Kashmir is one of those places that steals your breath before you even realise it. The moment you see the mountains rising in soft layers of blue, the lakes shining like sheets of silver, and the valleys wrapped in endless green, you understand why people call it paradise on earth. There is a quiet purity in its air, a beauty so gentle yet overwhelming that you feel yourself slowing down just to absorb it. Every sunrise over Dal Lake and every sunset behind the Pir Panjal range feels like nature showing off most effortlessly.
For many travellers, Kashmir is not just a destination but a lifelong dream waiting to be lived. It has that rare mix of complete tranquillity and heart-rushing wonder that makes you whisper to yourself, I have to see this once in my life. Whether you picture yourself drifting on a shikara, walking through fields of saffron, or sipping kahwa with snowflakes falling softly around you, Kashmir promises moments that stay with you forever. It is a true bucket list journey, one you never really get over even after you return home.
There is a moment in Kashmir when the world seems to pause. Maybe it’s when you first see the tulips glowing under the morning sun, or when the mountains around Pahalgam rise like gentle guardians wrapped in pine. Kashmir feels less like a destination and more like a dream you step into. Everything moves a little slower, the air feels softer, and every view carries a kind of beauty that stays in your heart long after you leave.
To travel through Kashmir is to explore a place that feels both unreal and deeply comforting. Snow peaks, gardens in bloom, mirror-still lakes, and quiet meadows create a landscape that feels painted with care. Kashmir is not just beautiful, it is soulfully beautiful.
For travellers from Kolkata, Kashmir is the ultimate escape into a world of mountains, snow, flowers, and shimmering lakes. It offers a refreshing contrast to the busy city life and gives Kolkatans a chance to experience cool weather, pristine landscapes, and a touch of romance. With a Kashmir tour package from Kolkata, the journey is simple, the hospitality feels personal, and the experiences are wholesome. Whether it is a family trip, a honeymoon, or a peaceful solo holiday, Kashmir appeals to every kind of traveller from the city.
Kashmir is beautiful in every season, but the best time to visit is from March to June for pleasant weather, blooming flowers and outdoor sightseeing. September to December is perfect for crisp air and golden landscapes, while January and February are ideal if you dream of snow. Each season brings its own charm and makes the valley feel new again.
Reaching Kashmir from Kolkata is easy. There are frequent flights from Kolkata to Srinagar via Delhi, with smooth connections and short layovers. Once in Srinagar, local travel is simple with plenty of cabs, houseboat transfers and reliable drivers who know every bend of the mountain roads. The travel experience is seamless and comfortable for families as well as first-time visitors.
Kashmir offers a wide range of stays that make you feel at home the moment you arrive.
Budget travellers will find charming guesthouses and cozy homestays where the hosts treat you like family.
Mid-range travellers can enjoy comfortable hotels around Srinagar, Gulmarg and Pahalgam with great views and warm service.
Luxury seekers can immerse themselves in boutique resorts, premium shikara houseboats, and stylish hotels that offer stunning Himalayan panoramas.
Kashmir’s food feels like a warm embrace from the valley. Wazwan dishes like rogan josh, goshtaba, and rista burst with slow-cooked richness, while simple meals like kahwa and noon chai bring comfort in every sip. Fresh breads from local bakeries, fragrant rice and yellow lotus stems create a palette of flavours that feel both unique and deeply satisfying. And the best meals are always the ones enjoyed by a window with the mountains just outside.
Enjoy a shikara ride on Dal Lake
Walk through Mughal gardens glowing with flowers
Explore the meadows of Pahalgam and Sonmarg
Take a Gondola ride in Gulmarg
Experience snowfall in winter months
Visit local markets for saffron, almonds, and pashmina
Explore ancient shrines and beautiful viewpoints
Stroll through old Srinagar and enjoy local bakeries
Dal Lake is the heart and soul of Srinagar, a shimmering expanse of water surrounded by the snow-capped Himalayas. Floating on a shikara, with gentle ripples beneath you and houseboats lining the shores, the experience is magical. Early mornings bring mist curling over the lake, creating an almost dreamlike scene, while evenings are perfect for watching the sky reflect in the calm water. Every glance reveals a painting, every breeze carries the scent of blooming lotus and marigold garlands.
Gulmarg is a winter wonderland and summer paradise all at once. In winter, the slopes are perfect for skiing and snow adventures, while in summer, vibrant meadows of wildflowers stretch endlessly beneath the majestic peaks. The Gulmarg Gondola ride offers one of the highest cable car experiences in the world, revealing breathtaking panoramas. Here, you don’t just visit, you feel the mountains, the crisp air, and the thrill of open skies embracing you.
Pahalgam is a haven for peace and adventure alike. The Lidder River winds gently through pine-clad valleys, making it perfect for riverside walks and photography. In spring, apple orchards blossom, painting the hillsides pink and white, and in summer, trekking trails lead to untouched mountain pastures. For many, Pahalgam is the ideal place to disconnect, breathe in the alpine air, and watch the mountains reflect in the flowing river.
