How to plan a trip to Kashmir? For this, you will have to consider a lot of factors like how to reach, where to stay, what to see, things to do, what to pack, how much it will cost, itinerary planning, etc. In the post below, you will find answer to all of these questions in detail.
If you want to plan the trip on your own, continue reading this post. If you want to travel with a reliable travel agent and need my recommendation, you can talk to Kunal @ 9910 402 252. Give him my reference and you will surely get a discounted rate.
If there are still some doubts left, you can contact me on Instagram and I will be happy to help in any way that I can. I would greatly appreciate it if you could also consider subscribing to my YouTube channel.
Quick Navigation
How to Plan a Trip to Kashmir
I have visited Kashmir a few times and have written several detailed articles that can help everyone planning a trip. This information is scattered in several posts and getting the details that you need can be a little time-consuming. For the sake of convenience and ease of navigation, I am cataloging these articles in the post below.
Follow the links, take a look at the articles and every question that you have about visiting Kashmir will surely get answered. You will find complete information about popular destinations like Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Pahalgam, Gurez, and Aharbal, as well as some offbeat destinations like Drung Waterfall, Chatpal Valley, Sinthan Top, Daksum, and several other places.
Best Time to Visit Kashmir
When is the best time to visit Kashmir? There is actually no straight answer to this question because it will depend on what kind of trip you were looking forward to.
If you want to see snow, January and February are ideal times. If you want to see lush green views, September will be the best time. For a honeymoon trip, I will recommend April and September.
If you want to see flowers and the Tulip Garden, you should plan for April. If you want to see Apple orchards, August and September are the best times to go.
For photography, a trip in the post-monsoon season will be best. For budget travelers, August and November are good times to go. This however is just a brief overview. For a more detailed and month-by-month breakdown of this information, please take a look at When is the Best Time to Visit Kashmir.
Clothes to Pack for Kashmir Trip
The next important question will be related to your packing. The clothes that you need for visiting Kashmir will vary according to the season and month of your trip. It will also depend on the places you have in mind to visit and your mode of commute as well.
I will recommend taking a look at Clothes for Kashmir Trip – Things to Pack for Kashmir Trip for more information on this aspect. In this post, I have talked in detail about the kind of clothes that you should be packing for a trip to Kashmir in different seasons.
Places to Visit in Kashmir
Now let us take a look at the tourist destinations in Kashmir, places that you just cannot afford to miss. These are the destinations that will become the very highlight of your journey.
Srinagar
I am adding Srinagar first to the list because that is where you will have to go first. Srinagar will be your base to explore the beautiful valleys of Kashmir.
But is it just that? The answer is no. It is not just a base to explore Kashmir but rather a place that deserves to be explored, a place of both natural and man-made beauty.
Shah Jahan a long time ago aptly called Kashmir the paradise on earth, and Srinagar is the heart of that paradise. With its serene blue lakes and magnificent gardens ringed by an Arc of Majestic Himalayas, it is a picture-perfect town that looks straight out of a painting.
There is just so much to see here and so much to do. This I believe is the very reason that despite all the unrest and tensions, Srinagar continues to remain one of the most visited tourist destinations in our country.
- Srinagar – How to Plan your Trip and Explore?
- Places to Visit in Srinagar and Things to Do
- Best time to Visit Srinagar – Best Month, Season, Tips
- Shalimar Bagh, Srinagar – Entry Fee, Timings, Trip Planning
- Nishat Bagh Srinagar – How to Reach, Timings, Entry Fee
- Hazratbal Shrine Srinagar – How to Reach, What to See
- Chashme Shahi Srinagar – How to Reach, Timings, Tips
- Pari Mahal Srinagar – Timings, How to Reach, Best Time
- Floating Vegetable Market of Srinagar – Flower Market
- Shikara Ride in Dal Lake Srinagar – Cost, Timings, Best Spot
- Sound and Light Show in Srinagar in Dal Lake
- Astanmarg – One of the Best Viewpoints in Srinagar
Gulmarg
Gulmarg in my opinion is the biggest tourist attraction in Kashmir. Known as the meadow of flowers, it is a heavenly place to tread in that offers mesmerizing landscapes and an enthralling possibility of various adventure activities.
Such is the beauty of this tiny hamlet that it attracts people from all over the country throughout the year. It is possibly one of those destinations where the tourist season never ends.
From families to adventure enthusiasts, Gulmarg has a lot to offer everyone. It not only draws tourists from other parts of the country but also is a favorite weekend getaway for the local Kashmiris as well.
