Kashmir Tour Packages from Mumbai

Travel Tips For Kashmir Tour Packages from Mumbai

Travel Tips:

How to Reach from Mumbai:

• By Air: Srinagar has its own airport with excellent connectivity to major domestic airports. The aerial distance of about 1673 km. between Mumbai and Srinagar can be conveniently covered with a direct flight. It takes 4-5 hr. to fly from Mumbai and the one-way ticket may cost between INR 5,000-6,500.
• By Rail: Srinagar’s railway station doesn’t have connectivity with other states in India at present. The closest railway station that offers great rail connectivity with cities like Mumbai is at Jammu Tawi (about 268 km. from Srinagar). You may opt for Kashmir tour package from Mumbai by train if you are ready for a long but scenic journey.  The direct trains from Mumbai take time between 30-36 hr. and the ticket cost is around INR 2,000. From Jammu, you may hire a taxi (7-8 hr.; INR 5,000-6,500) or travel in a bus (around 11 hr.; INR 500-600) to reach Srinagar.
• By Road: The road distance between Mumbai and Srinagar is about 2,300 km. A journey by bus may take around 51-55 hr. and costs between INR 1,700-2,500. One of the popular routes by bus would be Mumbai-Ahmedabad-New Delhi-Srinagar. If you plan to travel by car, it would be a long journey and the time and cost would depend on the number of stops you make on the way. Also, the Jammu-Srinagar Highway segment of NH 44 is frequently closed due to factors like floods, snowfall, and landslides.

Local Transport in Kashmir

For local sightseeing in Srinagar, you should prefer auto-rickshaws and taxis. State transport buses are the cheapest modes to travel from Srinagar to Gulmarg and Pahalgam. Though the journeys may prove to be extremely long and buses get overcrowded especially during peak season. Prefer to hire taxis like Indigo, Etios, Dezire, Tavera, Scorpio, and Innova (costs between INR 2,500-3,500 per day depending on seating capacities) or tempo travelers (costs between INR 3,500-4,000 per day for 12 people). Here are some important points to note:

• As per the rules, no private or outside vehicles are allowed for sightseeing at places like Gulmarg and Pahalgam. You must hire local taxis or ponies.
• Though there are government-decided rates for pony rides, the pony owners may demand higher amounts. Interestingly, you may bring down the price significantly through strong bargains. At many places, the quotes prices of INR 4,000 can be easily reduced to INR 1,000.
• You might have to walk, hike or trek to reach few places. Make sure you carry comfortable trekking shoes.

Weather and Best Time

March-early May is springtime when the Kashmir Valley prospers with colorful flowers. Mid-May to August (sometimes September) is the summer season when the weather is extremely pleasant and ideal for sightseeing and trekking. However, July-September may also experience rainfall that may cause an obstacle in sightseeing. You may also access snow at places like Sonamarg during summers. Snowfall starts in October and the region experiences heavy snowfall between December-February. However, it doesn’t dampen the spirits of tourists who indulge in amazing snow activities during winters. Please note that places like Sonamarg may become inaccessible during snowfall. So, the best time for Kashmir tour packages from Mumbai would depend on your mood and preferences.  

Shopping at Kashmir

Kashmir is a paradise for shopaholics. We bet you won’t return to Mumbai without buying items among:

• Kashmiri spices, especially saffron and shahi Zira. Honey is another popular item.
• Pashmina and shahtoosh shawls and Kashmiri traditional dresses like pherans, Kashmiri Kurtis, kameezes, kaftans and more.
• Locally grown fruits like cherries, golden apples, dates, almonds, walnuts as well as mushrooms and dry fruits
• Hand-knotted wool and silk carpets and chain-stitched rugs
• Crewel embroidery work
• Wood carvings and toys and pretty items made of walnut wood, including key chains, pen holders and showpieces. Willow bats are also worth considering
• Jewellery made of silver and Doda sapphire; copperware and papier mache items

Lal Chowk, Badshah Chowk, Residency Road Market and Polo View Market are some of the best venues for shopping in Srinagar. Local markets at Gulmarg and Pahalgam to offer many of these items.

