Holiday Retreat · Kashmir

Family Getaway to Kashmir - Enjoy a FREE Houseboat Stay Kashmir

6 Days / 5 Nights 29% OFF
Dal Lake, Srinagar, Kashmir
Gulmarg Gondola, Kashmir
Sonmarg, Kashmir
Pahalgam, Kashmir
Houseboats at Dal Lake, Kashmir
Overview

A family getaway to Kashmir

Planning a family trip to Kashmir? Get ready for a fun-filled adventure in one of the most charming places in India! Whether you're excited about playing in the snow, enjoying a cozy boat ride on a shikara, or taking a pony ride through vibrant meadows, Kashmir has something for everyone. It's the perfect destination for a mix of relaxation and excitement. From sharing stories by the bonfire to savoring delicious Kashmiri food, every moment here promises to create unforgettable memories with your loved ones. So, pack your bags and get set for an amazing time in the valley!

Tour Highlights

Tour Highlights

  • Kashmir has so much to offer for a family trip!
  • Start with Srinagar, where you can enjoy a shikara ride on Dal Lake. It’s a super relaxing experience, and the kids will love spotting the floating gardens and houseboats.
  • Visit the Shankaracharya Temple for some impressive views and take a stroll through Lal Chowk, a great spot for picking up local goodies and Kashmiri handicrafts.
  • Sonmarg is perfect for a day trip, where you can ride ponies to the Thajiwas Glacier and maybe even catch a bit of snow.
  • In Pahalgam, the kids will get a kick out of visiting Betaab Valley and Aru Valley, perfect for stretching their legs and enjoying the fresh air.
  • Khajjar also offers more chances to get outdoors.
  • Finally, head to Gulmarg for a cable car ride (the Gulmarg Gondola), which is a hit with kids and adults alike, and if it’s winter, don’t miss the chance to try out some snow activities!
Day by Day

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival in Srinagar | Local Sightseeing

Welcome to Srinagar! Upon arrival (morning or afternoon), you'll be picked up from the airport and driven to your hotel (a 1-2 hour journey).

After checking in, you'll have the opportunity to visit some local attractions, including the Sri Shankaracharya Temple, Lal Chowk, and Jamia Masjid.

Afterward, return to the hotel for an overnight stay.

Meals: Meals: Lunch or dinner at a standard hotel in Srinagar.

Day 2

Journey to Sonmarg (Winter Adventure)

Start your day with an early breakfast before setting off on a 4-hour drive to Sonmarg.

Enjoy the riverside route along the Sindh River, leading you to the enchanting 'Meadow of Gold,' known as the gateway to the Ladakh region.

Experience the Amarnath Yatra base and choose to ride a pony or take a cab to visit the Thajiwas Glacier or Zero Point for a thrilling winter experience (at your own expense).

Return to Srinagar and rest for the evening.

Meals: Meals: Breakfast and dinner

Day 3

Day Trip to Gulmarg

Today, you’ll head to the Union Cab Stand for a day trip to Gulmarg.

You can hire a cab (fare not included) to visit Gulmarg and the beautiful Drung Waterfall.

Enjoy a delightful lunch at a cafe (at your own cost), followed by the popular Gulmarg Gondola ride (at your own expense), which offers stunning views of the surroundings.

Afterward, return to the Union Cab Stand on your own and then transfer back to the hotel for an overnight stay.

Accommodation can be arranged in Gulmarg or Srinagar as per your preference.

Meals: Meals: Breakfast and dinner

Day 4

Transfer to Pahalgam | Local Sightseeing

After checking out from your hotel, you'll be transferred to Pahalgam.

Upon arrival, if regular transport is not available, you’ll head to the Union Cab Stand and take a cab (fare not included) to visit Pahalgam’s picturesque spots like Aru Valley, Betaab Valley, and Chandanwari.

For an added adventure, you can ride mules or horses (at your own expense) to visit Khajjar or "Mini Switzerland."

Enjoy an overnight stay at your hotel in Pahalgam.

Meals: Meals: Breakfast and dinner

Day 5

Return to Srinagar | Houseboat Stay & Local Sightseeing

Make your way to Dal Lake in Srinagar and check in to your houseboat.

After some relaxation, head out for a sightseeing tour of Srinagar, including stops at Lal Chowk, Shankaracharya Temple, and Badamwari Park.

Afterward, enjoy a peaceful shikara ride on Dal Lake’s calm waters.

Return to the houseboat for an overnight stay.