Below is a list of articles that I have posted on Gulmarg. I will recommend taking a look at these before visiting this beautiful little town.
- Gulmarg – A Complete Travel Guide and Itinerary
- Gulmarg in Winter Travel Guide
- Places to Visit in Gulmarg & Things to Do
- Best Time to Visit Gulmarg – Best Month, Season, Activities
- Gulmarg Gondola – Travel Guide, Sightseeing, Safety Tips
- Alpather Lake Trek Guide
- Baba Reshi Gulmarg – History, How to Reach, What to See
If you were planning a winter trip to Gulmarg, you may want to check out the video below. This was shot during one of my trips to Gulmarg in the month of January.
Sonamarg
The next destination that you must visit during your Kashmir trip is Sonamarg. The place is easily accessible, remains open for most of the year, has plenty of hotels, offers amazing views, and is perfect for all kinds of trips.
Public transport is also easily available. There is a daily bus between Srinagar and Sonamarg. Other than that, shared cabs also travel on the route regularly.
For accommodation, there is a wide range of hotels to choose from, both for budget travelers as well as someone looking for a luxury stay. Read on to find out more.
Below is a list of articles that provide the information that you need to know in order to plan your trip.
- Sonamarg – A Complete Travel Guide and Itinerary
- Best Time to Visit Sonamarg – Season, Month
- Places to Visit in Sonamarg and Things To Do
- Thajiwas Glacier – Sonamarg to Thajiwas Glacier Trek Guide
- Hotel Barzman Sonamarg – A Great Place to Stay
- Taxi Rates in Sonamarg | Sonmarg Local Taxi Rates
If you were planning on visiting Sonamarg in the winter season, you can also take a look at the video below to get more details on the topic.
Pahalgam
The name Pahalgam needs no introduction. It is one of the most visited destinations of Kashmir, one that receives tourists all year long. No trip to Kashmir is complete unless Pahalgam is a part of the itinerary.
Located at a distance of about 100 kilometers from Srinagar, Pahalgam is best known for its awe-inspiring vistas, lush green meadows, dense forests, and pristine waters. The place is also noted for the annual pilgrimage to the shrine Amarnath Yatra that starts here in July and August.
In the articles below, I have talked about how a trip to Pahalgam can be planned, places you should visit there, accommodation, public transport, and several other useful tips.
- Pahalgam – A Complete Travel Guide & Itinerary
- What to see in Pahalgam – Sightseeing in Pahalgam
- Best Time to Visit Pahalgam – When to go to Pahalgam
But in my opinion, the actual fun of visiting Pahalgam is in the winter season. This is when the natural beauty of this place is at its best. Take a look at the video below to know what I am talking about.
Drung Waterfall
Drung Waterfall, also known as Drang Waterfall or Durung Waterfall, is a destination that must find a place in your itinerary if you are planning a winter trip to Kashmir. It may not be that large in size but the sight that it presents in the winter season is truly majestic and is sure to charm you off your feet.
As the temperature in the valley drops, the water of this fall starts to freeze. By early January, the entire face of the mountain that it falls from is covered by a thick layer of ice. The water still continues to flow down but is surrounded by huge icicles and snow.
The waterfall is located about 42 kilometers from Srinagar and 16 kilometers from Gulmarg. It remains accessible for all 12 months and can easily be included in your trip to Gulmarg. You can visit Drung at any time of the year but it is in the winter season when the waterfall is truly at its best.
For more details on this one of its kind waterfall, please take a look at How to Plan a Trip to Drung Waterfall and What to See. You can also take a look at the video below for more details.
Gurez Valley
Gurez Valley is one of the least explored regions of Kashmir and the one that can truly be called an offbeat destination. It is a place of high scenic beauty that does not really get the attention that it truly deserves. The vistas and the natural beauty of the mountains that you see here are very different than what you will see elsewhere.
Usually, when you talk about visiting Kashmir, it is mostly 4 places that come to mind – Srinagar, Gulmarg, Sonamarg, and Pahalgam. Even Srinagar just acts as a base to explore the other three places.
But Kashmir is so much more. There are so many other places here that will leave you mesmerized if visited. Gurez is one such destination that I will highly recommend that you find a place for in your travel plans.
How you can plan your trip to Gurez are details that I have covered in the posts below.
- Gurez Valley – A Complete Travel Guide & Itinerary
- Places to Visit in Gurez Valley and Things to Do
- Best time to Visit Gurez Valley – Month, Season, Snow, Road
- Habba Khatoon Peak Gurez – The Legend of Habba Khatoon
- Razdan Pass Gurez, Kashmir – Sightseeing & Trip Planning
Let us now take a look at some offbeat destinations that do not find a place in everyone’s itinerary but are definitely worth visiting.
