An Epic 7-Day Kashmir Itinerary

Are you dreaming of a trip to Kashmir? Look no further! We’ve curated a 7-day Kashmir itinerary for a truly special journey.

 

This fantastic Kashmir itinerary includes everything from breathtaking mountains to tranquil lakes, giving you the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Get ready to experience stunning views and unforgettable moments that you won’t soon forget!

 

How To Reach Srinagar l Kashmir Itinerary

By Air 

The easiest way to arrive in Srinagar is by air. Srinagar airport is well connected to the airports of major cities.

Check out some great deals on airfare here. 

By Train

Presently, there are no operational railway stations in Srinagar. Jammu Tawi is the nearest railway station at a distance of approximately 260 kilometres. 

From Jammu Tawi, you can hire taxis and private and state government buses to reach Srinagar.

You can see more details here.

By Road

The city is well connected with major cities like Delhi (876 km), Chandigarh (646 km), Leh (424 km) and Jammu (260 km).

If you are on a tight budget and wish to take the bus, this site has excellent bus deals. You can take JKSRTC buses from and to the city. 

 

                      DAY-WISE KASHMIR ITINERARY 

                        DAY 1: ARRIVE IN SRINAGAR 

A trip to Kashmir would not be complete without visiting Srinagar. Srinagar is considered to be its heart, both literally and figuratively!

Stroll Around

After reaching, take some time to relax and spend the rest of your day strolling here in tranquillity along the Dal lake.

Take a Shikara Ride on Dal Lake

Start your evening by enjoying the serenity of one of Kashmir’s most popular attractions — Dal Lake. 

A shikara ride on its waters is the perfect way to relax and take in the majesty of nature. Enjoy sunsets over the peaceful Dal lake and experience the surreal beauty of Kashmir. 

During summer, shikara rides have their own charm when decorated with colourful flowers blooming everywhere.

                       DAY 2: SIGHTSEEINGS IN SRINAGAR 

Indira Gandhi Tulip Garden

Indira Gandhi Tulip Garden is Kashmir’s very own version of the famous Keukenhof park in Amsterdam, Netherlands – the largest flower garden in the world! 

It houses over 50 varieties of tulips on sprawling seven terraces blanketed with tulip beds, making it an ideal spot for any nature lover. 

The best time to visit Tulip garden is from mid-March until mid-May. 

Mughal Gardens of Nishat / Shalimar Bagh

Nishat Garden, or ‘Garden of Joy and Relaxation’, is located on the banks of Dal Lake.

This majestic garden is 11 terraces high – each terrace dedicated to various flowers and trees. It is said to be one of the oldest surviving examples of traditional Mughal gardens that span across Asia and provides stunning views of the nearby mountains!

Shalimar Bagh is one of the most iconic gardens in Kashmir, located in Srinagar. It was built in 1619 by the Mughal Emperor Jahangir for his beloved wife, Nur Jahan. The garden is situated on the banks of Dal Lake. 

Today, it is an oasis of beauty with its four terraced gardens filled with flowers, fruit trees, and lawns. Visitors can stroll over 400 meters long causeway that runs along the lake or take a leisurely boat ride around Shalimar Bagh while taking in its breathtaking beauty.

Not interested in Gardens or got more time in hand? l Kashmir Itinerary

Visit Yusmarg 

Yusmarg is such a place that sees few tourist footfalls. Yusmarg lies in the Badgam district of Jammu and Kashmir, about 50 kilometres from Srinagar. 

It is surrounded by snow-covered peaks, and the Doodh Ganga river passes near it, making it one of the most attractive regions for tourism.

A place for a digital detox, rejuvenating yourself from the hustle and bustle of cities. Yusmarg is a perfect definition of a place that refreshes one’s soul and mind.

If you are an adventure junkie, you’ll come across abundant outdoor activities such as trekking, paragliding, skiing expeditions and camping under star-filled skies! 

 

               DAY 3: HEAD TO GULMARG 

It’s time to explore one of Kashmir’s most popular attractions – Gulmarg, about 51 kilometres from Srinagar.

From golf courses built within sloping meadows to riding a cable car (or Gondola) up Mt Apharwat for breathtaking views of snow-clad mountains, this place certainly has something for everyone! 

Moreover, if you’re an adrenaline junkie, you must try skiing and sledging here for an unforgettable experience.  

Pro Tip 

If you plan for a week, I suggest picking Gulmarg or Sonmarg.

While both places are heaven in a true sense, visiting both locations in your 7-day trip may get too hectic if you’re a slow-paced traveller. However, if you do not mind a packed Kashmir itinerary, then go ahead and allocate 1 day each to Gulmarg and Sonmarg.  

             DAY 4: GULMARG (LOCAL SIGHTSEEING)

Depending upon the time at hand and your interest, you can visit the following places:

Gulmarg Gondola 

The Gulmarg Gondola is arguably the most iconic attraction of Gulmarg. 

It is one of the highest cable cars in the world, offering incredible views of the lush, green valley below and the towering mountains above. 

The two stages provide tourists access to remote areas in this stunning part of Kashmir, such as Kongdori and Apharwat Peak, where you can ski and snowboard in winter or take some time to take a leisurely stroll.

Alpather Lake

Alpather lake is one of Kashmir’s most picturesque lakes, which holds a special place in tourists’ hearts due to its mesmerising beauty. It is also known as frozen Lake by the locals.

This stunning lake lies at an altitude of 12500 feet above sea level near the mighty Mt. Afarwat (the highest peak accessible by cable car).

It is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and glaciers that make for incredible sights. Enjoy a picnic lunch by its banks or soak up the breathtaking views.

Khilanmarg Valley

This majestic 8 km long alpine meadow stretch offers you some of Kashmir’s most impressive mountain prospects that no tourist must miss! 

Located about 10 km from Gondola Base Station at an elevation between 2700 meters to 3600 meters above sea level – this nature-pocket hosts all kinds of thrilling activities like Curling (ice skating) & Horse Riding for adventure seekers alike – coupled with gorgeous sunsets & sunrises loaded with colours so vivid it will leave you stunned!

Strawberry Valley 

Strawberry Valley is a hidden gem and an unexplored area of Gulmarg. It holds the beauty and charm of the valley. 

The valley is covered with budding red strawberries, and the clear sky with lush green grass all over gives it the most pristine view of the valley.

Trekking is one of the main attractions at Strawberry Valley Gulmarg during the summer seasons.

           If you are adding “Sonmarg” to your Kashmir itinerary, then read this:

 

Sonmarg is at a distance of 122 kilometres from Gulmarg and 79 kilometres from Srinagar. You can take a day trip from Srinagar.

This picturesque town lies close to the banks of the Nallah Sindh River and is surrounded by snow-covered peaks and meadows of vibrant flowers. 

Spend time exploring the wonders of nature here – such as glacial lakes like Vishansar Lake, Thajiwas Glacier or Nilagrad River – and rejuvenate yourself at hot springs like Verinag water bodies or Hatmal Narayan village. 

You can also get adventurous with activities like horse riding, camping or river rafting! 

                   DAY 5&6: PAHALGAM 

Pahalgam is a stunning hill station tucked away in Kashmir! 

This gorgeous mountain town will entice you with its lush green hills, glaciers, lakes and sparkling rivers. Pahalgam is a great spot to explore the region’s natural beauty and soak up the fresh air. 

Pro Tip

On the way, you can also visit the Awantipura ruins. 

It is an ancient temple that is over 1100 years old. The temple was built in honour of Lord Vishnu and by King Awantivarman. Check out the reviews here.

Depending upon the time at hand and your interest, you can visit the following places in/near Pahalgam:

Baisaran meadow

It is a natural meadow surrounded by dense pine forests & offers views of snow-laden peaks around it during peak season months. 

An ideal place to enjoy a picnic or take leisure walks, Baisaran Meadow has many exciting sights apart from the spectacular mountain view that can quickly draw visitors towards itself, making them want to stay longer in this magnificent place!

Aru Valley 

This picturesque location attracts tourists for its stunning landscapes and natural beauty. 

Aru valley also serves as the starting point for treks like Kolhoi Glacier, Amarnath and so on., which makes it a much sought-after tourist spot in Pahalgam.

Chandanwari 

Another popular sightseeing point in Pahalgam is located at an altitude of 2895 m above sea level. It is the starting point of a holy pilgrimage from the Amarnath cave shrine and Aru valley. 

Chandanwari offers stunning views of snow-stripped mountains, creating breathtaking landscape views around the region.

Betaab Valley 

Named after Sunny Deol’s hit movie Betaab, this picturesque valley looks like paradise on Earth! 

Surrounded by astonishingly beautiful mountain peaks with sparkling waterfalls and greenery, it’s truly a sight not worth missing out on when travelling to Pahalgam! 

Sheshnag Lake & Trekking Trail 

Located at 4138 meters above sea level, Sheshnag Lake captures ‘heavenly beauty’ within itself. It stands true to its name – derived from King Cobra or ‘Seshnag’ who ate seven eggs buried underneath the lake bed yet never did any damage! 

Reaching up here involves a majestic hike full of nature trails leading past cascading locks and wildlife spotting points, along with panoramic views over snow-clad Himalayan Mountains that greets trekkers once they reach Sheshnag Lake!

               DAY 7: BACK TO SRINAGAR 

Head back to Srinagar from Pahalgam, which is about 90 kilometres away.

You can visit the following places today:

Hazratbal Mosque

Hazratbal Mosque is a famous Islamic shrine on the left bank of the Dal Lake in Srinagar, Kashmir.

The mosque is also home to numerous shrines or dargahs (tombs), including those belonging to local saints. 