Eating at Kashmir

The scrumptious Kashmiri cuisine bears the huge influence of the Mughal preparations. Wazwan, a multi-course Kashmiri food, is a sort of blessing if you are non-vegetarian. It includes dishes prepared using meatballs, mutton, lamb, chicken, yogurt and a complete array of rich spices. Some other popular dishes include Goshtaba (minced mutton in yogurt), yakhni (marinated mutton in curd), rogan josh (lamb cooked in spices), muj gaad (fish prepared in spices) and tabak maaz (mutton ribs seasoned and deep fried).  

During Kashmir tour packages from Mumbai, you can also relish a variety of vegetarian cuisines that are equally palatable. Kashmiri pulav (rice with dry fruits and fruits), nadur churma (lotus stems deep fried), dum olav (boiled potatoes cooked in spices) and haakh (saag of Kashmir) are some great choices. Don’t miss the tasty breads like tsot, lavas, kulchas, and baqarkhani. Conclude this amazing gastronomy experience with sheer or noon chai (a special kind of salt tea) and kahwah (the famous Kashmiri green tea prepared using saffron, almonds, cinnamons and other spices).

Popular restaurants in Srinagar are Ahdoos, Krishna Dhaba, Lhasa, and Shamyana. In Gulmarg, you can enjoy good food at Alpine Lounge, Cloves and Highlands Park. Some good suggestions in Pahalgam are Dana Pani, Trout beat and Log Inn Cafe.

Festivals and Events in Kashmir

• Gulmarg and Pahalgam Winter/Snow Festival: Held in March (sometimes in December-end or January), the festival attracts adventure-seekers interested in skiing, trekking, snowboarding, ice skating, snow cycling, sledge racing, and other thrilling adventures.
• Tulip Festival: Springs season hosts the world-famous Tulip Festival (March-April) at Srinagar’s Tulip Garden. Exquisite varieties of tulips, like parrot, double bloom, triumph, single late, Rembrandt and others, bloom and leave the visitors speechless.
• Amarnath Yatra: Held annually during the months of July and August, it is one of the most difficult pilgrimage treks to Amarnath Gufa (near Pahalgam) where an ice Shiva Lingam is formed naturally.

In addition, festivals and events like Baisakhi, Id, Lohri and Shikara Festival are celebrated with great zeal.

Useful Tips and Information:

• Kashmir Valley has a long history of terrorism, insurgency, and political turmoil. It is important that you plan a tour only after referring to the latest news and updates. Be safe, especially if you are visiting the first time or are a foreigner and don’t wander away from the designated tourist areas.
• Choose only the first phase of Gulmarg Gondola ride in winters as it promises scenic snow views. Go for the second phase during summers. There is also a phase 3 (only for adults) from Kungdori to Mary Shoulder that offers chairlift rides.
• Prefer booking Gondola tickets online in advance.
• Due to heavy snowfall, some tourist attractions and activities may get closed or become inaccessible.
• Carry cotton clothes in summers, light to moderate woollens during spring and autumn and heavy woollens during winters. Umbrellas and raincoats are a must.
• Don’t forget caps and gloves, as these are essential for snow activities and would prove expensive if bought locally. Moisturizers and other winter protections must be carried.
• Tourist Police is the special force employed to assist tourists in Kashmir. 

Top Attractions in Srinagar:

