Kashmir Summer Backpacking Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable 5-night, 6-day backpacking adventure through the breathtaking valleys of Kashmir with WonderMaina Holiday. This specially curated summer backpacking package takes you through the most picturesque destinations - Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonmarg - offering the perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural experiences.
Designed for adventure enthusiasts and budget travelers, this backpacking tour provides authentic Kashmiri experiences without compromising on comfort. From the serene houseboat stay on Dal Lake to the thrilling Gondola ride in Gulmarg and the tranquil beauty of Betaab Valley, every moment is crafted to create lasting memories.
Our summer backpacking package includes carefully selected accommodations, essential transfers, and key experiences that showcase Kashmir's best offerings. Experience the valley like never before with our expert-planned itinerary that balances exploration with relaxation.
Destinations Covered:
Package Inclusions & Highlights
Houseboat Stay in Srinagar
Experience unique traditional houseboat accommodation on Dal Lake
Gulmarg Gondola Ride
Ride Asia's highest cable car with breathtaking mountain views
Betaab Valley Visit
Explore the picturesque valley named after the Bollywood movie
Shikara Ride on Dal Lake
Enjoy traditional Kashmiri boat ride on the serene Dal Lake
Thajiwas Glacier Visit
Witness the stunning glacier in Sonmarg region
Kashmiri Cuisine
Taste authentic local food during your stay
Detailed Itinerary - 5 Nights 6 Days
- Arrive at Srinagar Airport/Railway Station
- Meet our representative and transfer to Dal Lake
- Check into traditional Kashmiri houseboat
- Fresh up and relax in your houseboat
- Evening Shikara ride on Dal Lake (1 hour)
- Visit floating vegetable market and gardens
- Enjoy traditional Kashmiri welcome tea (Kahwa)
- Dinner and overnight stay in houseboat
Highlights: Houseboat experience, Shikara ride, Dal Lake views
- Breakfast at houseboat
- Check out and drive to Gulmarg (approx. 2 hours)
- Enroute enjoy scenic views of rolling hills
- Arrive in Gulmarg and check into hotel
- Afternoon Gondola ride (Phase 1 & 2, subject to availability)
- Explore Gulmarg Golf Course - highest in the world
- Visit St. Mary's Church (if open)
- Evening at leisure to explore local market
- Dinner and overnight stay in Gulmarg
Highlights: Gondola ride, Mountain views, Golf Course
- Breakfast at hotel
- Morning free for photography or optional activities
- Check out and drive to Pahalgam (approx. 4 hours)
- Enroute visit Saffron fields (seasonal)
- Arrive in Pahalgam and check into hotel
- Afternoon visit to Betaab Valley
- Evening walk along Lidder River
- Visit local market for souvenirs
- Dinner and overnight stay in Pahalgam
Highlights: Betaab Valley, Lidder River, Scenic drive
- Breakfast at hotel
- Full day exploration of Pahalgam
- Visit Aru Valley (known for its scenic beauty)
- Optional pony ride to Baisaran (at extra cost)
- Visit Chandanwari (starting point of Amarnath Yatra)
- Lunch at local restaurant (own expense)
- Afternoon visit to Mamleshwar Temple
- Evening free for photography or relaxation
- Dinner and overnight stay in Pahalgam
Highlights: Aru Valley, Chandanwari, Pony rides
- Breakfast at hotel
- Check out and drive to Sonmarg (approx. 5 hours)
- Enroute enjoy scenic views of Kashmir valley
- Arrive in Sonmarg and check into hotel
- Afternoon visit to Thajiwas Glacier
- Pony ride to glacier (optional, at extra cost)
- Enjoy snow activities (seasonal)
- Evening at leisure to enjoy mountain views
- Dinner and overnight stay in Sonmarg
Highlights: Thajiwas Glacier, Snow activities, Sonmarg views
- Breakfast at hotel
- Morning free for last-minute photography
- Check out and drive back to Srinagar (approx. 3 hours)
- Enroute visit local markets for souvenir shopping
- Arrive in Srinagar for lunch (own expense)
- Transfer to Airport/Railway Station for departure
- Tour concludes with beautiful memories
Highlights: Final mountain views, Souvenir shopping
Package Inclusions
- 5 nights accommodation (1N houseboat, 2N Gulmarg, 2N Pahalgam, 1N Sonmarg)
- Daily breakfast at all hotels
- All transfers and sightseeing in shared vehicle
- Houseboat stay in Srinagar on MAP (Breakfast + Dinner)
- Shikara ride on Dal Lake (1 hour)
- Gulmarg Gondola ride (Phase 1, subject to operation)
- Betaab Valley entrance fees
- Thajiwas Glacier visit
- All currently applicable taxes
Package Exclusions
- Flight/train tickets to/from Srinagar
- Lunch and dinner (except in houseboat)
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses (laundry, telephone, etc.)
- Tips for guides and drivers
- Adventure activities (skiing, rafting, etc.)
- Pony rides (except where specified)
- Gondola Phase 2 (if not included)
- 5% GST on total package
- Anything not mentioned in inclusions
Frequently Asked Questions
Our backpacking tour is designed for adventure seekers and budget travelers who prefer authentic experiences over luxury. It features comfortable but basic accommodations, shared transfers, and focuses on outdoor activities and local experiences rather than lavish amenities. Perfect for solo travelers, couples, and groups looking for adventure on a budget.
The houseboat stay includes accommodation in a traditional Kashmiri houseboat on Dal Lake with attached bathroom, welcome Kahwa tea, breakfast, and dinner. The houseboats feature Kashmiri woodwork and basic amenities. It's a unique cultural experience that's a highlight of any Kashmir trip.
We use shared vehicles (Tempo Traveler or similar) for transfers and sightseeing. This helps keep costs low and allows you to meet fellow travelers. For private transfers, please contact us for upgrade options at additional cost.
Yes! Our backpacking tours are perfect for solo travelers. You'll be part of a group, making it easy to meet like-minded people. We can arrange shared accommodations to avoid single supplements. Safety is ensured through our experienced guides and group travel format.
Essential items include: Light woolens for evenings, comfortable walking shoes, rain jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, reusable water bottle, power bank, basic first aid, personal medications, camera, and valid ID proofs. Pack light as you'll be moving between destinations.
Traveler Experiences
Starting From
₹24,750
₹27,500 Save ₹2,750
Per Person on Double Sharing
Quick Information
- Duration: 5N/6D
- Destinations: 4 Places
- Tour Type: Backpacking/Group
- Best Time: May - September
- Rating: 4.7/5.0
- Stay: Hotel + Houseboat
Why Choose This Package?
- Perfect for budget travelers
- All major destinations covered
- Unique houseboat experience
- Gondola ride included
- Best price guarantee
- 24/7 customer support