Fascinating Kashmir With Gulmarg Excursion 5N-6D Domestic Customized Tour Package

Overview

Best Time to Visit Jammu and Kashmir

Kashmir is popularly referred to as the “heaven on earth” due to its surreal beauty. So, in order to catch a glimpse of such a paradise and get the best tourism experience, you must schedule your trip properly. Generally, the period between March and August is considered the best time to visit Jammu and Kashmir for tourism purposes. These few months are spread between the summer and spring seasons, which offer the perfect overall weather conditions for exploring the region to its fullest. You can always find ideal Jammu and Kashmir tour packages throughout the year on our page. Check out the season-wise best time to visit Kashmir in the following sections.

• Summer in Jammu and Kashmir
• Monsoon in Jammu and Kashmir
• Winter in Jammu and Kashmir

Summer in Jammu and Kashmir

Summer in Jammu and Kashmir starts in March and lasts till May. Many consider it the best season to visit Kashmir, especially the ones who are not in favour of the harsh chilly weather. The temperature in these months does not go beyond 31 degrees Celcius. Although the days are warm, you might feel cold during nights here even in the summer season. During these months, Mughal Garden comes to full bloom and you can even take a Shikara ride. Kashmir trips get better during these months. Pilgrims longing to visit Amarnath can go for Amarnath Yatra without worrying about encountering extreme cold. You can look for Kashmir tourist packages that are available during these months. Also, to make your travel experience easy during this peak tourism time, consider going for a Kashmir tour package with flight inclusion.

Monsoon in Jammu and Kashmir

Jammu and Kashmir usually experience monsoon season from June to September. Even though the temperature during this time remains quite pleasant, the occurrence of frequent rain showers can affect many tourism activities, such as sightseeing, adventure activities, city exploration, shopping, etc. However, monsoon is also an ideal time to visit Jammu and Kashmir as the rain enhances the natural beauty of the region by ten times. Also, the crowd density stays a bit thin compared to the peak summer days and you can get some attractive deals on transports and accommodations. Make sure to check the weather forecast in advance before scheduling your trip during monsoon and pack your essential rain gear to tackle the unannounced rain showers.

Winter in Jammu and Kashmir

Winter arrives in Jammu and Kashmir in October and lasts till February. You can expect to witness snow all around and the temperature may go sub-zero. Since the union territory is covered under a blanket of snow in these months, you may come across hindrances while visiting many places. Visiting J&K with elderly members of the family during the winter season is not advisable. However, you can still find several suitable Kashmir tour packages that are perfect for this season. In addition, if you are looking to gaze at the beautiful snow-covered landscapes and enjoy winter sports and activities, visiting Jammu and Kashmir during this season can be a great decision. The discounts on hotels and flights that you may get during this period can act as the cherry on top. Make sure to look for a Jammu and Kashmir trip package designed for a winter visit.

How to reach Jammu and Kashmir

The best part about booking a Jammu Kashmir tour package is that you need not worry about making your own travel arrangements to the tourist destination. Your comprehensive Kashmir tourism package with us would take care of all that you need to enjoy a relaxing trip to the place. To know how to reach Jammu and Kashmir, please keep reading.

• By Air
• By Rail
• By Road

By Air

The fastest and most convenient way to reach Jammu and Kashmir for both domestic and international tourists is via air. SOTC offers several Kashmir tour packages with flight options, making it easier for visitors to plan their trips seamlessly. Depending on your trip itinerary, you can schedule a flight to either Srinagar or Jammu and, from thereon, carry on to your desired destination in the union territory by road. The most common option is the Srinagar Airport, also known as Sheikh Ul-Alam International Airport, just 10 kilometres from the Srinagar city centre. It features frequent flights from major cities in India, including Mumbai, Delhi, Goa, etc., and reputed airlines like Jet Airways, IndiGo, Air India, etc., operate on this route. When booking a Kashmir tour package with flight, Srinagar is often the preferred arrival point for exploring the Kashmir Valley. The next choice tourists can go for is Jammu Airport, officially called Jammu Civil Enclave, about 5 kilometres from the city centre. It helps connect Jammu city with major parts of India with daily flights. You can also opt for a Jammu and Kashmir trip package that includes flights for a more smooth-sailing travel experience.

