Tips, tricks and places to enjoy Kashmir on a budget

Kashmir, nestled among snow-capped peaks, serene lakes, verdant valleys, and a rich cultural environment, is a place that’s impossible to ignore. It's a haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts, but it’s also true that most travellers would think twice before planning a trip to Kashmir.

Reason being, Kashmir is one of prime holiday destinations in India and is popularly known as a luxurious getaway.

What if we told you that you can do Kashmir on a budget?

Here are some tips, tricks and places to visit in Kashmir without burning holes in your pocket.

Dal Lake’s famous shikara rides will definitely not break your bank balance. It’s not the same as a stay on one of the luxe houseboats, but you still get to experience the beauty of Dal Lake and other local charms. Add an early morning shikara ride to your itinerary and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the floating market.

Gulmarg is best seen from up above. For this, there are gondola and chairlift rides. While the gondola rides are pretty steep (approx INR 950 for Phase 1, approx INR 2070 for Phase 2), chairlift rides at approx INR 300 is a more budget-friendly option.

Places like Aru Valley and Betaab Valley have minimal entry fee (less than INR 100) and taxi prices start from approx INR 1100 and INR 900 respectively. These rates are from Pahalgam. From Srinagar, the cost for a taxi is very steep.

When in Sonamarg, one must visit the Thajiwas Glacier. It’s a short trek from Sonamarg and a local guide can be arranged for a reasonable price.

Consider travelling during the off-season (September to October). This is when accommodation and travel costs are much lower than the peak tourist season like January to June.

Visit local markets in Srinagar, Pahalgam, and other towns to buy souvenirs and handicrafts at reasonable prices. Don't shy away from bargaining. While clothing items may have inflated prices, local produce tends to be cheaper. You can bring them back as souvenirs.

Local dhabas are the best places to enjoy local Kashmiri cuisine. These eateries may be small but are a more authentic experience as it’s the locals who prepare the food.

Like in most places, public transportation like buses or shared taxis are more economical ways to get around in Kashmir as well. Sure, there are rental vehicles too but depending on places, they may be on a more costlier side if you are travelling on a tight budget.