One-Day Itinerary: Exploring Vaishnaodevi, Srinarag, Gulmarg, Sonmarg, and Pehalgam

  1. 6:00AM: Vaishnaodevi
    Start your day with a spiritual experience at Vaishnaodevi temple. Trek along the marked path through a scenic environment, to reach the holy temple dedicated to the Vaishnaodevi goddess.
    Note: The temple opens at 6:00AM. Expect long queues to approach the temple, so an early start may be beneficial for devotees.
  2. 11:00AM: Srinarag
    Located along Dal Lake, Srinarag is a beautiful city with a rich history stretching back to the period of the Mughal Empire. Take a shikara ride along the Jhelum river to explore Srinarag's waterways.
    Note: The shikara rides are open from 9:00AM to 5:00PM but are weather-dependent. Keep the weather conditions in mind when planning your trip
    Time Estimate: Drive from Vaishnaodevi to Srinarag (4 hours 50 minutes, approximately 158 KM)
    Cost Estimate: Shikara ride (INR 500 per hour)
  3. 1:00PM: Gulmarg
    Gulmarg is a picturesque hill station famous for its skiing slopes and beautiful valleys. Enjoy the scenic vista by taking a cable car ride to the Apharwat Peak.
    Note: The gondola operates from 10:00AM to 5:00PM and closes in inclement weather. It is best to check local weather conditions before visiting.
    Time Estimate: Drive from Srinarag to Gulmarg (1 hour 30 minutes, approximately 36.9 KM)
    Cost Estimate: Cable car ride ticket (INR 740-980)
  4. 4:00PM: Sonmarg
    Sonmarg is a scenic town known for its beautiful valleys and glaciers. Visit the Thajiwas glacier to experience its natural beauty up-close, or take an exhilarating pony ride, weather permitting.
    Note: The Thajiwas glacier can only be accessed in summers when the weather is favorable. Car rides are also available in place of pony rides.
    Time Estimate: Drive from Gulmarg to Sonmarg (1 hour 30 minutes, approximately 51.9 KM)
    Cost Estimate: Pony ride (INR 300-500 per hour), Car ride (INR 600-1200)
  5. 7:00PM: Pehalgam
    Pehalgam is a beautiful town located in the lap of the Himalaya mountain range. Take a walk in the lush forests and enjoy the serenity of this beautiful landscape.
    Time Estimate: Drive from Sonmarg to Pehalgam (2 hour 5 minutes, approximately 66 KM)
    Cost Estimate: Forest Walk (Free)

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Vaishnaodevi (3 hours, Free)
  • Srinarag (2 hours, INR 500 per hour)
  • Gulmarg (2 hours, INR 740-980)
  • Sonmarg (2 hours, INR 300-500 per hour or INR 600-1200)
  • Pehalgam (2 hours, Free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 1500 - 1980

Useful Tips

If you have more time, visit the Betaab Valley or Aru Valley in Pehalgam. If you have less time, you can skip visiting Srinarag. Alternatively, start earlier from Vaishnaodevi to visit all the places comfortably. It is advised to check the weather forecast and timings of transport services before visiting

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