Start your trip with a peaceful boat ride at Dal Lake. The serene lake offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and floating markets. You can also opt for a traditional shikara ride or try watersports like kayaking and water skiing.
Gulmarg is a popular ski resort town known for its snow-covered slopes in winter and wildflowers in summer. Take a gondola ride to Apharwat Peak to enjoy stunning panoramas of the Himalayas. You can also try horse riding or take a hike to Khilanmarg.
Visit Sonamarg, which translates to 'Meadow of Gold' for its breathtaking landscapes featuring dense forests, alpine meadows, and glacier-fed rivers. Here, you can take a pony ride to Thajiwas Glacier or explore the meadows on your own. Don't miss the delicious and locally sourced trout fish.
Explore Pahalgam, a scenic town nestled in the Lidder Valley. Here you can take a leisurely walk along the Lidder River, visit the Betaab and Aru valleys, or hike to the Kolahoi Glacier. Pahalgam is also known for its rich saffron fields, so don't forget to try some authentic saffron tea.
Public buses and taxis are available, but hiring a private car with a driver is recommended for convenience and comfort. Expect to pay around INR 3000-4000 per day for a car with a driver. Roads can be narrow and winding, so be prepared for a bumpy ride.
If you have more time, consider exploring the Yousmarg Valley, Shalimar Bagh, and Srinagar's old city. If you have less time, skip Pahalgam and spend an extra day exploring Gulmarg or Sonamarg.
Srinagar International Airport (SXR) is the main airport serving Kashmir. It's located about 20 minutes from Srinagar city center.