Yusmarg
Yusmarg is located at a distance of about 50 kilometers from Srinagar in the Badgam district of Kashmir. At an altitude of 2,396 meters (7,861 ft), it is an alpine valley surrounded by snow-capped mountains and meadows of Pine and Fir.
It is one of those places in Kashmir that are immensely beautiful but do not get the attention that they rightfully deserve. But for someone wanting to go offbeat and stay away from the crowd, Yousmarg is perfect.
For more details on this destination, please take a look at Yusmarg – A Comprehensive Travel Guide & Itinerary.
Doodhpathri
Doodhpathri is a small hill station in Kashmir. It lies in a bowl-shaped alpine valley surrounded by snow-clad mountains and meadows of Pine Fir and Deodar. It sits at an altitude of 2,730 meters (8,957 ft) above sea level and receives heavy snowfall in the winter season.
The region does not have all-year road connectivity yet and in the months of peak winter, it can get very difficult to reach here. For the rest of the year though, a trip to Doodhpathri can actually be made in less than half a day.
To be honest, it is not yet a hill station as there is little to no development in the region. What you see is nature in its raw form. There are just a few houses of the local shepherds and that is the only sign of civilization that you will see here.
The area is largely unexplored and receives very little tourism. However, efforts are being made by the authorities to develop it as a tourist destination. JKTDC has also built a resort here for tourists who want to stay overnight. You can take a look at Doodhpathri – A COMPLETE Travel Guide & Itinerary to find out more.
Mughal Road
Not many people would know about the Mughal Road. Srinagar Jammu National Highway, also known as NH44, is often considered to be the only road connecting the cities of Jammu and Srinagar.
It is true that it is indeed a better maintained, wider, more traveled upon, and shorter way to travel between the two places but it is definitely not the only one.
There actually exists another route that is far more scenic, less crowded, takes you through some internal parts of Kashmir, and has existed for far longer than the regular NH44 highway. Yes, I am talking about the historical Mughal road.
This route is the alternate way to travel between Jammu and Srinagar and to reach some internal areas of Kashmir like the town of Rajouri. It is also a very scenic route that definitely deserves to be explored.
For more details on Mughal Road, you can take a look at the posts below.
- Mughal Road – Route Detail, Sightseeing, Best Time
- Peer ki Gali, Mughal Road – Trip Planning & Sightseeing
Aharbal Waterfall
Aharbal Waterfall is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Kashmir. It is also the most easily accessible one and yet never crowded. Located at a distance of only about 70 kilometers from Srinagar, it is a place that is amazingly beautiful but does not get the attention that it truly deserves.
If you are planning to visit Kashmir, I highly recommend that you find a day in your itinerary for a visit to Aharbal. How can you plan that is what I have talked about in the article below.
Can you visit Aharbal Waterfall in the winter season? It will depend a lot on the weather at the time of your trip but yes, a trip can be planned. Take a look at this short video below to see how this beautiful waterfall looks in winter.
Daksum Valley
Daksum, also known as Daksum Valley or Daksum Village, is a viewpoint or a picnic spot located on the Anantnag-Kishtwar road near Sinthan Top. Surrounded by lush green mountains and sitting right next to the Bringhi River, it is a popular spot among the locals for family outings and school picnics.
If you are someone who likes spending time in nature, away from the crowd in an offbeat place, Daksum may just be your cup of tea. It really feels like in the middle of nowhere and if you were here during the weekdays, there would hardly be anyone around. For more details, please read How to Plan a Trip to Daksum Valley.
Sinthan Top
Sinthan Top, also known as Sinthan Pass, is a mountain pass located in Kashmir’s Breng Valley, on the road that runs between Anantnag in Kashmir and Kishtwar in Jammu. At an altitude of 12,500 ft, the top of the pass is also known as the 360-degree viewpoint as it offers a charming panoramic view of the surrounding peaks and the valley.
It is a beautiful mountain pass that should find a place in every tourist’s itinerary who is coming toward Pahalgam. Due to its close proximity, Sinthan Top can be easily incorporated with a trip to Pahalgam. The drive from Srinagar to Sinthan Top through the Daksum Valley is also quite scenic and offers a chance to visit some other destinations like Achabal Gardens, Kokernag, and Daksum.
For more details, please read How to Plan a Trip to Sinthan Top and take a look at the video below. This video covers both Daksum Valley as well as Sinthan Top because both these places are right next to each other.
