Here is a sample 7-day Jammu & Kashmir itinerary that covers the key destinations of the region. You can customize the days according to your preference and time available.
Overview
Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) is one of the most beautiful and culturally rich regions in India, known for its scenic landscapes, pristine lakes, majestic mountains, and religious significance. Here’s a guide to help you plan an unforgettable trip to Jammu & Kashmir.
Highlights
- Vaishno Devi: A revered pilgrimage destination.
- Dal Lake: Experience the famous Shikara ride and floating markets.
- Mughal Gardens: Historic gardens with a beautiful layout and design.
- Gulmarg: A paradise for winter sports lovers.
- Pahalgam: A serene place for relaxation and nature lovers.
- Traditional Handicrafts: Pashmina shawls, carpets, and saffron shopping in Srinagar.
Itinerary
- Arrival: Arrive at Jammu Airport or Jammu Railway Station.
- Transfer: Check-in at the hotel and relax.
- Leisure Time: Visit Raghunath Temple or Ranbireshwar Temple if you have time.
- Overnight Stay: In Jammu.
- Morning: After breakfast, drive to Katra (approximately 1.5 to 2 hours).
- Visit Vaishno Devi: Start your trek to Vaishno Devi Temple. This sacred shrine is one of the holiest pilgrimage spots in India.
- Option: Helicopter ride from Katra to Vaishno Devi to save time.
- Evening: Return to Katra after visiting the temple.
- Overnight Stay: In Katra.
- Morning: After breakfast, check out from the hotel and take a flight or drive (approximately 6-7 hours) to Srinagar.
- Arrival in Srinagar: Check-in at the hotel.
- Leisure Time: Enjoy a relaxing shikara ride on Dal Lake and explore the floating market.
- Overnight Stay: In Srinagar.
- Morning: After breakfast, visit the Mughal Gardens:
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- Shalimar Bagh
- Nishat Bagh
- Chashme Shahi
- Afternoon: Visit Shankaracharya Temple for panoramic views of the city and Dal Lake.
- Evening: Free time for shopping at Lal Chowk or visit the Hazratbal Shrine.
- Overnight Stay: In Srinagar.
- Morning: Check out and drive to Gulmarg (2-3 hours drive).
- Gulmarg Sightseeing: Explore the Gulmarg Gondola (highest cable car ride) and enjoy activities like skiing, snowboarding (winter), or horseback riding (summer).
- Overnight Stay: In Gulmarg.
- Morning: After breakfast, check out from the hotel and drive to Pahalgam (4-5 hours drive).
- Pahalgam Sightseeing:
- Betaab Valley: Known for its stunning landscape and lush greenery.
- Aru Valley: Famous for trekking and photography.
- Chandanwari: The starting point of the Amarnath Yatra.
- Overnight Stay: In Pahalgam.
- Morning: After breakfast, return to Srinagar (approx. 2 hours drive).
- Shopping & Relax: Visit Srinagar markets for handicrafts, Pashmina shawls, and Kashmiri saffron.
- Evening: Depending on your departure time, you can relax at Dal Lake or visit nearby attractions.
- Departure: Transfer to the airport or railway station for your onward journey.
Cost
The Cost Includes
- Pick-up or Drop-off service from and to Airport(in our own vehicle)
- Transportation to and from!!
- Food all along the trip(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and a cup of coffee or tea) and accommodations during the trip in hotels with family environment
- Transportation, food, accommodation and insurance of Guide during the trip
- Down jacket, all-season sleeping bag, duffel bag and trekking map(in case if you don’t have your own. Down jacket, sleeping bag and duffel bag must be returned after completion of the trip)
- First Aid Medical Kit(Your guide will carry the Medical Kit but we also advise to bring yourself for your own use, as far as possible)
- All the required permits and paperwork
The Cost Excludes
- International Airfare
- Visa Charges
- Hotel Expenses(In Kathmandu, some packages do include hotel expenses)
- Your travel and medical insurance
- Personal Expenses such as shopping, bar bills, hot shower, telephone, laundry, titbits etc
- Food and accommodations in Kathmandu
- Services not mentioned or not promised by the agent/agency
- Emergency expenses such as expenses on chartered helicopter.
FAQs
Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Vaishno Devi, and Leh-Ladakh are must-see destinations in Jammu & Kashmir.
The best time to visit Vaishno Devi is during the summer months (March to June) and autumn months (September to November), as the weather is favorable. However, pilgrims visit year-round.
Skiing in Gulmarg, trekking in Sonamarg and Pahalgam, rafting in Rishikesh (near Jammu), and motorcycling tours in Leh-Ladakh are popular activities.
Yes, Jammu & Kashmir is generally safe for tourists, but it is advisable to check travel advisories before planning your trip and avoid sensitive areas.
Winter temperatures can dip below freezing, especially in high-altitude areas. It’s important to pack warm clothing and gear, especially if you plan to visit Gulmarg or Leh-Ladakh for snow activities.
