Start your trip by exploring the beautiful city of Srinagar. Visit the Dal Lake, take a boat ride, and enjoy the scenic view. Then head towards the Shankaracharya Hill to witness the panoramic view of Srinagar. In the evening enjoy the local mouth-watering cuisine at Mughal Darbar Restaurant.
The next day, visit the snow-clad mountains of Gulmarg. Enjoy the scenic beauty of this place by skiing or snowboarding at Apharwat Peak. Visit the highest golf course in the world and take a pony ride to the enchanting Alpather Lake.
Drive to the stunning city of Sonmarg. Just like Gulmarg, you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and trekking in Sonmarg. Take a pony ride to the famous Thajiwas Glacier and enjoy the scenic view of glaciers and snowcapped peaks.
From Sonmarg, head towards Pahalgam. Here, visit the Aru Village, which is a perfect place for nature lovers. Enjoy river rafting or angling in Lidder River or trek to the famous Chandanwari. Do not forget to taste the local tea and cuisines.
Return to Srinagar and visit the Mughal Gardens, a blend of traditional Islamic and Hindu architecture. Visit the Hazratbal Shrine and the Shankaracharya Temple. Spend the night shopping for souvenirs in Lal Chowk market.
Before departure, visit the Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in the state. Take an Shikara ride in Dal Lake again and enjoy the scenic beauty of houseboats and floating markets. Lastly, taste the special Kashmiri Kahwa before heading back.
Public transport in Kashmir is well developed. However, to travel safely and comfortably, it is recommended to hire a car or taxi for the entire trip. Car rental services are easily available at the airport or in the city. Hiring a car for the entire trip is estimated to be around ₹15000-₹20000 (petrol included). Public buses are also available and would be much cheaper but less comfortable than a hired car.
If you have more time, you can consider visiting the Dachigam National Park and the Wular Lake. If you have less time, you can either cut a day off Gulmarg, Sonmarg, or Pahalgam or shorten the visit to the Mughal Gardens and Lal Chowk market in Srinagar.
Srinagar International Airport (SXR) is the primary airport in the Kashmir Valley situated in the city of Srinagar. It is located about 12 km from the city center, and it is well connected to other parts of India via domestic flights.