Quick answer
A first Kashmir trip centres on Srinagar (Dal Lake & houseboats), Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg. Allow 5–7 days, fly into Srinagar (SXR), travel March–October (or winter for snow), and stay at least one night on a Dal Lake houseboat.
Often called “paradise on earth,” Kashmir pairs serene lakes with alpine meadows and snow peaks. Here's how to plan a private Kashmir tour.
Places to visit
- Srinagar — Dal Lake, shikara rides, Mughal gardens, houseboats.
- Gulmarg — meadows, the gondola, winter skiing.
- Pahalgam — Betaab and Aru valleys; the Amarnath base.
- Sonamarg — the “meadow of gold” and Thajiwas Glacier.
Top things to do
- Sunset shikara ride on Dal Lake and a houseboat stay.
- Gulmarg gondola — one of the world's highest.
- Meadow walks and pony rides in Pahalgam.
- Stroll the Mughal gardens — Nishat and Shalimar Bagh.
- Sample Kashmiri Wazwan cuisine and buy Pashmina and saffron.
Itineraries
| Days | Route |
|---|---|
| 5 days | Srinagar → Gulmarg → Pahalgam → Srinagar (houseboat) |
| 7 days | Add Sonamarg and extra Srinagar / garden time |
Houseboats & stays
A night on a traditional carved-wood houseboat on Dal or Nigeen Lake is a Kashmir highlight. Elsewhere, choose comfortable hotels and resorts in Gulmarg and Pahalgam; we handpick each stay.
Getting there
Fly into Srinagar (SXR) with connections via Delhi. Kashmir is also reached by road from Jammu (NH44), and by train to Jammu then road. Within Kashmir, a private chauffeur-driven car is best.
Best time
March–October for greenery and gardens; December–February for snow. See best time to visit Kashmir.
Frequently asked questions
Plan your journey with us
Private, tailor-made and timed to the season that suits you best — with a real travel designer and no hidden charges.
Get a free quote →