19 August 2026, 05:53 PM
Planning to spend some time in Kashmir and wondering about how many days you should plan your trip for? Well, the answer for that depends on your trip plans, your preferences, and the season. Generally, to not miss out on anything, 6 to 8 days should be more than enough. A well crafted Kashmir tour plan should incorporate Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg, with sufficient time to take in the beauty of the place, the culture, and food and just to relax and enjoy the surroundings.
No matter what trip you are planning, be it a long vacation or a short break, choosing the right number of days acts like a deal breaker. So, in this article, we have discussed the best duration for Kashmir trips, things you may complete in one day, and how to book the best Kashmir tour packages as per your trip plans.
If it is your first time in Kashmir, 6 to 8 days are ideal. You can create an itinerary that is not too fast-paced and squeeze in everything you wish to see.
A shorter trip of 4 to 5 days is enough to cover Srinagar and a couple of neighboring places. However, you will have to create a an itinerary that is not too lengthy or extensive.
7 to 8 days is a good amount of time to see:
A longer (9-10 days or more) Kashmir tour package gives you a chance to slow down the pace of vacationing. Here, you can spend more time in each place, check out areas that are less crowded, and enjoy the beauty of nature at a slower pace.
Why Kashmir Deserves 6 to 8 Days
Kashmir is not about checking boxes of attractions one may have. It is the journey, the lake, mountain, and valley views, meadows, and serene surroundings.
6-8 days in a Kashmir holiday package is perfect for seeing everything and relaxing.
Being in the mountains, you have to follow the weather as it is unpredictable. Having an extra day gives you an edge on the rest of the travelers.
A properly planned Kashmir tour package gives you a chance on how you spend your time avoiding the headaches of researching transport, accommodations, etc.
Sitting Back and Relaxing in Srinagar
Srinagar is a great place to spend at least 2 days, for a relaxed experience you're looking for it can be better to spend 3 days.
The city is known for its charm from its many gardens, lakes, historical sites and vibrant traditional houseboats. It also offers a unique blend of Kashmiri cuisine Sample the many offerings at Dal Lake before relaxing to a scenic ride on a Shikara.
You can visit the following landmarks on your trip to Srinagar:
Local handicraft & shopping areas
Two days are usually sufficient for travelers taking a short Kashmir travel package. An extra day allows you to slow the pace. Pahalgam offers 1 to 2 days of relaxation in a nature's retreat surrounded by picturesque valleys and rivers, and dramatic scenic mountains.
1 to 2 days in Gulmarg should cover most travelers personal itineraries.
The breathtaking scenery of Gulmarg is loved by travelers all year round, with its snowy slopes in winter and lush green meadows in summer. The Gulmarg Gondola is a must visit in Summers.
Here are a few things to see around Pahalgam:
Travelers often take tours to Kashmir. If you book a week-long tour, you can spend a night or two in Pahalgam. It is about the right balance for relaxation and touring.
Is One Day a Good Amount of Time to Spend in Sonamarg?
Most travelers like to spend just a day in Sonamarg.
Sonamarg means “Meadow of Gold.” The name comes from the abundance ofgolden and orange alpine flowers that decorate the areas and streams during the summer.
During the summer you can go trekking, sightseeing and visit other places in the area.
If you take the 6-8 day Kashmir tour, one day visits of Sonamarg probably allow you to see and do everything else you'd like in Kashmir.
What Can You Do in 5 Days in Kashmir?
This itinerary is good for traveling when you are low on time and can't visit Kashmir in detail.
Day 1: Getting to Srinagar
Reach Srinagar, check into your accommodation, and rest for the rest of the day. You can go for a shikara ride on the Dal Lake. Depending on when you reach Srinagar, you can visit the Mughal gardens.
Day 2: Srinagar City
You can visit the Mughal gardens and local sites and relax for the rest of the day. You can shop and eat at the local restaurants.
Day 3: Gulmarg
Day trip to Gulmarg. About the weather and if the Gondola is available, then you can experience it.
Day 4: Pahalgam
Relax while looking over the Lidder River.
Day 5: Return / Departure
Departure time allows a final brief moment to enjoy the busy streets of Srinagar and what the City has to offer.
A 5-day Kashmir tour is a perfect short break holiday package, but lacks the flexibility in case of extended stay delays or detours, compared to other holiday packages.