Chatpal Valley
Chatpal, also called Chattabal, is not really a name that many tourists know about. It is a small valley located near Pahalgam but while Pahalgam receives thousands of visitors each year, almost no one goes in the direction of Chatpal. It is one of those places in Kashmir that are still unexplored and yet to find their place on the tourist map.
The majority of the folks you will find in Chatpal will just be the locals from Anantnag or any of the nearby villages, out there for a picnic or a family outing. Even they visit Chattabal usually over the weekends, on Sundays. For the rest of the week, you will hardly see anyone there.
If you are someone who likes to go to offbeat places, away from the crowd, and spend some time in peace, then Chattabal will surely look charming to you. For more details, please take a look at How to Plan a Trip to Chatpal Valley and check out the video below.
Taxi Rates
If you are planning on renting a taxi for your trip, the posts below can help you get a cost estimate. An important thing that you should remember is that places like Pahalgam and Gulmarg have their own taxi rates.
What it means is that if you rented a taxi to Pahalgam from Srinagar, it could only drop you in Pahalgam. To visit local places like Betaab Valley, Chandanwari, and Aru Valley, you will have to rent a local cab in Pahalgam.
The same rule applies to Gulmarg. If you want to go for a drive to Bota Pathri, you will have to rent another cab in Gulmarg for that.
Similarly, this rule is also applicable if you intend to move on to Kargil, Zanskar Valley, or Ladakh after exploring Kashmir. Take a look at the posts below to find out taxi rates applicable for these particular regions.
- Srinagar Taxi Rates
- Pahalgam Taxi Rates
- Sonamarg Taxi Rates
- Gulmarg Taxi Rates
- Kargil Taxi Rates
- Ladakh Taxi Rates
Itinerary Planning
Your final itinerary for Kashmir will entirely depend on the number of days you have in hand, your budget, and your preferences. But I will recommend taking a look at How to Plan Your Itinerary for Kashmir.
In this post, I have shared different examples of itineraries based on the time at hand. You can pick any one of the suggested itineraries and either follow it completely or modify it as per your requirements.
Travelogues
Below are the links to detailed travelogues that I was able to pen down of some of my Kashmir trips. If you would like to, you can take a look at these logs to gain further information and see pictures of the places.
I have tried to be as detailed as possible in these logs, providing several necessary details for anyone wanting to plan a similar journey.
By Car
This one was my longest trip to Kashmir and covered most of the tourist destinations.
- Road Trip to Kashmir – Planning & Preparation
- Delhi to Jammu by Road – Day 1
- Jammu to Srinagar via Mughal Road – Day 2
- Srinagar to Astanmarg – Day 3
- Shankaracharya Temple – Day 4
- Srinagar to Sonamarg – Day 5
- Sonamarg to Thajiwas Glacier – Day 6
- Sonamarg to Srinagar – Day 7
- Srinagar to Pahalgam – Day 8
- Pahalgam to Betaab Valley – Day 8
- Betaab Valley to Chandanwari – Day 8
- Pahalgam to Aru Valley – Day 9
- Aru Valley to Srinagar – Day 9
- Srinagar to Gulmarg – Day 10
- Gulmarg to Bota Pathri – Day 10
- Gulmarg to Srinagar – Day 11
- Srinagar to Yusmarg – Day 12
- Yusmarg to Doodhpathri – Day 13
- Doodhpathri to Srinagar – Day 14
- Srinagar to Dawar in Gurez Valley – Day 15
- Dawar to Chakwali – Day 16
- Gurez Valley to Srinagar – Day 17
- Srinagar to Aharbal Waterfall – Day 18
- Srinagar to Sonamarg to Kargil – Day 19 & 20
- Kargil to Hambuting La Pass – Day 21
- Kargil to Hunderman Village – Day 22
- Drang Drung Glacier – Day 23
- Zanskar Valley to Srinagar – Day 24, 25, 26
- Srinagar to Gulmarg to Srinagar – Day 27, 28
- Srinagar to Jammu to Delhi – Day 29, 30
Bike Trip
The trip above was entirely in my Thar. Take a look at this second travelogue. This was a complete bike trip done in a different manner.
