FAQs

Frequently Asked Question

When is the best time to visit Kashmir?

  • Spring (March–May): Best for tulip gardens and blooming orchards.

  • Summer (June–August): Ideal for families to escape the heat; perfect for trekking.

  • Autumn (September–November): The valley turns gold and orange as Chinar trees change color.

  • Winter (December–February): Best for snow lovers and skiing in Gulmarg.

How many days are enough for a Kashmir trip?

A 6-night/7-day trip is ideal to cover the “Golden Triangle”: Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam. If you wish to visit offbeat places like Gurez Valley or Aru, we recommend 8–10 days.

Is Kashmir safe for families and solo female travelers?

Yes, Kashmir is very welcoming to tourists. Most tourist areas like Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam have a high security presence and a dedicated “Tourist Police” force. We provide verified drivers and 24/7 local support to ensure you feel safe throughout.

 

Will my mobile SIM card work in Kashmir?

Only Postpaid SIM cards work in Jammu & Kashmir. Prepaid SIM cards from outside the state will stop working the moment you enter. We recommend checking your plan before you arrive

What is the difference between a Hotel and a Houseboat?

Hotels offer modern amenities and mobility. Houseboats (primarily on Dal Lake and Nigeen Lake) offer a unique heritage experience on the water. We usually recommend at least one night on a houseboat for the experience.

What is 'Acclimatization' and why is it mandatory in Leh?

Ladakh is a high-altitude desert (average 11,000+ ft). To prevent Altitude Sickness (AMS), it is mandatory to rest completely for the first 48 hours in Leh. We do not schedule any sightseeing on Day 1 to ensure your body adjusts safely.

Do I need an Inner Line Permit (ILP)?

Yes. Permits are required to visit protected areas like Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake, and Tso Moriri.

 

For Indians: We will arrange your Inner Line Permit.

For Foreigners: A “Protected Area Permit” (PAP) is required (minimum group of two). We handle all the paperwork—just bring your original passport and visa.

When is the best time to visit Ladakh by road?

The Manali-Leh and Srinagar-Leh highways usually open in late May or June and stay open until October. For the best experience, July to September is the peak season.

What should I pack?

Ladakh weather is unpredictable. Use the Layering Principle:

 

Thermal inner-wear.

A fleece or light jacket for the day.

A heavy down jacket for the nights (especially at Pangong Lake).

High SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and lip balm (the sun is very harsh).

Do I need to carry cash?

Yes. While hotels and big shops in Srinagar accept UPI and cards, cash is essential for pony rides, local snacks, and shopping in rural valleys. ATMs are available in major towns but can occasionally run out of cash during peak tourist weeks.

Can I try a "Wazwan" meal?

Absolutely! It is the heart of Kashmiri cuisine. We can arrange an authentic Wazwan experience for you. Pro tip: It’s a heavy meal, so plan it on a day when you aren’t doing heavy trekking!

Our History

1996

Startup Spark

Stone Age Tours office opens in Srinagar, launching houseboat stays in Kashmir, temple visits in Jammu, and Leh treks in Ladakh. First hotel deals build the base.

2001

Tour Surge Expanded

 packages cover Ladakh roads, Jammu hills, and Kashmir valleys with Vision India Travels support. B2B agent network grows rapidly.

2006

Booking Boom

Excel systems power Jammu safaris, Ladakh bikes, and Kashmir adventures. Multi-region demand boosts partnerships.

2011

Operations

LeapCore systems scale for Srinagar lakes, Patnitop views, and Pangong expeditions. Nationwide B2B agents join the fold.

2016

Partnership Peak

Hospitality bonds deepen for Kashmir treks, Ladakh monasteries, and Jammu events. Operations hit stride amid tourism highs.

2021

Tough Triumph

29 years strong by 2025—Excel-driven B2B wins across Jammu Classics, Ladakh quests, and Kashmir gems. Website launch ahead!