Upon your arrival at Srinagar Airport, our representative will warmly receive you and transfer you to your hotel in Srinagar. After check-in, take some time to relax and freshen up.
Later, proceed for local sightseeing of the famous Mughal Gardens.
The Mughal Gardens are a fine example of Persian-inspired landscaping, especially the Charbagh pattern, designed to symbolize harmony between humans and nature. These gardens are known for their terraced layouts, flowing water channels, and beautiful fountains.
You will visit:
Chashme Shahi - Built in 1632 by Ali Mardan Khan under the orders of Shah Jahan, this garden is famous for its natural spring, known as the Royal Spring, and offers a magnificent view of Dal Lake.
Nishat Bagh - Known as the “Garden of Joy,†it is the second-largest Mughal garden in Kashmir, located on the banks of Dal Lake with the Zabarwan Mountains in the backdrop.
Shalimar Bagh - Built in 1619 by Mughal Emperor Jahangir for his wife Noor Jahan, this garden is considered one of the finest examples of Mughal horticulture.
Botanical Garden - A garden with a wide collection of plants used for research, conservation, and education, where plants are typically labeled with their botanical names.
Further, continue your sightseeing with:
Pari Mahal - A seven-terraced garden located on the Zabarwan mountain range, offering panoramic views of Srinagar and Dal Lake. It reflects beautiful Islamic architecture from the Mughal era.
Shankaracharya Temple - Situated on Shankaracharya Hill at about 1,000 feet above the valley, this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva offers breathtaking views of the city.
In the evening, return to the hotel.
Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at the hotel in Srinagar.
After an early breakfast at the hotel in Srinagar, proceed for a full-day excursion to Sonamarg.
Located approximately 80 km from Srinagar, Sonamarg-also known as the "Meadow of Gold"-is a stunning alpine valley in the Ganderbal district. Surrounded by majestic snow-capped mountains, lush meadows, and flowing rivers, it marks the beginning of a breathtaking journey into nature’s paradise.
Sonamarg holds historical importance as it once served as a gateway to the ancient Silk Route connecting Kashmir with China. It also acts as a base camp for Ladakh and holds strategic importance for India. During winter, the entire valley gets covered in snow, resembling a sheet of white gold.
Places & Activities in Sonamarg
Thajiwas Glacier
A major attraction where you can enjoy snow even during summer. Pony rides are available to reach the glacier.
Zoji La Pass
A high-altitude mountain pass offering thrilling views and connecting Kashmir Valley to Ladakh.
Gangabal Lake, Gadsar Lake, Vishansar Lake
Pristine alpine lakes known for their natural beauty and trekking routes.
Sonamarg is especially famous for its lush valleys covered with vibrant yellow flowers during spring, along with glaciers, serene lakes, and breathtaking landscapes.
Important Note
After reaching Sonamarg, sightseeing beyond a certain point (like Zero Point, Thajiwas Glacier route, and Fish Point for activities such as underwater balloon rides) is accessible only by local Union Cab or pony rides, which are not included in the standard package.
Evening
In the late evening, return back to Srinagar.
Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at the hotel in Srinagar.
After breakfast at the hotel in Srinagar, proceed for a full-day excursion to Gulmarg.
Popularly known as the "Meadow of Flowers," Gulmarg is one of the most beautiful hill stations in Kashmir. It is especially famous for its snow-covered landscapes in winter and lush green meadows in summer. Gulmarg is also a major destination for skiing and other adventure activities.
Top Attractions & Activities in Gulmarg
Skiing at Apharwat Peak - A paradise for winter sports lovers
Gondola Ride (Cable Car) - One of the highest cable cars in the world
Trekking to Alpather Lake - A scenic high-altitude trek
Golfing at Gulmarg Golf Course - One of the highest golf courses globally
Bird Watching at Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve
Photography at Ningle Nallah - Known for its serene beauty
Pony Ride to Khilanmarg - Offers stunning panoramic views
Temple Visit - Explore ancient temples in Gulmarg
Gulmarg Gondola Ride
The Gondola ride (self-paid) is one of the main highlights of Gulmarg and is operated in two phases:
Phase 1: Gulmarg to Kongdori
Phase 2: Kongdori to Apharwat Peak
This ride offers breathtaking views of snow-covered mountains and access to various snow activities.
Approx. Ticket Cost (as per Govt. rates):
Phase 1: ₹800 per person
Phase 2: ₹1000 per person
Shikara Ride on Dal Lake
In the evening, return to Srinagar and check in to a traditional houseboat.
Enjoy a complimentary 1-hour Shikara ride on Dal Lake.
A Shikara is a traditional wooden boat, typically made from deodar wood, with a beautifully decorated canopy. It is commonly used for transportation and sightseeing on the lake and usually accommodates up to six people. The peaceful ride across the lake offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, floating gardens, and local life.
