“The day-wise plan worked well, especially because small timing changes were communicated clearly. The Srinagar–Gulmarg section was well organised and gave us time to enjoy the main stops properly. We were glad that the driver called shortly before reaching our hotel. Travelling with friends was convenient because reasonable stops could be adjusted without changing the main plan. The trip felt smooth from start to finish, and the local coordination made our Srinagar visit easier.”
9 Days Vaishno Devi Kashmir Winter Tour Package
Overview
This 9-day Vaishno Devi and Kashmir winter tour begins in Katra, where there is time to settle in and explore the local market before the Vaishno Devi Darshan. The pilgrimage day follows the route from Katra through Banganga and Ardhkuwari Temple to Vaishno Devi Temple, followed by the return to Katra.
The journey then continues towards Pahalgam via Verinag and Anantnag. En route, the itinerary includes Verinag Spring and Martand Sun Temple. In Pahalgam, the sightseeing programme covers Aru Valley, Betaab Valley and Chandanwari, along with leisure time around the market and riverfront.
From Pahalgam, the route moves to Srinagar with time at Doodhpathri. Srinagar serves as the base for separate excursions to Gulmarg, Sonamarg and Doodhpathri. The Gulmarg visit includes the Gondola route towards Kongdoori and Apharwat, while the Sonamarg excursion features Thajiwas Glacier. The tour concludes with a departure transfer from Srinagar.
As this is a winter itinerary, sightseeing coverage and travel timings remain subject to weather, visibility and local conditions.
Highlights
- Begin in Katra with a sacred visit to Vaishno Devi Temple, including the trek via Ardhkuwari Temple.
- Travel into Kashmir with visits to Verinag Spring and Martand Sun Temple.
- Explore Pahalgam’s valley circuit, including Aru Valley, Betaab Valley and Chandanwari.
- Spend time amid the meadows and streams of Doodhpathri, with a dedicated excursion from Srinagar.
- Take a winter excursion to Gulmarg, including the Gondola route towards Kongdoori and Apharwat.
- Visit Sonamarg and explore Thajiwas Glacier, subject to weather and local conditions.
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.
- Enjoy breakfast at your hotel in Pahalgam with serene valley views to begin your day.
- Travel towards Doodhpathri and explore its meadows, gentle streams, and peaceful natural surroundings. Sightseeing is subject to weather and local conditions.
- Spend leisure time at Doodhpathri, enjoying picnics, photography, and moments of relaxation amidst the beautiful landscapes. Comfortable winter footwear is recommended.
- Drive towards Srinagar through captivating Himalayan landscapes and scenic valleys along the route. Please allow some extra travel time during winter.
- Arrive in Srinagar and check into your hotel to freshen up and unwind after the journey.
- Conclude your day with dinner and an overnight stay at your hotel in Srinagar.
Winter Note: Please allow some flexibility in the day's schedule, as travel timings and outdoor sightseeing at Doodhpathri may vary depending on winter weather, visibility, and local conditions. Warm clothing and comfortable winter footwear are recommended.
- 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 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.
- Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your Srinagar hotel before heading to Doodhpathri.
- Explore Doodhpathri, the “Valley of Milk,” famous for its milky streams and peaceful meadows.
- Learn about the legend of Sheikh-ul-Alam and the miraculous milk springs.
- Enjoy panoramic views at 8,957 ft, surrounded by pine, fir, and cedar forests. Warm clothing and proper winter footwear are recommended.
- Return to Srinagar by evening, check into your hotel, enjoy dinner, and stay overnight.
Winter Note: Please allow some extra travel time, as sightseeing and return timings may vary depending on weather, visibility, and local road 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.