What Can You Cover in a 7-Day Kashmir Itinerary?
Seven days is probably the most practical for someone going for the first time.
Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar
Relax and unwind after you have settled in and if you have time enjoy the views from a shikara ride on Dal Lake.
Day 2: Srinagar
Visit the beautiful gardens, lakes, religious places, markets and other important places in Srinagar.
Day 3: Srinagar to Gulmarg
Enjoy the spectacular scenery while you travel to Gulmarg. You have the option of spending the night there if you wish.
Day 4: Gulmarg to Pahalgam
Continue to Pahalgam. Take in the beautiful scenery while you relax and enjoy yourself.
Day 5: Pahalgam
Depending on what is available you can visit places like, Aru Valley and Betaab Valley.
Day 6: Pahalgam to Srinagar
You can add on Sonamarg to your travel plans based on the ease of travel and the conditions of the roads.
Day 7: Departure
You can enjoy your last moments in Srinagar based on your travel time before you head to the airport.
Day 7: Srinagar and Departure
Spend the morning relaxing before checking out.
A 7-day Kashmir tour package combines sightseeing, nature, relaxation, and flexibiity.
Is 10 Days Too Long for Kashmir?
Not at all. 10 days is excellent for people that prefer slow and immersive travel.
Instead of moving fast from one spot to the next, you can take your time at each place. You can soak in more of the area, explore the community, spend extra time at Dal Lake, or take advantage of spontaneous days to rest.
A longer Kashmir travel package can also work well for families, seniors, photographers, nature lovers and couples that prefer to take it easy.
Slow travel can be ideal for longer itineraries because not every single day has to be a sight-seeing day. Of course, some of the best Kashmir memories can be experienced after a relaxing, quiet morning.
Best Kashmir Tour Package Duration by Travel Style
The length of the tour also depends on the type of travel companion you have.
For Couples
6 to 8 days is a great amount of time for a romantic getaway that ncludes a stay at a houseboat, shikara rides and scenic spots.
For a leisurely trip, you can book a Kashmir tour package that includes Srinagar, Gulmarg and Pahalgam.
For Families
A suggested range for families would be 7 to 8 days. Families with small children and older members appreciate a more leisurely itinerary, so too many consecutive days with long travel segments is best avoided.
For Adventure Lovers
8 to 10 days or more may be appropriate for those who prefer the adventure travel segment. More days will allow for the inclusion of pace suitable outdoor activities and sightseeing mountain areas.
For Honeymooners
A 6 to 8 day Kashmir honeymoon package will provide couples with the right balance of tour activities and private time. Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam are some of the popular choices.
For Budget Travelers
For those with not much to spend, 5 to 6 days will allow you to cover much of what you came to see. Keeping a tight rein on transfers will help control expenses with proper planning.
Best Time to Plan Your Kashmir Trip
The best duration to plan travel may also be impacted by the season.
Spring
The spring season with its pleasant days and gardens in bloom is a favorite season for photography and sightseeing.
Summer
During this season travelers can enjoy green landscape and comfortable day trips to the mountains. A tour package for this season can include Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonmarg.
Autumn
Photography is best done in the Autumn with its beautiful foliage and crisp days.
Winter
For Winter travel much of Kashmir is a winter wonderland. Gulmarg is a popular Winter travel destination for its snow and winter activities.
Travel flexibility during the winter months is advised because of the unpredictable mountain weather, and particularly its effect on road travel.
How to Choose the Right Kashmir Tour Package
A good package can't be just about the number of days, so be careful about what is covered.
Check the Destinations
Is each of the destinations covered within the itinerary of your package? A package covering more places isn't always "better", if you're going to end up with very short stays.
Check the Accommodation
Check what class of hotel is covered, what the location is going to be like, what the meal plans are, and what the arrangements are going to be. Accommodation can become a big part of what makes or breaks a trip.
Understand the Transportation
Are the transfers to and from the airport and the intercity trips as well as sightseeing tours all covered? Also, find out if there will be any additional charges for local transport if you decide to go on any of the excursions.
Check for Free Time
A good KASHMIR TOUR PACKAGE is not one that makes you keep to a schedule without any breaks. It is important to have some time to just relax and enjoy the place.
