Owing to its natural beauty and snow-clad regions, Kashmir is nothing short of a paradise. However, any tour without a proper plan would be imperfect. You can plan a budget Kashmir trip with the help of experts. In this article, we will provide you with a complete Kashmir backpacking tour itinerary.
By going through this article, you will understand the things to follow while planning your Kashmir adventure tour.
Why is the Kashmir Backpacking Tour So Special?
If you have ever called any place in your life “Heaven on Earth”, then believe me it would be Kashmir. The snow-capped peaks here, the deodar trees talking to the blue sky, the water of the lakes and the smiles of the people. All of these things together create a place in your heart that you will never forget. The real fun of backpacking in Kashmir comes when you measure the real Kashmir with your feet with less luggage.
Why choose the Kashmir Backpacking Tour?
Kashmir is not just a tourist place but a unique ecosystem comprising wonderful nature and people. Here you are not just a spectator, but nature embraces you in its lap at every step. A Kashmir backpacking trip shows you the real Kashmir, different from expensive resorts and cheap Kashmir tour packages. You meet the local people, understand their culture and can sit at a small tea shop and talk for hours.
Day 1: Srinagar: The Beginning of the Journey
Most Kashmir backpacking packages start from Srinagar. Riding a Shikara floating on Dal Lake, sipping hot Kahwa by the lake and roaming in the lanes of the old city gives a different feeling. The gardens here like Shalimar and Nishat Garden are on everyone’s list, but the real fun is in those small lanes where you get to know the real Kashmiri taste and the hospitality of the people.
Day 2: Gulmarg: The Magic of Snow and a Place of Adventure
Gulmarg is not just a hill station, it is the dream of those who want to live in the snow, not just see it. As soon as you reach here, you will feel as if you have come inside a postcard. The white sheet spread far and wide, small wooden houses and clouds playing with the heights of the mountains. All these elements come together to make this place magical.
Day 3: Pahalgam: Peace Lost in the Valleys
Pahalgam is a place where your steps automatically slow down as soon as you reach there. There is a strange freshness in the air here, as if every breath is reviving your tired body. The lush green fields all around, tall pine trees and the sound of the Lidder river flowing from a distance – all these together create such an atmosphere that you do not want to remember the hectic life even if you want to.
Sitting on the banks of the Lidder river, one does not even feel the passage of time. The flow of water is sometimes quiet and sometimes noisy, and your thoughts also keep flowing in the same rhythm. If you want, you can enjoy trout fishing on the river bank, or just sitting for hours with your feet in the water is also a different pleasure.
Also, if you are planning Kashmir trekking and backpacking, then Pahalgam is a treasure for you. There are many paths from here. Some are easy while some are challenging. On the way, you will find shepherds’ goats, whose bells echo in the valley. Often the hill children pass by waving their hands and giving you a smile. Their innocence makes the journey even more memorable.
If you wish, you can also roam the valley while riding a horse. The slow gait of the horse and the greenery spread around take you to a film scene. To be honest, Pahalgam is not just a tourist spot. It is a surreal feeling where you find yourself completely immersed in nature’s untouched beauty
Day 4: Sonamarg: The Magic of the Golden Valley
Sonamarg literally means the land of gold. Exciting glaciers and scenic mountain treks await you here!
The journey to reach here is no less exciting. Winding mountain paths, tall trees on both sides and the Sindh river flowing through the middle, offer a new view at every turn. Sonamarg is perfect for backpackers who want to go to high altitude and do a glacier trek. Cherish the trekking experience to Thajiwas Glacier during your 7 days Kashmir backpacking itinerary.
Local Experience: The Real Kashmir
Understanding Kashmir is not just about seeing places. The real Kashmir enters your heart when you sit under a quilt in a local home and listen to the stories of Kashmiri Pandits. Spending a night in their houseboat also gives a glimpse of their culture and roots. The people here are extremely hospitable. Perhaps this is the reason why every traveler takes back not just photos but also memories of relationships.
Which is the Best Time for Backpacking in Kashmir?
The best time for backpacking in Kashmir would be between September to November as the weather gets pleasant during this period. Also, the landscape becomes lush with greenery during these months. However, for exploring snow sports, you must visit between December to February. Also, avoid Kashmir backpacking during extreme snowfall and monsoon.
Things to Carry on the Kashmir Backpackers Tour
Here are the things that you must carry on your backpacking tour to Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonmarg:
- Sporting footwear that is cozy.
- For a vacation to Kashmir, hiking or trekking shoes are suggested.
- Woolen apparel that is warm, such as warm hats and gloves.
- Sweaters and jackets that are warm.
- Prescription drugs that are necessary.
- Windbreakers and sunglasses.
- Extra socks, ideally made of wool.
- For the journey to Kashmir, choose a neutral-colored outfit.
- Carry smartphones and cameras at your own risk.
- Towel and outfit change.
Conclusion
Kashmir is a true treasure-trove for nature lovers. Every valley here makes you stop and wonder if heaven has really come down to earth. Want something new and unforgettable in your next vacation? If yes, then Kashmir backpacking is waiting for you!
