This is an itinerary popular with holiday travellers in Summer that combines three most visited destinations of Kashmir i.e. Srinagar (Lakes, Houseboats), Gulmarg (Himalayan views) and Pahalgam (Riverside himalayan beauty) alongwith Vaishnodevi Pilgrimage.
2 night(s) in Katra
2 night(s) in Pahalgam
2 night(s) in Gulmarg
3 night(s) in Srinagar
Day 1: Arrive At Jammu - Katra
Arrival at Jammu and transfer to Katra (50 kms - 1.5 hrs).
Day 2: Vaishnodevi Darshan
Early morning start for Vaishnodevi climb (Total 13 kms walk to the temple that takes about 4-5 hours). En-route stops at Adhkwari Temple and darshan at Baba Bhaironath Temple is recommended). During Summer and peak travel season it may be advisable to start the climb previous evening. Once queue tickets are purchased the wait period could be half an hour to 3 hours depending on the rush. During season Yatra Parchi (entry tickets required to beging the uphill walk), it is recommended to purchase in advance to avoid delays. Guests looking for Helidarshan (Helicopter ride, darshan and back), morning flights are recommended for best weather and least uncertainty. Return by late evening.
Day 3: Katra - Pahalgam
Proceed to Pahalgam (254 kms - 9 hrs). En-route visit Martrand Sun Temple.
Day 4: Pahalgam Sightseeing / Walking / Rafting
Enjoy white water rafting (possible in Summer) OR walk around the riverside OR undertake sightseeing around Pahalgam to spots like Baisaran, Tulian Lake, Chandanwari (16 kms - 8000+ ft asl - close range views) where you can find snow even in summer, Betaab Valley and Aru Valley etc.
Day 5: Pahalgam - Gulmarg
Proceed to Gulmarg (150 kms - 5 hrs - 8000 ft asl). Possible evening visit to Khilanmarg (View point), time permitting.
Day 6: Gulmarg Gondola Visit Possible Excursion To Khilanmarg
Go for famous Gondola Ride (Cable Car. Online booking in advance is recommended), Asia's highest and longest cable car. Its a two-stage rope-way. The first stage transfers from Gulmarg to Kongdoori Station. The second stage takes skiers to a height of 3,747 m (12,293 ft). The timing of the gondola is 10 AM to 5 PM (It's highly dependent upon the weather at both stages). Return in the afternoon to enjoy Pony ride and walking around the area or visit Khilanmarg (a picnic spot nearby) a fragrant valley, full of color and charm).
Day 7: Gulmarg - Srinagar Possible Excursions To Avantipur Or Manasbal Lake
Gulmarg to Srinagar (50 kms - 1.5 hours). Visit Avantipur ruins (29 kms) or Manasbal Lake (30 kms) or Visit Dal Lake and enjoy the Shikara ride in the evening. Time permitting visit local markets.
Day 8: Sightseeing In Srinagar
Day sightseeing in Srinagar visiting Mughal Gardens (Chesmashahi, Nishat and Shalimar), Jama Masjid, Shankaracharya Temple, Hari Parbat etc.
Day 9: Excursion Around Srinagar
Full day excursion to Sonmarg (85 kms - 3.5 hours - 8500+ ft asl) and Baltal valley. Alternatively guests have an option to visit Manasbal lake (30 kms) where there are water-sports on offer. Back to Srinagar in evening.
Day 10: Departure
Depart for the onward journey.