Check the Season
By the same token, the itinerary will be drastically different based on the season you go. Based on the weather conditions, road access, and how you want to spend your time, think about what time of year you want to go.
Kashmir Trip Duration Comparison: Quick
Trip Duration Best for Recommended Destinations
3-4 Days Very quick getaway Srinagar + Attractions nearby
5 Days Short holiday Srinagar + Gulmarg + Pahalgam
6 Days First-time visitors Srinagar + Gulmarg + Pahalgam
7-8 Days Complete experience Srinagam + Gulmarg + Pahalgam
9-10 Days Slow travel Major destinations + More experiences
10+Days Extended exploration Major destinations + More flexible exploration
What Makes a Good Kashmir Travel Experience?
The best tours strike a balance between timings and locations. The best tour itinerary is the one that allows you to experience the most, even if it is the shortest, instead of the one that spans the most locations, even if it is the longest.
Have you ever been in a rush and tried to experience the best possible things you can at multiple different locations only to find yourself wishing you could take the time to experience something at your own pace at a single location?
Well, in Kashmir, having a good itinerary means striking a nice balance between experiencing Kashmir, getting to where you need to go, resting, and doing nothing at all.
Your travel itinerary should also cater to the ever changing mountain conditions.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Planning Kashmir
Packing Too Many Destinations
Don't try to ‘see it all’ in a few days because you will end up exhausted. It’s better to focus on the destinations you are most interested in.
Ignoring Travel Time
Mountain routes can be long. Don’t underestimate travel time based on how the distance looks on a map.
Leaving No Free Time
A super full schedule means you will miss out on enjoying Kashmir's calmness.
Choosing a Package Only by Price
The lowest price for a Kashmir package tour may not be the best option based on what you get for your money. Look at what is provided for transportation, accommodation, meals, and sightseeing by each tour deal.
Not Considering the Season
The scenic beauty of Kashmir is different for every season. Plan your travel based on whether you want to see flowers, greenery, fall colors, or snow.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days are enough to experience Kashmir?
Most travelers will need 6 - 8 days to experience the main highlights of Kashmir such as Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg
1.Is 5 days enough for a Kashmir trip?
Yes, 5 days is enough to do a short trip for major destinations, but it is a relatively short trip.
2.Is 7 days enough for Kashmir?
Yes, for a first time trip, 7 days is a great choice as it provides flexibility for relaxation, but still allows major sightseeing.
3.How many days should I spend in Srinagar?
You can see the major sites in 2 days, but 3 is much better for a relaxed experience.
4.How many days do I need for Gulmarg and Pahalgam?
One to two days is often good for each of these sites. The length of time really depends on the length of the trip and the activities you want to do.
5.Can I see Kashmir in 4 days?
You can definitely see some amazing places in four days, but a six day journey will definitely allow for more comfort.
6.Can ten days be enough for a Kashmir trip?
I'd have to say that it totally can! You have some pace for you to move at and do some of the extra things that you normally don't have time to do.
7.Which is better: the shorter or the longer Kashmir trip?
A shorter trip, of course, is much more suitable for the traveler with less available time, but it can be nice to take your time on a longer trip.
8.What does a Kashmir tour package include?
A package most often covers accommodations, food, transport, sightseeing, and transfers to and from the airport, as well as selected activities. Figure out what's included and what isn't.
9.What is the best length for a Kashmir honeymoon?
A good length of time for a Kashmir honeymoon package is usually 6to 8 days. This allows you time to see Srinagar, Gulmarg,andPahalgamand also leaves time for relaxation.
Final Thoughts
How many days should you spend in Kashmir? Typically, you would want to spend 6 to 8 days there. This gives you enough time to explore Srinagar, spend some time in Gulmarg, find Pahalgam and Sonamarg, and a bit of time to explore Gulmarg and Pahalgam.
If you are short on time, then even a Kashmir tour package could take you to most of the major places in Kashmir in a 4 to 5 days. You could also spend a leisurely 9 to 10 days in Kashmir and allow yourself time to explore off the tourist beaten path.
How many places you see in Kashmir is not as important as how much you enjoy them. Of course the longest holiday in Kashmir is the best; however if you make an efficient plan and manage to stay for just a week, then you will have lasting memories no matter what.
