Journey Through Kashmir: A Family-Friendly Itinerary

• Day 1: Srinagar
  From Sheikh Ul Alam Airport (SXR) to the city center, it takes 30 min (12 km)

  Srinagar, the city of gardens and lakes, is an ideal destination for families. Enjoy a Shikara ride on Dal Lake and visit the beautiful Mughal Gardens of Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh and Chashme Shahi. Experience the thrill of skiing and snowboarding at world-famous Gulmarg Ski Resort.

• Day 2: Pahalgam
  From Srinagar to Pahalgam, it takes 2 hours 40 min (92 km)

  Nature lovers will be captivated by the beauty of Pahalgam- also known as the 'Valley of Shepherds'. Visit Betab Valley- one of the most picturesque spots in the region featured in the Bollywood movie 'Betab'. Stop by Aru Valley and enjoy horse riding or trekking to glaciers and mountains.

• Day 3: Sonamarg
  From Pahalgam to Sonamarg, it takes 5 hours 30 min (170 km)

  Head to Sonamarg, the 'Meadow of Gold' situated along the Sindh River. While there, visit Thajiwas Glacier where you can trek or simply relax with a picnic in the snow. Experience the excitement of whitewater rafting or fishing in the Sindh River.

• Day 4: Jammu City
  From Sonamarg to Jammu City, it takes 7 hours 30 min (371 km)

  Explore the 'City of Temples', Jammu. Visit the Bahu Fort with scenic views of the Tawi river, and the magnificent Raghunath Temple- one of the largest temple complexes in northern India. For children, a must-visit living museum is the Amar Mahal Palace Museum, where they can learn about the culture and history of Jammu.

• Day 5: Patnitop
  From Jammu City to Patnitop, it takes 2 hours 20 min (115 km)

  The final day of the trip explores the serene mountain town of Patnitop. Enjoy a scenic chairlift ride and take beautiful pictures at Nathatop- the highest point in the North region of India. Take a relaxing walk at Sanasar Lake- a newly developed tourist spot known for water sports.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Shikara Ride (2 hours, INR 1000 for 2): INR 1000
• Gondola Ride at Gulmarg Ski Resort (2 hours, INR 800 per person): INR 1600
• Entrance Fee for Betab Valley (1 hour, INR 10 per person): INR 40
• Horse Riding in Aru Valley (3 hours, INR 2000 per person): INR 4000
• Entrance Fee for Thajiwas Glacier (2 hours, INR 25 per person): INR 100
• Entrance Fee for Bahu Fort (1 hour, INR 20 per person): INR 80
• Entrance Fee for Raghunath Temple (1 hour, INR 50 per person): INR 200
• Entrance Fee for Amar Mahal Palace Museum (2 hours, INR 50 per person): INR 200
• Chairlift Ride at Nathatop (1 hour, INR 600 per person): INR 1200
• Water Sports at Sanasar Lake (2 hours, INR 300 per person): INR 600
Total Estimated Costs: INR 10,420

Transportation

While in Kashmir, it is recommended to hire a car with a driver for sightseeing. Rates for hiring a car vary across the season and can be between INR 2500-4500 per day. There is no direct train or bus connectivity to several parts of Kashmir. However, Jammu Tawi and Udhampur Railway Stations and also JKSRTC buses are available from Jammu City.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, plan a visit to the Apharwat Peak or Pangong Tso Lake. With less time, you can skip Sonamarg and add an additional day for Pahalgam. It is also recommended to check weather conditions and pack appropriate clothing as the weather is unpredictable and may affect some outdoor activities.

Airports

Sheikh Ul Alam Airport (SXR), also known as Srinagar Airport, is the main airport in Kashmir. It is located in Badgam district, 12 km from the city center, and has domestic flights to major Indian cities.