Kashmir Nature Lovers Itinerary (June 2023)

1. Day 1: Srinagar
   30 minutes (12.3 km) from Srinagar International Airport

   Arrive in Srinagar and visit the Dal Lake, a picturesque lake surrounded by mountains and scenic beauty. Take a shikara ride to explore the lake. Stay overnight in a houseboat.

2. Day 2: Gulmarg
   51.6 km from Dal Lake (1 hour 48 minutes)

   Drive to Gulmarg, a beautiful valley known for its skiing resorts. Take a Gondola ride to explore the lush green meadows and scenic beauty of Pir Panjal range. Enjoy skiing, golfing or snowboarding here.

3. Day 3: Pahalgam
   140 km from Gulmarg (4 hours)

   Head to Pahalgam, a serene place for nature lovers with picturesque beauty of the Lidder River and tranquil valleys. You can go for a trek or enjoy pony rides exploring the natural beauty of the Aru Valley.

4. Day 4: Sonmarg
   103 km from Pahalgam (3 hours)

   Drive to Sonmarg known for its mesmerizing meadows and snow-capped mountains. Visit the Thajiwas Glacier, a must-see attraction. You can enjoy trekking, camping, or horse riding here.

5. Day 5: Kokernag
   85 km from Sonmarg (2 hours 30 minutes)

   Head to Kokernag, also known as "Land of Gardens". It is famous for its fresh water springs, Gardens and Trout Fish farms. Visit the Kokernag Botanical Garden and enjoy the scenic beauty by the Devibal Garden.

6. Day 6: Dachigam National Park
   60 km from Kokernag (2 hours 30 minutes)

   Visit the Dachigam National Park to explore the beauty of flora and fauna like musk deer, Himalayan black bear, and snow leopard. Trek to the Marsar Lake for serene natural beauty of the valley.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Dal Lake Shikara Ride (2 hours, INR 1500)
• Gulmarg Gondola Ride (2 hours, INR 1000)
• Pony ride in Aru Valley (2 hours, INR 1000)
• Kokernag Botanical Garden entrance fee (INR 200)
• Dachigam National Park entrance fee (INR 100 per person, INR 500 per vehicle)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 3800 per person (excluding accommodation and transportation)

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can visit Leh-Ladakh or the Zanskar Valley for a more adventurous trip.
If you have less time, you can skip Pahalgam or Sonmarg.