By Rail

If you are planning on travelling to Jammu and Kashmir by rail, you will have to book your train ticket to Jammu Tawi. Located just 4 kilometres from Jammu city centre, it is the closest railway station to Srinagar. It is the most preferred route chosen by thousands of tourists visiting Jammu and Kashmir. The station is quite well-connected to major cities in India, along with several long-distance trains operating frequently on this route, like Jammu Tawi Express, Jammu Mail, etc. From the station, you can carry on your journey by road or go for the Jammu to Srinagar flight option, whichever fits your travel requirements.

By Road

One of the most economical ways to reach Jammu and Kashmir is via road. The union territory features a great road network that connects it to major states in India. For instance, you can go for National Highway 1 or National Highway 44 to reach Kashmir from important Indian cities. The renowned Jawahar Tunnel that connects Jammu region to Kashmir Valley also falls on this route. There are also JKSRTC-operated buses that you can opt for, which connect Jammu to Srinagar, Patnitop and other places within the union territory and nearby states.

Best Places to Visit on Jammu and Kashmir Tours

There are numerous breathtaking spots in this ‘heaven on earth’ tourist destination in India. Each one is spectacular in its own way and worth a visit. To help you here, we list below the best places to visit in Kashmir. Regardless of which package you are choosing from the Kashmir tourist packages; you need to ensure that these places are featured in it.

• Gulmarg
• Srinagar
• Pahalgam
• Vaishno Devi Shrine
• Dal Lake
• Shalimar Bagh Mughal Garden
• Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden
• Drass Valley
• Jammu

Gulmarg

Gulmarg is one of the most beautiful Kashmir tourist places you can visit. Located at an elevation of 2,650 metres, it is a renowned skiing destination in India. The surrounding region of this small hill station is covered in vast flower-filled meadows, snow-covered mountains, lush greenery and towering trees. However, the most iconic tourist attraction of this hill town is the Gulmarg Gondola Cable Car ride. The view of the Apharwat Peak and the Maharani Temple are two other notable attractions in Gulmarg. For reference, the Pahalgam Gulmarg distance by road is about 139 kilometres.

Srinagar

Srinagar is among the top Jammu and Kashmir tour places that attract tons of visitors throughout the year. It is the summer capital and the largest city in the Union Territory, known for its unique cityscape, massive lakes, enchanting natural beauty, vintage gardens, waterfront views, houseboat stays and traditional markets. The main tourist attractions of Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir are Nishant Bagh, Chashme Shahi, Shankaracharya Temple, Dal Lake, Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden, etc.

Pahalgam

Pahalgam is a renowned hill station on the banks of Lidder River, in the district of Anantnag. It is regarded as one of the most beautiful tourist destinations in the Union Territory, often seen as a standard inclusion in several Jammu Kashmir tour package plans. Tourists throughout the year visit the Pahalgam to experience the adventure activities the place has to offer and soak in the beauty of the region along with their loved ones. Besides adventure tourism, the small town is also a popular picnic spot in Jammu and Kashmir. The main tourist points of interest in and near Pahalgam include Aru Valley,  Chandanwari, Betaab Valley, Sheshnag Lake, Kolahoi Glacier, etc.

Vaishno Devi Shrine

Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Temple is one of the best places to visit in Kashmir for spiritual tours. Also referred to as Vaishno Devi Shrine, the temple is located in Katra, Reasi district and is surrounded by the Trikuta Hills. The Shrine is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Vaishno Devi and has become one of the most crucial Hindu pilgrimages sites in the country. Thousands of devotees visit the temple throughout the year, with the peak count being at the time of the festival of Navaratri. During your visit, make sure to learn about the history and legends associated with this holy site.

