7-Day Nature Itinerary in Jammu and Kashmir: Gulmarg, Sonmarg, Pahalgam

Day 1: Srinagar Exploration

Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir

8:00 AM

Shikara Ride on Dal Lake

Start your day with a serene shikara ride on Dal Lake, surrounded by beautiful mountains and houseboats.
The shikaras are available near Dal Lake's boulevard road, a popular spot in Srinagar. It takes about 20 minutes to reach there from the city center.
INR 500, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Visit Mughal Gardens

Explore the Mughal Gardens like Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh, known for their stunning terraced lawns, water channels, and vibrant flowerbeds.
The Mughal Gardens are located on the banks of Dal Lake, easily accessible by road from the city center.
INR 100, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Shopping at Lal Chowk

Spend your evening shopping for traditional Kashmiri handicrafts, Pashmina shawls, and local spices at the bustling Lal Chowk market.
Lal Chowk is a vibrant market in the heart of Srinagar and can be reached by a short taxi ride from the Mughal Gardens.
Varies, 2 hours
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Day 2: Gulmarg Adventure

Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir

8:00 AM

Gondola Ride to Apharwat Peak

Embark on a thrilling Gondola ride to Apharwat Peak for panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayas and lush meadows.
The Gulmarg Gondola base station is a short drive from the town center. It takes about 30 minutes to reach there.
INR 700 (Gondola ticket), 4 hours

1:00 PM

Skiing or Snowboarding

Indulge in skiing or snowboarding activities on the gentle slopes of Gulmarg, known for being one of the best skiing destinations in India.
You can rent skiing equipment at various shops in Gulmarg town. It's a short walk from the Gondola base station.
INR 2000 (ski/snowboard rental), 4 hours

6:00 PM

Relax at a Local Cafe

Unwind at a cozy local cafe in Gulmarg, sipping on traditional Kahwa tea and enjoying the serene mountain views.
There are several cafes in the town center where you can relax after a day of adventure.
INR 300, 2 hours
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Day 3: Gulmarg Exploration

Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir

8:00 AM

Nature Walk in Biosphere Reserve

Embark on a peaceful nature walk in the Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve, home to diverse flora, fauna, and scenic trails.
The Biosphere Reserve entrance is a short drive from the town center. It takes about 20 minutes to reach there.
INR 100 (entry fee), 3 hours

12:00 PM

Golfing at Gulmarg Golf Course

Play a round of golf at the highest green golf course in the world, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush valleys.
The Gulmarg Golf Course is located near the town center and offers a unique golfing experience at high altitudes.
INR 1500 (green fee), 4 hours

5:00 PM

Visit St. Mary's Church

Explore the historic St. Mary's Church, a beautiful British-era church nestled amidst the pine forests of Gulmarg.
St. Mary's Church is a short walk from the town center and provides a glimpse into Gulmarg's colonial past.
Free entry, 1 hour
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Day 4: Sonmarg Adventure

Sonmarg, Jammu and Kashmir

8:00 AM

Trek to Thajiwas Glacier

Embark on a scenic trek to Thajiwas Glacier, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and gushing streams.
The trek to Thajiwas Glacier starts from Sonmarg town and takes about 2 hours to reach the glacier on foot.
INR 300 (guide fee), 6 hours

2:00 PM

Picnic by the Sindh River

Enjoy a relaxing picnic by the crystal-clear waters of the Sindh River, surrounded by picturesque landscapes and tranquility.
You can find scenic spots along the Sindh River banks near Sonmarg town, perfect for a peaceful picnic.
INR 500 (picnic lunch), 2 hours

5:00 PM

Horse Riding in Sonmarg Valley

Experience the beauty of Sonmarg Valley on a horseback ride, exploring the lush meadows and snow-clad mountains.
You can rent horses from local operators in Sonmarg town for a memorable ride through the valley.
INR 800 (horse rental), 2 hours
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Day 5: Sonmarg Exploration

Sonmarg, Jammu and Kashmir

9:00 AM

Visit Thajiwas Wildlife Sanctuary

Explore the Thajiwas Wildlife Sanctuary, home to diverse flora and fauna, including Himalayan Ibex, snow leopards, and more.
The sanctuary is a short drive from Sonmarg town and offers nature enthusiasts a chance to spot rare wildlife species.
INR 200 (entry fee), 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at a Local Dhaba

Enjoy a traditional Kashmiri meal at a local dhaba, savoring dishes like Rogan Josh, Dum Aloo, and Yakhni.
There are several dhabas in Sonmarg town serving authentic Kashmiri cuisine at affordable prices.
INR 500, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Visit Nilagrad River

Visit the picturesque Nilagrad River, known for its reddish waters and believed to have healing properties in local folklore.
Nilagrad River is a short drive from Sonmarg town, offering a peaceful retreat amidst nature's beauty.
Free entry, 2 hours
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Day 6: Pahalgam Relaxation

Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir

9:00 AM

Scenic Drive to Betaab Valley

Embark on a picturesque drive to Betaab Valley, named after the Bollywood movie 'Betaab' and surrounded by lush meadows and crystal-clear streams.
Betaab Valley is a short drive from Pahalgam town and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
INR 100 (entry fee), 2 hours

12:00 PM

River Rafting on Lidder River

Experience the thrill of river rafting on the gushing waters of the Lidder River, surrounded by pine forests and Himalayan peaks.
You can book river rafting tours at the rafting operators in Pahalgam town for an adventurous experience.
INR 1500, 3 hours

4:00 PM

Visit Aru Village

Explore the quaint Aru Village, known for its scenic beauty, alpine meadows, and as a base for treks to Kolahoi Glacier.
Aru Village is a short drive from Pahalgam town and offers a peaceful retreat amidst nature's tranquility.
Free entry, 2 hours
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Day 7: Pahalgam Adventure

Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir

8:00 AM

Trek to Kolahoi Glacier

Embark on a challenging trek to Kolahoi Glacier, a majestic glacier located in the Kolahoi Valley, offering breathtaking views.
The trek to Kolahoi Glacier starts from Aru Village and takes experienced trekkers about 6-8 hours to reach the glacier and return.
INR 1000 (guide fee), 10 hours

6:00 PM

Bonfire and BBQ Dinner

End your day with a cozy bonfire and BBQ dinner under the starlit sky, enjoying the warmth of the fire and delicious Kashmiri kebabs.
You can arrange a bonfire and BBQ dinner with the help of your accommodation in Pahalgam town for a memorable evening.
INR 1000, 3 hours
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