• Mughal Gardens: The three royal gardens, named Shalimar, Nishath, and Chashme Shahi, were built during the Mughal Era and continue to charm the visitors even after so many centuries. The tourists are bowled-over by the beauty of the elegantly mowed lawns with flower beds and chinar trees at the borders. Water pools run parallel to the lawns and there are beautiful fountains and waterfalls adding to the landscapes. Each of the gardens has a typical feature of a terraced layout with the silvery mountain peaks forming the enchanting backdrop. At the Chashme Shahi Garden, you can taste the cool refreshing water of a centuries-old spring. The gardens open for the visitors from 09:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m. Entry fee is INR 10 per head per garden.
• Dal Lake: The world-famous lake is considered as Kashmir’s icon and bustles with some fascinating activities throughout the day. Apart from the islands and chirpy melodies of migratory birds, the lake supports the local communities in a number of ways. From houseboat rentals to shikara boat rides as well as the floating bazaars help the locals earn livelihoods and are some never-seen-before attractions for the tourists. The sunset time sceneries are over-dramatic while the pleasure of staying on the lake in a houseboat has nothing to its parallel.
• Shankaracharya Temple: The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and overlooks Dal and the entire panorama of Srinagar. An exciting trail consisting of about 250 steps let the visitors access this spot. Alternatively, you may hire a cab to reach the top. The temple was the location for the popular Bollywood number Jai Jai Shiv Shankar and attracts a lot of pilgrims. It opens from 08:00 a.m. to 08:00 p.m., though cabs are allowed only till 05:00 p.m.
• Hazratbal Shrine: Syed Abdullah brought Moi-e-Muqqadas (the hair of Prophet Mohammad) to India and it is now preserved as a holy relic at this beautiful shrine made of white marble. Visiting this shrine is like having a tryst with profound peace and spirituality. Opens 09:00 a.m.-05:00 p.m.
• Hari Parbat: The hilltop is accessible by a thrilling ropeway ride and is home to a number of temples and shrines of different religions.
• Others: Some of the other attractions in Srinagar include Jama Masjid, Kheer Bhawani Temple, Botanical Garden, Sher Garhi Palace, Nagin Lake and All Saints Church.

Top Things to Do in Srinagar

• Riding Shikaras: The Mughal influence on the city also inspires the highly comfortable and vividly painted shikara boats that drift over Dal like a dream. There’s no way to miss a memorable sunset-time ride in these boats, enjoying the splendor spreading all around.
• Birding: Hokersar near Srinagar summons flocks of migratory birds like common pochard, mallard, ruddy shelduck, Eurasian Wigeon and many more.
• Shopping: Srinagar markets may cast a magnetic spell on you. There is no dearth of items like rugs, carpets, shawls, paintings, silverware, jewellery, spices, dry fruits and more.
• Tasting: The multi-course non-vegetarian platters, as well as the spice-rich vegetarian dishes and scrumptious desserts, would leave you absolutely enthralled. Special salt tea is a must try.

Top Attractions in Gulmarg:

• Alpather Lake: The spellbinding lake majestically reflects the surrounding nature through its crystal clear water. In winters, it freezes and becomes an adventure ground for skating.
• Apharwat Peak: A towering peak located close to the Indo-Pakistan border takes its visitors to the heaven. It is also a famous skiing venue.
• Strawberry Valley: It is a must-visit place in Kashmir Valley if you are traveling in a summer season. The whole valley is painted in the colours of strawberries and a variety of blooms.
• Biosphere Reserve: A completely different world of wildlife dwells in the valley. The reserve promises exclusive rendezvous with musk deer, brown bear, and red fox. It opens from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• St. Mary’s Church: The church flaunts Victorian-style architecture and has lovely stained glasses as its highlights.
• Khilanmarg: Adorned with wildflowers, it is a great place to enjoy the views of tall snow-capped peaks like Nanga Parbat and Nun-Kun.
• Others: Maharani Temple, Baba Reshi Shrine, Seven Springs and Golf Club.

 Top Things to Do in Gulmarg:

• Skiing: Gulmarg enjoys the reputation of a world-class ski resort, thanks to its thrilling ski slopes. Not only the experienced skiers, but the first-timers can also enjoy the adventure by joining a short course.
• Gondola Ride: Do you know that Asia’s second highest ropeway cable car ride is located in Gulmarg? You may enjoy the ride for Phase 1 (Gulmarg to Kungdoor; open 10:00 a.m.-05:00 p.m.; cost INR 740) and further for Phase 2 (Kungdoor to Apharwat; open 10:00 a.m.-03:00 p.m.; cost INR 950). If you have enjoyed the ropeway rides at Darjeeling, this would surpass that experience and can be the best memory of the Kashmir tour package from Kolkata.
• Pony Riding: Enjoy pony rides to some of the top attractions like Strawberry Valley and Alpather Lake.
• Trekking: From Gulmarg, you can plan some easy and invigorating trekking adventures to Apharwat Peak, Sunset Peak and more. It is your opportunity to get close to the splendid Mother Nature.
• Golfing: The Golf Club at Gulmarg attracts experienced as well as amateur golfers to a gorgeous turf. It stays open till 07:00 p.m. and would cost INT 800/1200 for Indian/foreign tourists.

