Pickup Srinagar Srinagar - Pahalgam - Srinagar - Gulmarg(E) - Flyback frm Srinagar

Upon your arrival at Srinagar Airport (SXR), you will be greeted by our representative. From the airport, you will be comfortably transferred to your pre-booked hotel or houseboat in Srinagar. After checking in and freshening up, enjoy a leisurely lunch.

In the afternoon, embark on a captivating tour of Srinagar, exploring some of its most iconic attractions:

• Nishat Bagh: Known as the "Garden of Joy," this is a beautiful Mughal garden located on the eastern side of Dal Lake, offering stunning views of the Zabarwan Mountains.
• Shalimar Bagh: The largest Mughal garden in Srinagar, famous for its terraced lawns, fountains, and scenic pavilions. It was built by Emperor Jahangir for his wife Nur Jahan.
• Chashma Shahi: A smaller but charming Mughal garden renowned for its natural spring and serene ambiance, providing panoramic views of Dal Lake.
• Shankaracharya Temple: Perched atop a hill, this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva offers breathtaking panoramic views of the entire Srinagar city and the Dal Lake.
• Dal Lake Shikara Ride: Conclude your day with a magical Shikara ride on the serene waters of Dal Lake. Glide past floating gardens, houseboats, and local markets, witnessing the unique lifestyle of the locals.

After a day filled with sightseeing and cultural experiences, you will return to your hotel or houseboat for dinner and an overnight stay in Srinagar.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel or houseboat in Srinagar. The distance between Srinagar and Pahalgam is approximately 124 km, taking about 3-4hours by road, through saffron fields, apple orchards, and scenic countryside.

En Route Sightseeing:

• Awantipora Ruins: Ancient 9th-century Hindu temple ruins built by King Awantivarman along the Jhelum River.
• Pampore Saffron Fields: Kashmir’s famous saffron-growing belt (blooming season: October–November).
• Apple Orchards & Walnut Farms: Enjoy a brief stop to taste or purchase local produce.

Upon arrival in Pahalgam—the Valley of Shepherds—check in to your hotel and relax amid the pine-clad mountains and the Lidder River’s soothing sound.

• Betaab Valley: A lush green valley surrounded by snow peaks, named after the Bollywood film Betaab. (Entry ₹100–₹150 per person)
• Aru Valley: A tranquil meadow about 12 km from town, ideal for photography, horseback rides, and picnics.
• Chandanwari: Starting point of the Amarnath Yatra and a scenic snow point (accessible seasonally).
• Baisaran Valley (Mini Switzerland): A breathtaking hilltop meadow offering panoramic views of the Lidder Valley and snow ranges.
• Lidder River Point: Serene riverbank spot perfect for light adventure activities like rafting (seasonal).

Local Taxi Union Rule:
Private vehicles from Srinagar are not allowed to operate local sightseeing within Pahalgam.
Travelers must hire local union cabs from the Pahalgam taxi stand for Aru, Betaab, and Chandanwari circuits.

• Exact Taxi Union Rates are already displayed on the board of the Taxi Union Stand based on the number of places and vehicle we need.
• Bisaran Valley: Only reachable by pony ride or trek (approx. 5 km uphill). Pony Ride Cost vary ₹1200 – ₹5,000 per person (round trip; negotiable based on season and route).

Note: Sightseeing and pony rides in Pahalgam are subject to weather and time availability.

Today marks your return to Srinagar from Pahalgam, with a day dedicated to exploring the local charm of Srinagar.

Begin your day with a final leisurely breakfast in Pahalgam. Ensure you have completed any last-minute souvenir shopping or a brief stroll by the Lidder River. Check out from your hotel in Pahalgam.

Embark on your journey back to Srinagar. The distance between Pahalgam and Srinagar is approximately 90 km, and the drive typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours.

As you travel towards Srinagar, enjoy the picturesque landscapes. While there are no major designated sightseeing stops directly en route that require a significant detour, the drive itself offers beautiful views of the Kashmiri countryside.

Upon arrival in Srinagar, check into your hotel. After settling in, the afternoon is dedicated to exploring the enchanting local sights of Srinagar:

• Shikara Ride on Dal Lake: Experience the serene beauty of Dal Lake aboard a traditional Shikara, gliding past floating gardens and local life.
• Mughal Gardens: Visit the stunning Mughal Gardens, including Shalimar Bagh (the garden of love) and Nishat Bagh (the garden of joy), known for their terraced lawns, cascading fountains, and vibrant flowerbeds.
• Hazratbal Shrine: A prominent Muslim shrine, revered for housing a relic believed to be a hair of the Prophet Muhammad.
• Shankaracharya Temple: Perched on a hilltop, this ancient temple offers panoramic views of the entire Srinagar valley.

Conclude your day with dinner at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of Kashmiri cuisine.

After breakfast at your hotel/houseboat in Srinagar, proceed for a full-day excursion to Gulmarg, one of Kashmir’s most scenic hill stations, often called the “Meadow of Flowers.”

The distance from Srinagar to Gulmarg is approximately 53 km, taking about 2 to 2.5 hours by road through rolling meadows, pine forests, and mountain villages.

Gulmarg Sightseeings:

• Gulmarg Gondola Ride:
• One of the world’s highest cable cars, operating in two phases. Phase 1 (Kongdori Station – 8,530 ft): Offers panoramic views of the valley and lower slopes. ₹740 per person (to/fro). Phase 2 (Apharwat Peak – 13,780 ft): Reaches close to the Line of Control, often covered in snow year-round. ₹950 per person (to/fro). Combo (Phase 1 + 2): Around ₹1,700 per person. It remains open between 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (last ride subject to weather).

• Ticket Booking: Tickets can be booked online in advance through www.jammukashmircablecar.com. It’s advisable to pre-book, especially during weekends or snow season.

• Golf Course (Seasonal): Asia’s highest green golf course — open from April to November.
• Snow Activities: Skiing, sledging, and snow scooter rides (charges extra, available in winter months).

Important Travel Information (Must Read):

• Local Taxi Union Restrictions: Private tourist vehicles from Srinagar are not allowed beyond Tangmarg during winter or heavy snowfall. Travellers must hire a local Gulmarg union chained tyred vehicle from Tangmarg to reach Gulmarg town and sightseeing points. ₹1,800–₹3,000 per vehicle (round trip), depending on weather and distance covered.
• Gandola Parking: Vehicle will be parked at the parking spot and from there we would need to walk around one KM to reach the base point. However vendors would confuse you and incorrectly inform you about the long walk.

After sightseeing and leisure time in Gulmarg, drive back to Srinagar in the evening and return to your hotel or houseboat.

Note: All activities in Gulmarg are subject to weather and local union regulations. Gondola tickets are non-refundable once booked. Warm clothing and sturdy footwear are essential even in summer months.

Today marks your departure from the serene beauty of Srinagar. After a leisurely breakfast at your accommodation, you will have some free time to revisit a favorite spot or pick up last-minute souvenirs.

• Enjoy a final Kashmiri breakfast.
• Optional: A short shikara ride on Dal Lake for one last glimpse of the floating gardens.
• Prepare for your departure.

You will then proceed to Srinagar International Airport (SXR) for your onward journey. Please ensure you allow ample time for check-in and security procedures.

Departure from Srinagar

• Transfer to Srinagar International Airport (SXR).
• Check-in for your flight.

This concludes your memorable trip to Srinagar. We hope you had a wonderful experience and carry cherished memories back home.