A 7-DAY KASHMIR ITINERARY

Day One: The Gateway to Jammu & Kashmir

Arrival at Srinagar (Altitude 5200 ft.)

Your 7-day Kashmir itinerary begins with a breathtaking arrival at Srinagar’s Sheikh Ul Alam International Airport, known for one of the most scenic flights in the world. Srinagar, often called the “City of Reshi’s & Sufi’s,” serves as the summer capital of Jammu & Kashmir.

Upon arrival at Srinagar airport, you will be warmly welcomed by Unplugged Life’s representative, who will then whisk you off to your hotel/houseboat. In the evening, immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Nageen Lake or Dal Lake by taking a memorable shikara ride. Witness floating vegetable gardens and the open expanse of Nageen or Dal Lake, offering numerous opportunities for birdwatching, including Kingfishers, Little Bitterns, Common Pariah Kites, Grebes, and more. Dine and unwind with an overnight stay at your Srinagar hotel.

Day Two: A Journey to the Valley of Shepherds

Srinagar to Pahalgam 8989 ft. (95 km / 3-4 hrs)

After a leisurely breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to the “Valley of Shepherds,” Pahalgam, situated at the confluence of Sheshnag Lake and the Lidder River. Along the way, explore saffron fields and 19th-century Awantipura Ruins. Upon your arrival in Pahalgam, check in to your pre-arranged hotel and spend the day at your leisure, taking in the natural beauty and taking a stroll along the banks of the Lidder River. Pahalgam is renowned for its trekking routes and serves as the base camp for the Amarnath Pilgrimage. This destination has also been featured in Bollywood films, making it a significant attraction in the Indian film industry. Enjoy dinner and a comfortable overnight stay at your Pahalgam hotel.

Day Three: Discovering Aru Valley, Betaab Valley & Chandanwari

Pahalgam Local Sightseeing – ABC Valley (45 km / 3-4 hrs)

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before embarking on your adventure. Head to Aru, just 12 kilometers from Pahalgam, offering breathtaking meadows and serving as the starting point for trekking to Liddarwat, Kolhoi Glacier, Tarsar Lake, and Betaab Valley. Please note that only local union vehicles are permitted in this area.

Aru Valley, located approximately 12 kilometers from Pahalgam and 11 kilometers upstream along the Lidder River, is a nature lover’s paradise. Its scenic meadows, pristine lakes, and majestic mountains make it an ideal base camp for thrilling treks to Kolhoi Glacier and Tarsar Lake. This tranquil village on the left bank of the Aru River, a Lidder River tributary, is celebrated for its serene environment and picturesque beauty. Tourists can indulge in activities like trout fishing, trekking, hiking, horseback riding, sightseeing, and photography.

Betaab Valley, a popular tourist destination, is situated 15 kilometers from Pahalgam. Named after the iconic film Betaab starring Sunny Deol and Amrita Singh, the valley is a haven of lush meadows, snow-capped peaks, and dense vegetation. It also serves as a convenient campsite for trekkers and those seeking mountain exploration. Betaab Valley is easily accessible from Pahalgam, and visitors can enjoy the crystal-clear stream that flows from the snowy hills. Nearby attractions include Baisaran and Tulian Lake.

Chandanwari, situated 16 kilometers from Pahalgam, is the starting point for the annual Amarnath Yatra, which occurs during the rainy month of Sawan. It’s known for thrilling snow sledding on a snow bridge. People often engage in snowball fights before sledding down, and there are local dhabas for tea and snacks. Hajan, en route to Chandanwari, is an ideal spot for a relaxing picnic. Chandanwari has also been featured in several films. Return to your hotel in the evening for dinner and an overnight stay in Pahalgam.