Top Attractions in Pahalgam

• Baisaran: A sprawling glade surrounded by thick forests, the place gives you an impression of Switzerland with its virgin grandeur and multiple tones of greenery that complement the snow-painted mountains at the back.
• Aru Valley: You must have seen this picturesque valley in several Bollywood movies. However, watching it in real is like a dream come true. Rows of conifers ring the lush green meadows that bloom with several wildflowers to create an eye-pleasing vista.
• Betaab Valley: Remember how romance brewed up between the young pair in the Bollywood blockbuster Betaab. Well! The movie shot at the place lent its name to the valley. The ethereal beauty of nature seems to be biased with this place. The wooden hut used in the movie still exists. Entry fee to the valley is INR 100.
• Chandanwari: Presenting the heart-warming mix of natural magnificence and spirituality, it marks the beginning of the annual Amarnath Yatra to the holy cave where an ice Lingam is formed every year for about 45 days.
• Lake Tulian: With Zanskar Range on one side and Pir Panjal Range on the other, this serene lake forces you to spend hours close to its unimaginable beauty.
• Mamaleshwar Temple: This beautiful temple of Lord Shiva presents the simple yet awe-inspiring hill architecture. The divinity in which the entire premise soaks would definitely overwhelm your senses.

Top Things to Do in Pahalgam

• River Rafting: If adventure is the first thing on your mind, indulge in the fabulous experience of rafting on River Lidder. The adrenaline-arousing rapids of grade II, III and IV are sure to leave you exhilarated. Choose among the options like Joy Ride (2.5 km.), Long Ride (5 km.) and Extra Long Ride (8 km.).
• Trekking: If you are a trekker, Pahalgam would send you on a number of exciting trekking trails. From Tulian Lake and Kolahoi Glacier to a number of high-altitude alpine lakes like Krishnasar and Gadsar.
• Angling: River Lidder offers another enjoyable activity in the form of angling. You would be delighted to catch the brown trout that exists in abundance in the river.
• Camping: Set a tent amidst the luxuriant green landscapes or alongside a lake’s bank. Feel nothing but the whispering melodies of nature at night.

Top Attractions in Sonamarg:

• Zoji-las Pass: Located close to Sonamarg, it is one of the highest mountain passes in the world and one of the riskiest in Jammu and Kashmir. Here, you are blessed with the unearthly grandeur of snow-covered vistas.
• Nilagrar River: The river with astonishing red water attracts visitors in huge flocks. You can take bath in the water which is believed to possess medicinal properties.
• Thajiwas Glacier: Thajiwas is to Srinagar tourists what Rohtang is to the tourists visiting Manali. Covered with thick blankets of snow for the whole year, the place promises some great rides and activities.
• Baltal: The place is ideal for camping with nothing but serene natural beauty in the surrounding.
• Naranagh Temple: This 8th-century temple complex serves as an important archaeological site and consists of an array of beautiful temples.

Top Things to Do in Sonamarg:

• Trekking: Trek to the alpine lakes of Gangabal and Satsar (a group of seven lakes) or to the gigantic Haramukh Mountain and explore the unseen facets of nature.
• Camping: If you wish to experience the life of nomads, erect tents in the valley and be the guest to the unspoiled natural charm.
• Fishing: River Sindh is abundant in mahseer and trout and offers a memorable angling session to the visitors.
• Snow Activities: Ice skiing, ice scooter rides and many other activities can be enjoyed at Thajiwas.
• White Water Rafting: Indulge in a spine-chilling rafting experience from Baltal to Shutkari Bridge.

Travel Tips:

How to Reach from Kolkata?

