Kashmir Trip in Late December/New Year on a Student Budget — Need Advice on Stays & Transport

Hey everyone,

A group of 6–8 of us (college students) are planning our first trip to Kashmir in late December, and we want to spend New Year’s Eve (31st) there. We’ll be traveling from Kolkata to Jammu Tawi by train and continuing our journey from there.

Since we’re on a student budget, we want to keep our expenses reasonable and would love some guidance:

1. Advance Hotel Bookings:
2. Given that late December/New Year’s is the peak holiday season, do we absolutely need to pre-book all our stays in advance, or is it possible to negotiate better prices by booking on the spot?
3. Estimated Stay Costs:
4. How much should we expect to spend per night for a group of 6–8 people (sharing 2–3 budget rooms or a homestay/dorm) in:

• Srinagar
• Gulmarg
• Pahalgam

1. Jammu to Srinagar Travel:
2. What is the most cost-effective and reliable transport option from Jammu Tawi to Srinagar during winter?

Any advice regarding budget stays, transportation, or things we should keep in mind for a first-time Kashmir trip would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance!