4 Nights 5 Days Kashmir Package – Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Doodhpathri or Sonmarg

With our 4-night 5-day package explore the wonderful sights of Kashmir. This tour covers incredible locations like Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Doodhpathri or Sonmarg. Whether you are traveling with your significant other family or friends this trip offers the perfect mix of adventure, amazing scenery and interesting experiences.

This package includes private transportation, peaceful lodging, and knowledgeable sightseeing suggestions to guarantee a hassle-free and delightful trip. This 4-night 5-day Kashmir package from Sreestours ensures that you will always remember the colorful markets of Srinagar, the unspoiled valleys of Pahalgam or the thrilling activities in Gulmarg.

Destinations Covered:

1. Srinagar
2. Gulmarg
3. Pahalgam 
4. Doodhpathri or Sonmarg

Srinagar:

Srinagar, the heart of Kashmir, is a place of awesome beauty and rich culture. You can see gorgeous houseboats and sailing gardens while selecting a quiet Shikara ride on the well-known Dal Lake. Along with Kashmiri handicrafts, woolen shawls, and delightful dry fruits, Srinagar is an excellent spot for shoppers.

Gulmarg:

Gulmarg is a gorgeous winter destination, famous for its Gondola ride, one of the highest cable cars in the world. The grassy meadows renovate into a snowy paradise in the winter which is ideal for snowboarding and skiing. Regardless of your preference for adventure or simply taking in the amazing scenery Gulmarg’s snow-covered views are sure to wow you.

Pahalgam:

Pahalgam is a quiet valley full of greenery and natural beauty, making it one of the most attractive spots in Kashmir. You can view snow-capped mountains, grassy meadows, and a splashing river in the calm Betaab Valley, which is named after a Bollywood film. The Aru Valley, with its amazing scenery and hiking paths that bring you closer to Kashmir’s pure splendor, is an amazing destination for adventure seekers.

Doodhpathri or Sonmarg:

Doodhpathri, with its peaceful meadows and cool climate, is an offbeat destination for nature lovers. Alternatively, Sonmarg, often called the ‘Meadow of Gold,’ offers amazing views of snow-covered mountains, rushing rivers, and green meadows, making it a perfect place for a peaceful retreat or adventure-filled activities like trekking and fishing.

Travel Tip: 

• If you are reaching Srinagar by afternoon, the itinerary will be adjusted as per your arrival time.
• Book Gulmarg Gondola tickets in advance to avoid last-minute problems.
• Carry warm clothes like jackets, gloves, and mufflers in winter, and light woolens for summer evenings.
• Local taxis must be hired for sightseeing in Pahalgam, Gulmarg, and Sonmarg as private cars are not allowed.
• The best shopping items include Kashmiri handicrafts, woolens, and dry fruits.

Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival at Srinagar:

On your arrival at Srinagar Airport, our driver will be there to receive you and take you to your hotel. After checking in, you can relax and chill out. A 5-hour Shikara ride on the renowned Dal Lake is a special perk we have in store for you if you arrive early. The quiet waters and wonderful views of the sailing gardens and traditional Kashmiri houseboats will be yours to enjoy during this peaceful boat ride.
Overnight Stay: At your hotel in Srinagar.

Day 2: Srinagar to Gulmarg and Back:

Today, you will head out for a full-day trip to Gulmarg, one of Kashmir’s most popular hill stations, known for its beautiful views and exciting adventure activities. It’s best to start your day at 8:30 AM so you can make the most of your time and explore all the attractions that Gulmarg has to offer.

Gulmarg Gondola Chairlift:

• About the Gondola: The second-longest and second-highest cable car in the world, the Gulmarg Gondola, is the reason for Gulmarg’s fame. With remarkable views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains, it is the region’s main attraction.
• Divided into Two Phases: Nearly 600 passengers are transported to Apharwat Mountain per hour by the two-phase gondola. The majority of winter sports are available here.
• Important Travel Advice:
  • Book in advance: It is highly recommended to book your gondola tickets well in advance, especially during peak tourist season.
  • Winter or Summer: It’s best to book tickets for Phase 1 only if you’re going in the winter as the second phase may be closed because of snow. For a longer experience, you can ride the gondola all the way to Phase 2 during the summer months.
  • Dress warmly: Because it can get cold, especially at higher elevations make sure you have enough woolen clothing with you along with gloves and a muffler.

Sledge Ride & Skiing:

• Winter Activities: In the winter, Gulmarg offers exciting sled rides and skiing. You must, however, spend at least one night in Gulmarg in order to fully enjoy these activities.
• Note: Winter activities like skiing are only available during the colder months, typically from December to February.

Outer Circle Walk:

• About the Walk: An 11-kilometer trekking trail in Gulmarg the Outer Circle Walk leads through some of the area’s most remarkable scenery. This walk is ideal for nature lovers and is surrounded by rising pines, grassy meadows, and amazing views of the Kashmir Valley.
• Alternative Option – ATV Ride: You can take an ATV ride along this route if you don’t want to trek or if you want to explore more quickly. It’s a fantastic way to see the remarkable scenery and get the distance.
• Best Time for ATV: The ATV ride is particularly popular in summer when the meadows are in full bloom. During winter, snow might make it difficult to complete the ATV ride.

Return to Srinagar:

After exploring the beauty of Gulmarg, head back to Srinagar in the afternoon. The drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Srinagar for a relaxing evening.

• Overnight Stay: Enjoy a peaceful night in your Srinagar hotel.

