Jammu Kashmir, a land of breathtaking beauty, is nestled between the Himalayas and the Pir Panjal range. As you sip a cup of kahwah and gaze out over the valley, the fresh air provides a satiating delight. The snow-capped mountains, rolling hills, immaculate lakes, and enthralling rivers all combine to create an outstanding view.
Aside from the outstanding tourist attractions, the warmth of the natives is also intriguing. A getaway here with your family or friends will bless you with everlasting memories and experiences. Here’s an itinerary that can be useful to you.
Day 1: Reach The Summer Capital Of Jammu Kashmir, Srinagar
Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, is overflowing with gorgeous sites just waiting to be discovered. The city is famous for its valley, Dal Lake, Nigeen Lake, romantic shikara rides, and Mughal gardens.
It’s the entrance to Kashmir and should be your first visit before moving on. The city is accessible by road and by airplane, which departs often from Delhi and a few major cities. After reaching, visit Dal Lake, surrounded by snow-capped mountains in the background, and spend the night on a houseboat there.
Day 2: Explore Land Of Lakes And Gardens, Srinagar
The next day, after having breakfast on the houseboat, be sure not to miss out on the unique floating flower and vegetable market that begins early in the morning. Then, you can explore stunning spots in Srinagar, such as the Pari Mahal, Mughal Gardens, Tulip Garden, and Nigeen Lake, among others.
For a historical and religious mix, you can visit Jamia Masjid, Shankaracharya Temple, and Hari Parbat. Later, you can have an evening snack at one of the charming cafés near Niggen Lake while watching the sunset. Since Nigeen Lake is comparatively quieter than Dal Lake, you can spend the night on a new houseboat there.
Day 3: Visit The Ski Resort Of Kashmir, Gulmarg
On the third day, you can head to the most active place in Kashmir, Gulmarg. It’s approximately 1.5 hours from Srinagar, so plan your trip accordingly. Gulmarg is one of the most well-known ski resorts in India and worldwide.
It’s a haven for visionaries, shutterbugs, thrill seekers, and nature buffs. For skiing, you can head to Apharwat Peak, and for a gondola ride, visit Gulmarg Gondola. Adrenaline junkies can trek to Alpather Lake, which will surely not disappoint.
A thrilling horse ride can be done at Kilanmarg, and for some bird watching, you can visit Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve. If these places aren’t enough to quench the thirst of your DSLR, visit Ningle Nallah, which is a stunning wild stream, just 10 km away from Srinagar. If you are tired, you can stay back in Gulmarg or head back to Srinagar to spend another night on a houseboat.
Day 4: Marvel At Meadow Of Gold, Sonmarg
We’re assuming that your previous day must’ve been filled with activities, so it’s time for a laid-back experience in Sonmarg. It’s around 3.5 hours away from Gulmarg and about 2.5 hours from Srinagar. Popularly known as the Meadow of Gold, it’s a beautiful hill station in Kashmir that sits at an elevation of 2,730 m above sea level.
The views of the gorgeous meadows and a bright blue sky will take your breath away. The Kheer Bhawani Temple and Gadsar Lake are must-see sights here. Sonmarg also offers stunning walnut orchards flanked by snow-capped peaks and alpine flora that you can explore. You can spend the night at one of the homestays here and try the local food.
Day 5: Head To Village Of Shepherds, Pahalgam
Begin your journey the next morning towards Pahalgam, another jewel of a spot in Kashmir, which is around 4 hours away from Sonmarg. You can stop in Pampore for a while to visit Kashmir’s famed saffron fields. Pahalgam, the Valley of Shepherds, is famous for its stunning environment, verdant woods, clear water streams, and Betaab Valley (which has appeared in a lot of Bollywood films).
If you’d like to take on another trek, you can head to Baisaran Hills. After that, you can stop at Awantipura Ruins and Anantnag Sulphur Springs on your way to get replenished. If you’ve got the energy and time, you can check out Mamaleshwar Temple and Kolahoi Glacier. After that, enjoy a night’s stay at Pahalgam and call it a day!
Day 6: Discover Chandanwari And Head To Srinagar
Chandanwari, a glacier point and the beginning site of the famous Amarnath Yatra, is barely 10 minutes from Pahalgam. It’s a rare stop for breakfast in the middle of nature, located at an elevation of 2,895 m. You can resume your trip toward Srinagar with a 30-minute detour.
Spend the night on a houseboat (if you haven’t before) or a guesthouse and enjoy a traditional local dinner. You can try authentic mutton rogan josh with traditional bread, followed by the world-renowned Kashmiri phirni for dessert. Reach Srinagar and rest!
Day 7: Relax In Srinagar
For your last day, head to the markets of Srinagar like Lal Chowk, Zaina Kadal Road, Residency Road, Polo View, and Sangarmaal City Center. Here you can shop for souvenirs, walnut wood items, carpets, spices, Kashmiri tea, copperware, and more.
You can also go on a walking tour or visit the missed places we mentioned earlier to add to your memory of your Kashmir trip. Lastly, visit the only floating post office in the world, situated in Dal Lake, if you haven’t already.
Summing Up
We’ve covered the must-visit places in Jammu Kashmir, so you don’t miss out on the best. These places can be visited any time of the year, and you’ll still have a blast since each season brings out a different shade within them. If you’re a lazy person, the only things you shouldn’t miss are the mesmerizing sunsets and sunrises there.
FAQs
How Many Days Are Enough For Jammu And Kashmir?
You will need at least 7 days to cover the beauty Jammu and Kashmir has to offer.
Which Is The Best Month To Visit Kashmir?
You can explore Kashmir all year round but the best month to visit is March to October when all roads and the beautiful valleys are open.
Is It Expensive To Visit Kashmir?
It depends on many factors but the approximate expense to visit Kashmir ranges from INR 16,000 to INR 18,000 per person for 5 to 6 days.
Can We Go Kashmir Without Package?
Yes, you can absolutely go to Kashmir without a package. You’ll just need a full-proof itinerary that allows you to cover places of your choice.
How Safe Is Kashmir For Indian Tourists?
Kashmir has seen a huge rush of tourists these last few years and has maintained all the parameters of safety, so it’s quite safe for you to visit.
Which Month Is Coldest In Jammu?
January is the coldest month in Jammu.
Which Months Snow In Jammu?
Snowfall starts in December and ends in March with January being the coldest month.
Which Is Better Doodhpathri Or Gulmarg?
Both the spots have unique identities with Doodhpathri having a tranquil atmosphere while Gulmarg is the center of all adventures. You can spend a relaxing day at Doodhparthri and spend another at Gulmarg taking part in all the activities.
