Plan Your Dream Trip Perfect Itinerary for Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonmarg

Kashmir is known as the "Paradise on Earth" with its serene beauty, rich landscapes, and snowcapped mountains. Be it relaxing on the pristine waters of Dal Lake, experiencing a thrilling ski session in Gulmarg, trekking through the meadows in Pahalgam, or exploring the tranquil valleys of Sonmarg; one should surely visit Kashmir for the memorable journey. Here is a perfectly crafted 7-day itinerary that will enable you to explore the best of Srinagar Gulmarg Pahalgam Sonmarg Itinerary for a truly magical experience.

Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar

Your dream trip begins with your arrival at Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir. The enchanting city of Srinagar is famous for its Dal Lake, houseboats, Mughal Gardens, and vibrant markets.

Itinerary for Day 1:

In the case of arriving at Sheikh Ul-Alam International Airport, you will be transferred to the hotel or houseboat where you will stay. Highly recommend a stay in a houseboat on Dal Lake as that would be quite authentic.

Once settled in, take a shikara ride on Dal Lake. You can see the city as the water has all its surrounding tranquility to it; here, you will be given an opportunity to view a piece of life on Dal Lake.

Mughal Gardens: Pay a visit to Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, and Chashme Shahi Mughal Gardens. These historic gardens will give you a taste of the region's royal past and their fountains, terraced lawns, and colorful flowers.

Local Markets: Take a leisurely walk through Srinagar's local markets like Lal Chowk to shop for traditional Kashmiri handicrafts, carpets, shawls, and dry fruits.

Day 2: Explore Srinagar's Culture and Temples

On the second day of your Kashmir journey, immerse yourself in the cultural and spiritual richness of Srinagar.

Itinerary for Day 2:

Hazratbal Shrine: Start your day with a visit to the Hazratbal Shrine, which houses a relic believed to be a strand of Prophet Muhammad's hair. The mosque's stunning location on the shores of Dal Lake makes it a peaceful retreat.

Shankaracharya Temple: Take a trip to the Shankaracharya Temple, perched on a hilltop. The panoramic views of Srinagar and the surrounding landscape from here are incredible.

Explore the Floating Market: If you’re visiting during the right season, take a walk through the floating market on Dal Lake, where locals sell flowers, vegetables, and fruits from boats.

Day 3: Srinagar to Gulmarg (50 km / 2 hours)

On the third day, travel to Gulmarg-the "Meadow of Flowers". Known for its resorts for skiing in winters, this is a great destination not only for winter sports but for nature lovers too.

Travel Itinerary on Day 3

Travel to Gulmarg: After the breakfast, proceed to travel to Gulmarg. The drive through the picturesque landscape and the white snowed mountains is really a delight.

Gulmarg Gondola: Once you are in Gulmarg, ride the Gulmarg Gondola, one of the highest cable car rides in the world. The gondola takes you to Apharwat Peak and offers panoramic views of mountains and valleys.

Skiing and Adventure Sports: When visiting in winter, afternoon can be spent skiing or snowboarding in the Apharwat Range. Alternatively, explore adventure activities such as snowshoeing, snow sledging, and snow hiking.

Overnight Stay at Gulmarg: Overnight in one of the quaintly beautiful hotels or resorts having a view of the grand landscape.

Day 4: Gulmarg to Pahalgam 95 Km / 4 hours

On the fourth day, take a trip to Pahalgam, which is one of the loveliest "Valleys of Shepherds." Pahalgam has a special charm in terms of meadows, waterfalls, and rivers; it also boasts of closeness to the Amarnath Cave.

Day 4 itinerary

Drive to Pahalgam: After having breakfast, move towards Pahalgam. The picturesque villages and banks of the Lidder River along which the drive happens are breathtakingly beautiful.

Betaab Valley: Once you arrive in Pahalgam, head straight to Betaab Valley. This verdant valley is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, making it an ideal place for photography and nature walks.

Lidder River: Spend some time by the Lidder River, where you can indulge in fishing or rafting.

Baisaran Valley: In the afternoon, visit Baisaran Valley, also called "Switzerland of India." A pony ride or trek here offers beautiful views of Pahalgam's meadows and snow-capped peaks.

Overnight Stay in Pahalgam: Stay in a cozy hotel or riverside guesthouse in Pahalgam, offering picturesque views of the valley.

Day 5: Pahalgam Exploration

Spend a full day exploring the beautiful surroundings of Pahalgam.

Itinerary for Day 5:

Aru Valley: You can start with Aru Valley, a nice and picturesque place that exhibits natural beauty. You can enjoy trekking or pony riding to see the meadow and snow-covered mountains within the valley.

Trekking and Nature Walks: Pahalgam offers various treks in case you are a trekking enthusiast. Some of the popular treks include treks to Kashmir Great Lakes or Amarnath.

Overnight Stay in Pahalgam: Enjoy a peaceful night in the tranquil ambiance of Pahalgam.

Day 6: Pahalgam to Sonmarg (85 km / 3 hours)

On Day 6, drive towards Sonmarg, a stunning destination known as the “Meadow of Gold”. It's a great place for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.

Itinerary for Day 6:

Visit Sonmarg: After having a scrumptious breakfast, venture towards Sonmarg by car. The ride from there takes you through valley beauties, rivers and landforms.

Thajiwas Glacier: Take trek or pony ride to see Thajiwas Glacier once inside Sonmarg. Glacial views of snow-cap mountain ranges and valleys can easily be seen.

Sonmarg Valley: Take time, in the pristine beauty, Sonmarg Valley lets one have a peaceful time under a serene atmosphere.

Overnight Stay in Sonmarg: Overnight stay at a beautiful guesthouse or resort, surrounded by breathtaking views.

Day 7: Sonmarg to Srinagar (80 km / 2.5 hours)

Spend the last day in Srinagar, sightseeing and shopping

Day 7 Itinerary:

Return Journey to Srinagar: After breakfast, drive back to Srinagar

Shopping in Srinagar: Visit local markets like Lal Chowk to buy Kashmiri handicrafts, dry fruits, and traditional Pashmina shawls.

Visit Shankaracharya Temple: On your last day, visit Shankaracharya Temple for a panoramic view of Srinagar.

Departure: From here, head to Sheikh Ul-Alam International Airport for your journey ahead.