The Perfect 6 Day Kashmir Itinerary (Srinagar to Gulmarg)

Six days is the sweet spot for a first Kashmir trip. It covers the classic circuit of Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg at a relaxed pace, with a houseboat night and time to actually enjoy each place rather than rushing between them. Here is a tried and tested Kashmir itinerary you can use as is or tweak to taste.

Day 1: Arrive Srinagar, Dal Lake

Fly into Srinagar and check into a houseboat or a lakeside hotel. Spend the afternoon on a shikara ride across Dal Lake, gliding past the floating gardens and the houseboat colonies. End the day at the Mughal gardens, Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh, as the light softens.

Stay: Houseboat on Dal Lake (highly recommended for at least one night).

Day 2: Gulmarg Day Trip

Drive about two hours to Gulmarg, the alpine meadow that turns into a ski resort in winter. Ride the Gondola, one of the highest cable cars in the world, up towards Apharwat Peak. There is often snow at the top even in spring. Back in the meadow, you can try a pony ride or simply soak in the views.

Day 3: Srinagar to Pahalgam

Drive to Pahalgam (about three hours), stopping at the saffron fields of Pampore and a cricket bat factory en route. Pahalgam sits where the Lidder river rushes through pine forest. Spend the afternoon walking by the river or visiting the nearby Betaab Valley.

Stay: Pahalgam, ideally a riverside cottage.

Day 4: Pahalgam Valleys

Explore Pahalgam properly. Visit Aru Valley and Chandanwari, and take a pony ride or short trek up to Baisaran, the high meadow locals call Mini Switzerland. This is one of the most scenic days of the whole trip.

Day 5: Sonamarg Day Trip

Head to Sonamarg, the Meadow of Gold (about three hours from Srinagar, so this works as a long day trip or an overnight). A short pony ride or trek leads to the Thajiwas Glacier, where snow lingers well into summer. The Sindh river and the surrounding peaks make this a stunning day out.

Day 6: Srinagar, Old City, Departure

On your final morning, explore the old city, the wooden Jamia Masjid, the Hazratbal shrine and the bazaars. This is the time for genuine pashmina, saffron and walnut wood shopping before your flight home.

Want More Time?

If you have 7 or 8 days, add an offbeat valley like Doodhpathri or Yusmarg, both quieter green meadows away from the main crowds, or spend an extra night in Pahalgam.

Pacing tip: Do not try to cram Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg into back to back day trips from Srinagar. Basing yourself in Pahalgam for two nights, as above, cuts hours of driving and makes the trip far more enjoyable.

Ready to make it real? See our Kashmir tour packages, all fully customisable, and check the best time to visit Kashmir to pick your season.