No matter what trip you are planning, be it a long vacation or a short break, choosing the right number of days acts like a deal breaker. So, in this article, we have discussed the best duration for Kashmir trips, things you may complete in one day, and how to book the best Kashmir tour packages as per your trip plans.
How Many Days are Sufficient for a Trip to Kashmir?
If it is your first time in Kashmir, 6 to 8 days are ideal. You can create an itinerary that is not too fast-paced and squeeze in everything you wish to see.
A shorter trip of 4 to 5 days is enough to cover Srinagar and a couple of neighboring places. However, you will have to create a an itinerary that is not too lengthy or extensive.
7 to 8 days is a good amount of time to see:
- Srinagar
- Gulmarg
- Pahalgam
- Sonamarg
- Dal Lake
- Mughal Gardens
- Local markets
- Traditional shikara ride
- Gondola rides, adventure activities
A longer (9-10 days or more) Kashmir tour package gives you a chance to slow down the pace of vacationing. Here, you can spend more time in each place, check out areas that are less crowded, and enjoy the beauty of nature at a slower pace.
Why Kashmir Deserves 6 to 8 Days
Kashmir is not about checking boxes of attractions one may have. It is the journey, the lake, mountain, and valley views, meadows, and serene surroundings.
6-8 days in a Kashmir holiday package is perfect for seeing everything and relaxing.
Being in the mountains, you have to follow the weather as it is unpredictable. Having an extra day gives you an edge on the rest of the travelers.
A properly planned Kashmir tour package gives you a chance on how you spend your time avoiding the headaches of researching transport, accommodations, etc.
Sitting Back and Relaxing in Srinagar
Srinagar is a great place to spend at least 2 days, for a relaxed experience you're looking for it can be better to spend 3 days.
The city is known for its charm from its many gardens, lakes, historical sites and vibrant traditional houseboats. It also offers a unique blend of Kashmiri cuisine Sample the many offerings at Dal Lake before relaxing to a scenic ride on a Shikara.
You can visit the following landmarks on your trip to Srinagar:
- Dal Lake
- Nigeen Lake
- Mughal Gardens
- Shalimar Bagh
- Nishat Bagh
- Pari Mahal
- Hazratbal Shrine
- Old Srinagar
Local handicraft & shopping areas
Two days are usually sufficient for travelers taking a short Kashmir travel package. An extra day allows you to slow the pace. Pahalgam offers 1 to 2 days of relaxation in a nature's retreat surrounded by picturesque valleys and rivers, and dramatic scenic mountains.
1 to 2 days in Gulmarg should cover most travelers personal itineraries.
The breathtaking scenery of Gulmarg is loved by travelers all year round, with its snowy slopes in winter and lush green meadows in summer. The Gulmarg Gondola is a must visit in Summers.
Here are a few things to see around Pahalgam:
- Betaab Valley
- Aru Valley
- Chandanwari
- Lidder River
- Mountain treks
- Markets
Travelers often take tours to Kashmir. If you book a week-long tour, you can spend a night or two in Pahalgam. It is about the right balance for relaxation and touring.
Is One Day a Good Amount of Time to Spend in Sonamarg?
Most travelers like to spend just a day in Sonamarg.
Sonamarg means “Meadow of Gold.” The name comes from the abundance ofgolden and orange alpine flowers that decorate the areas and streams during the summer.
During the summer you can go trekking, sightseeing and visit other places in the area.
If you take the 6-8 day Kashmir tour, one day visits of Sonamarg probably allow you to see and do everything else you'd like in Kashmir.
What Can You Do in 5 Days in Kashmir?
This itinerary is good for traveling when you are low on time and can't visit Kashmir in detail.
Day 1: Getting to Srinagar
Reach Srinagar, check into your accommodation, and rest for the rest of the day. You can go for a shikara ride on the Dal Lake. Depending on when you reach Srinagar, you can visit the Mughal gardens.
Day 2: Srinagar City
You can visit the Mughal gardens and local sites and relax for the rest of the day. You can shop and eat at the local restaurants.
Day 3: Gulmarg
Day trip to Gulmarg. About the weather and if the Gondola is available, then you can experience it.
Day 4: Pahalgam
Relax while looking over the Lidder River.
Day 5: Return / Departure
Departure time allows a final brief moment to enjoy the busy streets of Srinagar and what the City has to offer.
