Kashmir | FREE Shikara Ride on Dal Lake
Region: Northern India
Best Time to Visit:
- **Winter:** December to February (Snowfall, winter sports)
- **Spring:** March to May (Blooming gardens, pleasant weather)
- **Summer:** June to August (Cool weather, adventure activities)
- **Autumn:** September to November (Golden Chinar trees, serene landscapes)
Temperature:
- Day: 15°C to 30°C (Summer) | 0°C to 15°C (Winter)
- Night: 5°C to 20°C (Summer) | -10°C to 5°C (Winter)
Popular Destinations:
- **Srinagar** – Dal Lake, Mughal Gardens
- **Gulmarg** – Skiing, Gondola Ride
- **Pahalgam** – Betaab Valley, Aru Valley
- **Sonmarg** – Thajiwas Glacier, Trekking
Pickup Point: Srinagar International Airport
❄️ Enchanting Kashmir Escape: Srinagar, Gulmarg & Pahalgam (6 Days, 5 Nights) 🏔️
Embark on a mesmerizing 6-day, 5-night journey through the breathtaking valleys of Kashmir. This package is crafted for travelers seeking an unforgettable blend of scenic beauty, adventure, and cultural exploration. Witness the charm of the Himalayas, pristine lakes, and lush meadows as you explore Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam.
Begin your journey in Srinagar, the heart of Kashmir, with a tranquil Shikara ride on Dal Lake and a visit to the stunning Mughal Gardens. Experience the charm of floating markets and houseboats that reflect the region's unique heritage.
Head towards Gulmarg, known as the "Meadow of Flowers," where you’ll embark on the world’s second-highest cable car ride – the Gulmarg Gondola. Enjoy activities like skiing in winter or hiking through lush landscapes in summer.
Continue to Pahalgam, a paradise for nature lovers. Explore the picturesque Betaab Valley and Aru Valley, followed by a scenic walk along the Lidder River. For adventure seekers, an optional trek to Baisaran (Mini Switzerland) awaits!
🌟 Activities Included
📍 Srinagar City Tour + Dal Lake Shikara Ride
- Dal Lake – Enjoy a peaceful Shikara ride with views of the floating gardens.
- Mughal Gardens – Visit Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, and Chashme Shahi.
- Houseboat Stay – Experience Kashmir’s iconic floating accommodations.
- Shankaracharya Temple – Panoramic views of Srinagar city.
📍 Gulmarg Adventure Tour
- Gulmarg Gondola – Ride the world’s second-highest cable car to Apharwat Peak.
- Winter Skiing & Snow Activities – Available from December to February.
- Alpather Lake – A hidden gem surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
📍 Pahalgam Sightseeing & Valley Tour
- Betaab Valley – A picturesque valley with lush greenery and snow-clad mountains.
- Aru Valley – A scenic retreat for nature walks and pony rides.
- Lidder River – Enjoy riverside walks or white-water rafting (seasonal).
- Baisaran (Mini Switzerland) – A breathtaking hilltop meadow.
This Kashmir getaway offers a mix of serenity, adventure, and cultural exploration. Whether you’re gliding through Dal Lake on a Shikara, skiing in Gulmarg, or trekking in Pahalgam, this package promises unforgettable experiences. ❄️🏔️✨
Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar & Shikara Ride
Welcome to the paradise of India, Srinagar. Upon arrival at Srinagar Airport, you will be transferred to your houseboat/hotel.
Spend the evening enjoying a serene Shikara ride on Dal Lake, where you can admire:
- Floating Gardens – A picturesque view of lotus blooms.
- Houseboats – Experience Kashmir’s traditional floating homes.
- Char Chinar Island – A scenic island in the middle of Dal Lake.
Return to your houseboat/hotel for an overnight stay.
Day 2: Srinagar Sightseeing Tour
After breakfast, embark on a Srinagar city tour. Highlights include:
- Mughal Gardens – Visit Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, and Chashme Shahi.
- Shankaracharya Temple – A sacred temple offering panoramic views of Srinagar.
- Lal Chowk – The perfect place for shopping Kashmiri handicrafts and Pashmina shawls.
After a day of exploration, return to the hotel for an overnight stay.
Day 3: Gulmarg Tour & Gondola Ride
After breakfast, proceed to Gulmarg, also known as the "Meadow of Flowers."
Enjoy:
- Gulmarg Gondola – Ride Asia’s highest cable car to Apharwat Peak.
- Khilanmarg – A beautiful valley surrounded by snow-capped mountains.
- Winter Sports (Seasonal) – Experience skiing and snowboarding (December - February).
After an adventure-filled day, return to the hotel in Gulmarg for an overnight stay.
Day 4: Pahalgam Sightseeing Tour
After breakfast, drive to Pahalgam, known as the "Valley of Shepherds."
Explore:
- Betaab Valley – A cinematic valley with lush green landscapes.
- Aru Valley – Ideal for trekking, pony rides, and photography.
