Often called “Paradise on Earth,” Kashmir is a unique combination of natural beauty, culture, adventure, and tranquillity. From the floating gardens on Dal Lake to green valleys of Pahalgam, there isn’t a corner untouched by nature that doesn’t look like it was pulled from a postcard.
Here’s why Kashmir draws tourists from around the world:
Changing landscapes: Winter snow, spring tulips, summer greens, and golden chinars in the fall.
Romantic getaways: Houseboats, a ride on the shikara, and relaxing in the mountains.
Adventure sports: Skiing, trekking, riding the gondola, and rafting.
Cultural delight: Local handicrafts, Kashmiri foods, and Mughal gardens.
The best part is that all of this can be discovered easily within 5 nights and 6 days if planned well.
How Many Days Are Enough for a Kashmir Trip?
The ideal itinerary for a first-time visitor is a 5-night 6-day excursion of Kashmir as this is a great balance between time to see sites as well as rest and relaxation. This will allow visitors to explore the best of Kashmir’s four main destinations without the worry about rushing to complete the experience.
To lay it out quickly:
Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar – Stay on a houseboat and experience local sights
Day 2: Visit Gulmarg – Partake in gondola rides and snow activities
Day 3: Visit Pahalgam Valley – Full day of viewing Pahalgam, Lidder River, Aru Valley, and Betaab Valley
Day 4: Back to Srinagar – Experience Mughal Gardens and shopping
Day 5: Day trip to Sonmarg – Visit Thajiwas Glacier and take in meadow view and adventures
Day 6: Departure out of Srinagar
This readymade itinerary will allow you to be able to see the beauty, culture, and serene atmosphere of Kashmir all in an easy, under week-long trip. This itinerary would be great for couples, families, and honeymooners.
How to Reach Kashmir
By Air: The most straightforward option is to take a flight that directly connects you to the Srinagar International Airport, which connects you to major destinations such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru.
By Train: The closest railhead is Jammu Tawi, and the trip would involve 8–9 hours of travel by road to reach Srinagar.
By Road: The Jammu–Srinagar National Highway (NH44) is scenic with amazing scenery that takes you through mountains, tunnels, rivers, and lush pine forests to make for a captivating driving experience.
Pro Tip: For a seamless travel experience, consider booking your airport transfers and full cab service itinerary through Brown Chinar Kashmir Tour and Travels.
Day-Wise 5 Nights / 6 Days Kashmir Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar – Houseboat Stay and Local Tour
- Upon your arrival at Srinagar Airport, a representative from Brown Chinar Kashmir Tour and Travels will welcome you.
- Check in to your deluxe houseboat in Dal Lake and take a shikara ride through floating gardens and snow-capped peaks.
- Visit local sites including Chashme Shahi, Nishat Bagh, and Shalimar Bagh – the three Mughal jewels of Srinagar.
- Stroll on Boulevard Road for local shopping and indulge in traditional Wazwan cuisine at dinner.
- Overnight: Srinagar Houseboat
Day 2: Srinagar to Gulmarg – Meadow of Flowers
- After breakfast, visit Gulmarg (50 km / 2 hr drive), known for its beautiful meadows and ski slopes.
- Take a world-famous gondola ride in Gulmarg to Apharwat Peak for incredible views of snow.
- Adventure enthusiasts can try skiing, ATV rides, or sledding (in season).
- You will return to Srinagar by the evening.
Overnight: Srinagar Hotel
Day 3: Srinagar to Pahalgam – Known as Valley of Shepherds
- Post breakfast, proceed from Srinagar to Pahalgam (90 km / 2.5 hours) taking the detour to Awantipora ruins and apple orchards.
- Enjoy some beautiful stops by the Lidder river.
- You can explore Aru Valley, Betaab Valley, and Chandanwari which are popular for Bollywood films and trekking routes.
- You will have your evening at leisure.
- Overnight: Hotel in Pahalgam
Day 4: Pahalgam to Srinagar – Mughal Gardens & Local Markets
- After breakfast proceed to Srinagar.
- En route, you will visit Hazratbal Shrin, Shankaracharya Temple, and the floating vegetable market on Dal Lake.
- In addition, you will have the opportunity to shop for Pashmina shawls, carpets, saffron, and dry fruits at Lal Chowk or Polo View Market.
- Optional: Evening time to attend a live Kashmiri folk music show.
- Overnight: Hotel in Srinagar
Day 5: Day Trip to Sonmarg – Known as the Meadow of Gold
- You will take a full day excursion from Srinagar to Sonmarg (80 km / 2.5 hours) which is surrounded by tall peaks.
- You can visit Thajiwas Glacier via pony ride or a short trek.
- You can relax by the Sindh river and have trout from a local restaurant.
- By evening you will travel back to Srinagar.
- Overnight: Hotel in Srinagar
Day 6: Departure from Srinagar
- After breakfast, you will proceed to the Srinagar airport with beautiful memories from your trip.
- This is the conclusion of the Brown Chinar Kashmir Tour and Travels.
Best Time to Visit Kashmir
| Season | Months | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | March – April | Tulip Festival, Mughal Gardens in bloom |
| Summer | May – August | Pleasant weather, full sightseeing |
| Autumn | September – November | Golden Chinar leaves, clear skies |
| Winter | December – February | Snowfall in Gulmarg & Pahalgam, skiing |
Pro Tip: For snow lovers, December to February is perfect. For flowers and greenery, visit between April and June.
Estimated Budget for a 6-Day Kashmir Trip
| Category | Approx. Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| Flights (round-trip from Delhi) | ₹6,000 – ₹10,000 per person |
| Accommodation (3-star hotels) | ₹2,500 – ₹4,000 per night |
| Cab with driver (6 days) | ₹12,000 – ₹18,000 total |
| Food & activities | ₹1,500 – ₹2,500 per day |
| Total Estimated Cost (per person) | ₹25,000 – ₹40,000 |
Brown Chinar Kashmir Tour and Travels offers customized Kashmir packages including hotels, cab service, houseboat stay, and sightseeing at the best price.
Essential Packing List for Kashmir
- Clothing: Sweaters, thermals, jackets, gloves, and scarves (especially in winter).
- Shoes: Comfortable shoes for walking and sightseeing.
- Accessories: Sunglasses, sunscreen, and cap.
- Medications: Any personal medications and any required for travel.
- Camera: To capture the amazing landscapes.
Tips for Planning a Perfect Kashmir Trip
- Be sure to reserve your accommodations well in advance to avoid disappointment, particularly during peak season (April–June and December–February).
- Engage a reputable local taxi to hire from Srinagar – verified drivers are provided by Brown Chinar Kashmir.
- Always have cash with you for small purchases in rural areas.
- Check the weather forecast before you finalize your travel plans.
- Taste the local specialties, such as Rogan Josh, Dum Aloo, Gushtaba, and Kahwa.
Why Choose Brown Chinar Kashmir Tour and Travels?
- Reliable, locally-owned Kashmir travel agency
- Customizable packages for couples, families, or groups
- Professional drivers and clean vehicles
- Economical cab and sightseeing services
- Travel assistance available 24/7 during your stay
- When you book your tour to Kashmir through Brown Chinar Kashmir Tour and Travels, you’re not simply buying a package, you’re investing in a genuine, safe, and well-guided experience throughout the paradise valley.
Conclusion
If you have been considering going to Kashmir, 5 nights and 6 days is definitely the sweet spot to visit Kashmir’s best destinations without feeling rushed. You will have the opportunity to visit the peace of Dal Lake, the adventure activities of Gulmarg, and the tranquility of Pahalgam each of your days.
Let Brown Chinar Kashmir Tour and Travels handle the travel arrangements: all you are going to do is relax, enjoy, and fall in love with the beauty of Kashmir.
How to book Kashmir Trip online?
Contact Brown Chinar at +91 6005039532/+91 9906188874 or Email us at Enquiry@brownchinarkashmir.com
Top 10 FAQs About Planning a Kashmir Trip
1. How many days are ideal for a Kashmir trip?
5 to 6 days are perfect for covering Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonmarg.
2. Is 4 days enough for Kashmir?
You can see Srinagar and Gulmarg in 4 days, but Pahalgam and Sonmarg might be rushed.
3. What’s the best month to visit Kashmir?
April to June for greenery, December to February for snow.
4. Can I see snow in May?
Yes, at higher altitudes in Gulmarg or Sonmarg.
5. Is Kashmir safe for tourists?
Yes, it’s very safe. Just travel with a registered agency like Brown Chinar Kashmir Tour and Travels.
6. What is the best itinerary for Kashmir for couples?
5 Nights / 6 Days: Srinagar – Gulmarg – Pahalgam – Sonmarg – Srinagar.
7. How far is Pahalgam from Srinagar?
Around 90 km (approx. 2.5 hours by road).
8. How much does a taxi cost for a 6-day Kashmir tour?
Around ₹12,000–₹18,000 depending on the vehicle type.
9. Should I book a Kashmir tour package with flights?
Yes, many packages from Brown Chinar Kashmir include flights for convenience.
10. What should I wear in Kashmir?
Warm clothes in winter, light layers in summer, and comfortable shoes year-round.
