It was the third day of our winter trip to Kashmir and the plan was to go to Gulmarg. This was the second time I was traveling from Srinagar to Gulmarg in January. So I already had an idea of what we would see and was pretty excited about it.
But it was going to be the first time that I was behind the wheel. During our previous visit, we hired a local taxi driver. This time, however, I was going to be driving on my own, and in all honesty, it made me very nervous.
Journey So far:
Why? It was because I had no experience driving in the snow. On top of it, we were in a Duster 2×4 and did not have snow chains either. So yes, I was pretty excited about the entire experience but it was all a little scary as well.
The good part was that I knew I only needed to manage the driving until Tangmarg. From there, we would have to hire a local cab anyway. Private vehicles, even the ones with Srinagar registration, were not allowed to go beyond Tangmarg for safety reasons.
For a complete travel guide on visiting Kashmir, you can take a look at How to Plan a Trip to Kashmir Valley. For getting the best hotel rates, and taxi charges, and to organize your trip to Kashmir, you can speak with Kunal @ 9910 402 252.
Below is a video of our trip from Srinagar to Gulmarg in January. You can continue reading the travelogue below or you can also take a look at the video to get the details.
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Srinagar to Gulmarg in January
The morning in Srinagar was a cloudy and gloomy one. As per the weather forecast, it had snowed in Gulmarg the previous night and the effects could be noticed in Srinagar as well. It drizzled last night and looking at the sky, it seemed like it may start snowing in Srinagar as well anytime.
We wanted to start as early as we could because it was going to be a long journey. The idea was that we will drive to Gulmarg, spend some time there, and return to Srinagar by evening. On our way back, we also wanted to visit Drung Waterfall.
Also Read: How to Plan a Trip to Gulmarg
Due to the ridiculously high hotel prices in Gulmarg, we had no intention of staying there for the night. On top of it, during one of my previous winter trips to Kashmir, I once stayed in Gulmarg for three nights.
So it did not really make sense to spend (or waste) money on overpriced hotels for an experience I already had once before. This time, we wanted to make it a day trip only and for that, an early start was required.
Per my calculations, it would take us about 2 hours to reach Gulmarg, and 2 to come back. We will spend an hour or two there and another hour was needed for Drung Waterfall.
So about 9 hours of traveling and back to Srinagar before dark (6 pm). All of this meant that we must start our day latest by 9 am.
Good Morning Srinagar
The alarms in our phones were set for 7 am, although I wasn’t sure if we will actually be able to get up that early due to the cold weather. There was not much of a choice though. We had to start the day early if we wanted the time to be on our side.
Thankfully, when the alarms went off in the morning at 7, we somehow managed to crawl out of our blankets and started getting ready. Since it was going to be a day trip, there was no packing required but the more I thought about it, the more I started to doubt my plans.
In all my trips to Gulmarg before, I always stayed there for the night. This was the first time we were thinking of making it a day trip to Gulmarg. Due to the weather, the snow, and the fact that I myself would be driving, I wasn’t sure if our plan was a good one.
The doubt was whether we should rush the day to return to Srinagar by the evening. Or should we just stay at Gulmarg to enjoy the day and the journey properly?
The problem was that the hotels in Gulmarg were asking a ridiculous Rs. 12000 to Rs. 15000 per night, for very average hotels. There was no way I was going to waste money like that. The cheapest hotel was available in Tangmarg, 10 kms away, for Rs. 3500 per night.
We thought about it for a while and decided that we should pack some clothes as well. That way, if we indeed decide to stay in Gulmarg or Tangmarg, depending on if we can find a budget hotel, then we could just check in easily. Otherwise, we will come back to Srinagar.
Gulmarg to Tangmarg
We packed our bags and loaded them in the car. By 9 am, we were ready to be on our to Gulmarg with high hopes that we will find snow there or even see a snowfall.
Days start late in Kashmir in the winter season. Even though it was already 9 am, there was hardly any traffic on the roads and most of the shops were still closed. In no time, we were out of the city and cruising on our way to Magam.
There was no snow in Srinagar. I was expecting that we will find some when we got out of the city, based on the fact that Gulmarg had received plenty of snow the previous night.
Surprisingly though, we reached Magam and there was still no sign of snow on the roads, not even an inch. It was completely dry and it started to make me wonder if we made a mistake by coming to Gulmarg that day, or if we should have waited a couple of days more.
Nonetheless, we crossed Magam and took our first break to get some tea.