- 9 Days Trip to Kashmir – Prologue
- Delhi to Srinagar by Flight – Day 1
- Srinagar to Gulmarg – Day 1
- Sightseeing in Gulmarg – Day 2
- Enjoying the Gondola Ride – Day 2
- Alpather Lake Trek – Day 2
- Gulmarg Sightseeing in the Morning – Day 3
- Gulmarg to Doodhpathri to Srinagar – Day 3
- Srinagar to Aharbal Waterfall – Day 4
- Aharbal to Peer ki Gali to Srinagar – Day 4
- Srinagar to Yusmarg – Day 5
- Sightseeing in Srinagar – Day 6
- Srinagar to Gurez Valley – Day 6
- Dawar to Chakwali – Day 7
- Gurez Valley to Srinagar – Day 8
- Srinagar to Delhi – Day 9
By Flight
This was the time when I caught a flight to Kashmir, hired a self-drive rental in Srinagar, and drove around some offbeat destinations.
- Delhi to Pahalgam – Day 1
- Achabal Mughal Garden – Day 2
- Daksum Valley – Day 2
- Sinthan Top – Day 2
- Chatpal Valley – Day 2
- Betaab Valley & Aru Valley – Day 3
Winter Trips
The travelogues above were both from the summer season. If you are planning to visit Kashmir during the winter season, the travelogue below can be of help.
- Delhi to Gulmarg – Day 1
- Sightseeing in Gulmarg – Day 2
- Sightseeing in Gulmarg – Day 3
- Change in Plans & Another Day in Gulmarg – Day 4
- Gulmarg to Delhi – Day 5
This one is another winter trip to Kashmir.
- Delhi to Srinagar – Day 1
- Srinagar Old City Tour – Day 2
- Srinagar to Gulmarg – Day 3
- Gulmarg to Drung Waterfall – Day 3
- Shankaracharya Temple & Srinagar Local – Day 4 & 5
- Srinagar to Pahalgam – Day 6
- Srinagar to Aharbal Waterfall – Day 7
- Winter Trip to Sonamarg – Day 8
Other Travelogues
These travelogues were written by other authors detailing their journeys. Take a look and I am sure you can get a lot of helpful details from their travel stories.
If you would like your travel story to be published on my blog, you can send it to me with the relevant pictures at [email protected]. I can give a final touch to the log, put it up on the log, and add the links here.
- Delhi to Kashmir Road Trip in 4 Days
- Bike Trip to Kashmir
- Shankphal Trek from Jammu
- Honeymoon Trip to Kashmir
How to plan a trip to Kashmir – Conclusion
I believe that is it. This should cover the majority of the information that you need to get in order to plan an enjoyable and hassle-free trip to Kashmir.
If there is a specific question that you were not able to find an answer to, you can contact me on Instagram and I will be happy to answer. You can also consider subscribing to my YouTube channel and asking a question there.
65 comments
Hello Vargis Ji, All your Blogs are really good and informative . Thanks for providing such a details information
We are 4 perosn ( age 58 -6)) would like to visit Srinagar – Gulmatg – Guraz Valley – Pahalgam – Sonmarg – Daksum and Bangus Valley in the month of MAY 2025
How many days will required to cover these places. Request to provide authentic numner of Local tour operator
Hello Vargis,
Very well explained! Now it is easier for us to plan our trip to Kashmir.
we are planning 6 days trip in last week of December during New year, we will be able to see snowfall during that time? what’s your say as per your experience?
is December end good time to visit if we are looking for snow covered kashmir?
Hi Vargis,
I am travelling this October end with my spouse and kids of 8 & 5 for 8 days trip and fly out on 9th day.
Shall i plan the trip on myself or shall go for tour operator.
After reading your blog it feel plan can be done on own but do you recommend considering the Kids alongwith.
Also considering recent election and also Diwali would fall in between our trip , shall i make special note of anything?
Kindly advise.
Sorry Praveen Bhai for the late reply. I guess you are already traveling now.
Hello Vargis,
Very well explained! Now it is easier for us to plan our trip to Kashmir.
we are planning 6 days trip in last week of December during New year, we will be able to see snowfall during that time? what’s your say as per your experience?
is December end good time to visit if we are looking for snow covered kashmir?
Hi Vargis,
This is an excellent post and covers all aspects of teh trip planning. Very Thankful to you for covering it all. Helps us immensely in planning our trip to Kashmir in August. !!
Hats off !!
Thank you Asheesh Bhai !!!
Unlock the secrets to planning the perfect trip to Kashmir with this comprehensive travel guide, offering everything you need to know for a seamless and unforgettable journey. From choosing the best time to visit to navigating local customs and attractions, this guide is your key to experiencing the magic of Kashmir to the fullest.
Very helpful to plan a trip.
Thank you !!!
I am also planning to visit Vaishnodevi and start from them to Srinagar. What is the travel options from Katra to Srinagar apart from cab?
You can find buses as well
Hi Vargis,
We are planning to visit Kashmir during end of May to 1st week of June for the first time with family. Can we see snow anywhere in Kashmir at that time?
