Kashmir, often referred to as ‘Paradise on Earth’, is a dream destination for many travelers. Nestled in the northernmost part of India, this region boasts of its snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, serene lakes, and rich cultural heritage. If you’re planning a 7-day trip to Kashmir and wondering about the costs involved, you’re in the right place. This article aims to break down the *Kashmir trip cost* and provide insights on how to explore this beautiful region on a budget.
Accommodation Costs in Kashmir
Accommodation is one of the primary expenses on any trip and significantly impacts the Kashmir trip cost. In Kashmir, you’ll find a wide range of options from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses, allowing travelers to plan according to their budget.
Luxury Hotels
If you prefer staying in comfort and luxury, Kashmir offers several five-star resorts in Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam. The average cost per night for a luxury stay ranges from INR 5,000 to INR 15,000. For a 7-day trip, you might end up spending around INR 35,000 to INR 1,05,000 on accommodation alone.
Mid-Range Hotels
For those looking for a balance between comfort and cost, mid-range hotels are a good option. These hotels offer decent amenities and the average cost per night ranges from INR 2,000 to INR 5,000. Therefore, for 7 days, you can expect to spend around INR 14,000 to INR 35,000.
Budget Accommodation
Travelers on a tight budget can opt for guesthouses and budget hotels, which provide basic amenities at an affordable price. The average cost per night for a budget stay is around INR 500 to INR 2,000. For a 7-day trip, the total accommodation cost would be approximately INR 3,500 to INR 14,000.
Transportation Costs in Kashmir
Flights
The quickest way to reach Kashmir is by air. The Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi is a major transit point. Flights from Delhi to Srinagar typically cost between INR 3,000 to INR 10,000 for a round trip, depending on the season and how early you book your tickets.
Local Transport
Once in Kashmir, you can get around by hiring cabs, autos, or using local buses. Renting a cab for a day can cost you around INR 1,500 to INR 3,000. For a more budget-friendly option, local buses and shared taxis are available and significantly cheaper.
Houseboats and Shikara Rides
No trip to Kashmir is complete without experiencing a stay in a houseboat and a Shikara ride on Dal Lake. The cost for these can range from INR 500 to INR 2,000.
Food Costs in Kashmir
Kashmiri cuisine is something you wouldn’t want to miss. The cost of food depends largely on where and what you choose to eat.
High-End Restaurants
Dining at high-end restaurants can be quite an experience, with prices ranging from INR 800 to INR 2,000 per meal per person. For a 7-day trip, you can expect to spend around INR 16,800 to INR 42,000 on food for two people.
Mid-Range Restaurants
If you opt for mid-range restaurants, the average cost per meal would be around INR 300 to INR 800 per person. Therefore, the total cost for food would be approximately INR 6,300 to INR 16,800 for a week.
Street Food and Local Dhabas
For budget travelers, street food and local dhabas offer delicious meals at reasonable prices. The average cost per meal is around INR 50 to INR 200 per person, bringing the total food cost to around INR 1,050 to INR 4,200 for a week.
Sightseeing and Activities
Kashmir offers a plethora of activities ranging from sightseeing tours to adventure sports.
Entrance Fees and Tours
Most tourist attractions in Kashmir charge an entrance fee, which can range from INR 20 to INR 500. Organized tours, such as those to Gulmarg or Sonamarg, can cost around INR 1,500 to INR 3,000 per person.
Adventure Activities
Kashmir offers several adventure activities like skiing, snowboarding, and trekking. The costs for these activities vary but can range from INR 500 to INR 5,000 depending on the activity and the duration.
Vaishno Devi Trip Cost
If you are planning to extend your trip to include a pilgrimage to Vaishno Devi, you should be aware of the additional Vaishno Devi trip cost. This will include expenses for travel, accommodations, and the yatra registration, as well as any additional services like pony rides or helicopter bookings, which can make the journey more comfortable.
Travel and Accommodation
A trip to Vaishno Devi from Kashmir involves additional travel expenses. The helicopter ride from Katra to Vaishno Devi costs around INR 1,000 to INR 2,000 per person for a one-way trip. Accommodation in Katra for a night typically ranges from INR 500 to INR 3,000 depending on the type of lodging.
Food and Other Expenses
Food in Katra is relatively inexpensive with plenty of options available to suit all budgets. Expect to spend around INR 200 to INR 1,000 per day on meals.
Conclusion: Exploring Kashmir on a Budget
Exploring Kashmir on a budget is certainly feasible with a bit of planning and flexibility. Here’s a rough estimation of the total *Kashmir trip cost* for a 7-day trip on different budgets:
Luxury Budget: INR 70,000 to INR 1,50,000
Mid-Range Budget: INR 30,000 to INR 70,000
Tight Budget: INR 12,000 to INR 30,000
By opting for budget accommodations, choosing local transport options, and enjoying local food, you can have an enriching experience in Kashmir without breaking the bank. Whether you’re seeking peace in the scenic beauty or an adrenaline rush through adventurous activities, Kashmir has something to offer for every traveler.