After 15 minutes of really bad tea and a horrible bread omelet, we continued our journey and reached Tangmarg shortly after. Thankfully, there we found what we had been waiting for since the morning – Snow.
Also Read: Srinagar Taxi Rates – Updated List
Taxi Rates in Tangmarg
If you are traveling to Gulmarg between April to November, you are free to travel as you wish. You can either bring your own car or rent a private taxi in Srinagar.
The rules however change when you plan a trip in the winter season. After it starts to snow, you can no longer travel by a Srinagar-registered taxi. Sometimes, even private vehicles are not allowed to go to Gulmarg.
In winter, the farthest you will be allowed to go is Tangmarg. Once you get there, you will have to rent another cab to bring you to Gulmarg.
So for example, let us say you were traveling from Srinagar to Gulmarg in January and you rented a cab in Srinagar. He will charge you about Rs. 2000 minimum and will bring you to Tangmarg. In Tangmarg, you will then have to rent another cab for at least Rs. 2500 for a return trip to Gulmarg.
All this while, your Srinagar cab will just wait for you at Tangmarg and will not be allowed to go any further. So in the end, you are forced to pay twice the amount.
Also Read: Places to Visit in Gulmarg & Things to Do
Is it Justified?
Why is this the case? Well, the official statement is that the road between Tangmarg and Gulmarg is not safe in the winter season. So to avoid accidents, they force you to rent another cab with snow chains.
But in the end, it is just a facade. Even if you bring snow chains from Srinagar, they still won’t let you go. All of this is just the hooliganism (or gundagardi in simple words) of the local taxi drivers.
If you are on a budget trip, you can also board a Bus from Tangmarg to Gulmarg that charges only Rs. 50 per person. It is however very inconvenient and uncomfortable and not recommended if you are traveling with kids or family.
To get more details on planning a visiting Gulmarg in the winter season and other tips, you can also take a look at How to Plan a Trip to Gulmarg in the Winter Season.
Tangmarg
Coming back to the travelogue, the amount of snow we found in Tangmarg was not what I expected. During our last visit, the entire Tangmarg town was turned white, buried under a thick sheet of snow. But this time, it was just a few inches of snow on the ground.
Nevertheless, we were still happy that we finally saw what we so badly wanted to see.
Just as we entered the town, a local guide approached us and offered to show us around Gulmarg. But this was my 5th trip to Gulmarg so a guide was the last thing I needed. There was nothing in Gulmarg that he could show me that I didn’t already know about.
I politely said no after which, he offered to arrange a cab for us and help us get snow boots. I asked him the rate of the cab and he quoted Rs. 2200.
Also Read: When is the Best Time to Visit Gulmarg
This sounded like a good enough deal because I knew the cab official cab charge at that time was Rs. 2500. So I agreed. He boarded our car and help us navigate our way to TRC Tangmarg.
The deal was that we will rent boots from the TRC, and he will help find us a safe spot to park our car. After that, we will board a taxi from the TRC for a return trip to Gulmarg. The same cab will then take us to Drung Waterfall as well.
For all of this, I paid Rs. 3700. I later realized that this was a waste of money and I could have saved at least Rs. 1500 from this amount. Read on to find out more.
Renting the Boots
For a trip to Gulmarg, you do not really need any special kinds of shoes. Any normal sports shoes will do. But in the winter season, if your plan is to walk or play around in the snow, you will have to look at the kind of shoes you are wearing.
Since there had been fresh snowfall in Gulmarg and the ground was still wet, I knew that our normal sports shoes won’t do. We will either have to walk very carefully, avoiding the snow, or risk getting our shoes wet.
Neither of these two situations was acceptable to us. So we decided to rent a pair of boots and paid Rs. 250 each for the same. We were now ready to move on to Gulmarg.
Also Read: Mobile Network in Kashmir & Data Connectivity
Gulmarg
Soon our cab arrived which turned out to be a 4X4 Gypsy. The distance between Tangmarg and Gulmarg is only about 11 kilometers. It took us about 20 minutes to cover this journey.
There is not a lot to write about this part of our trip. We did not take any breaks on the way and drove non-stop to Gulmarg. I will let the pictures do the talking.
The last time I traveled from Srinagar to Gulmarg in January, it was all buried under snow. The entire 11 kilometers of the road were completely white. This time, while the snow was not the same, it was still beautiful and we enjoying to the fullest.
We soon reached Gulmarg and as expected, were surrounded by the so-called guides within a few minutes. Saying no to everyone, we first made our way to a small restaurant to get some tea.