Hi Prabal – No, not that late in the season. Snow this year is anyway very less everywhere
Hello Mr. Vargis, I’m Rajarshi Roy from Kolkata and I must confess that your blogs are really superb and detailed and really helped me to plan my honeymoon tour to Kashmir on 6th May 2024. I’ve one question that is May a good time to spend 2 nights in Gulmarg or shall I plan a day trip to Gulmarg?
Your reply will be greatly appreciated.
Thank you very much.
Thank you Rajarshi Ji. If you have time, I will definitely recommend staying in Gulmarg for the night
Thank you for this comprehensive guide on planning a trip to Kashmir! Your personal experiences and detailed articles make it easier for us to navigate and plan our visit. Grateful for the valuable insights!
Thank you !!!
This is really a complete kashmir travel guide, this is very helpful for planning a Kashmir trip
Thank you Ankita !!!
Hi Vargis, Your blog is very useful. I am planning to visit Kashmir from Delhi in my own micro suv with 2 year old toddler in May 2024? is it ok? I have atleast 12 days in hand. Places of interest – srinagar, gulmarg, sonmarg, doodhpathri, pehalgam, gurez …please guide…Regards
Hello Mr. VARGIS,
Refer aforesaid views, I am writing to you for your guidance and suggest good contact number for the entire Kashmir tour
Myself and wife both are senior citizens , we are intend to visit Kashmir in the month of April 24 for 9 nights/10 days.
Sir you can talk to Faisal @ 907 000 0036
Hello, Vergis sir,
Shall I visit the gurez valley after mid november?
Hello vargas.khan,I want ti travel kashmir after15th November. May I get snow fall at any place ?
Not in November Bhai, not int the lower areas
Hello
Do we need to change taxi at tangmarg while going to hotel stay at gulmarg in March? Or we can take taxi hired for 5 days to at least hotel in gulmarg?
You can take a taxi for 5 days but if you are planning a trip in winter, then you will have to change at Tangmarg. For rest of the year, it can be the same cab.
Hello Vargis bhai, Thanks a lot for detailed information, Extremely helpful to people like us to build DIY travel plan.
I am considering trip to Kashmir from Oct 14 to 24, Mainly Srinagar, Gurez, Gulmarg and Pahalgam, , is this good time to visit Kashmir and all these places i want to cover.
I am planning below itinerary:
Day 1: Arrive Srinagar
Day 2: Srinagar Local
Day 3: Sringar Gurez
Day 4: Gurez
Day 5: Gurez to Gulmarg
Day 6: Gulmarg to Pahalgam
Day 7: Pahalgam
Day 8: Pahalgam
Day 9: Pahalgam to Sringar and flyout
Please let me know your thoughts if i should make any adjustment to above plan.
This is a good plan Sachin Bhai. I am assuming that you are going to book a taxi for the trip?
Yep, thanks for your feedback , Yep I plan to book taxi for entire trip, few questions.
1) Is Toyoto Etiros/Dzire is good for Gurez trip of you need to have Innova /Scorpio ?
Do you know if Razdan pass would be open during October or there is chance of closure ?
2) I changed my plan a bit to skip Gulmarg as I am not interested in doing Gondola, so is there anything else interesting to do there, I assume As i am covering Doodthpatri from Srinagar, the scenary would be similar., what is your suggestion ?
3) what is your opinion on doing Day trip to Yusmarg vs Doodhpatri, from Srinagar ?, doing both on one day could be hectic right ?
which one I should do Yusmarg or Doodhpatri ?
Here is my final plan with and without gulmarg as below, let me know your suggestion.
Itinerary 1: without Gulmarg
Day 1: Arrive Sringar and go to Pahalgam
Dah 2: Pahalgam Local
Day 3: Pahalgam Local
Day 4: Pahalgam to Gurez
Day 5: Gurez Local
Day 6: Gurez to Srinagar
Day 7: Sringar local
Day 8: Srinagar Doodhpatri
Day 9: Srinagar Flyout in evening
Itinerary 2: with Gulmarg
Day 1: Arrive Sringar and go to Pahalgam
Dah 2: Pahalgam Local
Day 3: Pahalgam to Gulmarg
Day 4: Gulmarg to Gurez
Day 5: Gurez Local
Day 6: Gurez to Srinagar
Day 7: Srinagar Local
Day 8: Srinagar DoodthPatri
Day 9: Srinagar local and Flyout.
