“Agar firdaus bar roo-e zameen ast, Hameen ast-o hameen ast-o hameen ast.”
If there is a heaven on earth, it’s here, it’s here… These famous words by Amir Khusrau beautifully describe the true beauty of Kashmir in only a few words.
I had my friend ask me, “What comes to your mind when you think of Kashmir?”
And that had me wondering what does Kashmir make me feel. After some time I said (with a deep sigh), “Love…I suppose”
As a kid, I had always dreamt of floating on a serene lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains or sipping kehwa while watching the sun paint the Himalayas in hues of gold!
Going to Kashmir was my dream, but let me tell you, cramming the magic of Jammu & Kashmir into 3 days seemed impossible until I actually did it.
Trust me, no amount of Instagram reels can prepare you for what is in store in this piece of paradise in India.
According to the latest tourism data, more than one million tourists visited the region last year alone, & I am soon going to tell you how you can make the best of your Jammu & Kashmir trip for 3 days.
Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar
You know the feeling when you first fall in love? That’s exactly what hit me as my flight descended into Srinagar. You step off the plane, and the crisp mountain air greets you.
If you’re anything like me, your first stop has to be the iconic Dal Lake. If you reach early enough, you might as well get to witness the sunrise of Dal. The way the rising sun catches the lake is pure magic.
At Dal, time seems to slow down. All the bloodshed, all the wars, and all the beauty, the Dal seems to have truly witnessed it all.
As we glided past floating gardens and vintage houseboats, I remember Mohammad, saying, “Beta, this is not just a lake; it’s Kashmir’s heart.” He was my Shikara wallah, who’s been navigating these waters for 25 years.
And true enough, you can feel your heartbeat in rhythm with the lulls of the water of the lake.
Post the Shikara ride, head to the Mughal Gardens. Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh are straight out of a historical romance novel. These Mughal Gardens are like stepping into a Persian miniature painting. Nishat Bagh, in particular, left me speechless.
End your day with a visit to the local markets. Kashmir’s crafts are legendary! Pashmina shawls, intricate papier-mâché items, and saffron.
If you’re like me, you’ll probably find yourself walking away with a bag full of souvenirs and a heart full of joy.
Day 2: Gulmarg or Sonamarg
Have you ever wondered what it feels like to touch clouds? Take Asia’s highest gondola ride in Gulmarg, and you’ll find out!
At 14,000 feet, the view of the Pir Panjal range is… well, let’s say my photos don’t do it justice. Rising high above the snow-laden trees, it’s hard not to gasp at the sheer beauty of the Himalayan panorama.
I chose Gulmarg over Sonamarg (though both are stunning) because I’m a ski enthusiast. Gulmarg’s ski season lasts nearly 6 months, making it one of India’s premier skiing destinations.
Sonamarg is equally enchanting if you’re drawn to meadows and sparkling rivers. The meadows dotted with wildflowers in summer are straight out of a fairy tale.
For those heading to Sonamarg, the drive itself is an experience. Zigzagging through mountain roads with rivers running alongside, you’ll feel like you’ve entered a dream.
Don’t miss the Thajiwas Glacier—it’s a short trek, but the view is worth every step.
Day 3: Pahalgam or Yusmarg
My last day began with a tough choice—Pahalgam or Yusmarg. I chose Pahalgam because of its famous trout streams and cinematic valleys.
Did you know that over 250 Bollywood movies have been shot here? I can see why!
If you’re up for it, try pony rides to Baisaran (nicknamed “Mini Switzerland”) or simply take a stroll by the river. I spent an hour just dipping my toes in the icy water and watching the sun play hide-and-seek with the clouds.
The drive along the Lidder River, with stops at Betaab Valley and Chandanwari, was the perfect way to bid farewell to Kashmir.
Yusmarg is a hidden gem for those craving offbeat charm. Less crowded and equally mesmerizing. It’s perfect for leisurely walks, picnics, or just lying on the grass and letting nature lull you into a state of bliss.
Travel Tips For Your Hassle-Free Trip
- A 3-day trip to Jammu & Kashmir typically costs between ₹15,000-25,000 per person. I spent around ₹20,000, including flights from Delhi. The prices depend solely on your travel preferences. If you travel in the off-season, you can save a lot.
- Accommodation-wise, skip the fancy hotels. I stayed at a family-run guesthouse in Srinagar, and the host’s mother made the best Kashmiri pulao I’ve ever tasted. Plus, they helped arrange all my local transportation at honest prices.
You can also choose to stay at boathouses. That provides a completely different experience altogether for us city dwellers.
- Here’s something most blogs won’t tell you, always carry cash. While major hotels accept cards, the best experiences (like that impromptu horse ride in Pahalgam) are often cash-only.
- Layered clothing is key when you are traveling to the Himalayas. Even in summer, evenings can get chilly. And don’t forget comfortable shoes for all the walking and exploring.
A Lifetime of Memories
A Jammu & Kashmir trip for 3 days means equal parts adventure, relaxation, and wonder. It’s amazing how much you can experience in such a short time if you plan it right.
As I look back on my trip, I’m reminded of a quote: “Travel isn’t always about the distance you cover but the moments you cherish.” Jammu & Kashmir has a way of turning every moment into magic.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, and let paradise welcome you.