Evening
Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in a houseboat at Srinagar.
After breakfast at the hotel in Srinagar, proceed for a scenic drive to Pahalgam, also known as the \"Valley of Shepherds.\"
The drive (approx. 2-3 hours) is filled with beautiful views. En route, you will pass through saffron fields and visit the historic ruins of Awantipora Ruins, built during the reign of King Avantivarman.
Arrival & Local Sightseeing in Pahalgam
On arrival, explore the natural beauty of Pahalgam, known for its lush green valleys, pine forests, and the flowing Lidder River. You can also stroll through the local market and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Visit popular sightseeing spots (by local transport):
Betaab Valley - A scenic valley with lush meadows and a beautiful river, famous for its cinematic landscapes.
Aru Valley - A picturesque village known for its stunning views and trekking routes.
Chandanwari - The starting point of the Amarnath Yatra, surrounded by snow and mountains.
Baisaran Valley - Often called \"Mini Switzerland,\" accessible by пешway or pony ride, offering panoramic views.
Mamleshwar Temple - An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Other attractions include Sheshnag Lake and Tulian Lake, known for their pristine beauty and trekking routes.
Things to Do in Pahalgam
Trekking
White Water Rafting in Lidder River
Horse Riding
Camping
Angling & Fishing
Shopping in local markets
Important Note
Sightseeing in Pahalgam (including Betaab Valley, Aru Valley, and Chandanwari) is accessible only by local Union Taxi, which is not included in the package. Charges typically range from ₹1250 to ₹2100 depending on the number of places covered.
Baisaran Valley is one of the most recommended spots and can be reached either by walking or by pony ride. It is known for its unique natural beauty, even though it is not always snow-covered.
Evening
After a full day of sightseeing, check in to your hotel in Pahalgam.
Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at the hotel in Pahalgam.
After a delightful breakfast at the hotel, proceed to check out. You will be transferred to Srinagar International Airport for your onward journey.
Your memorable tour to Kashmir concludes here, leaving you with wonderful experiences to cherish forever.
Inclusions
Individual cab from Srinagar to Srinagar for 5 days as per itinerary
Warm welcome drink on arrival at the hotel
Accommodation for 2 adults in 1 double-sharing room for 4 nights
MAP Meal Plan – Breakfast & Dinner included
Individual cab for all sightseeing as per itinerary
All applicable expenses included:
Parking charges
Toll taxes
Luxury tax
Green tax
Fuel charges
Driver allowance
Transportation: Maruti Suzuki Swift Dzire
Complimentary 1-hour Shikara ride
Exclusions
Airfare / Train fare
Guide charges
Medical expenses (doctor on call, medicines, etc.)
Heater charges (to be paid directly to the hotelier)
Personal expenses: laundry, shopping, tips, etc.
Any meals not mentioned in the itinerary
Adventure activities (skiing, paragliding, etc.)
Monument entry fees / camera charges
Gulmarg Gondola tickets
Related Trek
End Of Trip
FAQs
"Charm of Kashmir" frequently asked questions
General Info
You will require a passport valid for 6 months from entry, a copy of travel insurance and flight tickets, and two passport-sized photos.
After you make the deposit, you will need to provide details like your arrival and departure date. Our staff members will then brief you with additional information related to the trek.
We advise booking your arrival and departure flights in advance for smooth travel. It is also recommended that you add a day or two additional days during your intended stay in case of flight cancellations or delays. Please be aware that we will not be responsible for any inconvenience related to international flights.
There are no hidden costs or fees if you travel solo. However, you will be charged accordingly if you don\'t want to join a group and would rather book a private trip.
The EBC Luxury Trek cost can range from USD 800 to USD 5000, depending on the itinerary, package, and service included.
Guide, Porter, and Trek Permits
Yes, hiring a guide is an integral part of a successful trek, even if you have previous trek experience. A guide\'s expertise will help create alternative plans and arrangements for unexpected occurrences.
Our guide and staff speak English; their speaking skills are based on field experiences rather than formal education. Even though they are not as fluent as native English speakers, they will be able to communicate effectively.
Hiring a porter(helper) is beneficial as they will be responsible for your luggage. This will allow you to hike freely without physically straining yourself. A porter(helper) will carry a maximum weight limit of 22 kg for every two travelers. If the weight limit exceeds, you will be charged accordingly.
Tipping is an act of expressing gratitude for the hard work and dedication of the guide and porter(helper). We suggest tipping based on the number of participants in a group and consider allocating at least 10% of the tip for every traveler.
You will need a Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit (NPR 3300), TIMS (Trekkers\' Information Management System) (NPR 2000), and a Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit, which costs NPR 3,000 per head for the trek. We will arrange these documents on your behalf.