Meals: Meals: Breakfast and dinner

Day 6

Departure

It’s time to bid farewell to Kashmir.

After breakfast, check out from your houseboat and transfer to the airport in Srinagar, marking the end of your trip. Wishing you a safe journey!

Meals: Meals: Breakfast

Experience

What to Expect from this Trip

A family trip to Kashmir is all about exciting experiences and making memories together. In Srinagar, you can enjoy houseboat stays on Dal Lake, go for shikara rides, and visit the Mughal gardens. Sonmarg is perfect for a pony ride or a fun snowball fight if you're there during the colder months. Pahalgam offers a mix of river rafting, fishing, and casual walks by the Lidder River. Gulmarg is great for cable car rides and sledging in the snow, with a chance to enjoy some skiing too! There's something for everyone, whether you're into light adventures or just relaxing together.

Accommodations

A charming 3-star hotel on both days, providing a comfortable stay.

Backpackers United Team

Our team will provide you with a responsible and experienced driver to help with transfers throughout the trip. If required, we will also arrange a tour guide to help you with sightseeing locations.

Pack List

Things to Carry

Warm clothing

Hiking boots

Personal Toiletries

Personal Medication / First Aid

Charger

Power Bank

Personal Documents & ID's

Woolen Gloves

Main Jacket

Hoodie

Camera

Moisturiser & Cold Cream

Lip Balm

Cash

Thermals

Travel with the tribe

You pick the weekend.
We map the route.

Join a small group of travellers on our next departure. Overnight bus, curated stays, handled logistics — you just show up with a bag.

Group trip
Mountain viewpoint
Travellers together
FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What is the best time to visit Kashmir with family?
Kashmir is great year-round, but for families, April to October is ideal for pleasant weather and sightseeing. Winter (December to February) is perfect if your family loves snow and wants to try activities like skiing in Gulmarg.
Are there kid-friendly activities in Kashmir?
Absolutely! In Srinagar, kids can enjoy Shikara rides on Dal Lake, and horse rides are popular in Sonmarg and Pahalgam. Gulmarg’s Gondola ride is a hit with kids and adults alike, and during winter, families can have fun with sledding and snowball fights.
Is Kashmir safe for a family trip?
Kashmir is generally safe for tourists, including families. Stick to the well-known tourist areas, follow local advisories, and check the news for any updates. The local hospitality is warm, and people are friendly towards tourists.
What should we pack for a family trip to Kashmir?
If you're visiting in summer, pack light cotton clothes, but don’t forget a few warm layers for cooler mornings and evenings. For winter, bring heavy woolens, thermal wear, gloves, and snow boots, especially if you plan to visit Gulmarg or Sonmarg.
How do we get around Kashmir with kids?
Taxis are widely available and the most convenient option for families. Many families also hire private cars for the duration of their trip. In Srinagar, houseboats and Shikara rides are a fun way to get around Dal Lake.
What activities can older kids and teenagers enjoy in Kashmir?
Teenagers can have a blast with adventure activities. Gulmarg offers skiing and snowboarding in the winter, and trekking or cable car rides in summer. In Pahalgam, rafting and hiking are popular activities. Horse riding is available in most of the tourist spots, which older kids tend to enjoy.
Is Kashmir expensive for a family vacation?
Kashmir can be budget-friendly or luxurious, depending on your choices. Accommodation ranges from budget hotels to luxury resorts. Local travel costs are reasonable, and activities like Shikara rides and horse rides can be negotiated. Planning ahead and booking in advance can help you save on accommodation and transportation.
Are there any precautions we should take for the high altitude in places like Gulmarg and Sonmarg?
In higher altitude areas like Gulmarg and Sonmarg, some people may experience mild altitude sickness. To avoid this, stay hydrated, take it easy on the first day, and avoid strenuous activities right after arriving. If anyone in the family starts feeling dizzy or nauseous, rest and seek medical attention if needed.
Cancellation & Payment

Transparent cancellation policy

Good to know

  • Once a flight is booked, it is non-refundable.
  • Minimum 8 travellers required for group departures. If the group falls below 8, you'll be offered an alternative.
  • In case of weather, strikes or government restrictions, trips may be modified. Cash refunds aren't issued in such cases.
  • For international bookings, 5% GST + 3% booking fee is non-refundable.
Days before departureCancellation chargeRefund
15–30 days25%75% refunded
7–15 days50%50% refunded
3–7 days75%25% refunded
0–3 days100%No refund
4,999per person · 6 Days / 5 Nights · 29% OFF