Vaishno Devi To Kashmir - 9 Days

Day 1 : Arrival in Jammu, Drive from Jammu - Katra (44 kms / approx. 1 hours)

Meet our representative upon arrival in Jammu and drive towards Katra which is the base camp for pilgrims visiting the Vaishno Devi shrine in Jammu and Kashmir. On arrival at Katra, check in to the hotel and get freshen up and later start your day by visiting Banganga, the point where the trek to Vaishno Devi begins. This place is considered sacred, and many pilgrims take a dip in its waters before starting their journey. Explore the local market in Katra for souvenirs, dry fruits, and traditional Kashmiri handicrafts. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 2 : Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine

Begin your trek to the Vaishno Devi shrine early in the morning (around 4-5 AM) to avoid the crowd and heat. The trek is approximately 13 km and takes around 4-6 hours depending on your pace. Ponies, palanquins, and helicopter services are also available if needed(On direct payment basis). If time permits, visit the Ardh Kuwari Cave, which is a mid-point in the trek to Vaishno Devi. It's believed that Mata Vaishno Devi meditated here for nine months.After reaching the Bhawan (the main shrine), have Darshan of Mata Vaishno Devi. The Bhawan area has facilities for food, resting, and purchasing prasad.After the Darshan at the main shrine, visit the Bhairon Temple, which is about 2.5 km from the Bhawan. It's believed that the pilgrimage is incomplete without visiting this temple.Start your descent back to Katra. The downhill journey is usually quicker and should take around 3-4 hours. Return to the Hotel and overnight stay at the Hotel.

Day 3 : Drive from Katra - Srinagar House Boat (221 kms / approx. 6 hours)

After breakfast, drive towards Srinagar which is popular for its lakes, houseboats and gardens.Upon arrival spend evening at Shikara ride.Visit the famous Dal lake, open lake Nehru park and see the light of Dal lake, Stay overnight at houseboat in Srinagar.

Day 4 : Srinagar - Gulmarg - Srinagar (51 kms / approx. 2 hours)

After breakfast, proceed for Gulmarg.The road from Srinagar to Gulmarg via Tangmarg is an extremely mesmerizing one. The snow-clad mountains and the mauve and white flower grown on the side of the road offers a soothing sight to the eyes.Head straight to the Gulmarg Gondola Ride (At own Cost), one of the highest cable cars in the world. It operates in two phases:

Phase 1: Takes you from Gulmarg to Kongdoori Station.

Phase 2: Takes you from Kongdoori to the Apharwat Peak.

Enjoy activities such as skiing, snowboarding (in winter), or simply soak in the breathtaking views of the Himalayas. If you're visiting in summer, the lush green meadows are perfect for a relaxed walk.Later visit Strawberry Valley, famous for its natural beauty and strawberry fields. It's a peaceful place ideal for a leisurely walk and photography.Gulmarg has one of the highest golf courses in the world. Even if you don’t play golf, the picturesque surroundings and the view are worth the visit.If you're traveling with family, especially kids, the Children’s Park offers various recreational activities amidst beautiful scenery.Visit St. Mary's Church, a Victorian-style church amidst the meadows. It’s serene and provides a great backdrop for photos.Also known as Rani Temple, it's dedicated to Lord Shiva and offers panoramic views of the surroundings.Later return back to Srinagar. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 5 : Srinagar - Pahalgam (89 kms / approx. 3 hours)

After breakfast, drive towards Pahalgam (valley of shepherds) the total distance of will be cover in 3 hrs approximately and on the way visit the vast saffron fields of pampore and ancient 1100 years old temple Avantipur ruins enjoy the beautiful country side through the pine forest see magnificent view of the mountains. Explore the streets of Pahalgam.Overnight stay in Pahalgam.

Day 6 : Sightseeing Pahalgam

After breakfast, Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Betaab Valley, named after the Bollywood movie "Betaab" which was filmed here. The valley is known for its lush greenery, snow-capped mountains, and crystal-clear streams. It’s perfect for a leisurely walk and photography.Next head to Aru Valley, which is about 12 km from Pahalgam. This valley offers stunning views, horse riding, and trekking opportunities. It’s also a base camp for the Kolahoi Glacier and Tarsar-Marsar lake treks.Later spend time by the Lidder River, which flows through Pahalgam. You can enjoy activities like fishing, white-water rafting (during summer), or simply relax by the riverside.Visit Baisaran, often referred to as Mini Switzerland due to its lush meadows and dense forests. You can reach Baisaran by a short pony ride or a hike. It’s a serene spot for a picnic and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Later visit Mamal Temple,Pahalgam Golf Course.Overnight stay in Pahalgam.

Day 7 : Drive from Pahalgam - Srinagar + Local Sightseen (89 kms / approx. 3 hours)

After breakfast drive to Srinagar. Upon arrival check in to the hotel.Later visit the famous Mughal Gardens, Shalimar Bagh: Known as the "Abode of Love," this garden was built by Emperor Jahangir for his wife, Nur Jahan. The garden features terraced lawns, cascading fountains, and beautiful flower beds.Nishat Bagh: Also known as the "Garden of Bliss," Nishat Bagh offers splendid views of Dal Lake and the snow-capped Pir Panjal mountains. The garden has terraced lawns, flowerbeds, and chinar trees.Chashme Shahi: This smaller garden is known for its natural spring and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.Later visit Shankaracharya Temple: Visit the Shankaracharya Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located on a hilltop, the temple offers panoramic views of Srinagar and Dal Lake. Be prepared for a short hike up the hill.Pari Mahal: Explore Pari Mahal, also known as the "Palace of Fairies." This historic monument is a seven-terraced garden located on Zabarwan mountain range. It offers breathtaking views of the city and Dal Lake. Overnight stay at Hotel.

Day 8 : Srinagar - Sonmarg - Srinagar (80 kms/ approx. 3 hours)

After breakfast drive to Sonmarg, known as the "Meadow of Gold," is a breathtaking destination in Jammu and Kashmir.Enjoy the picturesque drive to Sonmarg, which is about 80 kilometers from Srinagar. The route offers spectacular views of the Sindh River and the surrounding mountains.Later Head to Thajiwas Glacier, one of the most popular attractions in Sonmarg. You can hire a pony or trek to the glacier, which is about 7 kilometers from the town. The trek offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks, lush meadows, and cascading waterfalls. Spend time exploring the glacier, enjoying the snow, and taking in the pristine beauty of the area.You can enjoy River Rafting on Sindh River.Visit Baltal Valley, which is about 15 kilometers from Sonmarg. This picturesque valley is a base camp for the Amarnath Yatra and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the Sindh River.Later head back to the Srinagar. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 9 : Departure

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Srinagar airport for return flight back home.