Srinagar(2N) - Gulmarg - Srinagar - Pahalgam - Srinagar (2N) House boat

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.

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.

Srinagar Sightseeings:

• 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.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel or houseboat in Srinagar. The distance between Srinagar and Pahalgam is approximately 90 km, taking about 3 hours 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.

Pahalgam Sightseeings:

• 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.

After breakfast at your hotel in Pahalgam, complete any remaining local sightseeing before heading back to Srinagar. The distance between Pahalgam and Srinagar is approximately 90 km, taking around 3 hours by road through scenic valleys, saffron fields, and lush pine forests.

After breakfast at your hotel/houseboat in Srinagar, proceed for a full-day excursion to Sonamarg, famously known as the “Meadow of Gold.” The distance between Srinagar and Sonamarg is approximately 100 km, and the drive takes around 2 ½ hours one way through beautiful countryside, Sindh Valley, and pine forests along the Sindh River.

Sonamarg Sightseeings:

• Thajiwas Glacier: The most famous attraction of Sonamarg, located about 3 km from the main market. It is reachable only by pony ride or local union cab. Pony Ride Cost: ₹800 – ₹1,500 per person (round trip, negotiable - Cost vary quite a lot, so the figure suggested may not work during your visit.). Local Cab Cost: ₹1,500 – ₹2,000 per cab.
• Zero Point (Baltal): Located near the Zojila Pass at 11,500 ft, offering snow even in summer months.
• Access: Local union cab from Sonamarg taxi stand. Approx. Cost: ₹5,000 – ₹7,000 per cab (round trip).
• Baltal Valley: Base point for the Amarnath Yatra; scenic stop en route to Zero Point.
• Sindh River Viewpoint: Perfect spot for photography or light refreshment breaks.

Local Taxi Union Rule:
Taxi vehicles from Srinagar cannot go beyond Sonamarg main parking. For visiting Thajiwas Glacier, Zero Point, or Baltal, travellers must hire a local Sonamarg union cab available near the taxi stand.