Kashmir, known as “Paradise on Earth,” is a stunning destination characterized by snow-covered mountains, green valleys, and clear lakes. It offers a mix of adventure, culture, spirituality, and tranquility. This five-day itinerary highlights key attractions and activities, providing a thorough experience of the region’s distinctive allure.
- Day 1- Srinagar (The City of Lakes and Gardens)- Your journey starts in Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, known for its beautiful lakes and houseboats. After landing at Sheikh Ul-Alam International Airport, a representative will help you get to your houseboat accommodation on Dal Lake or Nigeen Lake. These traditional houseboats feature exquisite Kashmiri craftsmanship. After checking in, enjoy some Kahwa tea while admiring the lake views. In the afternoon, take a Shikara ride on Dal Lake, where you can see the Zabarwan Range, floating gardens, local fishermen, and markets selling flowers and handicrafts, providing a glimpse into the everyday life of Srinagar residents. In the evening, visit the Mughal gardens in Srinagar, renowned for their beauty and historical significance. Start at Shalimar Bagh, the largest garden created by Emperor Jahangir for his wife Nur Jahan, featuring terraces, fountains, and pavilions. Then, explore Nishat Bagh, the “Garden of Delight,” which has 12 tiers and offers picturesque views of Dal Lake. Finally, visit Chashme Shahi, a charming garden known for its freshwater springs and serene atmosphere. Afterward, return to your houseboat for a relaxing evening and enjoy a traditional Kashmiri dinner with dishes like Rogan Josh, Dum Aloo, and Goshtaba.
- Day 2- Gulmarg (The snow world)- Begin your day with a two-hour drive to Gulmarg, a picturesque hill station in Kashmir, known for its meadows in summer and snow in winter. The drive features beautiful villages, pine forests, and the Sindh River. Once in Gulmarg, experience the Gondola ride, the second-highest cable car globally. It has two phases: Phase 1 takes you to Kongdori Station at 2,600 meters for stunning views, while Phase 2 ascends to Apharwat Peak at 4,200 meters, offering breathtaking mountain vistas and winter skiing opportunities. The gondola ride promises a thrilling experience year-round. In the afternoon, after a gondola ride, visitors to Gulmarg can enjoy various activities. In winter, this area becomes a ski hotspot, offering lessons for beginners and suitable slopes for all skill levels. In summer, options include pony rides and trekking to Khilanmarg for stunning views. Golf lovers can play at the world’s highest golf course in Gulmarg. In the evening, guests return to Srinagar to relax in a houseboat and can take a leisurely walk along Boulevard Road, which features cafes and shops along Dal Lake.
- Day 3- Pahalgam (The Valley of Shepherds)- On day three, take a scenic 2.5-hour drive to Pahalgam, a picturesque town by the Lidder River known for its beautiful meadows and mountains. On the way, visit the Saffron Fields near Pampore and the ancient Awantipora Ruins. After arriving in Pahalgam, explore Aru Valley, known for its greenery, where you can walk by the river or ride a pony. Then, visit Betaab Valley, famous for its Bollywood connection, surrounded by mountains and forests, perfect for photos and picnics. In the afternoon, engage in various adventure activities like trekking and horse riding, or enjoy a leisurely walk along the river and try trout fishing. Pahalgam is a destination for adventure enthusiasts, offering treks to Kolahoi Glacier and Tarsar Marsar Lake, as well as white-water rafting on the Lidder River in summer. Visitors can spend the night at a cozy mountain resort or hotel, enjoying the cool evening breeze and the soothing sound of the river.
- Day 4- Sonamarg (The Meadow of Gold)- In the morning, after breakfast, drive for 2.5 hours from Pahalgam to Sonamarg, a scenic town at 2,800 meters altitude, characterized by beautiful forests, rivers, and mountains. Upon arrival, visit Thajiwas Glacier, 7 kilometers away, either by trekking or hiring a pony. The glacier is accessible year-round and offers various activities such as sledging, snow biking, and ice skating in winter, while summer visitors can enjoy trekking amid vibrant alpine meadows. In the afternoon, consider a drive to Zoji La Pass, one of the highest mountain passes, for stunning views. Alternatively, you can visit Baltal, located 15 kilometers from Sonamarg. The text describes the base camp for the Amarnath Yatra, a significant Hindu pilgrimage. After a day in Sonamarg, visitors return to Srinagar for their last night in Kashmir, with opportunities to shop for traditional handicrafts, carpets, shawls, and jewelry in the Lal Chowk market or local bazaars.
- Return to Srinagar- Start your final day with a visit to Shankaracharya Temple on Shankaracharya Hill, dedicated to Lord Shiva, offering stunning views of Srinagar and Dal Lake. Afterward, go to Hazratbal Shrine, a key religious site for Muslims, which is said to hold a relic of the Prophet Muhammad. Then, explore Jamia Masjid, a historic wooden mosque from 1402 with beautiful Indo-Saracenic architecture and a serene courtyard. In the afternoon, visit the Floating Market on Dal Lake, where vendors sell fresh produce from boats, highlighting local traditions. After shopping in Lal Chowk or Polo View Market for souvenirs like Pashmina shawls and Kashmiri carpets, enjoy a traditional Wazwan feast featuring various mutton dishes for your farewell dinner. Conclude your evening with a stroll along Dal Lake before heading to the airport, leaving with memorable experiences from your five-day trip in Kashmir.
-Triparna
