“We wanted a relaxed Srinagar trip, and the itinerary balanced sightseeing with enough personal time. The Srinagar City + Dal Lake day was paced sensibly, and we still had enough time for photos and short breaks. We were glad that the daily plan still had some flexibility for weather and road conditions. The family-friendly pace worked well because short rest breaks could be managed without disturbing the itinerary. We had a positive trip, with only a small timing issue during one busy sightseeing day.”
8 Days Vaishno Devi Kashmir Winter Tour Package
Overview
This 8-day Vaishno Devi and Kashmir winter tour begins in Katra, with time to settle in and browse the local market. The following day is dedicated to the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage, following the route through Banganga and Ardhkuwari Temple to Vaishno Devi Temple, before returning to Katra for the night.
The journey continues into Kashmir via the Chenani–Nashri Tunnel and Banihal towards Pahalgam. En route, the itinerary covers Verinag Spring and Martand Sun Temple. Pahalgam’s winter sightseeing includes Aru Valley, Betaab Valley and Chandanwari, with an evening at Pahalgam Market and the Lidder Riverfront.
On the way from Pahalgam to Srinagar, the tour includes another visit to Martand Sun Temple, along with a traditional Kashmir cricket bat factory, Pampore saffron fields and Lal Chowk. Srinagar is the base for a winter excursion to Sonamarg, where the programme includes Thajiwas Glacier, followed by a Gulmarg excursion with the Gondola journey towards Kongdoori and Apharwat Peak. The tour concludes with a departure transfer from Srinagar.
Highlights
- Begin in Katra and undertake the sacred Vaishno Devi pilgrimage via Ardhkuwari Temple to Vaishno Devi Temple.
- Travel through the Pir Panjal landscapes to Pahalgam with visits to Verinag Spring and Martand Sun Temple.
- Explore Pahalgam’s winter valley scenery at Aru Valley, Betaab Valley and Chandanwari.
- Visit a traditional Kashmir cricket bat factory and saffron fields in Pampore on the Pahalgam-to-Srinagar journey.
- Spend time at Lal Chowk for local shopping in Srinagar.
- Take a winter excursion to Sonamarg and visit Thajiwas Glacier.
- Enjoy a Gulmarg excursion with the Gondola ride towards Kongdoori and Apharwat Peak.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Open a day to see the main sightseeing and travel plan.
- Arrive at Katra by air or train and check into your hotel.
- Freshen up, enjoy a light meal, and relax.
- Stroll through Katra Market, shopping for religious items, dry fruits, and handicrafts.
- Explore nearby market streets for souvenirs and traditional attire.
- Return to your hotel, enjoy dinner, and stay overnight in Katra.
Winter Note: Warm clothing and comfortable footwear are recommended for evening market walks. Please allow some flexibility in timings depending on local weather conditions.
- Begin your day with breakfast at your hotel in Katra before starting the sacred winter journey towards the shrine
- Begin the trek from Katra to Banganga on foot, or opt for pony or palanquin services as per preference
- Continue the ascent to Ardhkuwari through the cool winter surroundings and visit the revered Ardhkuwari Temple
- Proceed towards Bhavan, enjoying the serene winter atmosphere while preparing for the holy darshan at the main shrine
- Seek blessings with Darshan of Mata Vaishno Devi inside the sanctum
- Begin the return trek from Bhavan to Katra, followed by dinner and an overnight stay at your hotel
- Winter Note: The Ardhkuwari and Bhavan route may be affected by winter weather conditions. Timing and coverage may vary accordingly
- Enjoy breakfast at Katra before departing on a scenic winter drive via the Chenani–Nashri Tunnel and Banihal, enjoying the snow-dusted landscapes of the Pir Panjal
- Stop at Verinag Spring, the pristine source of the Jhelum River, surrounded by elegant Mughal gardens and serene winter scenery
- Visit the iconic Martand Sun Temple near Anantnag, a magnificent ruin showcasing ancient Kashmiri architecture amidst beautiful winter surroundings
- Arrive in Pahalgam – the Valley of Shepherds, known for its snow-covered meadows, pine forests, and spectacular mountain views
- Explore the Pahalgam Local Market for traditional Kashmiri handicrafts, shawls, and souvenirs
- Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in Pahalgam
- Optional activities at own cost: Enjoy Pony Rides at ₹1500 for the small circuit or ₹2500 for the big circuit
- ABC Valley Car: ₹2400 per car for up to 4 pax
- Winter Note: Visits to Verinag, Martand Sun Temple, and sightseeing in Pahalgam depend on snowfall and road conditions. The driver will manage accordingly; timing and coverage may vary
- Start your day with breakfast at your hotel in Pahalgam before setting out for a scenic valley exploration amid beautiful mountain landscapes.
