Kashmir, the jewel in the crown of India, is undoubtedly one of the gorgeous and highest visited tourist destinations in the country. The overwhelming beauty, the sky-touching mountains, the snow-covered peaks and the colourful valleys of this state is the home to some of the hidden and beautiful places to visit.

Absolutely, Kashmir is indeed renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and has been a popular tourist destination for many years. Its picturesque landscapes, majestic mountains, and vibrant valleys make it a jewel in the crown of India's tourism industry. Some of the well-known and hidden gems that tourists often explore in Kashmir include:

Srinagar: The capital city of Jammu and Kashmir, Srinagar, is famous for its stunning Dal Lake and Nigeen Lake. Houseboats and Shikara rides on these lakes are iconic experiences for visitors. The Mughal Gardens like Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, and Chashme Shahi are also must-visit spots.

Gulmarg: Known as the "Meadow of Flowers," Gulmarg is a popular hill station and skiing destination. The Gulmarg Gondola, one of the highest cable cars in the world, offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.

Pahalgam: This town is often referred to as the "Valley of Shepherds." It's a starting point for the annual Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage and offers activities like trekking, horse riding, and golfing.

Sonamarg: Translating to "Meadow of Gold," Sonamarg is famous for its pristine landscapes, glaciers, and alpine meadows. It's also a gateway to the Amarnath Cave.

Leh-Ladakh: While not in the Kashmir Valley itself, Ladakh is a region in the larger state of Jammu and Kashmir. Known for its stark beauty, high-altitude deserts, and Buddhist monasteries, Leh-Ladakh attracts adventurers and spiritual seekers alike.

Aru Valley: A less crowded destination, Aru Valley is characterized by lush green meadows, the Lidder River, and charming wooden huts. It's a perfect spot for trekking and camping.

Betaab Valley: Named after the Bollywood movie "Betaab," this valley is known for its clear blue sky, lush greenery, and the Lidder River flowing through it.

Tulip Garden: Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden in Srinagar is the largest tulip garden in Asia and offers a stunning display of colorful tulips during the spring season.

Dachigam National Park: This park is home to the endangered Hangul deer and various other wildlife species, making it a great spot for wildlife enthusiasts.

Mughal Road: This ancient road connects Srinagar to Poonch and Rajouri and offers picturesque views and a chance to explore the lesser-known regions of the state.

Kashmir's beauty and cultural richness have always captured the hearts of travelers. However, it's important to note that the region has also faced political and security challenges over the years. Travelers should stay informed about the current situation and follow local guidelines for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Let it be Shikara ride or Horse ride, both have its unique experience in Kashmir, one must go for Gondola Ride in Gulmarg, its the pride of Kashmir.

Brief Itinerary: 
Your 5 nights and 6 days itinerary for Kashmir looks well planned, allowing you to experience some of the most beautiful destinations in the region. Here's a detailed breakdown of your itinerary:

❄️ KASHMIR WINTER ITINERARY – 5 NIGHTS / 6 DAYS

(Pahalgam – Gulmarg – Srinagar – Sonmarg)

📌 DAY 1: Srinagar Airport → Pahalgam

Distance: 90 km • Duration: 2.5–3 hours
Night Stay: Pahalgam
Winter Temperature: –2°C to 7°C

Itinerary

Pickup from Srinagar Airport.

Drive through Pampore Saffron fields, apple orchards & Awantipora ruins.

Arrive in Pahalgam and check into hotel.

Rest and acclimatize to cold weather.

Evening

Walk around Lidder River (beautiful in winter)

Explore Pahalgam market

Dinner & overnight stay

📌 DAY 2: Pahalgam Local Sightseeing (Winter)

Night Stay: Pahalgam
Winter Temperature: –4°C to 5°C

IMPORTANT (Winter Note):

Snowfall may limit access to some points.

Local sightseeing is done via local union taxis or ponies only.

