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Enchanting Kashmir Tour: 5 Nights 6 Days Itinerary with Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg
Jammu & Kashmir, SrinagarJourney through the paradise on earth where mirror-like lakes reflect towering mountains, centuries-old gardens burst with color, and snow blankets alpine meadows. This thoughtfully crafted itinerary balances iconic landmarks with hidden gems, traditional experiences with modern comforts. From floating on a wooden Shikara across Dal Lake to ascending the Himalayan heights via the Gulmarg Gondola, each day unfolds a new chapter in Kashmir's timeless story.
START POINT
SRINAGAR
END POINT
SRINAGAR
TRIP GRADE
RELAXED
Touch down at Srinagar airport where our representative welcomes you with traditional Kashmiri hospitality. As you drive through the outskirts into the city, notice how the landscape transforms from rural simplicity to the historic charm of Kashmir's summer capital. After checking into your hotel or houseboat, the afternoon unfolds among the imperial splendor of the Mughal Gardens.
Walk through Chashme Shahi where water cascades down terraced lawns, marvel at Nishat Bagh's nine descending gardens symbolizing the cosmos, and wander beneath the ancient chinars of Shalimar Bagh where emperors once courted their beloveds. As the day wanes, ascend the stone steps to Shankaracharya Temple atop its solitary hill, where the entire Kashmir Valley spreads before you like a living map – the city's rooftops, the serpentine Jhelum River, and the vast expanse of Dal Lake framed by mountains that turn golden in the setting sun.
Overnight at Srinagar (Hotel/Houseboat).
**Pro Tip: **Wear comfortable walking shoes as the Mughal Gardens involve a fair amount of walking and some inclines. For Shankaracharya Temple, be prepared for a climb (vehicles go partway up). Photography is restricted inside the temple premises.
The road to Sonamarg winds alongside the rushing Sindh River, climbing steadily through pine-scented forests and villages where wooden houses cling to mountainsides. Around every bend,the landscape grows more dramatic – narrow gorges giving way to wider valleys until finally,Sonamarg reveals itself as a vast meadow cradled in the arms of towering peaks.Here at approximately 2,730 meters, summer paints the valley floor with wildflowers while year-round snow crowns the surrounding mountains. The massive Thajiwas Glacier dominates the view – a frozen river between jagged peaks. Take leisurely walks along clear mountain streams or opt for a pony ride (optional, ensure to negotiate the price beforehand) closer to the glacier's edge where you can touch snow even in summer months. The valley's vastness, with its carpet of flowers bordered by dark pine forests leading up to gleaming snow peaks, creates a natural amphitheater that stirs the soul before you return to Srinagar by evening.
Overnight at Srinagar.
Pro Tip: Carry warm layers as the weather in Sonamarg can be unpredictable and cooler than Srinagar. Consider hiring waterproof boots if you plan to go near the glacier. Start early to avoid traffic and have ample time to explore Sonamarg.
Journey south through the valley, pausing first at Pampore where fields of purple crocus flowers (in season – typically late October/early November) produce the world's finest saffron. The landscape tells Kashmir's cultural story as we stop at Awantipora, where 9th-century temple ruins rise from emerald rice fields – stone sentinels from the valley's pre-Islamic era. The road narrows and climbs as you approach Pahalgam, the and Valley of Shepherds,and where the confluences of the Lidder River and Sheshnag Lake create nature's perfect harmony. The air grows cooler and crisper as pine forests thicken around you. In Pahalgam, the Lidder River rushes over smooth boulders, its crystal waters carrying Himalayan snowmelt through meadows where shepherds have grazed their flocks for centuries. Spend your afternoon wandering riverside paths or exploring local markets where artisans craft pine-scented souvenirs and soft woolen garments. Betaab Valley and Aru Valley, both reachable by short drives or pony rides,are worth visiting depending on time and interest. Overnight at Pahalgam.
Pro Tip: If visiting during saffron season, inquire about visiting a saffron field for a firsthand experience. In Pahalgam, consider a walk along the Lidder River or explore the local market. If time permits, a visit to Betaab or Aru Valley adds to the experience.
The journey to Gulmarg offers constant visual surprises – terraced fields giving way to dense forests, mountain streams appearing suddenly beside the road, and traditional villages where wooden mosques display intricate carvings. As you climb to approximately 2,650 meters, the vegetation changes until you emerge at Gulmarg, a vast circular meadow surrounded by snow- draped peaks.
In summer, this Meadow of Flowers and lives up to its name with a carpet of bluebells, daisies,buttercups and forget-me-nots. In winter, it transforms into a pristine white playground. The meadow's crown jewel is the Gulmarg Gondola – one of the world's highest cable cars – which lifts you from the green basin to the shoulder of Mount Apharwat at approximately 3,980 meters.From this vantage point, the entire Kashmir Valley unfolds below while the Himalayan range stretches before you, peaks upon peaks dissolving into the horizon. Khilanmarg, a short pony (Optional/Direct Payment) ride or trek away, offers sweeping views and winter sports opportunities and can be visited seasonally. Overnight at Gulmarg.
**Pro Tip: **Book your Gulmarg Gondola tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid long queues. Dress in layers as the temperature at the higher altitude can be significantly colder. Enjoy activities like horse riding (negotiate prices) or simply soaking in the breathtaking views.
Descend from Gulmarg's alpine heights back to the watery world of Srinagar. The afternoon belongs to Dal Lake – Kashmir's liquid heart. Board a traditional Shikara, a wooden boat with a canopied top and cushioned seating, as your boatman propels you with rhythmic paddle strokes across waters that act as both mirror and highway.
Glide past floating gardens where farmers cultivate vegetables on islands of reed and soil, weave through water channels where children paddle to school in smaller boats, and watch the Zabarwan mountains change colors with the shifting sun – their reflections rippling in the lake. The Shikara takes you past houseboats with ornately carved balconies and introduces you to floating markets where vendors sell everything from saffron to hand-embroidered shawls. As evening approaches, the lake turns golden, and the call to prayer echoes across the water from multiple directions – a symphony of devotion in this city of faith. Later, you can explore the local markets for souvenirs and traditional Kashmiri handicrafts. Overnight at Srinagar (Hotel/Houseboat).
Pro Tip: Bargaining is common in the floating markets and local shops. Consider purchasing Pashmina shawls, wooden artifacts, and spices. The Shikara ride is best enjoyed during sunset for stunning views.
Your final morning in Kashmir greets you with the gentle lapping of lake waters or birdsong from nearby gardens. After breakfast, perhaps take a last stroll through the hotel gardens or the boulevard along Dal Lake, breathing in the cedar-scented air and committing the mountain silhouettes to memory. Our representative ensures a smooth transfer to Srinagar Airport.
| Tour Validity | Valid From | Valid Upto |
|---|---|---|
| Validity | 01/05/2017 | 31/12/2018 |
| Season | Price Category | 2 pax | 4 pax | 6 pax | Ex. Adult | Child w. Bed | Child w/o Bed | Single |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Deluxe | On Req. | On Req. | On Req. | On Req. | On Req. | On Req. | On Req. |
| Super Deluxe | On Req. | On Req. | On Req. | On Req. | On Req. | On Req. | On Req. | |
| Premium | On Req. | On Req. | On Req. | On Req. | On Req. | On Req. | On Req. |
| Destination | Deluxe | Super Deluxe | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Srinagar |
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| Pahalgam |
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| Gulmarg |
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