Kashmir’s Golden Meadow & Lake Escape

Your Kashmir adventure begins as you arrive at Srinagar airport, where you'll be driven on a scenic 35-minute journey to the heart of the city. Crossing the Jhelum River over the Abdullah bridge, you'll reach the North-west frontier of Kashmir and check into your hotel. After completing the check-in formalities, you can unwind and enjoy a leisurely day to relax after your journey. In the evening, proceed for a delicious dinner before retiring for a comfortable overnight stay at the hotel in Srinagar.

Start your day with a sumptuous breakfast before setting off on a drive to the magnificent Sonamarg, known as the 'Meadow of Gold'. The journey offers breathtaking views of the picturesque countryside, with snow-clad mountains, green forests, rolling hills, crystal-clear streams, and vast rice fields. You'll pass through the local market town of Kangan and Marmar, renowned for its trout fields. A stop at Gagangir, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, offers excellent photo opportunities. From here, you can take a 3-hour walk or opt for a cab or horseback ride to the Thajiwas glacier, a significant attraction with beautiful meadows. Return to explore the local market, experiencing the local way of life, before driving back to Srinagar for dinner and overnight stay.

After morning breakfast and hotel checkout, you'll head towards Gulmarg, the 'Meadow of Flowers'. The drive takes you through vibrant villages and growing rice fields of the Kashmir Valley, passing through the colourful market town of Tangmarg. Upon reaching Gulmarg, you have the option to experience the famous Gondola cable car ride (at your own cost), an 8-minute journey offering stunning panoramic views of the nearby mountain ranges from the Shepherd huntsmen to the lower ridge of the Afarwat peak. After exploring the beautiful valley, return to your hotel in Gulmarg for a comfortable night stay.

Following breakfast, you'll embark on a scenic journey towards Pahalgam. The drive takes you through Pampore, where you can visit the famous saffron fields, and past Awantipora and Bijbehara village, known as the breadbasket of Kashmir. Switching from National Highway 1A at Khanabal, you'll proceed through Anantnag, the second largest city, towards Pahalgam. Renowned for its fantastic landscape, Pahalgam offers beautiful scenery of green forests, clear water streams, and pretty mountains. Arrive and check into your hotel for a relaxing overnight stay in this picturesque town.

After breakfast, set out to explore the famous Betaab Valley, girdled with mountain ranges and dense pine and deodar forests, offering heavenly pleasure. Visit the beautiful Aru Valley, known for its fantastic scenery with lakes, lush meadows, and mountains. You can also visit Chandanwari, the starting point for the Amarnath Yatra and a popular hiking destination. For adventure enthusiasts, a horse ride to Baisaran meadows is a delightful option. Spend the day soaking in the natural beauty and tranquillity of these valleys. Return to your hotel in Pahalgam for a comfortable night stay.

After morning breakfast, return to Srinagar for local sightseeing. Visit the world-famous Mughal gardens, including Cheshma Shahi (Royal Spring) and Shalimar, built in the 16th century close to the banks of Dal Lake. Proceed to the Shankaracharya temple, situated on a hillock offering magnificent panoramic views of the entire city. Visit the handloom centre, renowned for the world-famous Pashmina and Shahtoosh shawls and carpets. Later, transfer to a traditional houseboat for an unforgettable overnight stay. You can also enjoy a serene Shikara ride on the beautiful Dal Lake, gliding through the tranquil waters.

On your final day in Kashmir, enjoy a healthy morning breakfast before being transferred to Srinagar airport for your departure. As you bid farewell to this enchanting destination, you'll carry back delightful memories of your Kashmir journey. The trip ends with your departure from Srinagar.