Vaishno Devi with Kashmir

Arrive in Jammu and drive through gentle hills to Katra, gateway to the revered shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi. Check into your hotel by late morning and unwind after the journey. Use the afternoon for light walks around the bazaar to pick up essentials—rain poncho, energy bars, and a walking stick—for tomorrow’s pilgrimage. As evening descends, soak in the devotional ambiance and plan your start time, whether on foot or with pony/palki support. Enjoy an early dinner and retire for a restful night in Katra before the sacred ascent.

Begin at dawn after a hearty breakfast for the 13-km ascent to Mata Vaishno Devi Bhawan from Ban Ganga/Charan Paduka via Ardhkuwari. Walk at your pace, or hire pony/palki on direct payment. At the Bhawan, offer prayers, visit the holy caves if open, and savour langar tea before starting the descent. Expect 8–10 hours round trip including darshan and breaks. Return to Katra by evening for well-deserved rest, gentle stretching, and a warm meal. Overnight in Katra, hearts full of blessings and mountain calm.

Post breakfast, journey north through changing landscapes towards Pahalgam – Valley of Shepherds. As the air turns crisp, the road begins to trace the Lidder River, announcing your arrival in the meadows. Check into your hotel by late afternoon and unwind with a riverside amble as pines sway overhead. If energy permits, explore the local market for dry fruits and saffron. Evenings in Pahalgam are tranquil—perfect for sky-watching, photography, and quiet reflection after the long but scenic transfer. Dinner and overnight in Pahalgam.

After breakfast, choose soft adventures: a pony ride to Chandanwari/Betaab Valley (direct payment) or an unhurried nature walk by the Lidder River. Short meadow treks can also be arranged for panoramic views. By noon, depart for Srinagar and check into your hotel mid-afternoon. As daylight mellows, opt for a calm Shikara ride on Dal Lake or browse handicrafts—pashmina, papier-mâché, walnut wood. Savor Kashmiri kahwa in the evening chill before dinner. Overnight in Srinagar, the city of gardens, lakes, and chinars.

Drive via Tangmarg to alpine Gulmarg (2,730 m), famed for wildflower meadows and sweeping ridgelines. Ride the Gondola to Kongdori (Phase I); if weather allows, continue to Apharwat Peak (Phase II) for glacier vistas and, on crystal days, glimpses toward Nanga Parbat. Prefer trails? Try the Khilanmarg walk or a loop around the historic Gulmarg Golf Course. After lunch at a local café, return to Srinagar by early evening. Dinner and overnight at the hotel, reliving a day of high-alpine splendor.

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast and, time permitting, a brief visit to the Mughal Gardens—Shalimar, Nishat, or Cheshma Shahi—or quick shopping near Boulevard Road. Check out as per your flight/train schedule and transfer to Srinagar Airport/Railway Station/Bus Stand. Bid adieu to valleys and lakes, carrying blessings from Vaishno Devi, the serenity of Pahalgam, and the alpine drama of Gulmarg—memories stitched into the heart of Kashmir.