Day Four: Journey to the Meadow of Flowers

Pahalgam to Gulmarg 8700 ft. (150 km / 4-5 hrs)

After a satisfying breakfast, check out and head to Gulmarg, an enchanting destination situated at an elevation of 8700 feet, often referred to as the “Meadow of Flowers.” This picturesque location is renowned as a premier ski resort and home to the world’s highest 18-hole Golf Course, with a rich history dating back to the British colonial era. Gulmarg’s legendary beauty, strategic location, and proximity to Srinagar combine to establish it as one of the top hill resorts in the country.

Upon your arrival, check in at your hotel and then embark on a truly breathtaking adventure: the Gondola Ride. The Gulmarg Gondola is a major tourist attraction, ranking as one of the world’s highest cable cars, soaring to a height of 3,979 meters. This remarkable two-stage ropeway can transport approximately 600 people per hour to and from the Gondola’s main station in Gulmarg, offering access to a shoulder of the nearby Mt. Apharwat Summit, which stands at a majestic 4,390 meters (14,403 feet). This peak presents a controlled ski area, featuring a vast expanse of pristine snow, perfect for advanced skiers looking to descend a thrilling 800 meters over approximately 3 kilometers of pristine slopes.

Here’s a brief breakdown of the Gondola ride’s stages:

Gondola till Phase 1: This leg of the journey takes you from the Gulmarg Resort to the Kongdori Station (2600m) nestled in the bowl-shaped Kongdori Valley. The journey spans 9 minutes, offering stunning vistas along the way.

Gondola till Phase 2: From Kongdori Station, the Gondola continues its ascent to the Kongdori Mountain (3747m), situated on the shoulder of the Apharwat Peak. This part of the ride lasts approximately 12 minutes and provides awe-inspiring panoramic views.

Explore Gulmarg’s natural beauty and exhilarating activities, including the renowned Gondola Ride, for an unforgettable experience in this captivating region.

Day Five: A Return to the Enchanting City

Gulmarg to Srinagar (130 km / 6-8 hrs)

After a relaxed breakfast, check out from your hotel and make your way back to Srinagar. Upon your arrival in Srinagar, check in to your pre-arranged hotel. In the afternoon, embark on a Mughal Garden hopping tour, exploring the exquisite Nishat Bagh, known as the “Garden of Pleasure,” and the enchanting Shalimar Bagh, the “Abode of Love.” These picturesque gardens are nestled alongside Dal Lake, framed by the majestic Pir Panjal mountain range, making for a picture-perfect setting.

Later in the day, immerse yourself in Srinagar’s prominent attractions. Your journey includes visits to Khanqah-e-Moula, the serene Pari Mahal, and the revered Hazratbal Shrine, considered the holiest Muslim shrine in Kashmir. Located on the left bank of Dal Lake, this mosque houses the precious Moi-e-Muqqadas, believed to be a strand of the Prophet Mohammed’s hair, brought to Kashmir in 1700.

As the day unfolds, savor a mesmerizing sunset from the Shankaracharya Temple. Perched atop a hill, this temple offers breathtaking panoramic views. To reach the temple, you’ll ascend about 260 stone steps, but please note that phones and cameras are not allowed within the temple premises.

Day Six: Exploring the Meadow of Gold

Srinagar: Day trip to Sonamarg (100 km / 3-4 hrs one way)

Today, embark on a full-day excursion to Sonamarg, which translates to the “Meadow of Gold.” This journey offers magnificent views of snow-capped mountains against the blue sky, dense pine forests, and towering mountains. Sonmarg serves as a base for various trekking routes, high mountain lakes, glaciers, and the sacred Amarnath Holy Cave. Enjoy the serene beauty of the region, and you can even hire ponies or local union vehicles (on direct payment basis) to visit Thajwas Glacier, a popular local attraction during the summer. Return to Srinagar in the evening for dinner and a comfortable overnight stay at your Srinagar hotel.

Day Seven: Cherish Your Kashmir Memories

Srinagar Airport Drop

As your memorable journey comes to an end, we express our gratitude for your patronage. We will ensure a timely transfer to the domestic airport in Srinagar for your onward flight. Cherish your unforgettable memories of this Kashmir adventure.