India Kashmir Holidays

Places one can visit : DELHI - SRINAGAR - GULMARG - PAHALGAM - SONAMARG - SRINAGAR - DELHI.

Duration : 09 Nights / 10 Days

For anyone interested in visiting the valley, the first question is "when to visit Kashmir, India" or the ideal time to visit the Kashmir valley. The best time to visit Kashmir is during the months of March to October. During this period the weather conditions in Kashmir are at their best. This period covers three seasons in Kashmir i.e., spring (March-early May), summers (early May-late August) and autumn (September-November). The blossoms of spring, the cool weather of summer and the gold and red hues of autumn all provide the peak season for Kashmir travel. From December to early March is the winter season for Kashmir, when the entire valley wears a white blanket of snow. For those, who enjoy chilling weather and are interested in skiing, winter is the time to be in Kashmir. During the winter time, you can enjoy the outdoor activities without getting dehydrated or feeling the pangs of heat.

Spring : The joyous chirping of birds, orchards heavy with fruits, alpine meadows dotted with grazing herds, and shepherds lilting with their music - a vivid mosaic of this place - takes shape before your wandering eye. It presents a picture of an unforgettable tapestry which is amongst the most beautiful any place in the world has to offer.

Summer : Fruits spill out of brimming baskets; strawberries and cherries, peaches and apricots; all the bounty of a fertile land. Pale green paddy fields rise in tiered steps upon the hills. In the high meadows, trout are jumping in rushing, snow-fed streams. The encircling snow-capped mountains provide a perfect setting for a valley that's vibrantly alive

Autumn : The misty morning sprawls over the vivacious valleys, the flushing meadows wrap the hillsides like a cloak. The sunlight softly caresses the leaves, the dew drops sparkle like diamonds to welcome the new day. The rustle of the fallen leaves adds to the music of the place and the sweet fragrance of flowers lingers on.

Winter : The white sheet of snow spread far and wide concealing the resonating beauty of this paradise. The soft snowflakes adorning the coniferous, the misty hazy breath, the chilly breeze gently tingling your senses, the tender sunlight deflecting from the ice capped peaks and spreading the much needed warmth. All so milky and pure. It is picture of a true heaven on earth.

Day 1: Delhi - Srinagar

Meet upon arrival and transfer to Deluxe Houseboats. Late afternoon Shikara ride on Dal Lake visiting floating and Vegetable gardens etc. Also witness walnut woodcarving and papier machie making demonstration. Dinner overnight in Deluxe Houseboats.

Day 2: In Srinagar

Morning sightseeing of Mughal Gardens visiting Nishat Bagh (Abode of pleasure) built by Asif Khan brother in law of Jehangir in 1632 AD. And Shalimar Bagh (Abode of love) built by Jehangir for his wife Empress Noor Jehan. All the gardens are situated on the bank of Dal Lake with the Zabarwan Mountains in the background. The distance from Srinagar to the said gardens is about 12 and 15 kms respectively. Enroute visit carpet-weaving factory. Dinner overnight in Deluxe Houseboats.

Day 3: Srinagar - Gulmarg

Drive to Gulmarg (Meadow of Flowers) 2730 Mts. above sea level. The distance of 60 kms will be covered in about 2 hrs. Gulmarg has one of the best Ski slopes in the world and highest golf course of the world with 18 holes. One can also have the view of Nanga Parbhat if weather permits. The view enroute from Tangmarg to Gulmarg is fascinating. One can also have a short trek upto Khilangmarg which can be covered in about 3 to 4 hrs. Chair Lifts for mountain ride are also available. Lunch will be carried from the Houseboat. Dinner overnight in Hotel at Gulmarg.

Day 4: In Gulmarg

Free for individual activities. Dinner overnight in hotel at Gulmarg.

Day 5: Gulmarg - Pahalgam

Leave Gulmarg after early breakfast and drive to Pahalgam (Valley of Shepherds) via Srinagar. Drive through Saffron fields, visit Awantipura ruins (1100 years old temple of Lord Vishnu built by King Awantiwareman). Drive through the pine forest and along Lidder River. The total distance of about 140 kms will be covered in about 4 hrs. On arrival in Pahalgam, transfer to Hotel. Lunch, Dinner and overnight in Hotel at Pahalgam.

Day 6: In Pahalgam

Free for individual activities. Dinner overnight in hotel at Pahalgam.

Day 7: Pahalgam - Srinagar

Drive back to Srinagar from Pahalgam and transfer to deluxe Houseboats Dinner overnight in Deluxe Houseboats.

Day 8: Srinagar - Sonamarg

Full day excursion to Sonamarg by cars. The distance of about 83 kms will be covered about 2-½ hrs. Sonamarg lies in Sindh Valley streamed with flowers and surrounded by mountains. Sonamarg is also the base for some interesting treks to the high altitude of Himalayan Lake. Drive back from Sonamarg and transfer to Deluxe Houseboats for dinner and overnight stay.