Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar & Houseboat Stay

Arrive at Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport, Srinagar. Meet your driver and proceed for check-in at a traditional houseboat on Dal Lake or Nigeen Lake.

• Shikara Ride on Dal Lake – Experience the floating market and breathtaking views of the Zabarwan Mountains.
• Mughal Gardens Tour:
  • Shalimar Bagh – Built by Emperor Jehangir for his queen, Nur Jahan.
  • Nishat Bagh – Offers stunning views of Dal Lake.
  • Chashme Shahi – A garden with natural spring water.
• Hazratbal Shrine – The most revered Muslim shrine in Kashmir.

Srinagar Dining: Srinagar offers awesome dining options, especially around Dal Lake, where you can find roadside food markets and even excellent restaurants to explore a variety of local and international flavours.

Srinagar Accommodation: Stay in Dal Lake on a houseboat or near Nishant for a peaceful pleasant stay with excellent views.

• Awantipora Ruins – Ancient temple ruins from the 9th century.
• Saffron Fields of Pampore (seasonal, best in October-November).

Upon arrival in Pahalgam, check into your hotel and explore:

• Chandanwari – The starting point of the Amarnath Yatra.
• Betaab Valley – Named after the Bollywood movie “Betaab,” offers mesmerizing landscapes.

Pahalgam Dining: Pahalgam offers awesome dining options, especially at Pahalgam main market.

Pahalgam Accommodation: Stay on the upper road parallel to chandanwadi road for excellent views or somewhere near the river.

Day 3: Exploring Pahalgam

Explore the scenic beauty and adventure activities of Pahalgam:

• Aru Valley – A lush green meadow surrounded by snow-capped peaks, perfect for photography.
• Lidder River Walk – A scenic riverside stroll.
• Baisaran Valley – Known as “Mini Switzerland of Kashmir,” accessible by pony ride.

Optional: Enjoy river rafting on the Lidder River (seasonal).

Return to your hotel for a relaxed evening.

Day 4: Pahalgam to Gulmarg (140 km, 4.5-hour drive)

Wake up early and after breakfast, drive to Gulmarg, a famous ski destination and a paradise for nature lovers.

Upon arrival, check-in and visit:

• Gondola Ride (Phase 1 & 2) – One of the highest cable cars in the world, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
• Maharani Temple & St. Mary’s Church – Historical sites with scenic backdrops.
• Strawberry Valley – A hidden gem with a picturesque landscape (best visited in summer).

In winter (December-February), Gulmarg transforms into a skiing paradise.

Gulmarg Dining: There are excellent dining options at Gulmarg main market.

Gulmarg Accommodation: Stay in a cozy cottage or a luxury ski resort overlooking the mountains.

Day 5: Gulmarg to Srinagar (50 km, 2-hour drive)

After breakfast, drive back to Srinagar and check into your hotel.

• Shankaracharya Temple – Offers panoramic views of Srinagar.
• Pari Mahal – A 7-terraced Mughal garden with breathtaking city views.
• Enjoy local shopping at Lal Chowk – Famous for Kashmiri handicrafts, Pashmina shawls, and saffron.

Spend the evening at leisure by Dal Lake.

Day 6: Day Trip to Sonmarg (80 km, 2.5-hour drive)

Take a day trip to Sonmarg (Meadow of Gold), one of Kashmir’s most scenic spots.

• Thajiwas Glacier – Accessible by pony ride, offering a surreal snowy experience.
• Zoji La Pass (Optional, Seasonal) – The gateway to Ladakh, open only during summer.

Return to Srinagar by evening and relax.

Day 7: Srinagar Leisure & Shopping Day

Spend your last day in Srinagar at a relaxed pace:

• Floating Market on Dal Lake (Early Morning Visit) – Experience the unique vegetable and flower market on Shikaras.
• Visit to a Traditional Kashmiri Carpet Weaving Centre.
• Kashmiri Cooking Class (Optional) – Learn to make dishes like Yakhni and Dum Aloo.

Enjoy a farewell Shikara ride at sunset.

Day 8: Departure from Srinagar

After breakfast, transfer to Srinagar Airport for your onward journey, carrying the essence of Kashmir’s beauty with you. If you have a flight in the evening then you can enjoy your day at Dal Lake.

NOTE

• Our custom itineraries include mapping for sightseeing, dining options, and accommodation locations.
• To receive specific names of accommodations, restaurants, and sightseeing locations tailored to your personal preferences, you’ll need to choose a custom plan.
• The starting price mentioned covers
  • SIC Transportation (add 140$ for self-driven car)
  • Basic Stays (add 90$ for 3Star)(add 180$ for 4Star + Houseboat)
  • Cost of all 3 Meals
  • Entry to Gardens, Gondola Ride (Phase 1), & Sightseeing Locations
  • Shikara Ride on Dal Lake
• The prices listed are dynamic; those who book well in advance—about 2 to 3 months ahead—can secure better rates. However, last-minute bookings and reservations during peak season tend to be more expensive.
• Gondola Tickets (Phase 2) require advance booking (included in premium packages).
• Snow activities available from December to February.
• Permits may be required for Sonmarg & Zoji La Pass (seasonal).