WINTER IN KASHMIR

Day 1

Arrive Srinagar- Welcome to your Kashmir’ tour! On arrival at the airport in Srinagar, you will be escorted to your Hotel or Houseboat in Srinagar. Soak in the vistas of Kashmir as you proceed towards the houseboat. In the evening, go for a tranquil ride on the Shikara at Dal Lake (on sharing basis). The rest of the evening is at leisure.

 Overnight in Srinagar.

 Day 2

Day Excursion Sonamarg- Today after breakfast Proceed towards Sonamarg, admirably known as the ‘meadow of gold’. Sonamarg, an alpine valley is situated at the bank of Nallah Sindh River. Sindh River indulges you in an activity of fishing especially during summers. This river bed is a popular breeding ground for trout and mahseer fishes. You can opt for an optional ride on a pony (on direct payment basis.in the Evening Return back to Srinagar.

 Overnight stay at Srinagar

 Day 3

 On to Gulmarg- This morning proceed to Gulmarg, driving past willow trees, fast flowing streams and lush green meadows. Gulmarg – the ‘meadow of flowers’ is an apt term for this idyllic flower-laden spot. It offers a spectacular view of towering snow-capped peaks covered with dense forests of tall conifers, gigantic firs and pine trees. Take a leisurely stroll or pony rides (on direct payment) across the green meadows to one of the world’s highest Golf Courses. Later, take a fun-filled Gondola ride (First Level). On arrival, check-in to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure for independent activities.

 Overnight in Gulmarg

 Day 4

 On to Pahalgam- After breakfast, proceed to Pahalgam the ‘Valley of Shepherds’ which is situated at the confluence of streams flowing from the River Lidder and Sheshnag Lake. En route visit Awantipura ruins. The ancient township of Awantipura founded by King Awantiwarman (855-883 AD) is renowned for the impressive ruins of the two temple complexes he built here in the 9th century namely Awantisvamin, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and Avantisvara, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Both the temples reflect Greek style of architecture. Located at 30 km southeast ofSrinagar, the site is an archaeological and historical wonder. On arrival in Pahalgam, check- in to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure for independent activities.

Overnight in

Pahalgam.

Day 5

In Pahalgam- This morning after breakfast, proceed for an excursion to Chandanwari Aru Valley and Betaab Valley. Chandanwari is the starting point of the annual Amarnath Yatra held in the months of July and August. Located at an elevation of about 9,590 ft. the area is blessed with natural beauty and is renowned for its snow bridge and activities like trekking, hiking, pony and palanquin ride and snow sledging. Betaab Valley is named after the Bollywood movie Betaab, which was shot here. The picturesque landscape of snow-clad mountains, lush meadows and splashing streams add to the beauty of the valley.

The rest of the evening is at leisure for independent activities. Overnight in Pahalgam.

Day 6

On to Srinagar- This morning, after breakfast drive to Srinagar, en route visit the Mughal Gardens – Shalimar Garden, Chasmashahi and Nishant Gardens. Nishat Garden is situated on the banks of the picturesque Dal Lake, with the Zabarwan Mountains forming its backdrop. Also known as ‘The garden of bliss’, it was laid out in 1633. Designed in Persian style, this is a 12-terrace garden interspersed with fountains, colorful flowerbeds and lush green lawns. Shalimar Garden is one of the most popular Mughal gardens in the city. Covering an area of about 30 acres, it was commissioned in 1616 by Emperor Jahangir for his wife Nur Jahan. Another garden named Faiz Baksh was added later during the rule of Emperor Shah Jahan (1628-1658). Chashma Shahi, an ancient garden established in 1632 by Emperor Shah Jahan, is considered to be one of the smallest Mughal gardens in Srinagar. Divided into three different sections with an aqueduct, waterfalls and fountains, it provides magnificent views of the Himalayas and the Dal Lake. On arrival in Srinagar, check- into the hotel. Post lunch, visit the Shankaracharya Temple. Shankaracharya Temple, is situated at a height of about 1,100 ft. on a hilltop on the southeast of the city, offers splendid views of the valley and the snow-capped mountains of the Pir Panjal range. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is believed that this Hindu temple was built in 371 BC, making it one of the oldest in the valley of Kashmir. Evening, return to your hotel. The rest of the evening is at leisure for independent activities.

Overnight in Srinagar.

Day 7

Depart Srinagar Today, bid farewell to your Kashmir tour, as you are transferred to the airport in Srinagar for your onward journey.