1. Razdan Pass usually remains open in Oct. Scorpio / Innova will be better but it depends on the number of people traveling
2. Yeah, the scenery is more or less similar
3. Same on one day will be hectic. Doodhpathri is better
If the taxi driver is agreeing, the second plan would be better
Thanks a lot for your Feedback Vargisbhai !
Yes we are 3 people so I assume Dzire or Etios should be good enough to cover Dawar – Chakwali route, right ?
For Chakwali route, you will have to hire a Sumo from Dawar. The drivers from Srinagar usually refuse to go on that route due to extremely bad roads. A hatchback or a Sedan driver will definitely not go
Special thanks Verghis Bhai for so detailed information on helping out Persons planning Kashmir trip. Me and my wife both early 69s are planning for Kashmir trip for 5 days 4 night somewhere in May next year. Can u suggest suitable itenerary for above and some insight that how should I plan for private taxi.
Thanks
This is the most genuine blog I have come across while planning my trip to Kashmir. This covers everything in great detail. Thank you Vargis for all that work and I assure you this helps us travelers very much.
Thank you Akash Bhai for your kind words !!!
Hi, I am Saikat, I got guidance from you for my ladakh tour and it’s really help me a lot for that thank you. Now I plan to cover Kashmir and again I read your blog it will help us to cover. Now I want a reference of a good and reliable tour operator for Kashmir tour.
Take a look at the contact me page Saikat … I have mentioned a few numbers there
I would be glad if you please let me know at the earliest about Local Sight Seeing in and around Srinagar and Sonmarg, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Yousmarg, Dudhpathri, etc., during my ensuing visit to Srinagar from 10th to 16th June 2023. I am a SOLO Sr. Citizen.
Thank you so much Mr. Vargis for your details, Want to choose one destination among Doodhpathri, Yousmarg and Gulmarg, please advise.
Hi Sangita – Gulmarg is better among all three of them but also crowded. If not Gulmarg then Doodhpathri
Dear All,
This is the review about Kashmironline.
We booked on a package in this summer for a family through them, but the hotel which they have opted in Srinagar was not good. No power to stay, no water and no hot water as well. We have to ask for all service every now and then. But upfront the agency collects the payment. Also, they never respond.
The reason for booking through a travel agent is that we will not have issues and it will be a safe travel, but here its very bad, there will be a response saying that they will do, but nothing will happen.
Remember people travelling to Srinagar / Kashmir make sure you are clear on package, would recommend to make arrangements on your own. Do not depend on any travel agents. Specially Kashmironline at all.
They are not friendly and held me in a hotel to pay the final amount. Never trust on any customer and they do not need any customer satisfaction. I have informed very clearly the balance 7-8% (Approx 9000) of amount will be paid on last day of my travel in morning, irrespective of telling and informing the same, they holded in the hotel in the lobby asking for balance payment two days prior itself. The agency called up the hotel informed that before I leave collect the balance money. That looks very bad in front of others asking for money as if am going to move away without paying from them.
My only question is if you guys or agency never trust on customer, how do you expect the customer to trust you. If something goes wrong, you will never revert back right.
Now, I had a bad and worst stay in Srinagar, they never responded to me anything about that at all. The kashmironline person was apologizing but nothing happened. The issues repeated thrice for all 3 days of stay, our stay was ruined. We went for sight-seeing late for all 3 days and we are not provided with basic necessity of things to stay. Irrespective of informing that Iam not comfortable on the first day itself.
Please be aware of these things in Kashmir. Never book though kashmironline at all. They never bother about any feedback or comfortable stay of customer. Only money is important. The driver they organized doesn’t even have a courtesy and he dropped us the railway station by 9pm and have requested him to take me to 5km nearby for dinner which he denied. He never answered any calls after dropping us. Irrespective of informing that we need to have dinner before dropping us, he never bothered that Iam with 2 kids without food travelling for whole night. He was keen on moving away since the money is fully paid a day prior. Important is he knows entire story of this issue.
They never change and felt bad for booking with them. Entire trip is ruined and I have give other hint to save other atleast, not to get cheated. Since no one save me.. kashmironline
These details are from my recent personal experience during the month of May 2023.
With Regards, Balasubramaniam.
Thank you Bala Bhai for sharing your experience. Most of these online travel platforms are more or less the same. They act as mediators only. I always tell people to not go with any online travel platform.
Hello Vargis
Thank you so much for your details, Want to choose one destination among Doodhpathri, Yousmarg and Gulmarg, please advise.
