Budget Kashmir Trip 2026 – Srinagar, Gulmarg & Pahalgam From 7,500

Tour Plan

Explore the beauty of Kashmir on a budget! Visit Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg with comfortable stays and unforgettable experiences.

Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar & Local Sightseeing

Arrive at Srinagar Airport and meet your Indeed Holidays representative for a warm welcome. Transfer to your hotel or houseboat and settle in for a relaxing start to your budget Kashmir tour. Begin your exploration with the famous Mughal Gardens — Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, and Cheshmashi Garden — each offering scenic beauty, history, and a tranquil escape amidst lush greenery. If visiting in April, don’t miss the colorful Tulip Garden in full bloom. Later, explore Dal Lake and Nigeen Lake, taking in the floating vegetable gardens, Char Chinar island, and Nehru Park, while observing local life on the water. Overnight stay at your hotel or houseboat.

Highlights:

• Visit Mughal Gardens: Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, Cheshmashi Garden, and Tulip Garden (April only)
• Explore Dal Lake and Nigeen Lake, including Nehru Park, Char Chinar, and floating vegetable gardens

Overnight stay at Srinagar hotel/houseboat

Day 2: Srinagar – Gulmarg – Srinagar

After breakfast, depart for Gulmarg, the “Meadow of Flowers,” known for its scenic beauty and snow-capped peaks. Enjoy the Gulmarg Gondola ride to Kongdoori Mountain and Apharwat Peak (optional Stage 2 for adventure enthusiasts). Depending on the season, you can experience snow activities in winter or enjoy peaceful nature walks in summer. Gulmarg also offers a chance to explore the world’s highest green golf course and take in panoramic views of the surrounding Pir Panjal range. Return to Srinagar in the evening for dinner and overnight stay at your hotel or houseboat.

Highlights:

• Full-day excursion to Gulmarg, “Meadow of Flowers”
• Optional Gulmarg Gondola ride to Kongdoori Mountain and Apharwat Peak
• Snow activities in winter or scenic walks in summer

Return to Srinagar for overnight stay

Day 3: Srinagar – Pahalgam – Srinagar / Sonmarg – Srinagar

Option 1: Pahalgam

Drive to Pahalgam, a picturesque valley known for flowing streams, lush greenery, and snow-capped mountains. Visit the Aru Valley, Betaab Valley, and Chandanwari, perfect for photography and peaceful walks. En route, stop at Pampore to see the famous saffron fields and visit the village of Bijbehara, known as Kashmir’s “breadbasket.” Adventure lovers can enjoy a pony ride to Baisaran meadow, also called “Mini Switzerland.” Return to Srinagar in the evening for dinner and an overnight stay on a houseboat at Dal Lake.

Option 2: Sonmarg

Alternatively, travel to Sonmarg, the “Gateway to Ladakh,” surrounded by pristine rivers and majestic mountains. Explore the Thajiwas Glacier via trekking or horseback ride, and visit local trout farms and markets to experience local life. Return to Srinagar in the evening for dinner and overnight stay on a houseboat.

Highlights:

• Option 1: Pahalgam — Aru Valley, Betaab Valley, Chandanwari, Pampore saffron fields
• Optional pony ride to Baisaran meadow
• Option 2: Sonmarg — Thajiwas Glacier trek or horseback ride, local markets, trout farms

Overnight stay at Srinagar houseboat

Day 4: Departure from Srinagar

Start your final day with a 90-minute Shikara ride on Dal Lake, gliding past floating gardens and historic landmarks while enjoying the serenity of Srinagar. Relish breakfast on the houseboat before transferring to Srinagar Airport or Railway Station for your onward journey. Depart with cherished memories of your budget-friendly Kashmir adventure, having explored the best of Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonmarg.

Highlights:

1. 90-minute Shikara ride on Dal Lake
2. Transfer to Srinagar Airport or Railway Station
3. Depart with memories of a budget Kashmir trip