About a Kashmir trip
Kashmir is famous for shikara rides on Dal Lake, Mughal gardens, alpine meadows and snow-capped peaks. Srinagar is the base, with day trips or overnight stays in Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg.
Spring brings tulips (the Tulip Garden usually opens late March–April), summer is green and pleasant, autumn has golden chinar trees, and winter turns Gulmarg into a ski destination.
Day-wise Kashmir itinerary (6 days)
Day 1: Arrive Srinagar
Check in to a houseboat; evening shikara ride on Dal Lake.
Day 2: Srinagar sightseeing
Mughal Gardens, Shankaracharya Temple and old city markets.
Day 3: Day trip to Gulmarg
Drive about 50 km; Gulmarg Gondola Phase 1 & 2 and meadow walks.
Day 4: Srinagar to Pahalgam
Drive about 95 km via saffron fields and Avantipora ruins; evening by the Lidder.
Day 5: Pahalgam valleys
Betaab Valley, Aru Valley and Chandanwari by local taxi.
Day 6: Sonamarg & departure
Day trip to Sonamarg (about 80 km from Srinagar) or depart for the airport.
Top places to visit in Kashmir
- Dal Lake shikara rideFloating markets, houseboats and views of the Zabarwan range.
- Mughal GardensNishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh and Chashme Shahi in Srinagar.
- Gulmarg GondolaOne of the highest cable cars in the world, up to Apharwat.
- Betaab & Aru Valleys, PahalgamRiverside meadows and pine forests along the Lidder River.
- Thajiwas Glacier, SonamargPony ride to the glacier and snow most of the year.
Best time to visit & how to reach
Best time: April to October (December to February for snow).
How to reach: Srinagar International Airport has direct flights from Delhi, Mumbai and other cities. By rail, the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla line connects the valley; by road Jammu–Srinagar is about 250 km.
Kashmir travel tips
- Book Gulmarg Gondola tickets online in advance in peak season.
- Local union taxis are required for sightseeing within Pahalgam and Sonamarg.
- Carry warm layers even in summer.
- Try Kashmiri wazwan, kahwa and noon chai.
Kashmir trip FAQs
How many days are enough for Kashmir?
5 to 6 days covers Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg comfortably.
When can I see snow in Kashmir?
December to February in Gulmarg and Sonamarg. In summer, snow is found at Gulmarg Phase 2 and Thajiwas Glacier.
Is Kashmir good for a honeymoon?
Yes — a houseboat stay, shikara rides and Gulmarg snow make Kashmir one of India's most popular honeymoon trips.
Do I need permits for Kashmir?
Indian tourists do not need special permits for Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam or Sonamarg. Check current advisories before you travel.