Sonamarg, meaning “Meadow of Gold,” lives up to its name with lush green valleys and sparkling glaciers. It’s the starting point for treks and high-altitude adventures, and every view feels like a postcard. The snow-fed streams glisten in the sunlight, and the alpine meadows are dotted with wildflowers. Sonamarg has a way of making you pause, to simply stand and take in the grandeur of untouched nature.
Perched on a hill overlooking Srinagar, Shankaracharya Temple is both a spiritual and visual delight. Climbing the steps to reach the temple rewards you with panoramic views of the city and Dal Lake below. The temple itself exudes an aura of peace and devotion, and the surrounding landscape makes it a photographer’s dream.
Betaab Valley enchants with its emerald meadows, gurgling streams, and snow-draped mountains. Named after a Bollywood film, the valley is a favorite for picnics, nature walks, and simply soaking in the serenity. The atmosphere here feels alive yet calming, a rare combination that makes every visitor linger longer than planned.
Nishat Bagh is one of the largest Mughal gardens in Srinagar, terraced beautifully along the banks of Dal Lake. Walking through the garden, you feel transported to a different era, surrounded by fountains, floral terraces, and cypress-lined paths. It’s a place where history and nature blend seamlessly, perfect for a leisurely stroll or quiet reflection.
Shalimar Bagh, another Mughal masterpiece, is a garden of romance and elegance. The flowing water channels, vibrant flower beds, and serene pavilions create a dreamy escape. Each corner tells a story of centuries past, and as the sunlight dances on the water, the garden feels almost ethereal.
Yousmarg is a hidden gem, offering vast meadows, rivers, and gentle hills. Less crowded than other tourist spots, it gives a sense of complete seclusion and tranquility. Trekking here reveals small waterfalls, grazing livestock, and open pastures where you can simply lie down and watch the clouds drift across the mountains.
The Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden in Srinagar blooms in spring with millions of vibrant tulips. Walking through the colorful terraces against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains feels like stepping into a painter’s canvas. The garden is alive with fragrance, colors, and the gentle hum of nature, making it a must-visit for photographers and nature lovers alike.
Hazratbal Shrine, overlooking Dal Lake, is a place of calm reflection and spiritual serenity. The white marble mosque shines beautifully in the sunlight, and its peaceful ambiance offers a quiet retreat from the bustle of the city. Locals and tourists alike come here to experience a sense of peace and devotion that lingers long after the visit.
Day 1
Arrive at Srinagar Airport and check into your houseboat or hotel by Dal Lake. Spend the afternoon taking a gentle shikara ride on the lake, soaking in the reflections of the mountains and the floating gardens. In the evening, stroll along the lake’s banks and explore the local market. Overnight stay in Srinagar.Day 2
Visit Mughal gardens like Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh, then head to Shankaracharya Temple for panoramic views of the city. Explore the Hazratbal Shrine and enjoy a peaceful evening along Dal Lake. Overnight stay in Srinagar.Day 3
Drive to Gulmarg in the morning, enjoying the scenic meadows and pine forests. Take the Gulmarg Gondola ride for breathtaking Himalayan views or try winter sports if in season. Evening at leisure, strolling through the charming town. Overnight stay in Gulmarg.Day 4
Travel to Pahalgam, stopping briefly at Avantipur ruins or local viewpoints along the way. Explore the Lidder River, go for a short trek, or visit the lush meadows and apple orchards. Overnight stay in Pahalgam.Day 5
Drive to Sonamarg early morning, enjoying the pristine landscapes and rivers along the way. Spend the day walking in meadows, capturing glacier views, or taking short treks. Return to Srinagar in the evening for overnight stay.Day 6
Spend your last morning shopping for local handicrafts or enjoying a final shikara ride on Dal Lake. Check out from your hotel or houseboat and proceed to Srinagar Airport for departure, carrying the mountains and valleys in your heart.Please email me a copy of the sample itinerary
The flight cost depends on the airlines, the hotel you want to stay in, number of days you want to spend there, and any extra activity that you would like to include in the itinerary. Flying Squirrel Holidays provides customized Kashmir tour packages from Kolkata for families. Get in touch with us to plan your Kashmir holiday!
What is the best month to travel to Kashmir?
April to June and September to December are ideal for pleasant weather and sightseeing.
How long is the travel time from Kolkata to Srinagar?
Flights via Delhi usually take around five to six hours, including layover time.
Are there direct flights from Kolkata?
There are no nonstop flights currently, but connections through Delhi are smooth and frequent.
Is Kashmir safe for tourists?
Yes, Kashmir is welcoming and safe for travellers. Tourist areas are well regulated and hospitality is warm.
What should I pack for Kashmir?
Carry warm layers, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a light jacket even in summer because mountain weather changes quickly.
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