir’s unspoiled beauty. Pahalgam, which is around 95 km away, is a charming town tucked away in the lovely Lidder Valley. Even the drive from Srinagar to Pahalgam is enthralling as you pass by verdant meadows, tumbling waterfalls, and quaint towns as you navigate the twisting roads.On the way you can buy original saffron and dry fruits.You will also find an apple garden and can take a break to have original apple juice at cost of Rs 50/- per glass. You’ll be welcomed by stunning views of snow-capped mountains, roaring rivers, and lush valleys as you arrive at Pahalgam.
Since you don’t have all the time to visit all the important places in Pahalgam, I will recommend to visit Betab Valley and Chandanwari for sure.If you leave Srinagar early ,you can add Aru Valley also.You need to hire a separate taxi for this as Srinagar taxi is not allowed in Pahalgam. Rates are fixed destination-wise. For Betab Valley and Chandanwari, current charge is Rs 1800/-. If you are staying at Pahalgam Club & Convention Centre ,keep sufficient time to spend here itself as it is so beautifully situated at river side.
Day 5: Transfer back from Pahalgam to Srinagar airport
Virtually it was three day Kashmir trip, excluding transfer and you experienced all important points.If you have few days more. You can include Sonmarg and Dhoodhpathri. You can add days in Pahalgam to enjoy full .Finally, it is time to say goodbye with memories of a lifetime. You should keep good margin of traffic jams on highway to Srinagar Airport and time to clear security formalities.
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