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Immerse yourself in the romance of Kashmir with this captivating 5-day, 4-night journey through the heart of the valley. Begin your tour in the charming city of Srinagar, where the peaceful ambiance of Dal Lake sets the perfect stage for a romantic shikara ride.
Welcome to Srinagar, the Lake City. Upon arrival, begin your tour of "Splendid Kashmir." You will be transferred to your hotel. Later, enjoy a city tour, visiting the Shankracharya Temple located on the highest hill in Srinagar, and explore the famous Mughal Gardens—Chashmashahi, Nishat, and Shalimar. These gardens were the Mughal Emperors' vision of paradise and are now popular picnic spots. Visit a handicraft shop where you can purchase locally handcrafted items such as shawls, jackets, bed covers, paper mache, carpets, and more! In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along Dal Lake and explore the local markets. Overnight stay at the hotel in Srinagar.
Today, enjoy a full-day excursion to the picturesque "Meadow of Gold," Sonamarg. It is the last stop in the Kashmir district, from where the Ladakh territory begins. Situated at an altitude of 2,743 meters above sea level, the fast-flowing Sindh River is popular for trout and mahseer fishing in the summer. You may opt for a pony ride to one of the glaciers for some snow and ice fun (at your own cost). Return to your hotel in Srinagar in the evening for an overnight stay.
In the morning, drive to Gulmarg, the "Meadow of Flowers." The scenic route from Srinagar is mesmerizing. Gulmarg is world-renowned for skiing and snowboarding. During the British Raj, it was a popular European hill resort. The town offers European-like surroundings, an 18-hole golf course, and the famous Gondola Cable Car Ride, the highest and longest in Asia (at your own cost—book tickets online). You can enjoy photography, horse riding, and shopping at this beautiful snow point, as well as take the gondola ride to Kongdoori and Apharwat. In the evening, return to Srinagar for an overnight stay at your hotel.
Leave early in the morning for Pahalgam, the "Valley of Shepherds," located at the confluence of the Lidder River and Sheeshnag Lake. On the way, visit the Awantipura Ruins, a 1,100-year-old temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, built by King Awantivarman. Upon arrival in Pahalgam, you can either relax and enjoy the scenic surroundings or take a walk to Baisaran, which is about 2 km away. Also, visit Aru Valley, Betab Valley, and Chandanwari by car (at your own cost). Aru, a small village located 11 km upstream along the Lidder River, is a picturesque area with plenty of campsites and is the starting point for treks to the Kolahoi Glacier. Baisaran, surrounded by pine forests, is an undulating meadow, and Hajan and Betab Valley lie on the way to Chandanwari. In the evening, return to Srinagar for an overnight stay on a houseboat.
After breakfast, you will be transferred to Srinagar Airport, carrying with you everlasting memories of your trip.