Dal Lake

Located in Srinagar, Dal Lake is one of the most visited Jammu Kashmir tourist places. The massive Lake covers a total area of 18 square kilometres, with its shoreline being bordered by beautiful parks, renowned hotels, alluring houseboats, Mughal-era gardens and so on. Tourists from all over India and the world visit Dal Lake in Srinagar for the famous houseboat stay and Shikara ride experiences. While exploring the majestic Lake on a traditional Kashmiri boat, you can get some of the best panoramic views in the city.

Shalimar Bagh Mughal Garden

Located near the shore of the Dal Lake in Srinagar, the Shalimar Bagh Mughal Garden is not just famous for its majestic natural beauty but also for its close ties to India’s rich history. Spreading over an area of 31 acres, the Garden was built under the orders of Mughal Emperor Jahangir. The beautiful layout of the Garden, well-maintained plants, pavilions, pools, fountains, etc., are some of the most notable features of this tourist attraction. You can go for Kashmir tour packages for family that include a visit to this site.

Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden

Opened to the public in 2017, Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden is one of the best tulip gardens in the world today. You can come across rare types of tulips in this garden including the Queen of the Night. The place also holds a massive annual event between the months of March and May. A visit to this tourist site is often a standard inclusion of many Jammu and Kashmir tour packages. If you want the best experience, consider planning your visit to the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden during the time of its annual festival.

Drass Valley

The gateway of Ladakh, Drass Valley came into the limelight during the Kargil War. It is now visited by tourists who go for three days long Suru Valley trek. During the peak of the winter season, the temperature drops to as low as -17 degrees Celcius. You can visit the Drass War Memorial to pay tribute to the brave soldiers who were martyred in the Indo-Pakistan War in 1999. If you want to visit this place, you can try to get this included in your Kashmir tourism package.

Jammu

Located in the southernmost region of the Union Territory, Jammu is often the starting point of most Jammu and Kashmir trip itineraries. The city in itself is a renowned tourist spot, known for its main nearby attractions like Raghunath Temple, Bahi Fort, Peer Baba Dargah, Bagh-e-bahu, Amar Mahal Museum, etc.

Things to do during Jammu and Kashmir Trips

Sightseeing makes only a part of the Jammu and Kashmir tourism experience. Besides soaking in the natural, historical and cultural heritage of the place, make sure to indulge in fun adventure activities during your visit. Here are some examples of the most popular things to do in Jammu and Kashmir.

• Shikara rides
• Houseboat stay
• Gondola cable car ride
• Adventure activities
• Horse/Pony riding
• Shopping
• Try a local cuisine

Shikara rides

A visit to Kashmir is incomplete without going for the Shikara ride experience. This slow-paced activity involves a ride on a traditional Kashmiri boat and can be experienced at Dal Lake in Srinagar. It is a perfect activity that you can enjoy with your loved ones.

Houseboat stay

Besides Shikara rides, spending a few days at the traditional houseboats by the Dal Lake is another highly sought-after thing to do in Jammu and Kashmir. It is a one-of-a-kind experience, most notable for the early morning lakeside view along with a cup of warm tea. So, make sure to add a short houseboat stay to your Kashmir tour plan.

Gondola cable car ride

One of the most sought-after and fun things to do in Kashmir is to go on a Gondola cable car ride. It is one of the largest and highest cable car projects in the world, based in Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir. It is a traditional cable car ride divided into three phases. Phase I stretches from Gulmarg Resort to Kongdori Station, Phase II stretches from Kongdori Station to the shoulder of Apharwat Peak, and Phase III is the chairlift phase, connecting Kongdori to Mary’s Shoulder. During the Gulmarg Gondola ride, you can get some of the most beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding region and catch a glimpse of the LOC, Nanda Devi and Pir Panjal mountain range.

Adventure activities

There are tons of fast-paced adventure activities that you can try during your Kashmir tour, such as paragliding, trekking, mountain biking, etc. For example, if you are looking for adrenaline-rushing group adventures, consider river rafting in Jammu and Kashmir. The various streams in the region are perfect for this high-risk, high-reward activity. Lidder River (Pahalgam) and Sindh River (Sonamarg) are the best places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir for river rafting, often included in comprehensive Kashmir trip packages. On the other hand, make sure to add skiing and snowboarding to your winter Kashmir travel plan. Kashmir famous places to visit for this adventure are Gulmarg and Pahalgam.

