Kashmir
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Winter snow: Srinagar, Sonamarg and Gulmarg

6 days, 5 nights: Srinagar (2N), Sonamarg (1N), Gulmarg (2N). Best time to go: Dec–Feb.

Day 1: Arrive in Srinagar

Srinagar

  • Shikara ride on Dal Lake · 2 h. Hourly rates per boat are posted at the ghats on Boulevard Road; agree the route (Char Chinari, the floating gardens, Nehru Park) before you set off. Sunset is the classic time.
  • Hazratbal shrine and the Nigeen shore · 1.5 h. The white marble shrine on the lake's north shore; remove shoes, dress modestly, and note that women may enter only part of it.

Local tip: Hourly rates per boat are posted at the ghats on Boulevard Road; agree the route (Char Chinari, the floating gardens, Nehru Park) before you set off. Sunset is the classic time.

Open day 1 route in Google Maps

Day 2: Explore Srinagar

Srinagar

  • Shalimar, Nishat and Chashme Shahi gardens · 4 h. Terraced 17th-century Mughal gardens along the lake's east shore, each with a small entry fee. Add Pari Mahal above Chashme Shahi for the view over Dal.
  • Old city walk: Jamia Masjid and Khanqah-e-Moula · 3 h. The wooden Khanqah-e-Moula on the Jhelum and the great Jamia Masjid courtyard are the highlights; a local guide helps in the lanes. Dress modestly, women cover their heads, and avoid Friday prayer times.

Local tip: Terraced 17th-century Mughal gardens along the lake's east shore, each with a small entry fee. Add Pari Mahal above Chashme Shahi for the view over Dal.

Open day 2 route in Google Maps

Day 3: Srinagar → Sonamarg

Sonamarg · Srinagar to Sonamarg, Car ~2.5h

Local tip: About 3 km from the taxi stand to the glacier's snout and snowfields; walk it or take a pony at the posted rate.

Open day 3 route in Google Maps

Day 4: Sonamarg → Gulmarg

Gulmarg · Sonamarg to Gulmarg, Car ~4h via Srinagar

  • Sledge rides and snow play · 2 h. Sledge pullers and boot-and-coat rentals have official rate cards; ask to see them before agreeing a price.

Local tip: Sledge pullers and boot-and-coat rentals have official rate cards; ask to see them before agreeing a price.

Open day 4 route in Google Maps

Day 5: Explore Gulmarg

Gulmarg

  • Gulmarg Gondola to Kongdoori and Apharwat · 4 h. Book online on the official cable car site only, days ahead in season. Phase 1 to Kongdoori (about 3,050 m) is the family ride; Phase 2 to Apharwat (about 3,950 m) has snow most of the year but often shuts in wind. Go early.
  • Ski or snowboard lessons (Dec–Mar) · 4 h. Beginners learn on the nursery slopes by the village with a certified instructor; experienced skiers ride Phase 2 for long off-piste runs (with a guide and avalanche gear).

Local tip: Book online on the official cable car site only, days ahead in season. Phase 1 to Kongdoori (about 3,050 m) is the family ride; Phase 2 to Apharwat (about 3,950 m) has snow most of the year but often shuts in wind. Go early.

Open day 5 route in Google Maps

Day 6: Depart from Gulmarg

Gulmarg

Local tip: A loop of the bowl-shaped meadow past one of the world's highest golf courses, the stone church and the hilltop temple.

Keep a buffer before your flight; check-out is usually noon.

Open day 6 route in Google Maps

Where to stay