Nature Lover's 5-Day Itinerary for Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Pahalgam, Dal Lake, and Srinagar

  1. Day 1: Gulmarg
    2 hours 30 minutes (51.5 miles) from Srinagar

    Begin your trip with Gulmarg, famously known as the meadow of flowers, for its captivating vistas of pristine natural beauty. Take a Gondola ride to Khilanmarg for breathtaking views of the valley from above.

  2. Day 2: Sonamarg
    3 hours 18 minutes (77.2 miles) from Gulmarg

    Sonamarg, also known as the 'Meadow of Gold' is a majestic frozen landscape in winters with impressive flora during summers. Make sure to visit the Thajiwas glacier and Baltal Valley for spellbinding views of nature's magnificence.

  3. Day 3: Pahalgam
    4 hours 27 minutes (119.2 miles) from Sonamarg

    Pahalgam, a tranquil valley situated on the banks of River Lidder, offers spectacular views of nature surrounded by the breathtaking Himalayan ranges. Visit the Betaab Valley and Aru Valley for an enchanting experience.

  4. Day 4: Dal Lake
    1 hour 10 minutes (12.7 miles) from Pahalgam

    The jewel of Srinagar, Dal Lake, is a beautiful lake in Srinagar. Take a Shikara ride in the lake to experience life around the peaceful waters. Visit the floating market to explore local handicraft merchandise and souvenirs.

  5. Day 5: Srinagar
    23 minutes (4.5 miles) from Dal Lake

    Srinagar, the summer capital of Kashmir, has a rich cultural collision of Indian, Persian, and Mughal influences. Visit the Mughal Gardens of Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh and Chashme Shahi. Make sure to end your trip with traditional Kashmiri cuisine at Mughal Darbar.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Gondola ride in Gulmarg (2 hours, INR 700)
  • Entry to Thajiwas Glacier in Sonamarg (1 hour, INR 100)
  • Shikara ride in Dal Lake (2 hours, INR 400)
  • Dinner at Mughal Darbar, Srinagar (1 hour, INR 800)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 2,000

Useful Tips

If you have more time, add a visit to the picturesque Tarsar Lake in Pahalgam, which is accessible during summers. If you are interested in adventure sports, try rafting on River Lidder or camping under the starry skies of Sonamarg. If you have less time, skip Pahalgam and head straight to Dal Lake from Sonamarg.

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