6 Best Day Trips from Srinagar
Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Doodhpathri, Yusmarg, Pahalgam and the saffron fields of Pampore: the best day trips from Srinagar, with drive times and tips.
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Quick answerThe best day trips from Srinagar are Gulmarg (about 1.5–2 hours), Sonamarg (2.5–3 hours), Doodhpathri (about 2 hours) and Yusmarg (about 1.5 hours). Leave by 8 am to make the most of the day.
Many travellers keep Srinagar as their base and explore the valley in day trips. It saves on hotel changes and packing, and the roads are good. Here are the best options.
Day trips at a glance
| Destination | Distance | Drive | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gulmarg | ~50 km | 1.5–2 h | Gondola, meadows, snow |
| Sonamarg | ~80 km | 2.5–3 h | Thajiwas Glacier, Sindh river |
| Doodhpathri | ~42 km | ~2 h | Open meadows, streams, pine forests |
| Yusmarg | ~47 km | ~1.5 h | Quiet meadows, Nilnag lake walk |
| Pahalgam | ~95 km | 2.5–3 h | Lidder river, Betaab Valley |
| Pampore | ~15 km | 30 min | Saffron fields (in bloom late Oct–Nov) |
Gulmarg
The most popular day trip. Ride the Gulmarg Gondola, walk the meadow and visit St Mary's Church. Book gondola tickets online in advance. See our gondola guide.
Sonamarg
Drive along the Sindh river to the "meadow of gold". Take a pony or union taxi to Thajiwas Glacier. Read our Sonamarg guide.
Doodhpathri
A wide, quiet meadow with milky streams in Budgam district. It is less developed than Gulmarg, which is exactly its charm. Best from May to October.
Yusmarg
A peaceful meadow surrounded by pine forest, ideal for walks and pony rides away from crowds.
Pahalgam
Possible as a long day trip, but Pahalgam is better with an overnight stay so you can see Aru and Betaab valleys at leisure.
Pampore
Kashmir's saffron town, a short drive towards Pahalgam. The purple crocus flowers bloom for a few weeks in late October and November.
Plan the rest of your Kashmir trip
- Yusmarg Travel Guide: Pine forests, open meadows and far fewer crowds than Gulmarg or Pahalgam.
- Manasbal and Wular Lakes: Lotus blooms at Manasbal and the vast open water of Wular, one of Asia's largest freshwater lakes.
- Kokernag, Verinag and Achabal: The source of the Jhelum, a Mughal octagonal spring and gardens built for a queen.
- Gulmarg Travel Guide: The meadow of flowers in summer, India's ski capital in winter. How to get to Gulmarg, the best season for you, where to stay and the mistakes to avoid.
- Pahalgam Travel Guide: Pine forests, a roaring river and valleys you reach by union taxi. How to get to Pahalgam, what is open in 2026, where to stay and how many nights to spend.
Frequently asked questions
Can I visit Gulmarg and Sonamarg in one day?
No. They are in different directions. Plan them on separate days.
Which day trip from Srinagar is best in winter?
Gulmarg, for reliable snow and skiing. Doodhpathri and Yusmarg can be snowbound.
Do I need a private cab for day trips?
A private cab is easiest. Shared taxis run to Tangmarg and Sonamarg but are less flexible.
Is Pahalgam possible as a day trip from Srinagar?
Yes, but it is a long day. An overnight stay is much better.
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