Hello, my nature lover, Anmol Budhiraja is here!!!
In the winter, my family planned a fascinating trip to the captivating destinations of Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonmarg in Kashmir. “Paradise on Earth” I am sharing my unforgettable 5-day trip, expenses, and tips for a memorable adventure in the heart of Kashmir Valley.
Journey to Beautiful Paradise: From Delhi to Srinagar and Beyond
We took a flight from Delhi to Srinagar, which cost us Rs. 20,000. I also booked a cab for 5 days for Rs. 15,000 to facilitate convenient local sightseeing throughout the trip.
Exploring the Beauty of Srinagar: Day 1
With eager hearts and curious souls, we ventured into the realm of Mughal heritage. Our first stop was the magnificent Mughal Gardens, each a testament to the grandeur of a bygone era.
Also, Shalimar Bagh welcomed us with its symphony of fountains and terraced lawns, while Nishat Bagh unfolded before us like a vibrant tapestry of blooms and cascading waterways. Then we also went to Chashme Shahi, with its refreshing spring.
Next, we journeyed onward to seek solace in the spiritual embrace of Shankaracharya Temple. Perched atop a hill, watching over the city below with timeless grace.
Jamia Masjid had elegant architecture and serene courtyards, where the echoes of prayers mingled with the gentle rustle of palm leaves. At Hazrat Bal, we felt the weight of history in the air, at a famous mosque that holds high reverence amongst Muslims.
In the evening, we had a relaxing Shikara boat ride on Dal Lake. The cost for the Mughal Gardens and Shikara Ride is ₹700 per person for a 1-hour ride.
Exploring Nature’s Majesty at Gulmarg: Day 2
We set off to Gulmarg, eager to take in its stunning views. We wandered through the Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve and stumbled upon the breathtaking Drang Waterfall, a true hidden treasure. To get there, we opted for an ATV or chain taxi from Tangmarg, which set us back around Rs. 2,000. Unfortunately, we missed out on the Gondola ride because it was fully booked, so remember to plan ahead and reserve your spot in advance.
A Day of Adventure in Pahalgam Between Nature’s Richness: Day 3
On Day 3, we embarked on our journey to Pahalgam. We marvelled at the stunning Betaab Valley and soaked in the beauty of Aru Valley and Chandanwari. In Pahalgam, we had a blast horseback riding, skiing, and sledding. Sledging cost us Rs. 250 per person, while pony rides were negotiated down to Rs. 1,500 per person.
Exploring the Sonmarg Serenity and Winter’s Wonderland: Day 4
During our time in Sonmarg, we delighted in the stunning scenery and tried out different activities like horseback riding, skiing, and sledging. We managed to negotiate pony rides down to Rs. 2,500 per person. Plus, we had the incredible experience of visiting the frozen Shali Ganga River during the winter season.
A Day at Doodhpathri Day in Between Meadows and Forest: Day 5
We had a wonderful day exploring Doodhpathri, a place filled with lush meadows and thick forests. Surrounded by serene beauty, we felt completely at peace. To add to the experience, we took a pony ride for Rs. 1,200 per person after bargaining.
Total expenses for the entire 5-day trip amounted to Rs. 40,000, not including personal expenses or any unexpected costs incurred during the journey.
Seasons to Welcome Kashmir’s Paradise’s Charms: Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Kashmir is from March to August when the valley showcases its heavenly beauty. During this period, you can experience both spring (March to early May) and summer (early May to late August). If you’re enchanted by snowy landscapes, plan your visit from November to February for the mesmerising snowfall. However, be prepared for much colder temperatures, sometimes dropping below freezing.
What to pack for a Kashmir trip:
- Carry warm clothing, as temperatures can drop significantly during the winter months.
- Pack medicines. water bottle snacks, comfortable shoes, sunscreens, mufflers, gloves, and shawls.
- Also, keep some in-hand cash.
Traveller’s Guide: Navigating Kashmir’s Beauty with Ease
- Book Flight and Cab in Advance: Ensure a smooth experience by booking your flight and cab well in advance.
- Bargain for Local Activities: Haggle for better prices on pony rides, sledging, and other activities.
- Visit Mughal Gardens in Summer: The gardens are best enjoyed during the summer season when flowers are in bloom.
- Book the Gondola Ride in Advance: Secure your tickets for the Gondola ride in Gulmarg beforehand to avoid disappointment.
- Stay in Srinagar or Gulmarg: Book your hotel in Srinagar or Gulmarg, as it takes 2-3 hours to reach each tourist spot from Srinagar.
Our 5-day trip to Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonmarg was unforgettable. With our itinerary and advice, you can enjoy a remarkable journey through these magical places without breaking the bank.Wanting more captivating travel escapades? Discover https://sowl.in/stories for amazing stories! Have a blast on your travels, friends!
