Kashmir Vaishnodevi Family-Friendly Itinerary

Wednesday, December 20: Surat to Srinagar

Start your journey by boarding a flight from Surat to Srinagar, the capital city of Jammu and Kashmir. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and spend the rest of the day exploring the local markets and indulging in delicious Kashmiri cuisine.

• Surat to Srinagar flight: Check flight prices (Estimated cost: varies, Estimated time spent: 3 hours)

Thursday, December 21: Srinagar

Start your day with a serene Shikara ride on Dal Lake, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. In the afternoon, visit the famous Mughal Gardens - Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh. End the day with a visit to the historic Shankaracharya Temple, offering panoramic views of the city.

• Shikara ride on Dal Lake: Estimated cost: varies, Estimated time spent: 2 hours
• Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh: Entry fee: INR 20 per person, Estimated time spent: 2 hours
• Shankaracharya Temple: Entry fee: Free, Estimated time spent: 1 hour

Friday, December 22: Srinagar to Pahalgam

Embark on a scenic drive to Pahalgam, known for its picturesque landscapes. En route, visit the enchanting saffron fields of Pampore and the ancient Awantipora ruins. In Pahalgam, explore the Betaab Valley, Chandanwari, and Aru Valley, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains.

• Srinagar to Pahalgam drive: Estimated cost: varies, Estimated time spent: 4 hours
• Pampore saffron fields: Entry fee: Free, Estimated time spent: 1 hour
• Awantipora ruins: Entry fee: Free, Estimated time spent: 1 hour
• Betaab Valley, Chandanwari, and Aru Valley: Entry fee: Free, Estimated time spent: 4 hours

Saturday, December 23: Pahalgam

Indulge in adventurous activities in Pahalgam. Go for a pony ride to Baisaran Valley or take a trek to the mesmerizing Kolahoi Glacier. In the afternoon, visit the scenic Lidder Amusement Park, offering a range of recreational activities for families.

• Pony ride to Baisaran Valley: Estimated cost: varies, Estimated time spent: 3 hours
• Kolahoi Glacier trek: Estimated cost: varies, Estimated time spent: 6 hours
• Lidder Amusement Park: Entry fee: INR 50 per person, Estimated time spent: 2 hours

Sunday, December 24: Pahalgam to Katra

Leave Pahalgam and travel to Katra, the base camp for the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and spend the day exploring the local markets and preparing for the trek to the holy shrine.

• Pahalgam to Katra drive: Estimated cost: varies, Estimated time spent: 7 hours

Monday, December 25: Vaishno Devi

Embark on a spiritual journey to the Vaishno Devi shrine. Start the trek from Katra and reach the holy shrine, seeking blessings from the goddess. After paying your respects, trek back to Katra and spend the evening at leisure.

• Vaishno Devi trek: Estimated cost: varies, Estimated time spent: 8-10 hours

Tuesday, December 26: Katra to Jammu

Conclude your trip by traveling from Katra to Jammu. Visit the renowned Raghunath Temple, dedicated to Lord Rama, and explore the historic Bahu Fort. Enjoy some last-minute shopping for souvenirs in the local markets before departing.

• Katra to Jammu drive: Estimated cost: varies, Estimated time spent: 2 hours
• Raghunath Temple: Entry fee: Free, Estimated time spent: 1 hour
• Bahu Fort: Entry fee: INR 10 per person, Estimated time spent: 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Srinagar, don't miss the opportunity to visit the peaceful Dachigam National Park, known for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes. In Pahalgam, take a leisurely walk along the Lidder River and enjoy a picnic amidst nature. For a unique experience, try traditional Kashmiri cuisine at local restaurants and savor the flavors of Dum Aloo, Rogan Josh, and Kashmiri Pulao.