Horse/Pony riding

Horse/pony rides are available across several locations in Jammu and Kashmir. While some offer excursions to the surrounding area, others are meant to offer thrilling experiences to tourists. For example, you can go for relaxing horse riding excursions in Gulmarg, while for a more adventurous feel, consider taking the Baisaran Valley horse riding tour in Pahalgam.

Shopping

No holiday is complete without shopping! And therefore, Kashmir tour packages do allow enough time for travelers to shop in the local markets and carry some exquisite souvenirs back home. You’ll find tons of local handicrafts as well as local produce such as dry fruits, fresh fruits like apples, cashews and walnuts, and spices like saffron. If you’re fond of apparel, you’re sure to love the traditionally embroidered kurtas for men and women and also the warm and cozy Pashmina shawls.

Try a local cuisine

What is a Jammu and Kashmir tour without trying the local cuisine of the land? Jammu and Kashmir is popular for cuisines such as Paneer Chaman, Kashmiri Saag, Nadru Yakhni, Chicken Pulao, Dum Olav, etc. You cannot miss these dishes on your Jammu Kashmir tour. You can find these served in the meals that come with the Kashmir tourism package.

Foods to Eat during Jammu and Kashmir Tour Packages

Food is one of the most crucial elements of any trip and a Jammu Kashmir tour is no different. In fact, the region is renowned for its lovely aromatic flavors and delectable local cuisine. This is why Kashmir packages include local cuisine-tasting trips and visits to nearby restaurants and hotels to pamper your taste buds. Here are some of the most popular and finger-licking food in Jammu and Kashmir that you must try. You can’t afford to miss these in Jammu and Kashmir tour:

• Rogan Josh
• Dum Olav
• Goshtaba
• Modur Pulav
• Matschgand
• Lyodur Tschaman

Rogan Josh

A proper Kashmiri meal is never complete without indulging in a delicious bowl of Rogan Josh. This gravy-rich, aromatic mutton dish is prepared with a unique mixture of browned onions, yoghurt and regional spices. Its signature taste will leave its mark on your taste buds for the rest of your life.

Dum Olav

Dum Olav is a simple yet mouthwatering regional dish that is a prominent part of the renowned cuisine of Kashmir. The ingredients used to prepare this dish include potatoes, yoghurt, local spices, ginger paste, etc. Resembling the look of “Dum Aloo”, the rich colour, soothing aroma and flavourful taste of this dish make it a must-try local food item, especially for vegetarians.

Goshtaba

Goshtaba is a renowned regional delicacy that is prepared during grand occasions in Jammu and Kashmir. It is a type of meatball with a spongy texture and a delightful flavour. The main ingredients involved in the preparation process of Goshtaba include freshly minced mutton, cardamom seeds, ghee, curd, chopped onions, and a handful of regional spices. The final dish may look simple but will strike a burst of unique flavours when consumed.

Modur Pulav

When planning Kashmir tour packages, don’t forget to explore the local cuisine.The name of this food item does great justice in defining the dish. Modur Pulav is a type of sweetened rice and is a famous Kashmiri delicacy. Not just the taste or colour but also the aroma of this dish has won over the hearts of several food lovers across the world. This Pulav dish is made using a variety of ingredients, such as rice, cinnamon, milk, cashew nuts, ghee, almonds, sugar, saffron, etc. Just a spoonful of this Kashmiri-sweetened rice will make you fall in love with the dish.

Matschgand

Matschgand is a delicious local food item that you must try if you are looking for unique non-veg dishes during your Kashmir tour. It is a gravy-heavy dish made with finely minced mutton, mirch powder, desi ghee, fennel powder and a few other local spices from the Kashmir valley.

Lyodur Tschaman

Moving over from non-veg items, Lyodur Tschaman is a must-try dish for vegetarians in Jammu and Kashmir. It is prepared by cooking cottage cheese in creamy texture-based turmeric gravy. As simple as it sounds, the mouthwatering aroma and taste of this dish make it one of the most popular foods among tourists in Jammu and Kashmir.

