Ultimate 5-Day Journey to Maa Vaishno Devi, Gulmarg, Sonmarg, and Kashmir

Day 1: Maa Vaishno Devi

Katra, India

7:00 AM

Arrive in Katra

Begin your spiritual journey by arriving in Katra, the base for the sacred Mata Vaishno Devi Temple.
Travel to Katra via train or flight, then take local transport to the starting point of the trek.
INR0, N/A

8:00 AM

Breakfast at local Dhabha

Savor a hearty breakfast of aloo paratha and chai before starting your trek.
Dhabhas are located near the trek starting point.
INR150, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Trek to Maa Vaishno Devi Temple

Embark on a 12 km trek through the scenic mountains to reach the holy shrine, enjoying the views along the way.
Well-marked paths lead directly to the temple.
INR0, 4-5 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at Bhawan

Enjoy some simple vegetarian food served at Bhawan, which includes rice, dal, and sabzi.
Bhawan has several community kitchens for pilgrims.
INR200, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Darshan at Maa Vaishno Devi

Experience the divine blessing of Maa Vaishno Devi at the holy cave.
After lunch, you can proceed to the temple for Darshan.
INR0, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Trek back to Katra

Make your way back down to Katra to unwind after a holy day.
Follow the same route back.
INR0, 3 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Hotel

Relax with a comforting dinner of paneer butter masala and naan at your hotel.
Most hotels in Katra provide in-house dining options.
INR500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Gulmarg Exploration

Gulmarg, India

7:00 AM

Departure to Jammu

Leave Katra early in the morning and travel to Jammu (about 1 hour) to catch a vehicle to Gulmarg.
Hire a taxi from Katra to Jammu.
INR1500, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Breakfast at Jammu

Indulge in a breakfast of poha and lassi at a local restaurant.
Choose a well-rated eatery near the station.
INR200, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Travel to Gulmarg

Ride through the stunning landscapes towards Gulmarg, one of the most scenic hill stations in India.
Book a taxi or bus from Jammu to Gulmarg.
INR2500, 2.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Hotel Hilltop

Dine on a delicious meal featuring local Kashmiri dishes at the charming Hotel Hilltop.
Located centrally in Gulmarg.
INR800, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Gulmarg Gondola Ride

Experience the world’s highest golf course and stunning views on the Gulmarg Gondola.
Gondola station is easily accessible.
INR750, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Explore Gulmarg

Wander through the meadows and enjoy adventurous activities like Kashmir skiing or snowboarding.
Various kiosks offer equipment rentals.
INR3000, 2.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at The Grand Mumtaz

Savor delicious Kashmiri Rogan Josh along with saffron rice at this upscale restaurant.
Located in the heart of Gulmarg.
INR1000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Exploring Gulmarg

Gulmarg, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a sumptuous breakfast buffet featuring local and continental options.
Available at your hotel.
INR400, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit to St. Mary's Church

Discover the serene beauty of St. Mary's Church, an iconic architectural marvel in Gulmarg.
A short walk from the central area.
INR0, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Adventure Sports

Engage in thrilling adventure sports like paragliding and trekking with expert guides.
Sign up for adventure packages available locally.
INR5000, 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Hotel Hilltop

Another delicious meal of Kashmiri dum aloo at the cozy Hotel Hilltop.
Popular choice among visitors.
INR800, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Meadow of Flowers

Stroll through the famous meadows of Gulmarg, especially beautiful during the spring season with blooming flowers.
The meadows can be explored by foot or horseback.
INR0, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Return to Hotel for Relaxation

Take some time to unwind and enjoy the stunning views from your hotel room.
Head back to your hotel.
INR0, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Al Tariq

Enjoy an enriching dinner featuring Yakhni Pulao, a traditional Kashmiri dish.
Located on the main street in Gulmarg.
INR800, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Sonmarg Adventure

Sonmarg, India

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast buffet to start the journey to Sonmarg.
Eat at your hotel before leaving.
INR400, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Drive to Sonmarg

Enjoy a scenic drive through stunning landscapes on your way to Sonmarg (about 3.5 hours).
Pre-book a taxi or shuttle service for the trip.
INR3000, 3.5 hours

11:30 AM

Arrive in Sonmarg

Take in the breathtaking views as you arrive in Sonmarg, known as the 'Meadow of Gold'.
Your driver will take you to your hotel.
INR0, N/A

12:00 PM

Lunch at Local Restaurant

Enjoy a local specialty such as Dum Olav (a spicy potato dish) at a quaint eatery.
Choose from nearby local dining options.
INR600, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Thajiwas Glacier Trek

Embark on a trek to Thajiwas Glacier, which offers mesmerizing views and an incredible atmosphere.
The trek can be done with a local guide.
INR1500, 3-4 hours

5:00 PM

Return to Sonmarg

Trek back and enjoy the tranquil beauty of Sonmarg during the golden hour.
Follow the same guided path back.
INR0, 2 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Hotel

Relax with dinner at your hotel, trying traditional Kashmiri dishes like Kashmiri Naan and Chaman.
Hotel dining facilities will be available.
INR700, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Srinagar Sightseeing

Srinagar, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a fulfilling breakfast before departing for Srinagar.
Have breakfast at your hotel in Sonmarg.
INR400, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive to Srinagar

Travel to Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, taking in stunning valley views (about 2.5 hours).
Pre-arrange a taxi for the journey.
INR2000, 2.5 hours

11:30 AM

Visit Mughal Gardens

Explore Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh, the picturesque Mughal gardens filled with vibrant flowers.
Gardens are easily accessible from the city.
INR50, 2 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Ahdoos

Delight in authentic Kashmiri Wazwan cuisine at the renowned Ahdoos restaurant.
Located centrally in Srinagar.
INR800, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Shikara Ride on Dal Lake

Experience a peaceful Shikara ride on Dal Lake, enjoying the beauty of the surroundings.
Boats can be rented right on Dal Lake.
INR500, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Explore Local Markets

Wander through the vibrant local markets of Srinagar for handcrafted souvenirs and Kashmiri handicrafts.
Markets near Dal Lake are bustling and full of choices.
INR0, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at The Chashme Shahi

Conclude your Kashmir journey with a delightful dinner featuring grilled trout and saffron rice.
Restaurant overlooking the beautiful gardens.
INR900, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability