Explore Kashmir in 25K or Less—Flights Included!

Why Kashmir?

Because you don’t get to holiday in paradise every day! With its mesmerizing panoramas, blissful beauty, perfect postcard landscapes, and great Himalayan vistas, Kashmir is truly a ‘Paradise on Earth’. A trip to this beautiful land is worth every penny spent. However, keeping monetary constraints in mind, we have curated the perfect 3-day itinerary for you to enjoy the best of this beautiful land in just under 25K!

Getting There

Flights to Srinagar are easily available from major Indian cities. Book in advance to avail the best deals and prices.

Day 1: Srinagar

• Land at the picturesque capital Srinagar and set out to explore its beautiful lakes, legendary Mughal gardens, and picturesque sights amidst snow-clad peaks. The terraced Nishat Bagh is sure to charm you with its chinar-lined terraces while the historic Shalimar Bagh is famous for its fascinating fountains and vibrant flower beds.
• Enjoy blissful shikara rides on the scenic lakes and walk along the boulevard next to Dal Lake for an enchanting experience. Complete the experience with a stay in one of the houseboats in Dal or Nigeen Lake.
• For early risers, the floating market at 5 a.m. — the only one of its kind in India — is a must visit for an authentic glimpse into Kashmiri living, where fruits, flowers and vegetables are grown within the lake are sold on shikaras. 
• Visit the Shankaracharya Temple on Shankaracharya hill (1000 feet above sea level) for stunning 360-degree views of Srinagar.

Day 2: Pahalgam

• Cab journey to Pahalgam (90 km from Srinagar) where lush green forests, pine-covered valleys, gushing streams, and stunning views of snow clad mountains await you. Located along the banks of the Lidder River, this picture-perfect hill town makes for a great site for treks and camps.

• The alluring Lidder River is a popular spot for trout fishing in India. Adventure enthusiasts can also indulge in river rafting in its gushing frothy waters.
• Named after the Sunny Deol-Amrita Singh starrer Betaab, the gorgeous Betaab Valley is known for its surreal landscapes, and is popular among trekkers and explorers as a base camp for hikes further up in the mountains.
• For a complete tourist experience, indulge in a 3-hour pony ride exploring the best sightseeing points of this hill town, such as Dabian and Baisaran. Known as ‘Mini Switzerland’, the charming Baisaran meadow looks straight out of a movie! Savour breathtaking dreamlike views of lush greenery amidst Deodar forests and snow-clad mountains, and indulge in zorbing on the sloping hills.

Day 3: Gulmarg

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• A 3-hour drive from Pahalgam, Gulmarg is sure to further enthral you with its spellbinding vistas and exotic landscapes. Set amidst the Pir Panjal range, this pristine hill station is truly a ‘meadow of flowers’ in summers, and a snow paradise and major ski destination in winters.
• Embark on an unforgettable gondola cable car ride soaring over pine forests and dramatic landscapes, to Kongdoor (3000 meters above sea level) and further on to Apharwat (4200 meters). The Apharwat peak is an absolute heaven, snow-covered even during summers, offering skiing and sledging activities and views of Nanga Parbat peak (in Pakistan occupied Kashmir) on a clear day.

• Visit the notable Gulmarg Golf course, the world’s highest green golf course, situated at a height of 2650 meters. Playing at this high altitude is truly a bucket list experience for all golfers.
• The outstanding beauty of Gulmarg is best experienced at ease, sipping on Kashmiri kahwa at roadside stalls, and picnicking by water streams.

Where to Stay: Budget Hotels in Kashmir

1. Taif Houseboat, Srinagar

Srinagar is best experienced with a houseboat stay on Dal Lake, its most important attraction, and Taif Houseboat offers just that at affordable prices.

Tariff: Starting at Rs.600/- per night

Book Your Stay at Taif Houseboat, SrinagarBook Your Stay at Taif Houseboat, Srinagar

2. Mughal Resort, Pahalgam

Popular for its location and service, this value for money hotel offers comfortable rooms, breathtaking views and some great Kashmiri food.

Tariff: Starting at Rs.650/- per night

Book Your Stay at Mughal Resort, PahalgamBook Your Stay at Mughal Resort, Pahalgam

3. Hotel Mahajan, Gulmarg

Located on the Srinagar-Gulmarg road, this hotel offers all the comforts and basic amenities for a budget-friendly stay.

Tariff: Rs.1,200/- per night

Book Your Stay at Hotel Mahajan, GulmargBook Your Stay at Hotel Mahajan, Gulmarg

Where to Eat

Mughal Darbar, Srinagar

Offers one of the best multi-course Kashmiri Wazwan, and traditional mutton-based dishes.

Cost: Approx. Rs.300/- for two*

Café Log Inn, Pahalgam

Popular for its quaint European décor, and delectable pizzas, sandwiches and coffee.

Cost: Approx. Rs.1100/- for two*

Bakshi’s Green Punjabi Dhaba, Gulmarg

Savour sumptuous vegetarian delights at this well-known restaurant.

Cost: Approx. Rs.125/- per person*

Total Cost of the Trip:
 

Tempted to Spend Some More?

• For a luxurious houseboat experience, stay at the Welcome Heritage Gurkha Houseboats in Nigeen Lake, well-equipped with plush bedrooms, lounging areas, a personal cook and caretaker, offering the best of Kashmiri hospitality amidst the calm waters.

             Starting at Rs.6,000/- per night

• Take an excursion to the breathtakingly beautiful Sheshnag Lake near Pahalgam, popular for its clear waters and stunning greenish hues.

Useful Tips

• The conflicts in Kashmir don’t usually affect tourist places, but it is best to stay away from disturbed areas and isolated regions.
• Pack light jackets for summer trips and heavy woollens and thermals for winters.
• The beauty of Kashmir is best experienced on foot, and trekking shoes are therefore a must.
• To avoid standing in queues, book tickets for the Gulmarg gondola ride online in advance.
• There are no fixed charges for the pony rides in Pahalgam, and bargaining is therefore advisable. 

*All prices mentioned above may vary

Book Your Flight to Srinagar Now