Kashmir, often referred to as “paradise on earth,” is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning landscapes, snow-capped mountains, pristine lakes, and rich cultural heritage. If you’re planning a trip to Kashmir, here is a travel guide to help you make the most of your visit.
When to Visit:
The best time to visit Kashmir is from March to October, as the weather is pleasant and conducive to outdoor activities. The spring season (March to May) is a good time to visit if you’re interested in seeing the blooming flowers and lush greenery, while the summer season (June to August) is a good time for adventure activities such as trekking and mountaineering. The autumn season (September to November) is a good time to visit if you’re interested in seeing the changing colors of the trees, while the winter season (December to February) is a good time to visit if you’re interested in skiing and snowboarding.
How to Reach:
Kashmir is well-connected by air, rail, and road. The Srinagar International Airport is the primary airport in Kashmir, with flights connecting to major Indian cities as well as international destinations. The Jammu Tawi Railway Station is the nearest railway station, with trains connecting to major Indian cities. There are also regular buses connecting Kashmir to neighboring states.
Where to Stay:
Kashmir has a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. From luxurious houseboats to budget guesthouses, there’s something for everyone. If you’re looking for a unique experience, stay in a houseboat on Dal Lake in Srinagar. If you’re looking for a peaceful stay, head to the hill stations of Gulmarg, Pahalgam, or Sonamarg.
What to See and Do:
Shikara Ride: One of the most popular activities in Kashmir is taking a shikara ride on Dal Lake in Srinagar. These colorful boats are a great way to explore the lake and see the floating gardens and markets.
Trekking: Kashmir is a popular destination for trekking, with several trekking routes available for all levels of experience. Some of the popular trekking routes include the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek, Tarsar Marsar Trek, and Gangbal Trek.
Skiing: The winter season in Kashmir is a good time for skiing and snowboarding, with several ski resorts such as Gulmarg and Pahalgam offering skiing and snowboarding facilities.
Sightseeing: Kashmir is known for its stunning landscapes and cultural heritage, and there are several places to visit. Some of the popular places to visit include the Mughal Gardens in Srinagar, the Shankaracharya Temple, the Hazratbal Shrine, and the Dal Lake.
Rafting: The Lidder River in Pahalgam is a popular destination for white water rafting, with several companies offering rafting trips.
Golfing: Gulmarg is home to the highest golf course in the world, and golfing is a popular activity in the summer season.
Wildlife: Kashmir has several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks that offer a glimpse into the state’s rich flora and fauna. Some of the popular wildlife sanctuaries include the Dachigam National Park, Overa-Aru Wildlife Sanctuary, and Hemis National Park.
What to Eat:
Kashmiri cuisine is known for its rich flavors and use of local spices. Some of the popular dishes to try include Rogan Josh (lamb curry), Gushtaba (meatballs in yogurt gravy), Dum Aloo (potatoes in spicy gravy), and Kashmiri Pulao (rice cooked with saffron and dry fruits).
Pick up from Airport, you will drive to Srinagar Hotel. On arrival, check in to Hotel and proceed to sightseeing tour of mughal gardens visiting chesmashahi (the royal spring ) , nishat ( the garden of pleasure ) Shalimar (the abode of love) pari mahal & famous Shankrancharya temple & dargah hazratbal shrine & jamia masjid dinner & overnight in hotel.
After breakfast leave hotel for full day tour of SONMARG “Meadow of Gold” it has sheer scenic splendor. The very way a metalled road snakes through massive mountains laden with forests.
After a breath-taking journey from Srinagar you come across river Sindh that is abounded with trout & mahseer. Onwards the valley opens up to a meadow, ponies can be hired for a trip up to thajiwas glacier, a major attraction during the summer months. Mountains against a cerulean sky against its backdrop. Return to Srinagar for sonmarg’s importance lies in the fact that it is the last halt on the Kashmir side for the drive from the Srinagar to leh; you will be fascinated to see snowy mountains. Overnight stay at hotel.
After breakfast proceed to Gulmarg. Gulmarg is also known as ‘meadow of flowers & has a famous golf course during summer (which is one of the highest 18 holes golf course in the world) & ski resort during winter. One can have a gondola 9 CABLE CAR) ride from gulmarg to khilanmarg (owncost) to have a real view in natural beauty of the summer and full snow view in winter. You can have a pony ride in open fields to seven springs (owncost) and to a lake, which remains frozen until june, after free time dinner & overnight at hotel.
After breakfast checkout from hotel and proceed to Pahalgam village of shepherds ‘ enroute visiting the world famous saffron growing fields , awantipurarins (9th century) & martand temple (sun temple). Pahalgam is famous for Indian film industry, some trekking routes & also base camp for Amaranath pilgrimage. Dinner and overnight at hotel.
After breakfast full day to enjoy & explore the beauty of Pahalgam. One can go to chandanwari, Betab valley & Aru (own cost) has a fine Meadows of Picturesque scenery & starting point of trekking of (Liddarwat, Kolahoi Glacier, Tarsar Lake) Dinner & overnight at hotel.
After breakfast at Hotel leave for Srinagar via en route sightseeing. The sightseeing not covered on day 1 will be covered here. Overnight stay in houseboat at Srinagar. Morning after breakfast visit the Lake City. Being your tour of ‘Exotic Kashmir. After rest leave for sightseeing tour of Mughal Gardens visiting Cheshmashahi (the royal spring), Nishat (the garden of pleasure), Shalimar (the abode of love), Pari Mahal & famous Shankrancharya temple &Dargah Hazratbal Shrine&Jamia Masjid. Dinner & overnight at House boats.
After breakfast at Hotel you will be proceed to Srinagar Airport to catch your Flight for your onward destination with sweet holiday Memories.