We had no intention of staying in Gulmarg for the night. So all that we did for the next 2 hours was to walk around, play in the snow, click tons of pictures, and shoot videos.
We started from Srinagar at around 9 am and reached Gulmarg by 11.30 am. We spent the next 2 hours in Gulmarg. After having our fill of snow, started on our way back to Tangmarg, concluding our trip from Srinagar to Gulmarg in January.
Srinagar to Gulmarg in January – Conclusion
For a while, I thought of going for the Gondola ride. I have done this ride in the summer season during one of the previous visits but never in winter.
So we thought to give it a try but unfortunately, the Gondola was closed that day due to bad weather. Disappointed, we decided to head back to Tangmarg since there was still one more place we needed to cover, Drung Waterfall.
The journey back to Tangmarg took longer due to slippery road conditions. I think it took us about 35-40 minutes to reach back to the TRC Tangmarg where our car was parked.
- Journey Ahead: Drung Waterfall – A Majestic Waterfall in Kashmir
We returned the boots that we hired earlier and it actually proved to be a good decision. We did walk around in the snow a lot and had it not been for the boots, our shoes would have been completely wet.
Nevertheless, we drove back to the place where the road to Drung Waterfall bifurcates from Tangmarg. Please click on the link above to continue reading the next part of the travelogue.
I hope the information above on the traveling from Srinagar to Gulmarg in January or February was of help.  If you have any questions, 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.
98 comments
21st December visiting Srinagar early morning 28th departing
3 nights Srinagar
3 nights Pahalgam
1 night Srinagar
plz suggest doodhpatri or sonmarg with 7 yr kid only day visit in december month
Both Doodhpathri or Sonamarg remain closed in winter. Sonamarg may be open but Doodhpathri will surely be closed
One another question i had to ask that what are the options for udhampur to Srinagar travelling??
Assalamu alaikum Brother,
I am planning to visit Srinagar on 13 March 22 for 5-7 days.
Which places should i visit and how much do i stay in selected cities.
Thanks
Walaikum Salam Bhai – How are you planning to travel around? Private cab or public transport?
I plan to visit gurez valley I the month of June. Will it be best?
Hi Vargis,
I wanna travel from Jammu to Srinagar/Udhampur via share taxi.. (around 3rd week of March 2020)
Wanted to know if share taxi / local bus would be available in the evening between 5 to 7 pm for Srinagar
Buses are only only during the day Prashant. Shared taxi may be available for a night journey.
Hello Vargis,
Great job on this blog. Very informative and helpful. I am landing in Srinagar on 28th Dec and staying till 3rd Jan. I want to know should I book my stay in Srinagar for whole duration or should prefer places like Gulmarg,Pahalgam and Sonmarg.
Day 1 In Srinagar I have booked house boat
Day 2 Planning for Gulmarg
Day 3 Pahalgam
Day 4 Sonmarg
Day 5 and 6 for local sight seeing
Should I rent taxi or should I rent bike for this??
Please help
Hi Raman – Are you traveling alone, with friends or family?
I am travelling with my wife
Hi Planning a Kashmir trip in March 2020, planning for 2 nights in phlgam, 2 nights in Gulmarg and 2 nights in srinagar, Sonmarg i am not very sure. Can you pl suggest an itenery along with Taxi cost. we are just three of us.
Regards
From Srinagar air port to Panal gam drop
How much time it will take ?
For 6 pix what vehicle we ca get ?
How much it cost?
3-4 hours.
Rs. 2500 for drop.
Dear Mr Vargis
Thank you for information shared. Your info helped me last year during trip to Leh.
This year I am Planning to visit Kashmir in third week of September 2019. I Want to visit Sinthan Top. Any chance of snow there in September ?
I have 7 days for the Srinagar, Gulmarg,Sonmarg ,Pahalgam circuits. Is it doable and if so can you post a suitable itinerary that includes Sinthan Top ,Verinag and any other hidden gems of J &K
Thanks
Dr Girish Prabhu
Hi Vargis,
Hope you are doing well. I am very much impressed by your knowledge and blogs about Kashmir and specially about LEH. I have done LEH from Pune 5 times since 2013 and I hope we will meet someday, possibly in LEH. I follow your blogs regularly and cleared my doubts in past 5 trips referring your blogs about LEH. I have explored almost everything in LEH now and want to explore the other part of Kashmir now. I have a few doubts and I hope you will clear it for me as you did in the past by your blogs..