The main building is composed of crisp white marble with verses from the Qur’an written in Arabic script adorning its walls. It also houses two courtyards and an extended terrace that continues around the shrine’s perimeter wall and cascades onto the shore of Dal Lake beneath.

Shankaracharya Temple

Shankaracharya Temple, also known as Shankara Hill, is the iconic temple atop the hill.

After parking your vehicle at of the spots, you have to climb about 250 steps. This iconic destination stands out amongst the biggest crowd-pullers in the entire valley due to its spiritual calmness, captivating viewpoints & surreal energy manifesting within its premises!

Shopping In Srinagar l Kashmir Itinerary

Kashmir’s handicrafts are famous worldwide, as are its dry fruits. 

Shopping in Srinagar is a pleasant experience as there are lots of fascinating stuff to pick up while you’re browsing the streets, but here’re a few things that the city is famous for

Shikaras 

Shopping for souvenirs on the mesmerising Dal lake would not be complete without taking home one of these unique boat-shaped wooden vessels called Shikaras. There are many shops that dot the waterfront where you can find these shikaras in various sizes and designs, along with other traditional woodwork creations from Srinagar, such as carved furniture and jewellery boxes etc.,

Dry Fruits & Spices 

A visit to a local dry fruit market or spice shop in Srinagar should not be missed while exploring the city streets! You will come across several open bazaars selling everything ranging from handpicked nuts like Kesar almonds *chilgoza*, raisins & walnuts to dried fruits like dates & apricots to freshly grounded spices such as saffron, cardamom & cassia bark etc., 

Pashmina Shawls 

Head over to Residency Road for some exclusive Pashmina shawls, typical of Jammu & Kashmir – beautiful embroidered woollen garments crafted with meticulous detailing that make for excellent gifts for your loved ones back home! 

Papier Mache Art 

Papier-mache products are another item you can carry back home without much hassle. 

Kashmiri Handicrafts 

Reflecting its rich cultural heritage best are exotic yet contemporary wooden handicrafts made from walnut tree wood – beautifully carved trinket boxes painted with semi-precious stones; ornately decorated hookahs; intricately designed coffee tables featuring floral motives; Mirswari shawl materials; exquisite rosewood carvings etc., all make up every traveller’s dream shopping experience right here in Srinagar!

Regarding where to shop in Srinagar, a few places like Lal Chowk in Srinagar, the shopping mall Srinagar and other famous shopping streets make for the perfect places for the purpose.

Food In Srinagar l Kashmir Itinerary

How can our Kashmir itinerary not include at least a bit about the cuisine? 😉

Kashmir cuisine is very diverse and flavorful because of the variety of indigenous ingredients and local spices that flourish in the valley regions. 

The cuisine of Srinagar is greatly influenced by the Mughals. The authentic Mughal dishes spiked with spices like fennel, cardamom, saffron, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves are common here. If you are a vegetarian, the cuisine has a few unique varieties. However, meat and fish are the main ingredients in any signature dish.

Some of the dishes you may want to try are – Kashmiri Pulao, Kashmiri Modur Pulav (a unique type of pilaf prepared using basmati rice and yoghurt), Yakhni (It refers to the simmering of yoghurt gravy which is usually made with yoghurt, onions, garlic cloves etc., and seasoned with cardamom pods, bay leaves and saffron strands for enhanced flavour), Tabak Maaz (Tabak maaz (or fried rib) is another local speciality from this region that cannot be missed out on), Dum Aloo, Rogan Josh, Tobruk Halwa (sweet dish made of semolina). 

The local beverages are Noon Chai and Kahwah.

Do You Have More Days In Kashmir?

Places:

Gurez Valley (the forsaken land – 125 kilometres from Srinagar), Lolab valley (120 kilometres from Srinagar), Verinag (Stunningly wooded mountain – 85 kilometres from Srinagar),  Doodhpatri (an alpine valley – 45 kilometres from Srinagar).

Trekking:

Kashmir is also a fantastic place to go trekking – there are several routes to traverse including Mount Harmukh as well as various tracks around Pahalgam and Sonamarg that provide sights of nature like no other.

Make sure you’re prepared with enough supplies such as food, water and warm clothing before taking on any treks!

Best Time To Visit Kashmir l Kashmir Itinerary 

March to August

This is the best time of the year to visit Kashmir. The temperate is pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing.  

During this period, two seasons are covered in Kashmir. Spring (March to early May) and Summer (early May to late August). 

November to February 

To witness Kashmir’s awe-inspiring beauty in winter that transforms the place into a fairyland, you should plan your trip in winter.

Explore activities like skiing and sledging near Gulmarg, which are covered with gracefully fallen snow around November- February.

From November to February, expect low temperatures of 0°C and sub-zero. High temperatures don’t often go beyond 15°C.

Hope this Kashmir itinerary is helpful! Have I convinced you to visit Kashmir this year? 😊

Are you looking for a customised Kashmir itinerary? Have me create a personal itinerary for you today! Let’s connect. 

Happy travelling! 

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