Planning a trip to Jammu & Kashmir can feel overwhelming due to unique local rules, internet restrictions, and weather shifts. This complete A-Z Kashmir travel guide covers everything from local transport regulations to food, safety, and shopping tips.
1. Internet and Connectivity in Kashmir
Please note that prepaid SIM cards from outside J&K do not work in Kashmir due to security regulations. Only postpaid connection (Jio, Airtel, or BSNL) will remain active. If you travel with a prepaid connection, you will need to buy a local temporary prepaid SIM card at Srinagar using your Aadhaar card/Passport, or rely on hotel Wi-Fi.
2. Understanding Local Taxi Rules
To keep the local economy stable, the taxi union has strict rules: cabs registered in Srinagar or outside Srinagar cannot be used for local sightseeing inside Gulmarg, Pahalgam, or Sonmarg. For example, your cab from Srinagar Airport can drop you at your hotel in Gulmarg, but for visiting local spots inside Gulmarg, you must hire a local union cab or pony. Planning your transport with a certified company like Stay Pattern simplifies this process completely as we pre-arrange local cabs.
3. Top Experiences You Can't Miss
- Dal Lake Houseboat Stay: Spend at least one night in a luxury wood-carved houseboat on Dal Lake or Nigeen Lake.
- Shikara Ride at Dawn: Witness the floating vegetable market in Srinagar at 5:00 AM.
- Gulmarg Gondola Ride: Ride one of the highest cable cars in the world to Apharwat Peak.
- Taste Local Wazwan: Try Rogan Josh, Rista, and Gushtaba, accompanied by hot Kahwa tea.