I am planning to visit Kashmir from 27/07/2019 to 02/08/2019 with my wife and below is my tentative Itinerary.
27/07/2019 – Arrival In Srinagar: We will reach Srinagar around 10 A.M, Planning to rest for a while and do some local sightseeing (Gardens and Dal Lake etc).
28/07/2019 – Srinagar to Gulmarg: Planning to visit Gulmarg and do the local sightseeing there, Gondola Ride etc.
29/07/2019 – Gulmarg to Pahalgam: Early morning start from Gulmarg to Pahalgam and check in to hotel, in afternoon, some sightseeing and an overnight stay in Pahalgam.
30/07/2019 – Pahalgam to Srinagar: Remaining Sightseeing in Pahalgam and return to Srinagar by Evening.
31/07/2019 – Srinagar to Sonamarg: Early Start to Sonamarg and local sightseeing along with an overnight stay in Sonamarg.
01/08/2019 – Sonamarg to Srinagar: Return to Srinagar and do some more local sightseeing in Srinagar.
02/08/2019 – Return from Srinagar to Pune: Flight is at 03:00 PM so will get some more time for sightseen.
Below are my doubts:
1) Do you think this trip will be too hectic or we will get less time to explore the places we are planning to go?
2) I am a passionate biker and want to do some part of this trip on Bike, I have got a bike rental number from your blogs, which part of this itinerary can be done on bike easily?
3) If I hire a small car (Indica or Similar hatchback) as we are only 2 people travelling, what will be the approximate cost for the above itinerary, Also, please provide any good and safe contracts for Car rentals.
4) Do we need to get permits here in this part of Kashmir like we do in LEH?
5) We are going to celebrate our first marriage anniversary on 31/07/2019, hence, please suggest some good hotels (should be in budget 2-3K) specially to stay in Sonamarg as it will be our first anniversary night.
6) Will it be good to stay in a Houseboat instead of a hotel in Srinagar (Friends told me that houseboats are not hygienic and smells bad due to dirty water in Dal lake), I need your opinion on this.
I am sorry to bother you with so many questions, however, I know you will give me the best information about this trip and make this one a special one for us as you did all my previous LEH bike trips in past.
Cheers Mate.
Hi Vivek,
1. It does sound like you are spending most of your time on the road. Better travel like this.
27 – Srinagar
28 – Gulmarg
29 – Gulmarg
30 – Pahalgam
31 – Pahalgam
1 – Srinagar
2 – Flyout
Leave Sonamarg for some other time.
2. All of the areas accessible by bike
3. About 2k per day for the taxi
4. No
5. Congratulations brother and I am sorry, I cannot recommend hotels suitable for couples celebrating their anniversary. Being bikers, I have always stayed in budget hotels good enough for a night.
6. Nah … Stay at a hotel instead. Or maybe stay at a Houseboat on last day of the trip just to experience.
Hello Vargis,
we(me my husband n 4yr old daughter) are traveling from mumbai to udhampur by train in August. I am planning to stay over night at udhampur. Next day morning around 6am want to leave for srinagar. Are buses available for srinagar in early morning time, what are the charges? if not, please tell me about private taxi? we want to reach at srinagar AEAP, so that we cant do local site seeing on same day, as we have further plan for Leh on next day.
Hi Priti – Udhampur to Srinagar will take you at least 7 hours and Buses won’t be available beore 6 to 7 AM. Private taxis will cost about 4-5k for a drop.
hi Vargis ji,
i am sushil kumar want to travel with my family 3 persons we are to srinagar , sonemarg, gulmarg or pahalgam total 4 nights we are planing in june 2nd week, is it safe and good time to travel there, pls guide for itinerary, travel-cab and hotels,
regards
sushil
Hi vargis,i have planned to come to srinagar from udhampur by road and then banihal-srinagar(nowgam) stretch by train. I will be arriving to srinagar at 02;00p.m there of.
I need to go to sonmarg market as my stay will be there!
So pls i need your suggestions on the questions below?
1.Is it viable to go to sonmarg by breaking the journey from dalgate-shoura-kangan-sonmarg by taxis/cab/jeeps?
2.If i need to take a cab/shared taxi(cab) directly from srinagar to sonmarg then how much i will be charged/person?
3.Time taken to reach to sonmarg from srinagar via breaking the journey or taking a direct cab?
4.Is it good to take an alternative route from Udhampur-banihal(by road)-srinagar(nowgam)(by train)?
