Hello, my travel enthusiasts, Shubhra here!!!
Welcome to the enchanting land of Kashmir. I am your travel buddy who is going to share her favourite travel destination experience ranked best on my wishlist. Join now!!!
Best Places to Visit in Kashmir: A 6-Day Kashmir Itinerary
- Day 1: Srinagar Airport Arrival and Local Sightseeing
After refreshments in the afternoon, I leave for the local sightseeing of Srinagar, covering Mughal Gardens (Shalimar and Nishat), along with Tulip Gardens. After a long tiring day, I went back to the hotel and enjoyed a delicious dinner at the hotel restaurant itself. For the next day I had planned to visit Dal Lake, Manasbal Lake and Stay at Houseboat.
- Day 2: Manasbal Lake, Dal Lake, Houseboat:
After a delightful breakfast, I eagerly headed to Manasbal Lake, near Sopore, northwest of Srinagar, known as Asia’s deepest lake. Its charming Mughal Gardens, attributed to Noor Jehan, make it perfect for picnics, strolls, or tranquil boat rides, especially in good weather.
Exploring Manasbal Lake, I stopped for a leisurely lunch on our way back before checking at the cosy houseboat in the afternoon. A serene Shikara ride on Dal Lake offered enchanting views of floating gardens and a true connection with nature. After a relaxing evening, dinner awaited at the houseboat.
As a traveller sharing an option for you to plan a visit to Doodhpathri.
- Day 3: Bangus Valley, Srinagar
The next day I had a hearty breakfast, and bid farewell to the cosy houseboat that had been my home for the past few days. Embarking on my journey to Bangus Valley, my heart was filled with both excitement and nostalgia. Mystic mountain landscapes, pristine meadows, sparkling clearwater streams, and sprawling grasslands sum up Bangus.
As a traveller sharing an option for you to plan a visit to Sonmarg.
- Day 4: Srinagar-Gurez Valley
The next morning I enjoyed a delicious breakfast, packed our bags and said goodbye to our cosy accommodation. The thought of leaving behind the comfort of our temporary home filled me with a mixture of emotions – excitement for the new adventures that awaited us in Gurez Valley. As I started on the 6-7 hour journey to Gurez through the breathtaking Razdan Pass, I couldn’t help but marvel at the beauty of the scenery that unfolded before us. There were many famous attractions to enjoy on the way to Habba Khatoon Peak, Dawar Village, and Harmukh Mountain.
After a day full of adventure and wonder, we settled down for a hearty dinner and made plans for our overnight stay at Camp Gurez. As a fellow traveller, I wholeheartedly recommend adding Gulmarg to your itinerary. It’s beautiful landscapes and thrilling outdoor activities.
- Day 5: Gurez Valley, Pahalgam
As the sun rose, I eagerly filled my stomach with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a journey to Pahalgam. It was a long drive, but there were beautiful interesting places to see along the way winding through hills and valleys, each curve unveiling a new wonder like the ancient Loke Pandev Fortes, the vibrant Saron Fields, and the lush rice fields swaying in the breeze. I couldn’t resist stopping along the way to indulge in the local treasures – fragrant kesar and plump dry fruits that filled the air with their rich fragrances. After checking into a cosy hotel, I sat down for a warm and satisfying dinner.
- Day 6: Pahalgam local sightseeing
During my time in Kashmir, I made sure to not miss out on visiting beauty and charm like Betaab Valley. From the serene Betaab Valley to the local markets, every moment was a treasure. The taxi rides through Chand Anwari and Aru Valley were like a peek into the heart of the region, and the horse ride to Baisaran Valley was an unforgettable experience.
In the evening, I took some time to shop at the local market. The next morning, I checked out, left for Srinagar, and boarded a flight from Srinagar.
Best Food to Try in Kashmir:
- Non-Veg, Dishes, and Places
- Yakhni Lamb Curry and Rogan Josh, Lhasa Restaurant
- Goshtaba, Maatamala, and Kashmiri Kitchen.
- Shab Deg, Kashmiri Kitchen, and Lhasa Rest.
- Aab Gosh, Mughal Darbar, and Shamyana Rest.
- Thenthuk, Wazwan Restaurant, JKTDC
- Veg Dishes and Places
- Modur Pulao-Ahdoos, Pahalgam Hotel
- Dum Olav: Krishna Vaishno Dhaba
- Kahwa, Chaii Jaii, Various Places
- Lyader Tschaman: Kooks Rest, Lhasa Rest.
- Khambir: local eateries
- Sheermal: local eateries
- Nadir Monji: Local eateries at Dal Lake
Best time to visit Kashmir:
Kashmir truly is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the spring and summer months, from April to October when the weather is pleasant and the landscapes are in full bloom.
Necessary things to pack for a trip to Kashmir:
- For Gurez Valley, you need to carry your Aadhar card to be verified at various checkposts as it is near the LOC.
- It’s hot during the day but chilly at night, with incessant rain at times. Pack your clothes accordingly.
- Carry a raincoat (preferable) and an umbrella with you.
Tips for travellers
- You will hardly find any restaurants in Sonmarg, so get something ready to eat from Srinagar.
- Tulip Garden is open between March and April only.
- You don’t require prior permission to visit Bangus Valley and Gurez Valley.
- For the Gulmarg Gondola Ride, you need to get the tickets a month before the trip, as they are not easily available. Entry fees will be required at the gardens.
- There are no entry fees for visiting the valleys.
- Indian prepaid SIM cards don’t work. Only a postpaid SIM card works. You can buy a prepaid SIM from the market.
As I boarded my flight home I carried a lot of memories with me for a lifetime, promising to return to this enchanting land once again.Searching for captivating travel adventures? Visit https://sowl.in/stories for breathtaking accounts! Safe travels and happy exploring, everyone!