A 5-day Kashmir tour is a perfect short break holiday package, but lacks the flexibility in case of extended stay delays or detours, compared to other holiday packages.
What Can You Cover in a 7-Day Kashmir Itinerary?
Seven days is probably the most practical for someone going for the first time.
Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar
Relax and unwind after you have settled in and if you have time enjoy the views from a shikara ride on Dal Lake.
Day 2: Srinagar
Visit the beautiful gardens, lakes, religious places, markets and other important places in Srinagar.
Day 3: Srinagar to Gulmarg
Enjoy the spectacular scenery while you travel to Gulmarg. You have the option of spending the night there if you wish.
Day 4: Gulmarg to Pahalgam
Continue to Pahalgam. Take in the beautiful scenery while you relax and enjoy yourself.
Day 5: Pahalgam
Depending on what is available you can visit places like, Aru Valley and Betaab Valley.
Day 6: Pahalgam to Srinagar
You can add on Sonamarg to your travel plans based on the ease of travel and the conditions of the roads.
Day 7: Departure
You can enjoy your last moments in Srinagar based on your travel time before you head to the airport.
Day 7: Srinagar and Departure
Spend the morning relaxing before checking out.
A 7-day Kashmir tour package combines sightseeing, nature, relaxation, and flexibiity.
Is 10 Days Too Long for Kashmir?
Not at all. 10 days is excellent for people that prefer slow and immersive travel.
Instead of moving fast from one spot to the next, you can take your time at each place. You can soak in more of the area, explore the community, spend extra time at Dal Lake, or take advantage of spontaneous days to rest.
A longer Kashmir travel package can also work well for families, seniors, photographers, nature lovers and couples that prefer to take it easy.
Slow travel can be ideal for longer itineraries because not every single day has to be a sight-seeing day. Of course, some of the best Kashmir memories can be experienced after a relaxing, quiet morning.
Best Kashmir Tour Package Duration by Travel Style
The length of the tour also depends on the type of travel companion you have.
For Couples
6 to 8 days is a great amount of time for a romantic getaway that ncludes a stay at a houseboat, shikara rides and scenic spots.
For a leisurely trip, you can book a Kashmir tour package that includes Srinagar, Gulmarg and Pahalgam.
For Families
A suggested range for families would be 7 to 8 days. Families with small children and older members appreciate a more leisurely itinerary, so too many consecutive days with long travel segments is best avoided.
For Adventure Lovers
8 to 10 days or more may be appropriate for those who prefer the adventure travel segment. More days will allow for the inclusion of pace suitable outdoor activities and sightseeing mountain areas.
For Honeymooners
A 6 to 8 day Kashmir honeymoon package will provide couples with the right balance of tour activities and private time. Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam are some of the popular choices.
For Budget Travelers
For those with not much to spend, 5 to 6 days will allow you to cover much of what you came to see. Keeping a tight rein on transfers will help control expenses with proper planning.
Best Time to Plan Your Kashmir Trip
The best duration to plan travel may also be impacted by the season.
Spring
The spring season with its pleasant days and gardens in bloom is a favorite season for photography and sightseeing.
Summer
During this season travelers can enjoy green landscape and comfortable day trips to the mountains. A tour package for this season can include Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonmarg.
Autumn
Photography is best done in the Autumn with its beautiful foliage and crisp days.
Winter
For Winter travel much of Kashmir is a winter wonderland. Gulmarg is a popular Winter travel destination for its snow and winter activities.
Travel flexibility during the winter months is advised because of the unpredictable mountain weather, and particularly its effect on road travel.
How to Choose the Right Kashmir Tour Package
A good package can't be just about the number of days, so be careful about what is covered.
Check the Destinations
Is each of the destinations covered within the itinerary of your package? A package covering more places isn't always "better", if you're going to end up with very short stays.
Check the Accommodation
Check what class of hotel is covered, what the location is going to be like, what the meal plans are, and what the arrangements are going to be. Accommodation can become a big part of what makes or breaks a trip.
Understand the Transportation
Are the transfers to and from the airport and the intercity trips as well as sightseeing tours all covered? Also, find out if there will be any additional charges for local transport if you decide to go on any of the excursions.
Check for Free Time
A good KASHMIR TOUR PACKAGE is not one that makes you keep to a schedule without any breaks. It is important to have some time to just relax and enjoy the place.
