Katra 2N - Pahalgam - Srinagar 2N - Gulmarg - Srinagar 2N

Our vehicle will pick you up from Jammu Tawi Railway Station or Airport. Begin your scenic journey to Katra, nestled at the foothills of the Trikuta Mountains.

On arrival in Katra, check in to your hotel and relax for a few hours. Later in the day, depending on your preference, you may begin the climb to the sacred Vaishno Devi Temple or explore the local Katra market known for religious souvenirs and street food.

Early in the morning, begin your journey towards the sacred shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi, one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in India. The shrine is located approximately 13 km from Katra, and devotees can reach the temple by foot, pony, or helicopter service up to Sanjichhat.

En route, you may also visit:

• Ban Ganga – the sacred stream where devotees take a purifying dip before starting the trek
• Ardhkuwari Temple – a significant stop where Mata Vaishno Devi is believed to have meditated for nine months

Seek blessings at the holy cave of Mata Vaishno Devi, along with the sacred temples of Mata Mahakali, Mata Mahalakshmi, and Mata Saraswati.

After darshan, return to Katra the same evening.

Begin your day exploring the breathtaking beauty of Srinagar, fondly known as the “Paradise on Earth.” This city is surrounded by serene lakes, Mughal gardens, and the majestic Himalayas, offering a perfect blend of nature, history, and spirituality.

Srinagar Sightseeings:

• Mughal Gardens: Explore the trio of royal gardens built by Mughal emperors — Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, and Chashme Shahi, known for terraced lawns, fountains, and floral beauty.
• Shankaracharya Temple: Ancient hilltop temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, offering panoramic views of Srinagar and Dal Lake.
• Dal Lake: Enjoy a peaceful Shikara Ride on the lake, passing through floating gardens, lotus blooms, and houseboat clusters.
• Pari Mahal (Palace of Fairies): A seven-terraced garden overlooking Dal Lake, offering stunning sunset views.
• Hazratbal Shrine: Revered mosque on the northern banks of Dal Lake, believed to house a sacred relic of Prophet Muhammad.
• Handicraft & Local Market Visit: Visit the old city markets to shop for Kashmiri carpets, pashmina shawls, saffron, and dry fruits.

Note: Srinagar sightseeing will be planned based on the available time across the day and local traffic conditions. Boat rides, entry fees, and camera charges are payable directly. Evening leisure or Shikara sunset rides are highly recommended for a memorable experience.

After breakfast at your hotel/houseboat in Srinagar, proceed for a full-day excursion to Sonamarg, famously known as the “Meadow of Gold.” The distance between Srinagar and Sonamarg is approximately 100 km, and the drive takes around 2 ½ hours one way through beautiful countryside, Sindh Valley, and pine forests along the Sindh River.

Sonamarg Sightseeings:

• Thajiwas Glacier: The most famous attraction of Sonamarg, located about 3 km from the main market. It is reachable only by pony ride or local union cab. Pony Ride Cost: ₹800 – ₹1,500 per person (round trip, negotiable - Cost vary quite a lot, so the figure suggested may not work during your visit.). Local Cab Cost: ₹1,500 – ₹2,000 per cab.
• Zero Point (Baltal): Located near the Zojila Pass at 11,500 ft, offering snow even in summer months.
• Access: Local union cab from Sonamarg taxi stand. Approx. Cost: ₹5,000 – ₹7,000 per cab (round trip).
• Baltal Valley: Base point for the Amarnath Yatra; scenic stop en route to Zero Point.
• Sindh River Viewpoint: Perfect spot for photography or light refreshment breaks.

Local Taxi Union Rule:
Taxi vehicles from Srinagar cannot go beyond Sonamarg main parking. For visiting Thajiwas Glacier, Zero Point, or Baltal, travellers must hire a local Sonamarg union cab available near the taxi stand.