Kashmir Highlights

Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar | Shikara Ride | Evening at Dal Lake

On arrival at Srinagar Airport, you’ll be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel or houseboat. After check-in and some rest, head out to experience the calm charm of Dal Lake. Enjoy a relaxing Shikara ride where you’ll glide past floating gardens, local vendors on boats, and postcard views of the Zabarwan hills. Later, you can stroll around the Boulevard Road for sunset views, tea stops, and a light shopping walk. Return to your stay for dinner and overnight in Srinagar.

Day 2: Srinagar Local Sightseeing | Mughal Gardens | Old City Option

After breakfast, begin your Srinagar sightseeing with the iconic Mughal Gardens, starting with Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh, known for terraced lawns, fountains, and lake-facing views. Visit Chashme Shahi for its natural spring and panoramic viewpoints. You can also include a visit to the Shankaracharya Temple (subject to permissions and time), offering one of the best views of Srinagar city and Dal Lake. If you like culture and markets, spend part of the afternoon exploring Srinagar’s old city lanes, traditional Kashmiri shops, and local craft areas. End the day with dinner and overnight in Srinagar.

Day 3: Day Trip to Gulmarg | Gondola Ride | Snow Activities (Seasonal)

After breakfast, drive to Gulmarg, one of Kashmir’s most famous hill stations known for meadows, pine forests, and seasonal snow experiences. On reaching, you’ll have time to explore the main market area and the scenic landscape around the Gulmarg golf course and viewpoint spots. If weather permits, you can take the Gulmarg Gondola ride (tickets are subject to availability) for high-altitude views and snow zones in winter months. Enjoy optional activities like snow sledging, skiing, or a short pony ride depending on the season. Later, you’ll drive back to Srinagar by evening for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 4: Srinagar to Pahalgam | Saffron Fields & Awantipora Ruins Enroute

After breakfast, check out and proceed towards Pahalgam, a beautiful valley town known for riverside views and forested landscapes. Enroute, you may stop at Pampore (seasonal) for saffron fields and local dry fruit outlets. You can also visit the Awantipora temple ruins, a historic site offering a quick cultural touch during the journey. Reach Pahalgam and check in to your hotel. In the evening, walk along the Lidder River, explore the small market, and enjoy the peaceful vibe of the town. Overnight stay in Pahalgam.

Day 5: Pahalgam Sightseeing | Aru Valley / Betaab Valley / Chandanwari

After breakfast, explore Pahalgam’s nearby attractions. Visit Aru Valley for wide green landscapes and photo stops, followed by Betaab Valley, famous for its scenic movie-like views and easy nature walks. You can also cover Chandanwari, a well-known point (and in season, connected to Amarnath Yatra route). These local sightseeing points are typically handled via local union vehicles as per local regulations, and the pace of the day is kept relaxed so you have time to enjoy each place instead of rushing. Return to the hotel by evening for dinner and overnight stay in Pahalgam.

Day 6: Pahalgam to Srinagar | Sonmarg Excursion (Optional) | Departure

After breakfast, check out and start your return towards Srinagar for departure. If your flight timing allows, you can opt for a same-day excursion to Sonmarg, known for mountain views and river scenery (this is best when you have a late evening flight). If not doing Sonmarg, you’ll be transferred directly to Srinagar Airport with buffer time for security checks. Tour ends with drop-off and warm goodbye.