Check the Season
By the same token, the itinerary will be drastically different based on the season you go. Based on the weather conditions, road access, and how you want to spend your time, think about what time of year you want to go.
Kashmir Trip Duration Comparison: Quick
Trip Duration Best for Recommended Destinations
3-4 Days Very quick getaway Srinagar + Attractions nearby
5 Days Short holiday Srinagar + Gulmarg + Pahalgam
6 Days First-time visitors Srinagar + Gulmarg + Pahalgam
7-8 Days Complete experience Srinagam + Gulmarg + Pahalgam
9-10 Days Slow travel Major destinations + More experiences
10+Days Extended exploration Major destinations + More flexible exploration
What Makes a Good Kashmir Travel Experience?
The best tours strike a balance between timings and locations. The best tour itinerary is the one that allows you to experience the most, even if it is the shortest, instead of the one that spans the most locations, even if it is the longest.
Have you ever been in a rush and tried to experience the best possible things you can at multiple different locations only to find yourself wishing you could take the time to experience something at your own pace at a single location?
Well, in Kashmir, having a good itinerary means striking a nice balance between experiencing Kashmir, getting to where you need to go, resting, and doing nothing at all.
Your travel itinerary should also cater to the ever changing mountain conditions.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Planning Kashmir
Packing Too Many Destinations
Don't try to ‘see it all’ in a few days because you will end up exhausted. It’s better to focus on the destinations you are most interested in.
Ignoring Travel Time
Mountain routes can be long. Don’t underestimate travel time based on how the distance looks on a map.
Leaving No Free Time
A super full schedule means you will miss out on enjoying Kashmir's calmness.
Choosing a Package Only by Price
The lowest price for a Kashmir package tour may not be the best option based on what you get for your money. Look at what is provided for transportation, accommodation, meals, and sightseeing by each tour deal.
Not Considering the Season
The scenic beauty of Kashmir is different for every season. Plan your travel based on whether you want to see flowers, greenery, fall colors, or snow.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days are enough to experience Kashmir?
Most travelers will need 6 - 8 days to experience the main highlights of Kashmir such as Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg
1.Is 5 days enough for a Kashmir trip?
Yes, 5 days is enough to do a short trip for major destinations, but it is a relatively short trip.
2.Is 7 days enough for Kashmir?
Yes, for a first time trip, 7 days is a great choice as it provides flexibility for relaxation, but still allows major sightseeing.
3.How many days should I spend in Srinagar?
You can see the major sites in 2 days, but 3 is much better for a relaxed experience.
4.How many days do I need for Gulmarg and Pahalgam?
One to two days is often good for each of these sites. The length of time really depends on the length of the trip and the activities you want to do.
5.Can I see Kashmir in 4 days?
You can definitely see some amazing places in four days, but a six day journey will definitely allow for more comfort.
6.Can ten days be enough for a Kashmir trip?
I'd have to say that it totally can! You have some pace for you to move at and do some of the extra things that you normally don't have time to do.
7.Which is better: the shorter or the longer Kashmir trip?
A shorter trip, of course, is much more suitable for the traveler with less available time, but it can be nice to take your time on a longer trip.
8.What does a Kashmir tour package include?
A package most often covers accommodations, food, transport, sightseeing, and transfers to and from the airport, as well as selected activities. Figure out what's included and what isn't.
9.What is the best length for a Kashmir honeymoon?
A good length of time for a Kashmir honeymoon package is usually 6to 8 days. This allows you time to see Srinagar, Gulmarg,andPahalgamand also leaves time for relaxation.
Final Thoughts
How many days should you spend in Kashmir? Typically, you would want to spend 6 to 8 days there. This gives you enough time to explore Srinagar, spend some time in Gulmarg, find Pahalgam and Sonamarg, and a bit of time to explore Gulmarg and Pahalgam.
If you are short on time, then even a Kashmir tour package could take you to most of the major places in Kashmir in a 4 to 5 days. You could also spend a leisurely 9 to 10 days in Kashmir and allow yourself time to explore off the tourist beaten path.
How many places you see in Kashmir is not as important as how much you enjoy them. Of course the longest holiday in Kashmir is the best; however if you make an efficient plan and manage to stay for just a week, then you will have lasting memories no matter what.