Hi Vargis,
I would like you to pls suggest as below:
I have booked by tickets from Delhi to Srinagar , I will be reaching Srinagar on 4th May 2019 at 5PM and my Return is booked from 7th May at 2 PM.
I am planning to visit Srinagar, Gulmarg and Pahalgam. My itinerary is as under:
4th May – Reach Srinagar Afternoon and Stay in Srinagar
5th May – Morning Travel to Gulmarg, and stay in gulmarg for the night or Return Trip
6th Feb – Morning Leave to Pahalgam and stay there for the night or Return Trip
7th Feb – Early Morning leave Pahalgam and head to Srinagar Airport
Need you suggestion on the below:
1) Shall I make a return trip everyday from Srinagar since I booked the hotel for 4 days in Srinagar or shall I go from Srinagar-Gulmarg-Pahalham-Srinagar?
2) What are the available option for local transport, Buses/Taxis etc?
Should I book single taxi for the entire journey and what would be the approx cost for the transport or hire taxi everyday?
3) Will the weather be fine to travel among these places
4) Where is it possible to stay in houseboat and how much cost per night?
5) Any thing to keep in mind during the travel, please suggest
Hi Harpreet,
1. It will be better to return. If you stayed at Gulmarg for the night, then most of your next day will get spent in traveling to Pahalgam which is about 5 to 6 hrs.
2. Public transport is available but a bit inconvenient and unreliable for a tourist. Better would be to book a Taxi. You can talk to Faisal in Srinagar at 9596410670 to book a taxi or you can even rent a motorcycle from him.
3. Yes
4. Yes. About Rs. 1500 to Rs. 2000
5. You are going amidst the elections so keep a watch on the news before u go.
Hi vargis
Just read ur post. Good information. Actually we are planning to visit Kashmir on 26 April. Will there be any problem because of the ongoing election . Can you please advise us whether to book a package or travel by our own. Will be very grateful if you kindly help us ..
I wouldn’t recommend visiting Kashmir around elections Syeda. Even if you go though, I would recommend going on your own. Just book a taxi and that should do.
Hi,
I am planning to visit Srinagr with my family for in March end of 2019.(Five Nights, 4 full days)
I am planning to visit Srinagr, Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonmarg (if road open)
Is it OK to book 5 days in Srinagr Hotel?
My idea is to travel to these each locations in every morning and coming back to Srinagr in the night as all these locations are in different route.
Is it required to stay night at any of these tourist place other than Srinagar?
Which is the cheaper option w.r.t taxi charge ? i.e 5 days night stay at Srinagar or few days in other locations?
Thanks & Regards
Johnson Joseph
Kerala
It is entirely up to you whether or not you want to stay. Personally I would recommend staying overnight. Booking a hotel in Srinagar would be cheaper than other locations.
Hi Vargis, Thanks for a good info blog.
Please suggest me I am planning to visit Srinagar on Mid April 19.
1. Will that time any chance to see snow fall some where around that local nearby sight seen place ?
2. From Katra to Srinagar cost of Shared taxi, Private taxi, Bus and travel time?
Thanks in advance.
Hi vargis, Hitesh this side from chandigarh. I’ll b visiting in 1st week of jan.
Very nice & informative job… Kudos brother…. Keep up the good work…
How much would a shikara ride cost… I hv heard they have different packages..
If so, can you please help with tariffs, so that one doesn’t feels cheated… Would really appricitae your reply.
It depends on the season Hitesh and your negotiation skill as well. Usual charge is around Rs. 300 to Rs. 500
Thanks, got an idea….!
You are welcome !!!
Hi Vargis
Planning a trip to kashmir in march 1st week. (Couple)
Looking to stay at srinagar, gulmarg, sonmarg and pahalgam. Kindly help with planning the itinerary. We mostly want to experience snow.
Also, how much will a cab cost per day for sight seeing?
Thanks in advance.
Hi Vargis,
Firstly, thanks a lot a great blog, I would like certain suggestion from you so that I can have a memorable journey
I have booked by tickets from Bangalore to Srinagar , I will be reaching Srinagar on 15th Feb 2019 at 3PM and my Return is booked from 19th Feb at 2 PM.
