Many first-time visitors to Kashmir are surprised to find that their car from Srinagar cannot take them to every sight. In the main resort towns, local taxi unions operate sightseeing within their area. This is normal and it is best to plan for it.
How it works
Your Srinagar vehicle drives you to the town. For local sightseeing beyond the town, you switch to a vehicle from the local union.
- Pahalgam: trips to Betaab Valley, Aru Valley and Chandanwari are done in union taxis.
- Sonamarg: trips beyond the main town, such as towards Zero Point in season, use local vehicles.
- Gulmarg: the town itself is small, and the gondola is the main excursion. Ponies and local guides operate on the meadows.
Rates are usually fixed by the unions for each route and displayed or agreed locally.
Ponies and guides
Pony rides to places like Baisaran in Pahalgam or the Thajiwas Glacier in Sonamarg are offered by registered pony operators. Agree the route and price before starting, and keep children's safety in mind.
Why we include it in quotes
A good quote should include union taxis for the sightseeing in your itinerary, so you are not negotiating on the spot. If a quote seems much cheaper than others, check whether these local costs are excluded.
Tips
- Keep some cash for ponies, small purchases and tips.
- Snow and road conditions decide which points are open; in winter some routes close.
- The gondola at Gulmarg sells out in peak season; book online a day ahead.
- Prepaid mobile SIMs from outside Jammu and Kashmir usually do not work there; postpaid connections do.
See Kashmir in 6 days: Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg and our Jammu & Kashmir page.
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