“If there is Heaven on Earth, it is here, it is here, it is here.”
– Amir Khusro.
With alpine scenery, romantic houseboats and cool, crisp weather, Kashmir is truly the Switzerland of India. Enjoy picturesque locales, delectable food and inimitable Kashmiri hospitality on our Charismatic Kashmir package.
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On arrival at Srinagar Airport, you will be welcomed by our representative who will assist and escort you to your waiting vehicle. From the airport take a 35 minute drive through the heart of New Srinagar city. The drive takes you past the Abdullah Bridge which connects the banks of the Jhelum River, snaking its way towards the North-Western frontier of Kashmir. Arrive and check into your hotel where you will be welcomed with a traditional Kashmiri Kehwa. You will then proceed for a sightseeing tour of Srinagar and a half day city tour. Visit the famous Mughal Gardens and parks like the Nishat Bagh built by Noor Jahan`s brother Asif Khan in 1633 A.D, Cheshma Shahi and Pari Mahal-built by Shah Jahan in 1632 A.D and Shalimar Bagh built by Jahangir for his wife, the empress Noor Jahan. You will also visit the Shankarya Charya temple known as Jyeswathra, located on the top of the hills surrounding the Takht-e- Suleiman plains in Srinagar. All these gardens are situated near the bank of Dal Lake near the Zabarwan Hills in the background and you could also visit the world famous carpet weaving factory known for its export handicraft products. In the evening cruise on a shikara on the famous Open Lake, Golden Lake, and Nehru Park. Return to your hotel at the end of the day and enjoy a traditional dinner.
Today you will visit Sonamarg which means ‘Meadow of Gold’ famous for its snowy mountains set against a cerulean sky. The Sind meanders along here and abounds with trout and masher. In late April when Sonamarg is open for road transport, you could go on an excursion to Baltal, 15 km north of Sonamarg. This little valley lies at the foot of the Zojila, only a day’s journey away from the sacred cave of Amarnath is a base camp for Amarnath Yatra. Trekkers can also reach the stark but splendid roof-top of the world Leh, by crossing over the Zoji La pass. Enjoy a fun-filled pony ride before returning to your Srinagar hotel where dinner will be served, Stay overnight in Srinagar.
After breakfast, proceed by jeep to Pahalgam, the valley of shepherds. En-route you will visit the saffron fields of Pampore and also the cricket bat factory where some of the best cricket bats in the world are handmade of willow. Enjoy the countryside on your drive through the pine forest. You can also go on a horse ride along the pony trails to see magnificent views of the mountains; you could also choose to visit the Chandanwari and Betaab valley. Explore the streets of Pahalgam and return to your houseboat in the evening.
Check out of the hotel and proceed to Gulmarg, the valley of flowers. Gulmarg has some of the best ski slopes and golf courses in the world. You can enjoy a view of Nanga Parbat if the weather permits. The view en route from Tangmarg to Gulmarg is stunning. In Gulmarg, a gondola ride will be provided to the snow peak and you can also enjoy a cable car up to Alpather via Kangdoori by Asia’s longest run cable car ride (approx. 5 km). Altitude-wise, it is the world’s highest run cable car reaching up to almost 14000 feet. Dinner will be served at your hotel in Gulmarg.
After an early breakfast, check out of your hotel and proceed to your Srinagar houseboat. On checking in, Kashmiri Kehwa will be served to welcome you. You have the rest of the afternoon free. Evening In the evening cruise on a shikara on the famous Open Lake, Golden Lake, and Nehru Park. Return to your houseboat at the end of the day and enjoy a traditional dinner.
After breakfast, we will drive to the airport for your flight home. On your way to the airport, you can make a brief stopover for some last minute shopping. At the airport, the driver will assist you with the luggage and will later drop you at the terminal. Leave Kashmir with sweet memories.