I am planning to visit Srinagar, Gulmarg and Pahalgam. My itinerary is as under:
15th Feb – Reach Srinagar Afternoon and Stay in Srinagar
16th Feb – Morning Travel to Gulmarg, and stay in gulmarg for the night
17th Feb – Morning Leave to Pahalgam and stay there for the night
18th Feb – Afternoon leave Pahalgam and stay in srinagar for the night
19th Feb – Roam in srinagar in the morning and head to Airport
Need you suggestion on the below:
1)How much time is required on road to travel from Srinagar to Gulmarg , Gulmarg to Pahalgam and
Pahalgam to Srinagar
2)What are the available option for local transport, Buses/Taxis etc?
Should I book single taxi for the entire journey and what would be the approx cost for the transport
3)Will the weather be fine to travel among these places
4) In winter, is it possible to stay in houseboat?
5) Any thing to keep in mind during the travel, please suggest
Hi Sameer,
1. In Feb it all depends on the snow, hard to predict. Without snow, Srinagar to Gulmarg is 3 hrs, Gulmarg to Pahalgam, 4-5 hrs, Pahalgam to Srinagar, 3-4 hrs.
2. You should book one taxi for entire trip. Will cost about 2-3k per day
3. Weather will be very cold but you can visit
4. Yes it is
5. Just make sure you are packing and preparing well for the cold weather ahead.
Thanks a lot for the info. Do you have any local info on the transportation. So that I can call and book in advace
Talk to Faisal @ 9596410670
Hi Vargis, I am Yohan and I would like to thank you posting such a informative page. This is really helpful for people planning to visit J&K. Am visiting Srinagar on Dec 21st, 2018 and then pushing off to Gulmarg on Dec 22nd for 2 nights at Nedou’s. Then pushing from Gulmarg on Dec 24th for Pahalgam at Hilton for 2 nights and then back to Srinagar on Dec 26th for 2 nights. Pushing back to Delhi on Dec 28th. 3 people.
My questions:
1/ Is it better to pre book ONE cab for entire itinerary or book as I go when am there.
2/ An online travel agent has quoted me INR 12,500/- for entire itinerary with sightseeing. Is it fair?
3/ There’s a local Taxi operator with whom I spoke over the phone and he quoted INR 10,900/- but am skeptical since he’s not really a listed operator where point # 2 above is well known travel agent.
4/ Since am staying 2 nights each in 3 places (not to mention my first night in Srinagar due to early arrival due to high air fares on Dec 22nd) I hope this is not an overkill? Can you suggest some good places to visit during my itinerary if at all you think there’s enough room for me to plug other close by attractions.
5/ Above and all any best practices that you can share would be highly appreciated.
I thank you again for your friendly advise.
Thanks!
Yohan
Hello Bhai,
Really a amazing thing which you are doing here,
Need a advise from you ..
In the mid month of Feb 2019, I have planned to visit Srinagar, sonamarg, gulmarg.. which is 3night and 4 days trip.
How should I plan for my bookings , either I choose the maketrip or some other package or have to choose by own, I will tracellong from South..
Thanks in advance
Hi Sridhar Bhai – Don’t buy any packages or anything, just plan it all on your own and do the bookings.
Hii is it safe for a girl solo travelling to kashmir especially north kashmir
It is safe right now is what I can tell. But don’t go too remote.
Assalamualaikum vargis bhai
Planning to visit Srinagar during 1st week of February(duration 4 days)
Planned to book a good hotel
But what to know ,how to book a taxi to visit phalagam,sonarmarg and Gulmarg with reasonable care
Can I help me out?
Can I help me out?
Error while typing sorry for that
Dear Varghis khan, hope you are doing well
I am plannig to visit Kashmir on 28th Dec 2018. I spoke with a tour agent in kashmir for a package for below itinerary
Day 1 -Srinagar Local sight seeing and shikara ride for 1 hour
Day 2- Pahalgam Local sight seeing
Day 3- Gulmarg gondola cable car ride
Package inclusions:
Airport pickup and drop off
Transfers in private cab
Accommodation and food NOT included .
for above itinerary he asking 38500 Rs /- for 7 persons . is the price is fare ?
could you please let me know a rough calculation if I hire a taxi instead of a package
Thank you so much in advance
Hi Babu – Please talk to Faisal in Srinagar at 9596410670. He will be able to tell you if this price is fair and if there can be a better deal.
Ok ,Thank you brother
You are welcome !!!
Hi Vargis,
We are planning to visit Srinagar on December 20th. Our return would be on 25th December. Can you suggest places to visit near by. We are planning to see Srinagar Dal lake, Pahalgam, Gulmarg. If possible Leh. Can you suggest some nice places to visit if I miss anything.
Thanks in advance.
