| City | Key Highlights |
| Amritsar | Golden Temple darshan at dawn | Jallianwala Bagh memorial | Wagah Border flag‑lowering ceremony | Heritage Walk in the Old City | Local Punjabi cuisine tasting (Amritsari kulcha, lassi) |
| Katra | Bhawan Corridor stroll | Bhairon Temple visit (on return trek) | Local bazaars for handicrafts | Evening aarti at the foot of the shrine |
| Vaishno Devi | Pilgrimage Trek (or pony/palanquin) to the cave shrine | Darshan at the Holy Cave | Scenic views of Trikuta Hills | Meditation spots along the trek path |
| Pahalgam | Betaab Valley (Bollywood shooting site) | Aru Valley meadows & pony rides | Chandanwari (Amarnath Yatra base) | Lidder River riverside walk | Local handicraft shopping (walnut wood carvings) |
| Gulmarg | Gulmarg Gondola (stage I & II) | Skiing (seasonal) or snow play | Khilanmarg wildflower meadows | Strawberry Valley walk | World’s highest 18‑hole golf course |
| Sonamarg | Thajiwas Glacier pony ride | Sindh River riverside picnic | Zoji La Viewpoint (optional) | Alpine flora walks |
| Srinagar | Dal Lake Shikara ride & houseboat stay | Mughal Gardens (Shalimar, Nishat, Chashm‑e‑Shahi) | Shankaracharya Temple sunset view | Hazratbal Shrine visit | Old City bazaar & craft emporium (pashmina, papier‑mâché) |
Day 01ARRIVE AMRITSAR
Arrive on your international flight. After a traditional Indian-style Swagat (welcome) by an Exceptional Escapes representative, you will be assisted at the airport and transferred to your hotel for check-in.
Amritsar is renowned for its Golden Temple, the most revered and sacred shrine of the Sikhs. The name Amritsar literally means the Pool of Nectar. Devotees from all walks of life, regardless of caste or creed, visit the temple to offer their prayers. Within the temple complex lies the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism, along with a 24-hour community kitchen (Langar) that serves meals to nearly 10,000 pilgrims daily, operated entirely by volunteers. Jallianwala Bagh, a site of historical significance, is also located nearby.
In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at the hotel, courtesy of Exceptional Escapes.
OVERNIGHT STAY: AMRITSAR (D)
Day 02AMRITSAR
After breakfast, proceed for a visit to the Golden Temple with a knowledgeable English-speaking local guide.
Golden Temple
The Golden Temple serves as the seat of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, the religious governing body of the Sikhs. The construction of the Akal Takht, the highest seat of Sikh temporal authority, was initiated by Guru Arjan Dev and completed in 1609 by Guru Hargobind.
Jallianwala Bagh (Now a Memorial)
This historical site marks the tragic event of 13th April 1919, when General Dyer ordered his troops to open fire on innocent civilians during British rule in India. Now a National Monument, its walls still bear the bullet marks from that dark day in history.
Wagah Border Ceremony
The Wagah Border is located 28 kilometers from Amritsar and serves as the only road crossing between India and Pakistan. This army outpost plays a crucial role in border security, preventing unauthorized crossings.
Evening Ritual at the Golden Temple
Later in the evening, return to the Golden Temple for a guided experience of the closing ceremony of the Guru Granth Sahib, the sacred Sikh scripture. Witness the holy book being carried in a ceremonial palanquin to its night lodging, a deeply spiritual and serene moment.
Important Timings:
OVERNIGHT STAY: AMRITSAR (B, L, D)
Day 03AMRITSAR TO VAISHNO DEVI (KATRA)
Travel from Amritsar to Katra – Early morning departure for Katra to visit Vaishno Devi.
Distance: Amritsar to Katra – 240 km (approximately 5-6 hours by road)
Arrival in Katra – Check-in at your hotel.
Rest and Prepare for the Trek – In the evening, rest and prepare for the trek to Vaishno Devi Shrine.
Day 04VAISHNO DEVI DARSHAN
Trek to Vaishno Devi – Begin your 12 km trek to the Vaishno Devi shrine (can be done on foot, horse, or by helicopter).
Darshan of Vaishno Devi – Offer your prayers at the holy shrine.
Return to Katra – After the darshan, trek back to Katra.
Distance: Katra to Vaishno Devi – 12 km one-way trek.
Day 05KATRA - PAHALGAM
Morning: Departure from Katra: After breakfast, check out from your hotel in Katra and embark on your journey to Pahalgam. The drive from Katra to Pahalgam takes approximately 6-7 hours (around 270 km), depending on road conditions.
