5-Day Nature Itinerary in Jammu and Kashmir

  1. Day 1: Gulmarg
    52.5 km (1 hour 30 minutes) from Srinagar

    Gulmarg, also known as the Meadow of Flowers, is a popular ski resort during the winter months. During the summer, visitors can enjoy a scenic gondola ride to Kongdori and take in the stunning views of the Himalayas.

  2. Day 2: Sonamarg
    80.2 km (2 hours 30 minutes) from Gulmarg

    Sonamarg, or the "Meadow of Gold," is a picturesque town located at the foothills of the Zoji La Pass. Visitors can take a pony ride to the Thajiwas Glacier, a popular tourist spot for its serene beauty and trekking opportunities.

  3. Day 3: Pahalgam
    168 km (4 hours 30 minutes) from Sonamarg

    Pahalgam, also known as the Valley of Shepherds, is a scenic town nestled at the banks of the Lidder River. Visitors can take a pony ride to the stunning Betab Valley, which is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and lush greenery.

  4. Day 4: Srinagar
    91.6 km (2 hours 50 minutes) from Pahalgam

    Srinagar, the capital city of Jammu and Kashmir, is famous for its beautiful lakes, gardens, and houseboats. Visitors can take a shikara ride on the Dal Lake and marvel at the floating gardens and picturesque views of the Himalayas.

  5. Day 5: Dachigam National Park
    22.9 km (50 minutes) from Srinagar

    Dachigam National Park is a wildlife sanctuary for the endangered Kashmir Stag and several other species of flora and fauna. Visitors can trek through the park's serene forests, spot wildlife, and enjoy a picnic at the serene Marsar Lake.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Gulmarg Gondola (2 hours, INR 700)
  • Pony Ride to Thajiwas Glacier (3 hours, INR 800)
  • Pony Ride to Betab Valley (4 hours, INR 1200)
  • Shikara Ride on Dal Lake (2 hours, INR 700)
  • Dachigam National Park Trek (4 hours, INR 400)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 3800

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can consider visiting the stunning gardens of Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh in Srinagar. Visitors can also enjoy skiing and snowboarding at Gulmarg during the winter months. If you have less time, you can skip the Dachigam National Park trek and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the Mughal Gardens in Srinagar instead.

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