How to Go Kashmir from Kolkata: A Complete Travel Guide

In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about how to go Kashmir from Kolkata, including travel costs, the best time to visit, sightseeing itineraries, and group travel packages. Whether you’re looking for adventure, peace, or cultural exploration, Kashmir has something for everyone. So, let’s dive into the best ways to get there from Kolkata and start planning your dream vacation!

Why Kashmir Should Be Your Next Destination

Key Attractions in Kashmir:

• Srinagar: Famous for its houseboats, Mughal gardens, and Dal Lake, Srinagar is the heart of Kashmir.
• Pahalgam: A serene town offering nature walks, trekking, and a view of the Lidder River.
• Gulmarg: A winter wonderland, renowned for skiing, snowboarding, and the famous Gondola ride.
• Sonmarg: Known for its vast meadows, it’s a popular spot for trekking and exploring.

Kashmir offers a perfect mix of scenic beauty, thrilling activities, and cultural heritage that makes it an unmissable destination for travelers from Kolkata and beyond.

Travel Options from Kolkata to Kashmir

A. Flights to Srinagar

• Duration: Non-stop flights take around 3-4 hours, while connecting flights, with layovers in cities like Delhi or Mumbai, may take 5-7 hours.
• Cost: Flight fares typically range from INR 4,000 to INR 10,000 for a one-way ticket, depending on when you book and which airline you choose.
• Booking Tips: To get the best rates, book your flight tickets early, especially if you’re traveling during peak tourist seasons like summer.

B. Kolkata to Jammu Train Routes

• Popular Trains: The Sealdah-Jammu Tawi Express and Himgiri Express are some of the commonly used trains on this route.
• Duration: The train journey takes approximately 30-36 hours, depending on the train.
• Amenities: Trains are equipped with basic amenities like sleeper coaches, AC coaches, and food services.
• Booking Tips: Train tickets can be easily booked online through the IRCTC website. Make sure to book well in advance to avoid last-minute rush, especially during the tourist season.

C. Road Trip Options

• Route: The most common route is via National Highway 44, passing through cities like Varanasi, Agra, Delhi, and Chandigarh before reaching Jammu.
• Duration: The road trip typically takes around 3-4 days, depending on how long you spend at stopovers.
• Recommended Vehicles: For the mountainous roads in Kashmir, it’s recommended to travel in sturdy vehicles like SUVs or sedans.
• Travel Tips: Plan your stopovers carefully in cities like Delhi or Chandigarh. Make sure your vehicle is well-maintained for long journeys, especially on hilly terrains.

Travel Costs from Kolkata to Kashmir

• Flights to Srinagar: Prices for one-way flights generally range between INR 4,000 to INR 10,000 for economy class tickets.
• Kolkata to Jammu Train Routes: Train fares vary based on class. Sleeper class tickets start at INR 500, while AC classes can cost between INR 1,500 and INR 3,000.
• Road Trip: The cost of a road trip largely depends on fuel and vehicle type. For a car trip, the fuel cost will be approximately INR 15,000 to INR 25,000 for the round trip, depending on your vehicle and the number of stopovers.

Budget Tip:

Best Time for Travel to Kashmir

• Summer (March to August): The weather is pleasant, ideal for sightseeing, trekking, and enjoying the beautiful gardens in Srinagar.
• Winter (October to February): If you’re interested in snow activities like skiing, winter is the perfect season. The snow-covered landscapes offer a completely different experience, especially in Gulmarg and Pahalgam.

Travel Tip:

Sightseeing Itineraries

5-Day Itinerary:

• Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar, explore Dal Lake with a Shikara ride, and check into a houseboat.
• Day 2: Visit Mughal Gardens (Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh), Hazratbal Shrine, and the local market.
• Day 3: Take a day trip to Gulmarg for skiing, snowboarding, and the Gondola ride.
• Day 4: Visit Pahalgam for a day of nature walks and relaxation by the Lidder River.
• Day 5: Shopping at Srinagar’s Lal Chowk and departure.

7-Day Itinerary:

• Day 1-2: As above.
• Day 3-4: Visit Sonmarg and enjoy the meadows and trekking spots.
• Day 5-6: Explore more areas of Srinagar, including the Shankaracharya Temple and the local markets.

Day 7: Departure.

Extended Itinerary: 6-Day Adventure Tour

• Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar – Shikara Ride and Houseboat StayArrive at Srinagar airport after a scenic flight over snow-capped mountains. From there, head to your houseboat and check in. After some rest and lunch, explore Srinagar. Visit the Mughal Gardens – Shalimar and Nishat Gardens. Enjoy a 1-hour shikara ride while admiring the beautiful mountains and return to your houseboat for dinner. Overnight stay in Srinagar.
• Day 2: Srinagar to Gulmarg – Gondola Ride and Adventure SportsWake up and head to Gulmarg, a 2-hour scenic drive offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks. Enjoy the highest gondola ride in Asia and explore the famous golf course. Spend the day indulging in skiing and snowboarding. Dinner and overnight stay in Gulmarg.
• Day 3: Gulmarg to Pahalgam – Drung WaterfallAfter breakfast, visit Drung Waterfall (accessible by ATV). Continue the scenic drive to Pahalgam, passing through Pampore and Anantnag. Check in to your hotel and relax. Overnight stay in Pahalgam.
• Day 4: Pahalgam – Aru Valley, Betaab Valley, and ChandanwariExplore Aru Valley’s meadows, visit the Bollywood-favorite Betaab Valley, and trek to Chandanwari (ponies available). Later, head back to Srinagar. Overnight stay in Srinagar.
• Day 5: Trek from Nilnag Lake to Yusmarg OR DhoodhpathriDrive to Nilnag Lake surrounded by pine trees. Begin your trek to Yusmarg or Dhoodhpathri, depending on snowfall. Return to Srinagar by evening. Overnight stay in Srinagar.
• Day 6: Departure – Return to Chennai with Cherished MemoriesDepart with a bag of happy memories.

Group Packages for Hassle-Free Travel

• WanderOn Packages: Starting from INR 20,000 for a 5-day trip, these packages offer group travel, eliminating the need to worry about logistics and giving you more time to enjoy the sights.
• Benefits of Group Travel: With a group tour, you can share costs and experience Kashmir with others, making it safer and more fun.

Travel Tips for a Smooth Journey

• Packing Essentials: Even in summer, the temperatures in Kashmir can drop in the evenings. Pack light woolens, sturdy shoes for trekking, and sunscreen.
• Accommodation: Book your accommodations in advance, especially if you’re traveling during the tourist season.
• Safety: While Kashmir is a beautiful and safe destination, always follow the local travel advisories and carry copies of your important documents.

Plan Your Kashmir Adventure with WanderOn