Kaleidoscopic Kashmir-Once in a Lifetime Trip
Srinagar – Sonmarg – Pahalgam – Gulmarg – Srinagar
Kashmir is not just a place, it’s an emotion that everyone must experience at least once in a lifetime!
Be a part of the surreal timeless beauty of Kashmir on this trip. Soak in lush green surroundings and explore various trekking trails in Pahalgam, ride on the horses to reach glaciers in Sonmarg, navigate through the Dal lake on a shikara and shop from the floating market in Srinagar, ride the gondola in Gulmarg to witness the surreal views of the snow-covered landscapes stretching far into the horizon. And finally stay in a houseboat for that one-in-a-lifetime experience.
Drive through lush meadows, enchanting rivers and magical valleys with expert local drivers all along, who know the region really well and can tell you many local stories too. Unravel the rich culture of the valley, experience Kashmiri hospitality, relish the authentic food and interact with locals while staying in the homestays. Known for their excellent weaves and handicrafts, myriad music and dance forms and delicious culinary treats, Kashmir is truly a delightful sensory experience.
Plan this trip in April, if you want to see flowers and Tulip Garden; to see the apple orchards in full bloom and relish garden fresh apples, August and September is the best time. The valley is most picturesque post-monsoon so that’s the time to visit if you interested to do some photography.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival Srinagar
Pickup from the airport. Spend time knowing your hosts and enjoying their heart warming hospitality. Spend the evening taking a Shikara ride and witnessing magical sunset at Dal lake. Stay at Srinagar.
Day 2: Explore Srinagar
With its serene blue lakes and gardens surrounded by Majestic Himalayas, Srinagar is a picture-perfect town that looks straight out of a painting. Visit Mughal Gardens, Chashma Shahi, Hazrat bal and Shankaracharya Temple. Roam around the colorful bazaars and indulge in some delicious Kashmiri cuisine in the evening. Stay at Srinagar.
Day 3: Day trip to Sonamarg (160 km | 5-6 hours)
Once you are in Srinagar, you must not miss Sonamarg which is hardly a 2 hr drive. Stay at Srinagar.
Day 4: Srinagar – Pahalgam (90 km | 2.5 hours)
Start early morning from Srinagar. Drive through the towns of Qasim Bagh, Anantnag, Mattan, and Hassan Noor to reach Aishmuqam. Driving along the Lidder River reach Pahalgam. Sitting on the banks of the gurgling Lidder River, Pahalgam will mesmerize you with its lush meadows, verdant forests, sky-kissing mountains, apple orchards, and very peaceful environment. Spend evening get to know the place. Stay at Pahalgam
Day 5: Explore Pahalgam
Tie your shoes and get ready to explore beautiful valleys of Pahalgam. Get on horse backs and explore the beautiful country side along the Lidder River in Aru valley, Betab Valley and Chandanwari. Visit Mamleshwar Temple, Golf Course and Baisaran later. Stay at Pahalgam.
Day 6: Pahalgam – Gulmarg (140 km | 3-4 hours)
Start early from Pahalgam and you will reach Gulmarg (the meadow of flowers) by 11 am. With its pristine slopes and high altitude alpine meadows, Gulmarg is the perfect destination for nature and adventure lovers. After checking in the homestay, visit St. Mary’s Church, Maharani Temple, Golf Course, and other tourist attractions in Gulmarg. Gondola ride is a must thing to do, specially in winter. Enjoy local Kashmiri cuisine with the host family. Stay at Gulmarg.
Day 7: Gulmarg – Srinagar (51 km | 1.5 hours )
Post lunch start back to Srinagar. The drive offers some of the most breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountains. Stay in houseboat at Dal Lake.
Day 8: Drop to Srinagar airport
Departure from Srinagar Airport as per the schedule
Note: The itinerary can be customized to suit your interests, preferences and numbers of days.
Trip Cost
Per Person: Starting 24,700/- (Min. 4 people)
INCLUDES
• 7N/8D accommodation on twin sharing basis
• Breakfast
• Private Car with a trained local driver
• Airport Pick up and Drop
• Required Permits and Permissions
• Applicable Taxes
EXCLUDES
• Any extra meal, soft drink or beverage ordered.
• Expenses incurred due to anything beyond our control like political insurgencies, natural calamities and landslides etc.
• Anything not mentioned in inclusions
GENERAL RULES
1. Due care is taken for the safety of the client but HOI will not be responsible for any mishap/ accident/ injury/ illness etc.
2. If the client does not attend/complete the trip or to consume benefits included in the price, he/she will have no right to claim a refund.
3. Trip will be confirmed on an advance of 50% payment. The balance to be paid before the trip starts.
By choosing this trip, you directly support the local economy and communities, contributing to their livelihood. This helps preserve the region’s heritage and promotes sustainable tourism.