Places Covered

1. Aru Valley

Frozen rivers, snow-covered pine forests

Great photos in winter landscapes

2. Betaab Valley

Entire valley covered in snow

Perfect winter photography spot

Light snow play possible depending on weather

3. Chandanwari

May be partially or fully closed in heavy snowfall

If open, it becomes a snow point for winter activities

Evening

Return back to hotel

Dinner & overnight stay in Pahalgam

📌 DAY 3: Pahalgam → Gulmarg

Distance: 140 km • Duration: 4–4.5 hours
Night Stay: Gulmarg
Winter Temperature: –6°C to 2°C

Itinerary

Check out from Pahalgam after breakfast

Drive to Gulmarg (roads are snow-covered near Tangmarg; snow chains may be required)

In Gulmarg

Check-in at hotel

Freshen up and explore nearby areas

Winter Activities

Gondola Cable Car Ride (must-do)

Skiing (beginner & professional slopes)

Snow bikes

Sledging

Walking on snow meadows

Visit Gulmarg Golf Course (covered in snow)

Note:

Gondola Phase 2 reaches Apharwat Peak, usually full of snow.

📌 DAY 4: Gulmarg → Srinagar + Local Sightseeing

Distance: 55 km • Duration: 1.5–2 hours
Night Stay: Srinagar
Winter Temperature: –1°C to 8°C

Morning

After breakfast, check out and drive to Srinagar.

Local Sightseeing in Srinagar

1. Mughal Gardens

Nishat Garden

Shalimar Garden

Chashme Shahi

Gardens will have less greenery in winter but still beautiful with snow-capped backdrops.

2. Pari Mahal

Perfect sunset view over the city in winter

3. Dal Lake

Winter Shikara Ride (unique experience with misty lake view)

Floating market (limited in winter)

Evening

Check-in at hotel

Dinner & overnight stay

📌 DAY 5: Srinagar → Sonmarg Winter Trip → Srinagar

Distance: 80 km one way • Duration: 2.5 hours each way
Night Stay: Srinagar
Winter Temperature: –5°C to 3°C

IMPORTANT WINTER NOTE

Sonmarg road fully closes after mid-December due to heavy snowfall.

If the road is closed, the trip will be done up to Gagangir, which becomes a beautiful snow point.

If Sonmarg Road is OPEN (Early Winter):

Visit Sonmarg snow meadows

Thajiwas Glacier (pony ride in winter ambience)

Snow activities (sledging, snow bikes)

If Sonmarg Road is CLOSED (Peak Winter):

Visit Gagangir Snow Point

Thick snow carpets

Snow play

Amazing winter photography

Union cabs may be required for snow zones

Evening

Return to Srinagar hotel

Dinner & overnight stay

📌 DAY 6: Srinagar → Airport Drop

Distance: 30–40 minutes

Farewell

Check out after breakfast

Drive to Srinagar Airport

Tour ends with beautiful winter memories ❄️

⭐ WINTER TRAVEL TIPS

Carry heavy woolens, gloves, thermals, snow boots

Keep buffer time for road closures

Power backup & heating system vary by hotel

Gondola tickets should be booked early

Always keep hydration & lip balm

Roads to Gulmarg often require snow chains (hired locally)

Please note that the exact order of the attractions you visit within each location may vary based on local conditions and availability. Additionally, ensure you have all the necessary permits, documents, and information for your travel in the region.

Tour concludes. Countryside Kashmir Tour & Travel thanks you for your patronage and ensures a punctual transfer to Domestic Airport to catch the flight for your onward Destination.

THE ABOVE PACKAGE TOUR COST INCLUDES:-

Package Highlights:

Arrival Assistance: Your journey begins with a warm welcome as Countryside Kashmir Tour & Travel greets you upon your arrival at Srinagar Sheikh Ul Alam International Airport.

Accommodations: Your comfortable stay is spread across two enchanting destinations:

Pahalgam (2 Nights): Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Pahalgam during your 2-night stay. Relax in the serene surroundings and unwind in cozy accommodations. Enjoy daily breakfast and dinner during your stay.

Gulmarg (1 Nights): Discover the charm of Srinagar with a 1-night stay in well-appointed accommodations. Indulge in daily breakfast and dinner, ensuring you have the energy to explore the city's wonders.

