The late summer and early autumn months between August and October are the perfect shoulder seasons to explore the northernmost part of India, Kashmir. No doubt this is the high time for tourists to step outdoors freely and enjoy the mixed weather—warm climate accompanied by cool air that’s ideal for sightseeing, strolling, and resorting.
Though this year’s late summer is quite hot with more than expected temperatures, people are still looking to discover the charisma of Kashmir for their vacation. So, here is a week-long expert-curated itinerary for a Kashmir trip in India.
The tour starts and ends in Srinagar, as it is the most convenient airport for flight travel from anywhere in India. In short, this is the overall night stay plan for Kashmir: Srinagar 1N → Sonamarg 1N → Pahalgam 2N → Gulmarg 1N → Doodhpathri 1N.
Kashmir Day 1: Arrive at Srinagar airport & explore the capital city
Srinagar is popularly called the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir and is known for dry fruits, lovely gardens, lakes, and houseboats. Being one of the largest cities in this union territory, houseboats are a must-try.
As soon as you arrive and check in at the hotel or houseboat, you can relax and stroll the Boulevard Road, admire the surrounding mountain ranges, and carry on with a Shikara ride before the sun sets at the lake.
Kashmir Day 2: Travel to Sonamarg
Try exploring one or two attractions in the morning at Srinagar—Mughal gardens, Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Botanical Garden, Shankaracharya Temple, Sher Garhi Palace, or Gulab Bhavan. Then, travel to the most alluring destination—Sonamarg. This is a beautiful hill station that acts like a gateway to the Kolahoi Peak, the significant Silk Road, and Baltal Valley.
Also, this place in Kashmir houses a handful of lakes (Vishansar Lake, Gangabal Lake, etc.) and trekking spots. Based on your interest, you can choose between the attractions. However, ensure you book your stay at Sonamarg.
Kashmir Day 3: Travel to Pahalgam
Start your day early, explore the remaining places in and around Sonamarg, and start your travel to Pahalgam, another most ravishing tourist spot in the union territory. Located at the banks of the Lidder River in Anantnag district, this place features the hidden gem, Beetab Valley, and the most celebrated spiritual tourist destination, Amarnath Temple.
Do not panic—we’ve included this spot despite the 2025 Pahalgam attack in April because, now, the situation has turned out to be normal, issues well-sorted, and civilians, including tourists, are well-protected.
Kashmir Day 4: Travel to Betaab Valley
After a peaceful night at a Pahalgam hotel or homestay, begin your journey to the Amarnath temple and try to discover the Beetab Valley on the way. Visiting the temple is such a soulful experience and a blessing. Truly, be it traveling with friends or family, don’t miss this place.
Of course, Beetab Valley is a great place to stay and is known for trekking base camps. If time permits, consider the nearby Baisaran and Tulian Lake attractions.
Kashmir Day 5: Travel to Gumarg
Start your next day by kick-starting your travel to Gulmarg. History claims the ruler Yousuf Shah Chak in the 16th century often visited this place along with his wife Habba Khatoon to admire the meadow of flowers. Moreover, this place is also world-renowned for winter sports like the Gondola ride and skiing. The place also houses the world’s largest Igloo cafe, St Mary’s Church, Maharani Temple, and Gulmarg Avalanche Center.
Cover as many attractions as possible and lodge at this delightful spot in Kashmir. No doubt it‘s a tiring day at Gulmarg.
Kashmir Day 6: Travel to Doodhpathri
Doodhpathri, meaning “Valley of Milk”, is another stunning meadow next to Sonamarg. You can see the milky water flowing through these meadows, and this tourist place opens its doors to Tangnar (a group of small hills), Diskhal (perfect for trekking), Mujpathri (a small village), and Palmaidan (the best place to watch cattle and livestock grazing).
Note: If you have covered as many places here, you have the option to travel to Srinagar and then stay. Otherwise, you can stay back at Doothpathri’s simple homestays.
Kashmir Day 7: Travel to Srinagar & board the flight
Now that we’ve covered the most interesting, breathtaking, and beautiful tourist destination in Kashmir, it’s time to wrap up the one-week-long trip from Srinagar. Based on your flight timings, you can relax or walk through the capital city, or, as usual, continue your shopping.
Conclusion
Indeed, this is a tightly packed 6 nights 7 days Kashmir itinerary for this year’s late summer and suits only if you prefer taking flights to reach Srinagar and taking local cabs to juggle between the tourist places. On the other hand, if you’re thinking of traveling by train, car, or jeep, the itinerary might change drastically. So, customize the itinerary based on your commutation and tourist spot preferences with any of India’s leading tour agencies.