Best Restaurants to visit during Jammu and Kashmir Trip

Do try out Wazwan and all the other amazing local delicacies at some of the best restaurants in Kashmir. While you are planning your Jammu and Kashmir itinerary, you can choose the best places to eat depending on the cities you are staying in.

• Amritsari Kulcha Hut
• Pahalwan’s Food Court
• Falak

Amritsari Kulcha Hut

Located in Resham Ghar Colony, Jammu, Amritsari Kulcha Hut is a must-visit restaurant if you are looking for delicious North Indian dishes and beverages. The establishment stays open from 8 AM to 6:30 PM every day and serves tasty food within a favourable budget. Some of their must-try food items are Aloo Kulcha, Rajma Ghawal meal combo and Mango Lassi. Make sure to include this restaurant in your Kashmir tour plan.

Pahalwan’s Food Court

It is another great place to eat during your Jammu and Kashmir trip, especially if you are staying in Jammu. Known for its good quality food and decent portion sizes, Pahalwan’s serves a delicious range of North Indian dishes, street food items, beverages and desserts. During your visit, make sure to try out their Pav bhaji, Kalari Kulcha and Gulab e Jamun with Ice Cream.

Falak

KC Falak in Lal Kuan, Jammu, is another renowned restaurant to dine at during your Jammu and Kashmir trip. Apart from its elegant ambience and spacious seating arrangement, the restaurant is famous for its North Indian and Chinese food menu. Make sure to add a stop to this restaurant in your Kashmir trip plan and try out their Kung Pao Prawns, Thai Coconut Fish Curry and Biryani.

Ideal Places for a Honeymoon in Jammu and Kashmir

The picturesque backdrop of Jammu and Kashmir does not fail to allure honeymooners and couples on a Jammu and Kashmir holiday. There are plenty of breathtaking sites in Kashmir alone that make for a perfect honeymoon stay. Here are some of the best places for a honeymoon in Jammu and Kashmir that you are likely to find in most of the Kashmir tour packages.

• Srinagar
• Pahalgam
• Sonmarg
• Patnitop
• Yousmarg
• Gurez

Srinagar

Srinagar is often the first choice when it comes to the most popular honeymoon destinations in Jammu and Kashmir. It offers the perfect blend of modern cityscapes, heritage sites, religious shrines, natural landmarks, etc. Whether it is shopping for souvenir items, staying at houseboats, strolling around the Mughal-era gardens or enjoying a Shikara ride, you will never come short of romantic things to do with your significant other in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir.

Pahalgam

The quaint hill town in Jammu and Kashmir is another destination popular among newlyweds. The natural flair and tranquillity of the region have made it one of the top Kashmir beautiful places for honeymoon trips. The availability of fun adventures and nearby tourist attractions, like Sheshnag Lake, Lidder River, Chadanwari, Baisaran Valley, etc., has also enhanced the tourism experience in the region.

Sonmarg

One of the most fascinating and beautiful honeymoon destinations to visit in Jammu and Kashmir is Sonamarg. For reference, the Gulmarg Sonmarg travel route is about 120 kilometres in length, while the distance from Pahalgam to Sonmarg is about 160 km by road. Nestled at an elevation of 2,730 metres, the place is known for its massive green fields, dense trees, gushing river streams and breathtaking lakes with a backdrop of snow-covered mountains. Many Kashmir trip packages include Sonamarg as a must-visit destination, allowing couples to go for fun adventures with their loved ones. Some of the main attractions of Sonamarg are trekking adventures, Satsar Lake, Gangabal Lake, Thajiwas Glacier, etc.

Patnitop

Patnitop is a hill station in Jammu and Kashmir that is popular among honeymooners, thanks to the majestic natural beauty of the region and the availability of fun adventures. You can spend a few days with your loved one in its tranquil environment and check out the nearby tourist attractions, such as Shiva Ghar, Sudh Mahadev Temple, Naag Mandir, Madhatop, Nathatop, etc.