Thanks,
Anil
Bhai for 5 days Srinagar, Gulmarg and Pahalgam will be sufficient. Reach on 20th and stay in Srinagar. On 21st go to Gulmarg and be there on 22nd. On 23rd, go to Pahalgam and be there on 24th. On 25th, come straight to airport and board your flight. Or if your flight is early in the morning then return to Srinagar on 24th evening.
Thanks a lot for your quick response. Appreciated bro..
You are welcome !!! 🙂
Hi Vergis,
If we plan for Srinagar, Jammu/Kashmir, Shimla/Manali from 20th Dec to 25th. How to plan appropriately to cover these places. We need to reach Hyderabad by 25/26th Dec.
Can u suggest the plan please…
Thanks,
Anil
Hi Anil – In 5 ddays covering all that is not possible. Either do Kashmir or Shimla / Manali.
Assalam Aleykum bhai… We are 8 frnds we are planning our trip in January please give us minimum availiable package
Trip will be of 5 days.. We are comming by flight from lucknow
Walaikum As-Salam Mujahid Bhai – I am just a blogger. I do not provide any kind of packages.
Okok your blog help us alot.. Thank yu
You are welcome !!!
Hi I am planning to spend Christmas Week from December 25 2018 to January 1, 2018. Is this a good time to visit?!
Will Sonmargh, pehelgam and Gulmarg be open ?!
Also, do flights usually get cancelled around that time of the year due to poor visibility?!
Timing is OK. Gulmarg and Pehalgam will be open but Sonamarg will be closed. Flight cancellation depends on the weather entirely, hard to predict.
Hi Vargis
Thank you so much for posting all this details.
I am planning to visit kashmir with my wife in february 1st week 2019.
Is this time okay to visit kashmir?
Looking over various blogs i have plan below schedule
Day 1 7th feb srinagar arrival around 1 pm stay in houseboat over night
Day 2 8th feb after breakfast travel to gulmarg do sightseeing and stay in gulmarg
Day 3 9th feb stay in gulmarg cover rest all other places
day 4 10th leave from gulmarg to pahalgam
day 5 11th feb In pahalgam sightseeing stay in night
day 6 12th feb travel to sonmarg
day 7 13th feb sonmarg to srinagar and depart from srinagar
Considering winter in kashmir, is this plan looks okay for a trip in february 2019 or should I add or remove any place?
Can you suggest some good hotels in gulmarg srinagar pahalgam which has heater and all facilities to stay comfortable in month of february ?
any help suggestions are highly appreciated
Thank you
Huzefa
Hi Huzefa,
1. You can reach Pahalgam, it will be open definitely.
2. Gulmarg may or may not be open depending on the amount of snow.
3. Sonamarg will definitely be closed in February so you will have to remove that.
For hotels in Gulmarg and Srinagar, take a look at these posts.
https://vargiskhan.com/log/hotel-affarwat-gulmarg/
https://vargiskhan.com/log/hotel-grand-valley-inn/
Hello Vargis
I am also planning a group trip with my office Colleagues between 30 Dec to 5th Jan this year.
we plan to Visit Srinagar/Pahalgam/Gulmarg/Sonmarg (if open). Would it be feasible?
It would also be very helpful if you could help in preparing an itenary for the same.
Hi Dharam,
Sonamarg will be closed by December so you will have to remove that. You can travel like this.
30th – Srinagar
31st – Gulmarg
1st – Gulmarg. Local sightseeing. Gondola ride, trek to Alpather Lake
2nd – Gulmarg to Pahalgam
3rd – Pahalgam sightseeing. Drive to Aru Valley, Betab Valley and Chandanwari
4rd – Pahalgam to Srinagar. Find out if Aharbal is open and if yes, from Pahalgam go to Shopian first. Then drive to Aharbal waterfall. Return to Srinagar by evening from Aharbal via Shopian.
5th – Flly Out
Take a look at the posts below.
https://vargiskhan.com/log/aharbal-waterfall/
https://vargiskhan.com/log/gulmarg-kashmir/
hi i am nandita ,agar mai srinagar to gulmarg or srinagar to pahelgam 2 din stay karenge to us me drop to return cost same rahega
Per day cab ka charge rehta hai. Agar aap SUV rent karte ho toh par day fuel driver vagerah mila kar aapko 2500 ke aas paas cost padegi. Thoda zyada bhi ho sakta hai season ke hisaab se. Chhoti gaadi agar lete ho toh 2000 ke aas paas cost aayegi. Ye per day cost hai. Toh phir jitne din ke liye bhi cab karte ho vo aage aap jod lo.
arriving srinagar on 30/10/18, want to see saffron festival and autumn colour of chinar. which places should I go? is it the perfect time to visit chinar?