• By Air: You can easily plan Kashmir tour package from Kolkata by air as the latter is connected to the Srinagar Airport by direct as well as connecting flights. IndiGo and GoAir offer direct flights (subject to availability), while there are other airlines offering flights with one or two stops (popular ones being Jammu and New Delhi). On an average, the flight duration between the two places is 7 hr. while the cost ranges between INR 5,500-8,000.
• By Rail: Kashmir tour package from Kolkata by train is possible too. As there is no direct rail connection between Srinagar and Kolkata, you can board a train from Howrah Junction near Kolkata up to Jammu and then reach Srinagar by road. The train journey between Kolkata and Jammu is around 35-40 hr. long while the fare ranges between INR 2,000-3,000. From Jammu, the buses take around 11 hr. and cost around INR 600 to Srinagar. A taxi would take around 6 hr. and may cost around INR 6,000.
• By Road: The road distance between Kolkata and Srinagar is around 2,300 km. and the journey may take time between 35-42 hr. If you are dependent on the state transport, prefer to travel by flight or train to New Delhi and then take a bus to reach Srinagar. The average time and cost involved would be 20 hr. and INR 800 respectively. If you travel by private car or taxi, the time and cost would depend on how many stops you make. The road route passes through popular destinations like Aurangabad, Varanasi, Kanpur, Agra, New Delhi, Ludhiana and Pathankot.

Local Transport Options:

• By Foot: At places like Gulmarg and Pahalgam, you would love to wander through the dramatic natural beauty on foot. Make sure you carry good walking/trekking shoes.
• Ponies: These horse-like animals would take you to the best locations, especially in and around Pahalgam. Don’t forget to bargain a lot as pony owners usually quote 3-4 times the suitable cost.
• Auto-rickshaws: These are good for within the city transport in Srinagar. The cost may vary from INR 100-400.
• Taxis: Be ready to spend around INR 4,000 per day for trips from Srinagar to the other destinations of the itinerary. Please note that private cars, as well as the taxis from Srinagar, are not allowed for local sightseeing at Gulmarg and Pahalgam. There, you would need to pay around INR 1,800 for the local cabs.
• Buses: State transport buses are cheap modes of transport from Srinagar. The cost may go up to INT 400 and the time involved is obviously more.

What Else to Know?

• Weather: The valley experiences pleasant weather during spring months (March-May) and summers (June-August). Sonamarg experiences unexpected rainfall during these months; so make sure to carry umbrellas and raincoats. September-October is autumn time when you may experience the chill in the air. November marks the beginning of winters while December-January brings heavy snowfall. February is popular for post-snowfall activities.
• Things to Pack: Heavy woolens and warmers during October-February, moderate to light woolens and cotton clothes for the rest of the year. Gloves, caps, hats, scarves, mufflers, sunglasses etc. are other useful things to carry. Skin care products are not to be missed.
• Shopping in Kashmir: Go for embroidery work and beautiful traditional attires. Don’t miss the locally grown saffron and spices as well as honey, tea and dry fruits. Crewelwork, paintings, and wood carvings are available in some great designs. Pashmina and shahtoosh shawls are among the most popular items. Restrict shopping activities to Srinagar which has some great marketplaces like Lal Chowk Market and the Bund as well as government emporiums.
• Eating at Kashmir: Any Kashmir tour package from Kolkata is incomplete if you don’t savour the local preparations. If you are a non-vegetarian, you are in for the most extravagant treat of your life as you welcome the mouth-watering goshtaba, roganjosh and other such cuisines on your plate. For vegetarians, there are options like aloo dum, lotus stem preparations ad modur pulav (rice cooked in saffron). And, if you have sweet tooth, the valley leave you spoilt for choices like phirni, shufta and rot. Never say no to nun-chai and kahwa, the refreshing Kashmiri teas.
• Being Safe: Kashmir, as you might be familiar with, is a sensitive place due to its close proximity to the Indo-Pakistan border. However, deployment of armed forces and special tourist police ensures safety for the locals as well as the visitors. Still, make sure not to wander off to lonely places and late at night. Follow the traditions and avoid indulging in religious conversations with the local dwellers. If you are a foreigner, avoid wearing revealing clothes especially at the religious and holy places.