- Lidder River – Enjoy a peaceful walk along the riverside or try white-water rafting.
Return to the hotel in Pahalgam for an overnight stay.
Day 5: Explore Baisaran - Mini Switzerland
Start the day with a short trek or pony ride to Baisaran Valley, often called "Mini Switzerland of India."
Enjoy:
- Panoramic Views – Lush meadows with the Himalayas in the backdrop.
- Horse Riding – A fun way to explore the valley.
- Pine Forest Trails – Perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
After a refreshing day, return to the hotel for an overnight stay.
Day 6: Departure from Srinagar
After breakfast, check out from the hotel and transfer to Srinagar Airport for your onward journey.
Your memorable Kashmir trip comes to an end with unforgettable memories of paradise on Earth. ❄️🏔️
By Plane (Fastest & Most Convenient Option)
The easiest way to reach Kashmir is by air.
Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport (SXR) in Srinagar is the main airport, located about 12 km from the city center.
Direct flights are available from major Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Kolkata, and Chandigarh.
Flight duration from Delhi is around 1.5 hours.
Popular airlines: IndiGo, Air India, Vistara, SpiceJet, GoFirst.
Airport to Hotel Transfer: Taxis, private cabs, and shared shuttles will be arranged as per the package.
By Train (Economical Option)
The nearest railway station to Kashmir is Jammu Tawi Railway Station (JAT), located about 270 km from Srinagar.
Trains from major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, and Bangalore connect to Jammu.
From Jammu, you can take a scenic road journey to Srinagar via a shared taxi, private cab, or JKSRTC bus (Approx. 6-7 hours).
By Road (Adventurous & Scenic Route)
Kashmir is well-connected by road, offering breathtaking landscapes along the way.
You can reach Srinagar via the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH44).
Road trip options:
- From Jammu: 270 km (6-7 hours by car/taxi).
- From Delhi: 800 km (16-18 hours via road, best done in parts).
- From Leh: 420 km (takes 10-12 hours via the Leh-Srinagar Highway, open from May to October).
Bus Service: JKSRTC and private buses operate between Jammu & Srinagar.
Inclusions
- 3 nights stay in Srinagar with daily breakfast
- 2 nights stay in Gulmarg/Pahalgam with daily breakfast
- Srinagar Sightseeing Tour (Dal Lake, Mughal Gardens, Shankaracharya Temple)
- Shikara Ride on Dal Lake (complimentary for 1 hour)
- Excursion to Gulmarg (includes Gondola ride up to Phase 1)
- Pahalgam Tour (includes Betaab Valley & Aru Valley visit)
- All transfers & sightseeing in a private vehicle
- Daily breakfast & dinner at the hotel/houseboat
- 24/7 local assistance during the trip
Exclusions
- Personal expenses such as shopping, laundry, and telephone calls
- Meals not mentioned in the inclusions
- Tips & gratuities for drivers, guides, and hotel staff
- Gondola ride to Phase 2 in Gulmarg (can be booked separately)
- Pony rides & activities in Pahalgam (Betaab Valley, Aru Valley entry fees)
- Airfare, train tickets, or any other mode of transport to Kashmir
- Travel insurance & permits (if applicable)
🏔️ Things to Carry for This Trek
🧳 Essentials
- 🆔 Government ID (Aadhar, Passport, etc.)
- 📄 Permits & Trek Bookings
- 💵💳 Cash (Limited ATMs in Remote Areas)
- 📍 Trek Map & Itinerary
🎒 Backpack & Gear
- 🎒 Backpack (50-60L) with Rain Cover
- 🥾 Good Quality Trekking Shoes
- 🦯 Trekking Pole
- ⛺ Sleeping Bag (if required)
- 🔦 Headlamp / Torch with Extra Batteries
🧥 Clothing & Accessories
- 🧥 Waterproof Jacket / Windcheater
- 🩳 Quick-Dry T-shirts & Trek Pants
- 🧤 Woolen Gloves, Socks & Cap
- 🕶️ UV Protection Sunglasses
- 🩲 Thermal Innerwear (for high-altitude treks)
🛠️ First Aid & Personal Care
- 💊 Basic First Aid Kit & Personal Medicines
- 🧴 Sunscreen & Lip Balm (SPF 50+)
- 🚿 Wet Wipes & Sanitizer
- 🦟 Mosquito & Insect Repellent
📱 Electronics & Miscellaneous
- 📱🔌 Phone & Charger
- 🔋 Power Bank
- 📸 Camera / GoPro (optional)
- 🍫 Dry Fruits, Energy Bars & Snacks
- 🚰 Water Bottles / Hydration Pack
Why you should choose Triptoo?
We’re here to give you the greatest experience possible through the eyes of highly skilled and qualified specialists who have a passion for adventure sports. We are community members attempting to promote our favorite adventure sports while also supporting local businesses. We, at Triptoo, dedicate ourselves to providing you with an unforgettable experience
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