Hi Sangita – Gulmarg is better among all three of them but also crowded. If not Gulmarg then Doodhpathri
Hi Vargis, Thank you for your sharing and your article very details. If you don’t mind please suggest best travel agent in Kashmir who can arrange. We plan our trip on December 2023.. tq
Hello. Thanks for the details.
I am planning Gulmarg directly from the airport (2 nights) , then Sonmarg (2 nights), then Pahalgam (3 nights) and then Srinagar (2 nights).
Is that itinerary okay ? Are these places equidistant
2 and 3 days is a bit much. Gulmarg 1 day, Sonamarg 1 day and Pahalgam 1 night should be more than enough. You can spend rest of your time visiting other places.
Vargis Ji, we are not getting tickets for Gondola Ride. what would be other options?
No other option bhai. You can check at the counter if anyone is selling in black
Hi I am visiting from may 1 to 6 ., this is my first trip to kashmir solo, will travelling to Kargil from Srinagar for 2 days be good ..?
That road is not open yet. There is no telling if it will open by May 1
What a great Blog. Covers almost everything. The best part is that it is not commercial blogs, which generally have an interest in the places they mention. You have written in simple language and from your first-hand experience. I am a Sr. Citizen and also handicapped. I use an artificial limb, but mobility is not an issue (maybe rocky climbing and snow/water). I do travel a lot. My question is: Will you recommend Gondola Phase I and II?
My Travel Agent has custom-built an Itinerary for my wife and me using taxis only for the 2 of us. I was told that there is a Union issue and private taxis are not allowed in Gulmarg and Pahalgam and I will have to book local taxis there.
Please advise keeping my handicap in mind. Thanks.
I intend to travel in mid-September.
Thank you for your kind words, Mr. D’Souza.
If you are going to stay in Gulmarg overnight, then yes, I will recommend the Gondola ride. If you are just planning a day trip, it will be best to skip it.
You do not need to rent another taxi in Gulmarg for sightseeing. They may ask to take you to Bota Pathri by renting another cab but avoid that. There is nothing there. All the other places in Gulmarg are near the market area. No additional taxi is needed.
Yes, you will have to rent another taxi in Pahalgam for local sightseeing. Srinagar taxi will not be allowed there.
Hello Vargis, your blogs are awesome, provides complete details one need to plan themselves. Great work!
I’m confused in choosing one between yusmarg and doodhpathiri. If i have to select one of these, which one should it be? TIA
Hello Priya Ji – Thank you for your kind words. Both of the places are equally beautiful but if I have to pick one, I will go to Doodhpathri.
Such a detailed article!!! Thanks for sharing
Thank you !!!
There are so many very well known and most liked temples in Kashmir I didn’t find any mention of these temples and places in your article is there any particular reason or you missed it
In case you need any help to draw your attention towards those places I can do that
Pran Bhai Most of these temples are located in the old Srinagar town and I never had the chance to visit there until recently. I do not put any information on the blog until I have been to that place. Please see this post. I did visit the temples and highlighted them
https://vargiskhan.com/log/srinagar-old-city-tour/
If you have information on these temples, please do let me know and I will update. The two that I have been to is the Mangaleshwar Mahadev temple and the Ganesh Ji temple in Ganpatyar. I know there are a lot many others and I plan on visiting them during my next trip so that I can write a post about the temples in Srinagar.
Khan Sir,
We are 03 couples (65 years age )planning for Kashmir for 7 Night trip. 1n Gulmarg, 2 N Pahelgam,4N Srinagar. Will see sonmarg,Dooghpatri & all places in srinagar. Pl. suggest best travel agent in srinagar who can arrange . Our travel month is third week of March 2023.
Thanks & regards,
Pinakin Desai
mob:7600227499
Hi Vargis, your blogs are just out of this world. You can start publishing “Vargis Planet”
I have a mobility issue. Though I drive but I walk with crutches and small distances only. I followed your blog on Prashar Lake and you had clarified all my concerns so well that I drove upto the last possible point without any issue and then a little walk to the point from where the lake is visible. Though I didn’t trek down to the lake and temple. That was little too much for me.
Anyway, I am now planning to drive to Kashmir in Sept 1st week and plan to spend 3 days each at Srinagar, Pahalgam, Gulmarg. I wanted to ask you how long is the walks at various gardens in Srinagar. I also plan to do Doodhpatri, Yousmarg and Achabal.
Is there too much to walk in Phase 1 and 2 of Gandola, also Sonmarg, Kokernag, Daksum areas? I will be thankful if you can reply to me and help me plan better.
Hi Swati – Sorry I had been traveling myself for the last couple of months and did not see your comment until now. Sorry for the late reply. I guess you are already in Kashmir by now.