Scenic Drive through the Countryside: Enjoy a scenic drive through the beautiful valleys of Kashmir, with lush green fields, rivers, and snow-capped peaks. The journey will take you through Anantnag, a town known for its old temples and vibrant markets.
Arrival in Pahalgam: Check-in at your hotel in Pahalgam. Pahalgam is known for its breathtaking landscapes, serene rivers, and majestic mountains. Spend the evening relaxing by the Lidder River, a peaceful spot to unwind after a long journey.
Leisure time: Enjoy a casual walk along the river, explore the local markets, or relax in the peaceful surroundings of Pahalgam.
Day 06PAHALGAM
Betaab Valley: Begin your day with a visit to Betaab Valley, named after the Bollywood movie Betaab. The valley is known for its pristine beauty, lush meadows, and clear streams. It is a perfect spot for a scenic picnic or a short hike.
Aru Valley: After Betaab Valley, head to Aru Valley, a serene place surrounded by pine forests and snow-capped mountains. Aru Valley is less crowded than Betaab, offering a peaceful environment for those who enjoy nature walks and photography.
Baisaran Valley: Later, visit Baisaran Valley, also known as "Mini Switzerland." You can either take a pony ride or a cable car ride to enjoy panoramic views of the valley, which is dotted with green meadows and surrounded by snow-clad mountains.
Evening at Leisure: Return to Pahalgam in the evening. Take a stroll through the village, explore local markets, or relax by the river.
Day 07PAHALGAM - GULMARG
Morning: Departure from Pahalgam: After breakfast, leave for Gulmarg. The drive from Pahalgam to Gulmarg takes approximately 5-6 hours (around 120 km), and you will be treated to scenic views of the mountains and valleys along the way.
Arrival in Gulmarg: Check-in to your hotel in Gulmarg. Gulmarg, also known as the "Meadow of Flowers," is famous for its lush meadows, snow-covered peaks, and the Gulmarg Gondola, one of the highest cable cars in the world.
Gulmarg Gondola Ride: In the afternoon, take the Gulmarg Gondola ride to Apharwat Peak. The gondola provides spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, and you can also enjoy activities like skiing (in winter) or simply relax and enjoy the scenery.
Evening at Leisure: Explore the local area, visit the historic St. Mary's Church, or simply relax and enjoy the crisp mountain air.
Day 08GULMARG- SRINAGAR
Morning: Departure from Gulmarg: After breakfast, check out from your hotel and drive to Srinagar, which is about 50 km away (approximately 2 hours).
Arrival in Srinagar: Check-in to your houseboat or hotel in Srinagar. Srinagar is famous for its scenic beauty, traditional Kashmiri houseboats, and the beautiful Dal Lake.
Shikara Ride on Dal Lake: In the afternoon, enjoy a Shikara ride on Dal Lake, one of Srinagar's most famous attractions. You will float along the lake, passing traditional wooden houseboats, floating gardens, and lotus flowers. You can also visit the floating market during the ride.
Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh: After the Shikara ride, visit Nishat Bagh, the "Garden of Joy," which offers beautiful views of Dal Lake and the surrounding mountains. Next, visit Shalimar Bagh, a Mughal Garden known for its terraced levels, fountains, and floral designs.
Evening at Leisure: Explore the local markets, shop for traditional Kashmiri handicrafts like Pashmina shawls, carpets, and saffron, or simply relax at your accommodation.
Day 09SRINAGAR - SONMARG (DAY EXCURSION)
Morning: Departure for Sonmarg: After breakfast, take a scenic drive from Srinagar to Sonmarg, which is about 80 km (2-3 hours). Sonmarg, known as the "Meadow of Gold," is a beautiful valley surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
Exploring Sonmarg: Upon arrival, explore the breathtaking meadows and valleys. You can also take a short trek or enjoy a pony ride to Thajiwas Glacier, located a short distance from the town. The glacier offers a fantastic view of the surrounding mountains.
Leisure time in Sonmarg: You can enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the meadows or visit local temples, such as the Vishansar Lake and Krishansar Lake, located nearby. These spots are known for their pristine beauty and calm atmosphere.
Return to Srinagar: In the evening, return to Srinagar and relax at your hotel or houseboat.
Day 10SRINAGAR DEPARTURE
Morning at Leisure: Depending on your flight time, enjoy a relaxing morning in Srinagar. You can take a walk along the Dal Lake promenade, shop for any last-minute souvenirs, or visit the famous Hazratbal Shrine for a peaceful spiritual experience.
Departure: Transfer to Srinagar Airport for your departure. This marks the end of your Kashmir journey.
