This is more a logistics question than a "which is better" one, and it has a fairly clear practical answer for most travellers.
Quick take
Srinagar first, for almost everyone - it's where every flight lands, and starting there lets you rest, acclimatise, and handle any early hiccups close to the airport before heading up to Gulmarg's higher altitude.
Why Srinagar usually comes first
Srinagar International Airport is Kashmir's only major air gateway, so nearly every itinerary starts there regardless of preference. Beyond that logistics fact, Srinagar sits at a lower, gentler elevation than Gulmarg (2,650m) - spending your first day there rather than pushing straight up to altitude gives you a buffer to settle in, especially if you're at all sensitive to elevation changes or simply want to shake off travel fatigue from a flight before a scenic but winding mountain drive.
When it makes sense to go straight to Gulmarg
If your flight lands early and you're short on total days, some itineraries do push on to Gulmarg the same afternoon to maximise time there, saving Srinagar sightseeing for the return leg. This works fine for travellers who don't need a rest day and want to front-load the more activity-dense stop - just confirm your hotel check-in times work for a same-day mountain transfer after landing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all Kashmir flights land in Srinagar?
Yes - Srinagar International Airport is the region's only major airport, so every itinerary begins there regardless of which destination you visit first.
Is it better to rest in Srinagar before going to Gulmarg?
For most travellers, yes - it gives you a buffer against travel fatigue and Gulmarg's higher altitude, though it isn't strictly necessary if you're short on time and comfortable with a same-day transfer.
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Written by Via Kashmir Editorial Team
Last checked 2026
Via Kashmir is a Srinagar-based travel company built around one goal: giving travellers the best possible Kashmir experience. Our team puts together the best-priced hotels, cabs, Kashmir tour packages, and adventure packages with real sports activities, drawing on daily, on-the-ground knowledge of Kashmir's roads, weather, and seasons. Every guide on this site is written and checked by our local Srinagar team.