Offbeat Kashmir Itinerary : A Journey to the Hidden Corners

1. Introduction

Kashmir is often referred to as ‘Paradise on Earth.’ It is known for its beautiful landscapes, tranquil lakes, and rich culture. Places like Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam are better-known tourist destinations, but there are many treasures hidden off the beaten path waiting to be discovered. This travel guide will take you through one of the offbeat itineraries that delve into the undiscovered gems of Kashmir.

2. Summary

Duration: 10-14 days
May to September
By private vehicle or local taxis
Boutique hotels, guesthouses, and homestays

3. Offbeat Kashmir Itinerary

Day 1: Srinagar

Morning: Arrival at Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport formerly Srinagar Airport. Transfer to stay at accommodation. For overnight stay, prefer staying in a traditional Kashmiri houseboat or Boutique Hotel in Srinagar.

Afternoon: Visit Mughal Gardens (Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, and Chashme Shahi). Although they are tourist places, they would be an excellent primer on the beauty of Kashmiri horticulture.
Old City and all old mosques. Just take a glimpse of Jama Masjid and Shankaracharya Temple to catch on the mixed religious heritage of Kashmir.

Evening: Walk along the boulevard on Dal Lake. Enjoy a traditional Wazwan dinner in a proper Kashmiri setting. Try eating Rogan Josh, Gushtaba, and Yakhni.

Day 2: Srinagar to Yusmarg

Yusmarg is a practically unknown meadow 50-km from Srinagar and takes around 2 hours of drive

Explore the quiet meadows and heavy forests of Yusmarg. You could even indulge in a picnic or a relaxed walk through the beauty of the scenery

Return to Srinagar for the night. However, if you like staying here, you can also stay at a local guesthouse in Yusmarg to get immersed into its solitude.

Day 3: Srinagar to Doodhpathri

Morning: Drive to Doodhpathri, which is 45 km from Srinagar. It will take you around 2 hours to reach.

Afternoon: Explore the fresh mountain streams and lush green meadows with the bewitching beauty of Doodhpathri. It is generally called the ‘Valley of Milk’ due to its pristine landscape.

Evening: Drive back to Srinagar or stay overnight in local guesthouses near Doodhpathri

Day 4:  Srinagar to Aharbal

Morning: Proceed to Aharbal, known for its very beautiful waterfalls, 80 km from Srinagar, (a three hours drive away.)

Afternoon: Aharbal Waterfall falls down from a height of about 30 meters, built midst lush green forests with a serene surrounding.

Day 5: Srinagar to Anantnag

Morning: Visit Achabal Gardens: one of the most beautiful Mughal gardens with inlaid designs and sceneries in peaceful ponds.

Afternoon: Visit the Verinag Spring, an octagonal water source fame and beautiful gardens.

Evening: Overnight at Anantnag: you may choose some decent hotels or the guest houses of the region.

Day 6 : Kokernag to Anantnag

Morning: Leave for Kokernag, about 25 km from Anantnag, 30 minutes.

Afternoon: Visit the well-known Kokernag Gardens, renowned for terraced lawns, water springs, and varieties of flowers. Much less crowded, the gardens are a great retreat.

Evening: Re-visit Anantnag or night stay at any place in Kokernag.

Day 7: Anantnag to Pahalgam

Morning: Drive to Pahalgam from Anantnag, some 95 km away (3 hour’s drive).

Afternoon: Relatively less visited places of Pahalgam could be covered. If you want to go for a trek, then opt for Aru Valley or Betaab Valley as they offer a panoramic view but the trails here are comparatively much less crowded.

Evening: Overnight in Pahalgam. There are wide options around here such as some quaint guesthouses and some deluxe hotels.

Day 8: Pahalgam to Aru Valley

Morning: Travel to Aru Valley, it is around 12 kms from Pahalgam (30 minutes drive).

Afternoon: Spend the day exploring the valley, which presents a very beautiful and peaceful environment. Take up the option of a short trek or a pony ride.

Evening: Night stay at Pahalgam or Aru Valley according to your preference

Day 9: Pahalgam – Yusmarg

Morning: Go back to Yusmarg for yet another day to relax or indulge in exploring. Take a nature walk or just bask in the calm atmosphere.

Afternoon: Do any of the things you would’ve done on this visit, that you did not do on your first visit.

Evening: Return to Srinagar, or overnight at Yusmarg if you like it here enough to spend more time here.

Day 10: Srinagar to Sonamarg

Morning: Drive from Srinagar to Sonamarg about 80 km, approx 2.5 hours drive.

Afternoon: Visit the Thajiwas Glacier, which one can trek to or take a pony ride. Enjoy the breathtaking view of snow-covered mountains and valley below.

Evening: Overnight at Sonamarg. From simple guesthouses to more upmarket ones are all available here.

Day 11: Sonmarg to Srinagar

Morning: Drive back to Srinagar.

Afternoon: Shopping for local handicraft and souvenirs at Lal Chowk and Polo View Market. Also visit the Hazratbal Shrine.

Evening: Farewell dinner in Srinagar, likely at a local restaurant, with traditional Kashmiri cuisine.

Day 12: From Srinagar

From the hotel to Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport.

4. Recommendations

a. Visa and Permits: It’s an open fact that most of Kashmir is accessible to tourists; however, a couple of places would require special permits or are otherwise restricted. Just take care that you check on the local requirements beforehand.

b. Local Customs: Kashmiri culture is rich and diversified with several communities. Please take respect for the local customs and traditions.

c. Safety and Health: Plan to get the proper travel insurance. Any prescribed medication should also be packed along with you. Also, hydration is necessary, so do not forget to pack your bottle.

d. Weather: The weather in Kashmir and the mountains can be highly unpredictable. Pack layers, and do not shy away from changing into layered clothing if the weather turns abrupt.

e. Transportation: If you plan to visit some of the offbeat destinations within Kashmir, traveling in private vehicles is often the best option. Plan advance for transportation or hire a local driver who is familiar with the region.

5. Conclusion

There is more to Kashmir than what it popularly offers tourists. This is a way to experience the region in its offbeat locales like Yusmarg, Doodhpathri, Aharbal, among others. The itinerary below is a mixture of serene landscapes and cultural inlays that culminate into local experiences which relate to why Kashmir is an absolute paradise.

Feel free to alter this itinerary to suit your needs and the time you have for traveling. Have a great journey through this fantastic region!