The cost of a trip to Kashmir can vary depending on factors like accommodation, transportation, food, and activities. On average, a budget trip could cost around $200 to $300 per person for a week-long trip.
1: Accommodation Costs:
Prices vary by location and type of accommodation, starting from around $10 per night, with luxury stays ranging from $25 to $100. Houseboats, on average, cost around $25. It is advisable to book your accommodation before planning your trip to analyze your budget, as prices differ depending on various factors.
Gulmarg: One of the most popular tourist destinations in our nation is Gulmarg. This town transforms into a major ski resort in the winter. Families flock here in droves to enjoy the renowned gondola ride in the spring and during school vacations in the summer. In fact, there are more hotels than homes in this area, making it difficult to find a cheap hotel in Gulmarg.
In general, no hotel will bill you between $20 and $25 for an off-season accommodation. These costs increase even further at the busiest travel times. Booking your stay is advised during the busiest travel seasons, $100 and $150 for mediocre accommodations. They will rent you for $50 at the very least. This exorbitant price is during winter season when Gulmarg has the peak season.
In Kashmir, Srinagar offers the greatest variety of hotels and is your best chance to find inexpensive lodging in the valley. If your travel budget is extremely tight, you should aim to spend most of your nights here.
A room in the off-season can cost between $10 and $15. During peak tourist months—January, February, April, and June—the minimum daily rate for standard hotels and guest homes ranges from $20 to $25. For a more immersive experience in Srinagar, you can also stay on houseboats on Nigeen Lake.
Sonamarg: Throughout the winter, Sonamarg is closed. It’s possible that you could travel there by car, but lodging will be quite difficult to come by. After a lot of snowfall in December, the majority of hotels close for the season. You may find fewer options for staying in winter as snow covers the area.
For the remaining time of the year, an average hotel will cost you between $20 and $30. Go to the major Sonamarg market area if you are on a tight budget. There, rooms may be had for between $10 and $12. Some people can take part in nearby camps for collective group accommodations.
Pahalgam: Similar to Gulmarg, hotels in Pahalgam tend to overbook in the winter. The typical accommodation rate in December end, January, February, and the first part of March might range from $50 to $100. During normal seasons the cost is less compared to winter. Pahalgam attracts lots of crowds in winter increasing the demand for accommodations. Pre-booking can help you secure homes at offers.
However, the average cost of lodging in Pahalgam throughout the remainder of the year will be between $15 and $25. Naturally, luxurious hotels will cost far more than this. People who want to have a more offbeat experience can select accommodations available in Aru Valley or can also select camping for adventurous experiences.
Gurez Valley: The J&K Tourism Dak Bungalow used to be the only lodging option in Dawar. However, several hotels have been built as a result of the area’s growing appeal as a travel destination. However, this valley has the minimum infrastructure for tourists. There are very few conventional hotels. Gurez has no three-star or opulent hotels.
The Kishanganga River is close to a camping area. It’s a nice spot, surrounded by Dawar’s outskirts with a lovely outlook. It’s a fun spot to hang out with family and friends, based on user ratings. Right now, hotels are located close to Drung Waterfall. You will need to search for a hotel, which should cost you around $20, at either Gulmarg or Tangmarg.
Yusmarg: The sole lodging options in Yusmarg are JKTDC Tourist Huts and Bungalows. You can make reservations for meals in the bungalows, or you can eat at a few nearby little eateries. It is recommended that hikers bring tents and other food supplies for their stay. Other than this, Charar-e-Shariff is the closest location where you might be able to get lodging. If you decide to go trekking, you can either bring a guide with you from Srinagar or request any of the locals or pony owners to serve as your guide; they would be happy to oblige. Your entire stay in Pahalgam will cost between $25 and $40.