Important Travel Advice:

• Gondola Tickets: Getting a gondola ticket can be tough due to high demand, so make sure to plan and book in advance.
• ATV Ride over Pony Ride: We suggest picking for an ATV ride rather than pony rides. It’s a much better way to explore Gulmarg’s landscapes and is a more comfortable option.
• Gulmarg Trip Timing: We recommend leaving Srinagar by 8:30 AM to make the most of your day.
• Shopping: Since activities like the Gondola ride and skiing are expensive, we suggest avoiding shopping in Gulmarg during this day to keep your focus on sightseeing.

Day 3: Srinagar to Pahalgam:

Today, you will travel to Pahalgam, a beautiful valley surrounded by lush greenery and superb views. The journey to Pahalgam is approximately 2.5 hours by road, so it’s best to start your day by 8:30 AM to make the most of your sightseeing.

On the Way to Pahalgam:

• If your visit falls in April, make sure to stop for a quick photo at the Mustard Fields. The yellow blooms during this time create a perfect backdrop for memorable photos.
• If you’re visiting in late October to mid-November, don’t miss out on the Saffron Fields of Lethpora. The saffron flowers bloom for a short period, usually less than 10 days, making it a unique sight.

Arrival at Pahalgam:

Once you arrive in Pahalgam, check in at your hotel and get ready for a half-day sightseeing tour. Since you’re staying only one night, we’ve planned the best highlights of Pahalgam for today:

Betaab Valley:

• A quick 15-minute drive from Pahalgam will take you to the must-see Betaab Valley. Once known as Hagan Valley, it became well-known after Betaab, a Bollywood film was filmed there.
• The Lidder River, pine forests, and snow-capped mountains encircle this valley. This location is perfect for a relaxing stroll or a photo session.
• The valley is home to animals like brown bears and snow leopards and it is made even more beautiful by the heavy snowfall that falls there in the winter.
• Entry Fee: Rs 100
• Time Needed: Approximately 1 hour to explore.

Chandanwari:

• Drive for another 15 minutes after you cross Betaab Valley to Chandanwari which is famous for its snow bridge and amazing surroundings.
• Chandanwari is also the starting point of the Amarnath Yatra, which takes place every year between June and August.
• Important Tip: Avoid going to Chandanwari in the winter because of the smooth surfaces and a lot of snow. Nonetheless, you might have the opportunity to take in the local snowfall if you go in April or May.
• Travel Advice: If you intend to visit Chandanwari you will need to change into gum boots and a heavy jacket. Renting a sled is the best option to reach the snow point and snow bridge because of the slick surface. About Rs 5000 is spent on shoes, coats and sleds. We suggest staying away from Chandanwari if you want to save time and money.

Return to Pahalgam:

After a day full of sightseeing, head back to Pahalgam and relax. Spend the evening enjoying the scenic beauty of the town and unwind at your hotel.

Overnight Stay: Pahalgam hotel.

Day 4: Pahalgam to Srinagar:

Before returning to Srinagar today you can choose to take a half-day sightseeing tour. Please select the option that best suits your interests and time limits from the two options below. If you’re pressed for time neither of these options might be practical.

Option 1: Visit Aru Valley and Proceed to Srinagar:

• Best time to start: 8:00 AM
• Total time required: 4 hours

Pahalgam is about 9 km away from the attractive Aru Valley which can be reached in about 30 minutes by car or local taxi. A popular destination for nature lovers, Aru Valley is renowned for its amazing meadows and peaceful surroundings. For hikers aiming to see the Katrinag Valley, Tarsar-Marsar Lakes, and Kolahoi Glacier, it is also a well-liked base camp.

• Best time to visit: July to September is ideal for sightseeing, while winter is perfect for skiing.
• Highlights: A peaceful village surrounded by snow-capped peaks, perfect for nature walks and photography.

Option 2: Visit Baisaran Valley and Proceed to Srinagar:

• Best time to start: 8:00 AM
• Total time required: 6 hours

The Baisaran Valley sometimes referred to as the Mini Switzerland of India is a must-see location for amazing views of mountains, meadows and other pretty sites. It is around 10 km from Pahalgam but you will have to take a pony ride because there are no motorable roads there (round-trip prices start at Rs 1600 per pony). The ride, which lasts about an hour, provides amazing views of the Dabyan Valley, the Kashmir Valley and other places.

• Winter: Expect a snow-covered paradise with stunning views.
• Summer: The lush green meadows will mesmerize you.
• Important travel tip:
  • The pony ride can last up to 1 hour, but if you choose to hike, it may take up to 2 hours.
  • In winter, renting gumboots (₹250) is necessary as the trail can get slippery.

Which Option is Better?

• Aru Valley: Aru Valley is ideal for people who want to travel to more isolated and perfect places. It is a fantastic place for outdoor enthusiasts and is most famous for trekking.
• Baisaran Valley: Baisaran is often considered more scenic and is visually impressive, offering beautiful meadows and scenic views of the surrounding mountains. It’s the best choice if you want to experience the “Mini Switzerland” of India.

Our Recommendation:

• For snow lovers: We advise spending more time in Gulmarg and avoiding Pahalgam and Sonmarg if you’re looking for winter activities and snow.
• For a summer visit: Both Aru Valley and Baisaran Valley are excellent options. If you have the time, think about including a visit to Doodhpathri as well.

After your chosen sightseeing activity, you will depart for Srinagar. Enjoy the drive and relax before reaching Srinagar.

• Arrival: Transfer to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 5: Departure from Srinagar:

On your final day, check out from your hotel at your convenience. If time permits, you can do some shopping for Kashmiri handicrafts, woolen shawls, dry fruits, or traditional souvenirs.
Our driver will then drop you off at Srinagar Airport for your onward journey, marking the end of your unforgettable Kashmir trip.