Overview
Kashmir is often described as Paradise on Earth. With a history dating back more than 2000 years, and tourism as a chief component of its economy, Kashmir is one of India’s most popular destinations for both international and domestic tourists.
Highlights
- Srinagar: Explore the famous Dal Lake, Mughal gardens, and historic sites.
- Gulmarg: Enjoy panoramic views, lush meadows, and the famous Gulmarg Gondola.
- Pahalgam: Discover the picturesque landscapes, lush forests, and the serene Lidder River.
- Local Culture: Experience traditional Kashmiri cuisine, crafts, and hospitality.
- Outdoor Activities: Engage in scenic boat rides, nature walks, and optional adventure sports.
Detailed Itinerary
- Morning:
- Arrive at Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport, Srinagar.
- Transfer to your hotel and check-in.
- Refresh and have a traditional Kashmiri Kehwa.
- Afternoon:
- Visit the Mughal Gardens:
- Nishat Bagh: Located on the eastern side of Dal Lake, Nishat Bagh offers splendid views of the lake and the snow-capped Pir Panjal mountain range.
- Shalimar Bagh: The largest Mughal garden in Kashmir, known for its exquisite architecture and stunning layout.
- Evening:
- Enjoy a Shikara ride on Dal Lake, visit the floating markets.
- Stroll along Boulevard Road, exploring local shops.
- Overnight: Stay at a hotel in Srinagar.
Day 2 :
Gulmarg Day Trip
- Morning:
- Depart early for Gulmarg (52 km, approximately 2 hours drive).
- En route, enjoy the beautiful landscapes and scenic villages.
- Afternoon:
- Gulmarg Gondola Ride: Take the cable car up to Kongdoori (Phase 1) and Apharwat Peak (Phase 2).
- Enjoy breathtaking views of the snow-clad mountains.
- Activities: Depending on snow conditions, participate in skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.
- If there’s no snow, you can enjoy a walk around the meadows or try golf at the Gulmarg Golf Course.
- Lunch: Have lunch at one of the local restaurants or carry a packed lunch.
- Evening:
- Visit the historic St. Mary's Church and the Maharani Temple.
- Return to Srinagar.
- Overnight: Stay at a hotel or houseboat in Srinagar.
Day 3 :
Sonamarg Day Trip
- Morning:
- Depart early for Sonamarg (80 km, approximately 2.5 hours drive).
- The drive offers spectacular views of the Sindh Valley and surrounding mountains.
- Afternoon:
- Thajiwas Glacier: Hire a pony or trek to the glacier.
- Enjoy the stunning glacial views and the snow-covered landscape.
- Sindh River: Spend some time by the river, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.
- Lunch: Enjoy a picnic by the river or have lunch at a local restaurant.
- Evening:
- Return to Srinagar.
- Overnight: Stay at a hotel or houseboat in Srinagar.
Day 4 :
Doodhpathri Day Trip
- Morning:
- Depart early for Doodhpathri (42 km, approximately 2 hours drive).
- The drive takes you through charming villages and lush green landscapes.
- Afternoon:
- Exploration: Wander through the meadows, pine forests, and alongside the pristine river. Doodhpathri, known as the "Valley of Milk," is famous for its serene beauty and clear water.
- Activities: Enjoy horse riding, hiking, or just relax and have a picnic in the beautiful surroundings.
- Lunch: Carry a packed lunch or enjoy a meal at a local eatery.
- Evening:
- Return to Srinagar.
- Free time for leisure or additional local sightseeing.
- Overnight: Stay at a hotel or houseboat in Srinagar.
Day 5 :
Srinagar to Pahalgam
- Morning:
- Check-out from your accommodation in Srinagar.
- Depart for Pahalgam (90 km, approximately 2.5 hours drive).
- En route, visit the saffron fields at Pampore and the Avantipur Ruins (an ancient Hindu temple complex).
- Afternoon:
- Check-in to your hotel in Pahalgam.
- Betaab Valley: Visit this picturesque valley, named after the Bollywood movie "Betaab," known for its lush green meadows and snow-capped mountains.
- Aru Valley: Explore this quaint village and enjoy activities like horse riding and trekking.
- Lunch: Have lunch at a local restaurant or a packed lunch in one of the valleys.
- Evening:
- Return to your hotel and relax.
- Optional visit to the Pahalgam market for some shopping and local snacks.
- Overnight: Stay at a hotel in Pahalgam.
Day 6 :
Pahalgam to Srinagar
- Morning:
- Further exploration of Pahalgam.
- Baisaran Valley: Also known as the "Mini Switzerland of India," Baisaran offers stunning views and lush greenery.
- Lidder River: Spend some time by the river, enjoy trout fishing (with prior permits), or just relax by the water.
- Lunch: At a local restaurant or a packed lunch by the river.
- Afternoon:
- Check-out from your hotel in Pahalgam.
- Depart for Srinagar.
- Evening:
- Arrive in Srinagar and check-in to your accommodation.
- Visit the local markets for shopping or take a relaxing walk around Dal Lake.
- Dinner at a local restaurant to enjoy more Kashmiri delicacies.
- Overnight: Stay at a hotel or houseboat in Srinagar.
Day 7 :
Departure
- Morning:
- Check-out from your accommodation.
- Transfer to Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport for your departure flight.
- If time permits, visit a local bakery for some traditional Kashmiri bakery items like Sheermal, Baqerkhani, and Kulcha to take home
- Early morning safari to maximize your chances of spotting tigers and other wildlife.
- Return to the lodge for breakfast.
- Free time for relaxation or exploring the local area.
- Optional afternoon safari or nature walk.
- Dinner and overnight stay at the lodge.
Day 10 :
Bandhavgarh to Delhi
- After breakfast, drive back to Delhi (approx. 8 hours).
- Check-in at your hotel and relax.
- Evening at leisure for last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
- Farewell dinner at a local restaurant.
- Overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 11 :
Departure from Delhi
- After breakfast, check out from the hotel.
- Transfer to Indira Gandhi International Airport for your onward journey.
- Depart with memorable experiences of The Tiger's Trail.
Cost
The Cost Includes
- Pick-up or Drop-off service from and to Airport(in our own vehicle)
- Transportation to and from!!
- Food all along the trip(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and a cup of coffee or tea) and accommodations during the trip in hotels with family environment
- Transportation, food, accommodation and insurance of Guide during the trip
- Down jacket, all-season sleeping bag, duffel bag and trekking map(in case if you don’t have your own. Down jacket, sleeping bag and duffel bag must be returned after completion of the trip)
- First Aid Medical Kit(Your guide will carry the Medical Kit but we also advise to bring yourself for your own use, as far as possible)
- All the required permits and paperwork
The Cost Excludes
- International Airfare
- Visa Charges
- Hotel Expenses(In Kathmandu, some packages do include hotel expenses)
- Your travel and medical insurance
- Personal Expenses such as shopping, bar bills, hot shower, telephone, laundry, titbits etc
- Food and accommodations in Kathmandu
- Services not mentioned or not promised by the agent/agency
- Emergency expenses such as expenses on chartered helicopter.
