Kashmir And Vishno Devi

Arrive at Jammu Airport/Railway Station, where our representative will greet you and assist with your transfer to Katra, the starting point of the sacred Vaishno Devi pilgrimage. As you drive through the warm plains of Jammu into the cool foothills of the Trikuta Mountains, feel the anticipation grow. On arrival, check into your hotel and unwind. In the evening, you can explore the vibrant local market of Katra, where you’ll find religious offerings, souvenirs, and local dry fruits. Rest well and prepare for the spiritual trek the next day.

Places of Interest:
Katra town, local bazaars, views of Trikuta Hills.

Today is devoted to the sacred journey to Vaishno Devi Shrine, one of India’s most revered pilgrimage destinations. Begin your trek early in the morning – a 13 km ascent through the forested hills that brings a deep sense of peace and purpose. The route is dotted with refreshment stalls, spiritual chants, and scenic views. Choose to walk, take a pony, or use electric vehicles depending on your comfort. Offer prayers at the Bhavan inside the holy cave where Mata Vaishno Devi is enshrined. On your return, don’t miss the Bhairavnath Temple, believed to complete the pilgrimage. Return to Katra by evening for a well-earned rest.

Places of Interest:
Vaishno Devi Shrine, Bhairavnath Temple, Trikuta Hills trail.

After a hearty breakfast, leave Katra and begin a picturesque drive to Pahalgam, nestled in the Lidder Valley. En route, take a short halt at Patnitop, a charming hill station known for its pine forests and panoramic mountain views—perfect for quick photography stops. Continue your journey through winding mountain roads, apple orchards, and scenic valleys. Pass through the Jawahar Tunnel, a gateway to Kashmir, before reaching Pahalgam. On arrival, check into your hotel and relax amid the crisp mountain air. The sound of the Lidder River in the distance sets a soothing tone for the evening.

Places of Interest:
Patnitop, Jawahar Tunnel (en route), Lidder River, apple orchards.

Start your morning by exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Pahalgam. First, visit the cinematic Betaab Valley, named after the Bollywood film shot here, where green meadows meet snowy peaks. Then proceed to Aru Valley, a serene village surrounded by pine forests and alpine beauty. Optional: take a pony ride up to Baisaran, famously called “Mini Switzerland” for its vast, lush meadows and dense pine backdrop. By afternoon, begin your journey to Srinagar, the heart of Kashmir. Arrive and check in at your hotel. Enjoy a quiet dinner and unwind under the starlit sky of the valley.

Places of Interest:

Betaab Valley, Aru Valley, Lidder River views.

Explore the soul of Srinagar with a visit to the grand Mughal Gardens: begin at Nishat Bagh, a terraced garden overlooking Dal Lake, followed by Shalimar Bagh, a symbol of Mughal love. Chashme Shahi, with its sparkling spring water, is believed to have healing properties. Next, visit the hilltop Shankaracharya Temple, offering sweeping views of Srinagar and Dal Lake. Later, walk through the Old City, visiting the splendid wooden Jamia Masjid and the buzzing Lal Chowk bazaars. In the evening, enjoy a magical Shikara ride on Dal Lake, then check into a charming houseboat for a truly Kashmiri experience.

Places of Interest:
Mughal Gardens, Shankaracharya Temple, Dal Lake, Old Srinagar markets, houseboat experience.

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Gulmarg, the enchanting “Meadow of Flowers”, located at 2,730 meters. Once there, enjoy a ride on the Gondola cable car, which takes you up to Apharwat Peak, offering panoramic views of the snow-covered Himalayas. In winter, the slopes transform into a playground for skiing, snowboarding, and sledding; in summer, you can explore meadows, play a round at the Gulmarg Golf Course, and soak in the vibrant floral carpets. Stop by the quaint St. Mary’s Church before heading back to Srinagar for your final night.

Places of Interest:
Gondola ride, Apharwat Peak, Gulmarg Golf Course, St. Mary’s Church.

On your final morning in Kashmir, savor a hot cup of traditional Kashmiri Kahwa and enjoy peaceful views of Dal Lake. If time permits, do some last-minute shopping for saffron, carpets, or pashmina shawls. Our representative will then escort you to Srinagar Airport for your onward journey, leaving you with divine blessings and unforgettable memories of this Himalayan paradise.

Places of Interest:
Local markets (for shawls, saffron, handicrafts), Dal Lake views, scenic airport drive.