Yousmarg

If you and your partner are interested in an offbeat honeymoon destination in Jammu and Kashmir, consider visiting Yousmarg. It is a hill station within the Budgam district, known for its picturesque landscapes, comprised of green pastures, blue water bodies, tall pine trees and towering mountains in the distance. You can easily get ideal honeymoon Kashmir packages that include a stay in Yousmarg.

Gurez Valley

Known as one of the most romantic Jammu Kashmir tour places, Gurez Valley is a great choice for honeymooners. The mystical beauty and peaceful environment of the region are highlighted by the presence of lush greenery, tall mountains and smooth-flowing rivers. Besides exploring the place with your partner, you can also catch a glimpse of the spectacular Nanga Parbat on a clear day from this valley.

Best Places for Shopping in Jammu and Kashmir

Before you head home from your Kashmir trip, you ought to buy a couple of local souvenirs to cherish the beautiful memories of your stay. Thankfully, there are tons of places to shop around in Kashmir, all easily accessible by most hotels that you choose to stay in. Many of the shopping places are also included in the Kashmir tourist packages as part of the activities. So, as you choose from the Kashmir packages, make sure you opt for the one that has the best shopping places included in it.

• Heritage
• Royal Kashmir
• Floating Market
• Raghunath Bazaar

Heritage

Located in Jammu city, Heritage Bazaar is your one-stop destination for all traditional and ethnic Kashmiri embroidery wear shopping. Best prices and best designs for kurtas, kurtis, and phirans (the signature Kashmiri wear for girls and women), Heritage is popular and mostly a part of the Kashmir tourist packages. And if it is already featured in the Kashmir tourism package that you chose, make sure you shop till you drop.

Royal Kashmir

A visit to Kashmir is incomplete without getting a taste of its rich dry fruit treasure. All dry fruits are organically grown and 100% authentic to Kashmir. They are also preservative-free and natural. What’s more, you actually get to taste a sample before deciding to buy any of the dry fruits. Therefore, make sure to visit this shop during your stay in Srinagar and get a healthy and thoughtful gift for your loved ones.

Floating Market

This is a rather interesting feature of shopping in Jammu and Kashmir and you simply can’t afford to miss it either. The Dal Lake is home to a unique Floating Market, which by the way is also one of its kind in India and is often found included in the Kashmir tourist packages. Locals ride atop long, narrow boats selling fresh produce and lovely flowers to tourists and visitors enjoying boat rides on the lake. No matter what, you must visit this floating market by having this place added to your Kashmir tourism package.

Raghunath Bazaar

Whether you want to buy souvenirs or wooden carvings, Raghunath Bazaar is a perfect shopping destination to visit. By getting this added to the Kashmir tour packages, you can buy items like flower vases, pen stands, wall hangings, lampshades, etc. It is about a kilometre from the Jammu city centre and a must-visit place for gift and souvenir shopping on a budget.

Interesting facts about Jammu and Kashmir

As you plan your Kashmir tour package, consider these lesser-known facts about the place for more insight into the destination:

• Various religions have contributed to the cultural heritage of Kashmir, including Buddhism, Hinduism and Islam.
• Covering a total length of 11,215 kilometres, the Pir Panjal railway tunnel of Jammu and Kashmir (also called the Banihal-Qazigund railway tunnel) is the longest railway tunnel in India.
• Historical records suggest that Kashmir used to be the favourite vacation spot for various Mughal emperors. Today, Kashmir trip packages offer visitors a taste of this regal experience.
• Besides Kashmiri, the other prominent languages spoken across Jammu and Kashmir include Dogri, Gojri, Pahari, Hindi and even a little bit of Punjabi.
• The first-ever floating post office in India was founded on a houseboat located at the western edge of Dal Lake, Srinagar.
• Gulmarg, the renowned tourist spot and skiing destination in Jammu and Kashmir, was originally referred to as Gaurimarg. The local shepherds named it in honour of the Hindu deity, Goddess Parvati.
• Lake Wular, one of the largest freshwater lakes in the Asian continent, is located in Jammu and Kashmir.
• Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden, the largest tulip garden in all of Asia, is located in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir.