Northern India · Srinagar · Gulmarg 2,650 m · Sonamarg 2,730 m

Kashmir

Three Kashmir itineraries, all with a private cab, every breakfast and dinner, and the day trips that define the valley — Sonamarg, Pahalgam and Gulmarg. Two of them include a night on a Dal Lake houseboat; the budget plan starts at ₹9,500 per person.

Altitude 1,585 mBest time Every seasonTours 3 published

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Kashmir — the Crown of India. From the snow-capped Himalayas and serene Dal Lake to lush valleys and Mughal gardens, a perfect blend of nature, culture and adventure.

Best time to go

Every season has a version of Kashmir: spring blooms (Mar–May), summer meadows (Jun–Aug), autumn chinar (Sep–Nov), snow in Gulmarg (Dec–Feb).

Highlights

Shikara ride on Dal Lake
A night on a houseboat
Gulmarg Gondola to Apharwat
Betaab Valley & the Lidder, Pahalgam
Thajiwas Glacier from Sonamarg
Shalimar, Nishat & Chashme Shahi gardens

A valley for every season

Kashmir offers a mesmerising experience throughout the year, each season adding its own touch. Spring, from March to May, unveils a tapestry of colour with blooming flowers. Summer, from June to August, is perfect for trekking in Pahalgam, shikara rides on Dal Lake and the Mughal gardens. Autumn, September to November, paints the valley in vibrant hues. Winter, December to February, transforms it into a snowy wonderland for skiing in Gulmarg and the cosy ambience of houseboats on a frozen Dal Lake.

Tourist attractions

Dal Lake, adorned with houseboats and shikara rides, captivates with its timeless beauty. Gulmarg is a haven for adventure — skiing in winter and the Gulmarg Gondola in summer. Pahalgam, surrounded by the Betaab Valley and the Lidder river, is perfect for trekking and rafting. The Mughal gardens — Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh — showcase terraced designs and vibrant flora, and the Shankaracharya Temple on its hill offers spiritual solace and panoramic views of Srinagar.

Gulmarg

Nestled amid snow-covered peaks, Gulmarg is a paradise for winter sports. From December to February the town becomes a snowy wonderland for skiers and snowboarders. The Gulmarg Gondola, one of the highest cable cars in the world, offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains; in summer the meadows become a setting for golf and nature walks.

Pahalgam

Surrounded by the Betaab Valley and the Lidder river, Pahalgam is a haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. June to August brings perfect weather for trekking, rafting and exploring the landscapes. The town also serves as a base for the annual Amarnath Yatra.

Sonamarg

Known as the “Meadow of Gold”, Sonamarg is a breathtaking valley surrounded by snow-capped peaks. May to July unveils vibrant flower fields along the Sindh river, and Sonamarg is the starting point for the trek to Thajiwas Glacier.

Houseboats in Srinagar

The iconic houseboats of Srinagar, floating on Dal Lake and Nagin Lake, offer a unique and unforgettable stay. With intricate woodwork and traditional Kashmiri furnishings, they are a tranquil, romantic escape — local cuisine prepared by onboard chefs and views of the mountains and floating gardens.

Month-by-month

January–February: heavy snowfall in Gulmarg and Sonamarg, skiing and snow activities; Pahalgam and Doodhpathri in serene winter calm.
March–April: the transition to spring — blooming gardens, comfortable weather, Gulmarg still a ski haven.
May–June: pleasant temperatures for shikara rides, trekking in Pahalgam, the Mughal gardens, and Sonamarg and Doodhpathri in full bloom.
July–August: warm weather for golf in Gulmarg, rafting in Pahalgam, Sonamarg and Doodhpathri.
September–October: crisp autumn air for the Awantipora ruins, treks and the autumn foliage in Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Doodhpathri.
November–December: chilly temperatures and snowfall — skiing in Gulmarg, snow-covered Sonamarg and Doodhpathri.

Famous foods

Kashmiri food is a delight, known for its aromatic flavours and unique blend of spices — saffron, dry fruits and local herbs set it apart. Rogan Josh (a slow-cooked, aromatic meat curry), Wazwan (the grand multi-course feast of weddings), Yakhni (yoghurt-based curry), Gushtaba (velvety meatballs in yoghurt gravy), Kahwa (green tea with saffron, cardamom and cinnamon, served with almonds and walnuts), Dum Aloo and Sheermal (sweet saffron bread).