Hi
Vergis
M planning to visit shrinagar this 1st week of october 2018
Plse guide me if possible
1.how much economy rate from airport to dallake
2.i would be travelling alone so how can i plan budget tour with a group
3.which ghat has got maximum scenic beauty from house boat ,if wanna spend staying on house boat
Thnz v much
Waiting for response
Hi Soummen,
1. A cab from Airport to Dalgate would cost you about Rs. 500 to Rs. 600. Another way would be to step out of the airport and look for a shared cab once on the main road. It is however a long walk.
2. I am not sure about any groups, sorry.
3. Hard to say. Just take a drive around Dal Lake and see which spot appeals to you the most. A hard from one corner of the lake to another will take about 10-15 mins.
Hi Vargis
I want to book a Suv for 4 persons from Srinagar Airport to katra vaishno devi for 5th sep. Do you have a contact for a taxi provider. Thanks for helping.
Hi Taran – Please talk to Faisal in Srinagar at 9596410670.
What is the fare for per day
There is no per day fare, it is on basis of destination.
Hi Vargis
I want to book a cab for 4 persons from Srinagar to Sonmarg for 10th of Aug. Do you have a contact for a taxi provider. Thanks for helping.
Hi Prabal – You can talk to Faisal in Srinagar @ 9596410670
Hi vargis bhai
Can you plz send me your contact no
Hello Vargis,
Great job on this blog. Very informative. Need to hire taxi for my trip to Srinagar this week. Can you help me. Can I use same taxi for the entire trip?
Day 1> 27 July Friday reaching Srinagar airport at 2.30pm. Stay in Srinagar for the night.
Day 2> 28th July reach gulmarg and stay for 2 nights.
Day 3> 29th July stay in gulmarg.
Day 4> 30th July start to pahalgam via Srinagar. Stay in pahalgam
Day 5> 31st July start to Srinagar. Stay in Srinagar boathouse
Day 6> 1st Aug start to sonmarg. Night stay in sonmarg
Day 7> 2nd Aug start to kargil. Stay in kargil.
Day 8> 3rd Aug Return to Sonmarg. Stay in sonmarg
Day 9> 4th Aug Return to Srinagar. Catch 3pm flight from Srinagar to Bangalore via Delhi.
Thanks for any help.
Murali Krishna
Hi Murali – Yes you can definitely use the same taxi for visiting all these places. Please speak with Faisal in Srinagar @ 9596410670. He can help arrange a taxi for you there.
Hi murali, i am also coming from bangalore on 29 th. Do you wish to go to leh as well. Please share your no.
What are the bus timings from Srinagar to Jammu and vice-versa. How to book tickets for it? How much time it take to travel?
Agar hum Scorpio me Srinagar to Kargil (night stay) then Kargil to Leh dono alag alag gari se jaye to kitna fare hoga…?
Private cab ya shared cab?
Dear Mr.Khan
As required for me kindly inform the rate actual involved ( srinagar to pahalgaon..2500/- one side and return rate in same cab 2950/- ) i am in dark weather i would pay only 2950/- for complete up & down OR to pay ( 2500+2950 ) i.s 5450/- pl inform me clearly for making my trip to kashmir soon by 8 persons
Mr. Ghosh – Please speak to Faisal in Srinagar at 9596410670. These rates are open to negotiation. Give my reference and he can let you know the best rates to visit these places.
Whats the cost of share taxi from srinagar to Pahalgam??
Hi…What is the cost of hiring a private taxi from Srinagar to Kargil with stopover at Sonamarg for 2 hours sightseeing？
Hello – Cost will differ really depending on who you hire. Contact Faisal in Srinagar at 9596410670. Give my reference and he will help you with the best possible rates.
Who to reach 15 members from udhampur to pahalgam
I am sorry I did not quite get what your question is.
Can we get shared taxis from srinagar to domel
domel?
Can we get shared taxis from Kargil to Leh , if we decide to take halt at Kargil ,or what will b cost if we take taxi from Kargil to Leh visiting , lamyaru ,pattar shab
1. Yes you can get shared cabs.
2. It will cost you about 6000 to 7000
very useful information..
Thanks Mhp
what about JKSRTC buses from Srinagar to Kargil/Leh. When will they start?
Sometime towards Late May.