India is a massive country, and while 7 days isn’t nearly enough to explore everything, I’ve crafted a compact itinerary focusing on Kashmir as the main destination, with Agra’s Taj Mahal as a side spot, and Delhi & Kolkata for shopping and tasting local foods. This was my second trip after Vietnam, and visiting Kashmir was a dream come true for me. So, let’s explore 7-Day Travel Guide to India.
Kashmir is often known as a honeymoon destination, but let me assure you, it’s not just for couples! 😂 My colleague and I, both single, set off for this beautiful region. The best time to visit Kashmir is from December to February when there’s plenty of snowfall, though March still offers the occasional snow and more sunshine. Let me take you through my journey!
Visa Processing
As a Bangladeshi citizen, I needed a visa to enter India. The process was quite straightforward. I applied for an e-visa and scheduled an interview at the Indian Embassy in Cambodia. After my interview, it took just 2 days to get approval. If you’re from another country, you can apply for an e-visa through the official Indian Electronic Visa website.
Packing Essentials
For this 7-day trip, here’s what I packed:
- Clothes: 3 t-shirts, 2 shirts, 4 warm pieces (essential for Kashmir), 3 pairs of shoes, and 5 pairs of socks.
- Personal Items: Toothbrush, shampoo, mini umbrella, body spray, wipes, and sanitizer.
- Skincare: Sunscreen, face serum, and hair serum.
- Important Belongings: Passport, charger, earbuds, and a speaker.
With this checklist, you’ll be well-prepared for your adventure!
My 7-Day Itinerary
D 1: Delhi
- Morning: Arrived in Delhi, checked into the hotel, and freshened up.
- Afternoon: Visited the Lotus Temple.
- Evening: Took a stroll to a nearby mall to soak up the city vibe.
- Day 2:
- Morning: Flew from Delhi to Srinagar, checked into the hotel, and had lunch.
- Afternoon: Explored Chashme Shahi Garden.
- Evening: Walked around the local markets, tasting Kashmiri tea and street food.
- Day 3:
- Morning: Visited Kesar Land and Apple Valley.
- Afternoon: Took a trip to Pahalgam, known as Mini Switzerland.
- Evening: Had a cozy dinner and relaxed at the hotel.
- Day 4:
- Morning & Afternoon: Spent the day in Gulmarg, enjoying the breathtaking landscapes.
- Evening: Returned to the hotel for dinner and rest.
- Day 5:
- Morning: Visited Doodhpathri Budgam.
- Afternoon: Explored the iconic Dal Lake.
- Evening: Stayed on a houseboat in Dal Lake—an unforgettable experience.
Day 6-7: Kolkata
- Day 6:
- Morning: Flew to Kolkata, checked into the hotel, and rested.
- Afternoon: Took a casual stroll to the nearest mall.
- Evening: Dinner and relaxed.
- Day 7:
- Morning & Afternoon: Went shopping at local markets.
- Evening: Flew back home.
Flight & Hotel Bookings
I used Trip.com for flights and Bolt & Grab apps for local transport. Here’s a quick rundown of the flights:
- Phnom Penh to Delhi
- Delhi to Srinagar
- Srinagar to Kolkata
- Kolkata to Phnom Penh
For hotels, I recommend:
- 1 night in Delhi
- 3 nights in Srinagar
- 2 nights in Kolkata
Travel Agency
We booked our Kashmir tour with Kashmir Heaven Tour & Travel, and they were absolutely fantastic! For a reasonable price, they took care of everything, from airport pickups to guided tours, and provided us with cozy accommodations. I can’t recommend them enough for anyone planning a trip to Kashmir!
Currency
I carried $2,000 with me and exchanged some at the airport upon arriving in India. It’s always wise to have a good amount of cash handy, especially in a foreign country.
Is It Safe for Foreigners to Visit Kashmir?
Yes, it is! Kashmir is generally safe for travelers, including foreigners. While the region has had its challenges in the past, popular tourist spots like Srinagar, Pahalgam, and Gulmarg are safe, with friendly locals eager to help. Just practice common sense, like avoiding isolated areas at night and keeping an eye on your belongings.
Final Thoughts
This 7-Day Travel Guide to India and especially Kashmir, offers a stunning combination of natural beauty and cultural richness. With a little preparation and awareness, you’re bound to have an incredible time. Keep following my blog for more travel tips and updates, and feel free to drop your questions in the comments! Happy traveling!
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