Srinagar (2 Nights): Discover the charm of Srinagar with a 2-night stay in well-appointed accommodations. Indulge in daily breakfast and dinner, ensuring you have the energy to explore the city's wonders

Transportation: Travel with ease and comfort in an INNOVA vehicle for all your airport transfers , making your journey seamless and enjoyable.

Dal Lake Shikara Ride: Experience the magic of Dal Lake with a 1-hour Shikara ride. Glide through the tranquil waters, taking in the breathtaking scenery, houseboats, and floating gardens.

Tangmarg to Gulmarg Snow Chain Cab: Safety is a top priority, especially during winter. We provide a dedicated snow chain cab service for your journey from Tangmarg to the snowy paradise of Gulmarg, ensuring your safety and comfort.

THE ABOVE PACKAGE TOUR COST DOES NOT INCLUDE:-

Airfare and 5% GST are not included in the package price.

Meals: Lunch is not included in the package. You will need to cover your lunch expenses.

Personal Expenses: Any personal expenses or optional tours, as well as extra meals ordered, are not part of the package.

Not Mentioned: Anything not specifically mentioned under the "Prices included" section is not included in the package.

Optional Activities: Activities such as the Gondola Ride at Gulmarg, Pony Rides at Gulmarg, Sonmarg, and Pahalgam, as well as sightseeing at Chandanwari, Aru, and Betaab Valley in Pahalgam, are not included.

Insurance: Medical and travel insurance is not part of the package.

Entrance Fees: Guide fees, camera fees, and any monument or garden entrance fees are not included.

Leisure Days: The services of the vehicle are not included on leisure days and after finishing the sightseeing tour as per the itinerary.

Changes: Any changes you choose to make during your tour are not included in the package.

Additional Costs: Additional costs due to flight cancellations, roadblocks, or other unforeseen circumstances are not covered.

Payment and Booking Details:

Advance Payment: To confirm your booking, a 50% non-refundable advance deposit is required at the time of booking confirmation.

Balance Payment: The remaining 50% of the package cost is to be paid one month prior to the date of arrival.

E-Tickets and Voucher: Your e-tickets and vouchers will be sent to you 3 days before the departure date.

Check-In/Check-Out Times:

• Check-in and check-out times at all properties are set at 02:00/12:00 hrs (Noon), ensuring a convenient and organized stay.

Child Policy:

• Children below 5 years of age will be complimentary when sharing a room with their parents or guardians.

Terms and Conditions:

All the mentioned rates are per person rates on a double sharing basis.

No refund or compensation will be provided for any unused services or transport in any kind of circumstance.

Cancellation Policy:-

Thank you for providing the cancellation policy. It's important for guests to be aware of such policies when making reservations. Here's a breakdown of the cancellation charges based on the number of days before the arrival date:

Cancellations made prior to 7 days from the arrival date: 100% retention of the booking amount. This means that if you cancel within 7 days of your scheduled arrival, you will be charged the full booking amount.

Cancellations made prior to 8-15 days from the arrival date: 50% retention of the booking amount. If you cancel between 8 and 15 days before your scheduled arrival, you will be charged 50% of the booking amount.

Cancellations made prior to 15-21 days from the arrival date: No retention charges. If you cancel between 15 and 21 days before your arrival, you will not incur any charges, and you should receive a full refund.

It's important for guests to carefully consider their travel plans and the potential need for cancellation when booking accommodations, as these policies can vary from one establishment to another.

IMPORTANT NOTE :-

• Kindly note that names of hotels / House Boats mentioned above only indicate that our rates have been based on usage of these hotels and it is not to be construed that accommodation is confirmed at these hotels until and unless we convey such confirmation to you. In the event of accommodation not becoming available at any of the above mentioned hotels we shall book alternate accommodation at a similar or next best available hotel and shall pass on the difference of rates (supplement/reduction whatever applicable) to you.
• Our offer is based on usage of base category rooms at the mentioned hotels (unless specified otherwise) and if this category of rooms is not available we shall try to confirm accommodation in next available higher category of rooms and shall advise supplementary cost involved while conveying the status.
• We shall not be responsible for any change in the itinerary due to landslides, flight cancellations, weather conditions or any unforeseen circumstances. The additional cost incurred will be in addition to the cost