Kashmir and jammu 6 Days 5 Nights Tour Itinerary: Srinagar to Srinagar
Pick up from Srinagar Airport and Later Srinagar Sightseeing
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.
Excursion to Pahalgam
Embark on a captivating single-day excursion to Pahalgam from Srinagar, a journey renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty.
Your day begins with an early departure from Srinagar. The drive to Pahalgam is approximately 92 km and typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, offering scenic vistas along the way.
En route, you will experience the following:
- Avantipur Ruins: Explore the ancient ruins of a 9th-century temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, showcasing historical architecture.
Upon arrival in Pahalgam, you will be greeted by the serene beauty of the "Valley of Shepherds." Your day in Pahalgam will be dedicated to exploring its natural wonders:
- Betaab Valley: Named after the Bollywood movie "Betaab," this lush green valley is surrounded by pine forests and offers stunning picnic spots.
- Aru Valley: Known for its meadows and trekking routes, Aru Valley provides opportunities for horse riding and enjoying the pristine mountain scenery.
- Chandanwari: The starting point for the Amarnath Yatra, Chandanwari offers beautiful snow-capped peaks and a glacial stream.
After a day filled with exploration and natural splendor, you will commence your return journey to Srinagar in the late afternoon, cherishing the memories of your Pahalgam excursion.
Recommended Activities & Sights
Excursion to Sonamarg
Begin your day with an early morning departure from Srinagar. The drive to Sonamarg is approximately 82 km and typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours.
En route, enjoy the scenic beauty:
- Kangan: A small town offering glimpses of rural Kashmiri life.
Upon arrival in Sonamarg, immerse yourself in its breathtaking natural splendor. The rest of your day will be dedicated to exploring the wonders of this alpine valley.
- Thajiwas Glacier: A stunning glacier accessible by a short trek or pony ride, offering panoramic views and opportunities for snow activities (seasonal).
- Zoji La Pass (viewpoint): While not directly accessible for casual tourists, you can witness the gateway to Ladakh from a distance, a historically significant mountain pass.
- Sindh River: Enjoy the serene beauty of the river that flows through the valley, perfect for leisurely walks and photography.
- Horse Riding: Experience the charm of Sonamarg by taking a horse ride through the meadows and towards the surrounding hills.
Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the natural beauty of Sonamarg. In the late afternoon, begin your scenic drive back to Srinagar, cherishing the memories of your Sonamarg excursion.
Local Taxi Union Rule:
Taxi vehicles from Srinagar cannot go beyond Sonamarg main parking. For visiting Thajiwas Glacier, Zero Point, travellers must hire a local Sonamarg union cab/ pony ride available near the taxi stand.
Excursion to Gulmarg
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.
Recommended Activities & Sights
Srinagar Sightseeing
Begin your day exploring the breathtaking beauty of Srinagar, fondly known as the “Paradise on Earth.” This city is surrounded by serene lakes, Mughal gardens, and the majestic Himalayas, offering a perfect blend of nature, history, and spirituality.
- Mughal Gardens: Explore the trio of royal gardens built by Mughal emperors — Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, and Chashme Shahi, known for terraced lawns, fountains, and floral beauty.
- Shankaracharya Temple: Ancient hilltop temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, offering panoramic views of Srinagar and Dal Lake.
- Dal Lake: Enjoy a peaceful Shikara Ride on the lake, passing through floating gardens, lotus blooms, and houseboat clusters.
- Pari Mahal (Palace of Fairies): A seven-terraced garden overlooking Dal Lake, offering stunning sunset views.
- Hazratbal Shrine: Revered mosque on the northern banks of Dal Lake, believed to house a sacred relic of Prophet Muhammad.
- Handicraft & Local Market Visit: Visit the old city markets to shop for Kashmiri carpets, pashmina shawls, saffron, and dry fruits.
Note: Srinagar sightseeing will be planned based on the available time across the day and local traffic conditions. Boat rides, entry fees, and camera charges are payable directly. Evening leisure or Shikara sunset rides are highly recommended for a memorable experience.
Recommended Activities & Sights
Return home from the Paradise
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.
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