Doodhpathri
Best time: April to September
Altitude: 2,730 m
Doodhpathri ("valley of milk") is less visited than Gulmarg or Pahalgam, which is largely the point — it's a wide, quiet meadow about two hours from Srinagar, with a shallow stream running through grassland and forest on both sides. There isn't much built up here beyond a few tea stalls and pony stands, which keeps it feeling undeveloped.
It works well as a day trip from Srinagar rather than an overnight stop, and is a good option if you want a meadow experience without the crowds of the better-known hill stations.
Travel tips
- The last stretch of road narrows considerably; larger vehicles may need to park and walk the final kilometre in peak season.
- There are very few places to eat beyond basic tea stalls — carry snacks and water if you're spending the full day.
- Best visited as a day trip combined with Srinagar sightseeing rather than a standalone overnight stay.