- Visit Aru Valley, famous for expansive meadows, fresh mountain air, and stunning photo opportunities. Warm clothing and proper winter footwear are recommended.
- Explore Betaab Valley, known for its postcard-perfect scenery, natural beauty, and peaceful ambiance.
- Drive to Chandanwari, the starting point of the Amarnath Yatra, offering beautiful mountain and river views. Visit and accessibility are subject to weather and local conditions.
- Enjoy an evening stroll through Pahalgam Market and relax by the Lidder Riverfront, soaking in the serene atmosphere.
- Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at your hotel in Pahalgam.
Winter Note: Please allow some extra travel time, as sightseeing timings and accessibility may vary depending on weather and local conditions.
- Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel in Pahalgam before beginning a scenic transfer towards Srinagar.
- Visit the historic Martand Sun Temple, an ancient architectural marvel dedicated to the Sun God, offering panoramic valley views.
- Stop at a traditional cricket bat factory to witness the skilled craftsmanship of famous Kashmiri willow bats.
- Explore a Saffron (Kesar) Garden, learning about saffron cultivation and shopping for premium-quality spice.
- Proceed to Srinagar and enjoy shopping at Lal Chowk Market, known for handicrafts, dry fruits, and local culture.
- Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at your hotel in Srinagar.
Winter Note: Please allow some extra travel time during winter, as journey timings may vary depending on weather, visibility, and local road conditions. Warm clothing and comfortable footwear are recommended.
- Start your day in Srinagar with breakfast at the hotel.
- Drive towards Ganderbal and enjoy scenic views of the Kashmir Valley.
- Stop at Kangan for a short break and photos.
- Visit Thajiwas Glacier in Sonamarg and explore the area, subject to weather and local conditions. Warm clothing and proper winter footwear are recommended.
- Return to Srinagar, enjoying the beautiful landscapes along the way. Please allow some extra travel time during winter.
- Arrive at your hotel in Srinagar for dinner and overnight stay.
Winter Note: Please allow some flexibility in the day's schedule, as travel timings and sightseeing accessibility may vary depending on weather, visibility, and local road conditions.
- Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before a scenic drive to Gulmarg, renowned for ski slopes, beautiful meadows, and the world’s highest 18-hole golf course.
- Enjoy panoramic views of snowy mountains and beautiful valleys along the route.
- Take the Gulmarg Gondola to Kongdoori and Affarwat for breathtaking snow-peak and valley vistas, subject to weather and local conditions.
- Spend time admiring the stunning landscapes from above and capturing memorable photographs.
- Return to Srinagar in the evening, check into your hotel, enjoy dinner, and stay overnight.
- Note: Gulmarg Gondola remains closed on the 2nd and 4th Monday of every month for preventive maintenance.
Winter Note: Warm clothing and proper winter footwear are recommended. Gondola operations and timings may vary depending on weather and local conditions.
- Start your day with breakfast at your Srinagar hotel and complete checkout.
- Transfer to Srinagar Airport or railway station for your onward journey. Please allow some extra travel time during winter.
- Conclude your tour with a smooth and hassle-free departure.
- Wishing you a safe and comfortable journey back home.
Winter Note: Please allow some flexibility in your departure schedule, as travel timings may vary depending on weather, visibility, and local road conditions.
What's Included & What's Not
Inclusions
- Accommodation on a twin-sharing basis as per the confirmed voucher.
- Daily breakfast and dinner or meals as specified in the voucher.
- One-hour Shikara ride on Dal Lake for up to four guests.
- Non-AC transportation as per the confirmed itinerary from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
- Toll taxes, parking charges, and driver allowances.
- Dedicated 24×7 customer support.
- Basic travel, emergency, and itinerary assistance.
- All applicable taxes unless stated otherwise.
Exclusions
- Anything not mentioned in the confirmed booking voucher.
- Air-conditioning charges, if requested.
- Personal expenses, extra meals, tips, entry fees, and activities.
- Local union taxis for sightseeing in Pahalgam, Sonamarg, Gulmarg, and Gurez are mandatory and payable directly by the guest.
- Gulmarg Gondola and internal sightseeing require local transport from the designated parking area.
- Additional destinations, routes, or sightseeing beyond the confirmed itinerary.
- Extra costs due to weather, road closures, government restrictions, natural calamities, or operational reasons.
- Additional transport, waiting time, or route deviations requested by the guest.
Booking Policy
30% advance payment to confirm the booking.
50% payment due on arrival.
Remaining 20% payable one day before departure.
UPI, IMPS or direct account transfer.
Refund eligibility depends on the number of days before arrival.