5-Day Honeymoon Trip to Kashmir- The Heaven On Earth
Highlights
Wander across the Mughal Gardens and other attractions in Srinagar
Take a Shikara ride in the Dal Lake
Marvel at the Thajwas glacier in Sonmarg
Go on Asia's highest Gondola ride in Gulmarg
See the saffron fields in Pahalgam
Enjoy pony rides through the mountain trails
Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonmarg, Srinagar
Locations Covered
Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonmarg, Srinagar
nature, cultural, sightseeing
Private Tour
5 Days
Easy
English, Hindi, Urdu
Description
Embark on a honeymoon trip to explore the charm of the most beautiful valleys of Kashmir. Visit the Mughal Gardens and take a traditional Shikara ride in the Dal Lake, try fun winter activities in Gulmarg and enjoy the view of the beautiful landscapes in Sonmarg. Also, travel to Pahalgam, the valley of shepherds and unwind in nature.
Itinerary
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Day 1- Arrival in Srinagar
On arrival at Srinagar Airport, meet the chauffeur at the arrival gate and transfer by taxi to Srinagar City (“Sri” means “Lakshmi or Wealth” and “Nagar” means “Place or City”).
Check into your respective houseboat or hotel and refresh.
After check-in, meet the chauffeur and go sightseeing at the famous Mughal Gardens (Nishat Garden, Shalimar Garden and Chashme Shahi Garden). Just outside the gate of the Nishat Garden is a busy market and a Shikara Ghat (Boat Stand), where you can board a Shikara for a ride in the Dal Lake to Char Chinar (Char means four; an island with four Chinar trees in its four corners) or Hazratbal Shrine and many other places.
Overnight in Houseboat.
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Day 2- Srinagar - Pahalgam
After breakfast, meet the chauffeur and begin a day tour of Pahalgam.
Reach Pahalgam, eat lunch and go to Jamia Masjid, Gauri Shankar Temple, Betaab Valley, Chandanwari, Aru Valley, Baisaran (Mini Switzerland) and Pahalgam Golf Course.
Overnight in Houseboat.
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Day 3- Pahalgam - Gulmarg
After breakfast, meet the chauffeur and start a day trip to Gulmarg.
On the way, take a halt at a viewpoint for picturesque sights.
Reach Gulmarg, have lunch and head to Gulmarg Gondola Cable Car, Gulmarg Golf Course, Maharani Temple, St Mary's church.
Overnight in Houseboat.
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Day 4- Gulmarg - Sonmarg
After breakfast, meet the chauffeur and proceed to explore Sonmarg.
On the way, do some sightseeing on the Sind River.
Then, have lunch and go to Thajiwas Glacier, Zero Point, Kolahoi Glacier and Machoi Glacier. You must need to hire either pony (Horse Ride) or a local taxi at your own cost to reach there.
Overnight in Houseboat.
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Day 5- Srinagar Departure
- After breakfast, meet the chauffeur who will transfer you to Srinagar Airport for your return flight.
What's Included
Welcome drink in Houseboat
One hour Shikara (Boat) ride on Dal Lake
Accommodation on MAP basis (Room + Breakfast and One Major Meal)
All transfers and sightseeing by Non Ac Deluxe Cab similar as per given programme
Pick up from Srinagar Airport and drop-off at Srinagar Airport
Rates are valid until September 2020
All toll taxes, vehicle parking and driver allowances
04 Nights in Dawn Group of Houseboats/Similar on Dal lake, Srinagar
English-speaking Indian tour guide/chauffeur
What's Excluded
Air and train tickets
Inner line sightseeing in Pahalgam, Gulmarg and Sonmarg, etc
Horse ride, Gondola cable car ride
Entrance tickets for Gardens, Monuments, Museums, etc
Guide Charges
Any other thing which is not mentioned in inclusions
Know Before You Go
The tour is available from 29 May to 30 Sep on all days of the week.
It is a miracle to visit the “Paradise on earth”, from soundly mountain lakes to naturalistic snow-covered mountains, coolest airwaves; to charming holidays on Dal Lake. Get some time from your busy schedule and live some time for yourself. Book a tour to rediscover nature and feel close to nature. You can enjoy nature and the operators will take care of the necessary arrangements. It is this contrast which led the poets of all nations to speak of it as an "Emerald set in Pearls".
Nishat Garden is the most famous Mughal Garden of Kashmir Valley. Varied reasons contribute to the popularity of the garden like its historic importance, architectural style, garden layout, lush green parks, eye-catching colouring blossoms and so on. Itis a terraced Mughal Garden built on the eastern side of the scenic Dal Lake with Zabarwan Mountains as its backdrop. At fifth terrace where a stone bench is provided across the channel to enjoy the scenic beauty of the garden. Nishat Garden was built by the elder brother of Mughal Empress Nur Jahan, named Abdul Hasan Asaf Khan who also designed the layout of the garden and is opened in year 1633AD. Nishat Bagh in Urdu means “Garden of Joy”, “Garden of Gladness” and “Garden of Delight”. It is the second-largest MughalGardenin Kashmir Valley. The largest in size is the ShalimarGarden, which is also located on the bank of Dal Lake. Nishat Garden offers a panoramic view of the world-famed Dal Lake.
Shalimar Garden (Bagh): One of the most beautiful Mughal Gardens in the entire country, the Shalimar Garden in Kashmir, Srinagar is truly a colourful gift of nature. The word “Shalimar” in Sanskrit means, “Abode of Love”. Mughal Emperor Jahangir built the Shalimar Bagh for his wife Nur Jahan (Nur Jahan means light of the world) in 1619AD. Located on the right bank of the Dal Lake, this Persian modelled garden is a three terraced Mughal Garden, is a testimony to the architectural grandeur of the past and is laced with several landmarks and structures that once served the royals. “Diwan-e-Aam” (Hall of Public Audience), “Diwan-e-Khas” (Hall of Private Audience), “Zenana (Women) Terrace”, “Black Pavilion”, “Shah Nahar” and the magnificent 410 fountains within the premises are the main attraction points of this garden. This garden was the inspiration for other gardens of the same name, notably the Shalimar Bagh in Delhi built in 1653AD, which now also has an upscale colony. The Black Pavilion in the top terrace of the Shalimar Bagh has the famous inscription in the Persian language, which says; Agar firdaus bar roy-e zamin ast, hamin ast-o, hamin ast-o, hamin ast-o (If there is a paradise on earth, it is here, it is here, it is here). The garden is considered very beautiful during the autumn season due to the colour change in leaves of the famed Chinar trees. Thus, over the years, the garden was extended and improved by many rulers and called by different names as “Farah Baksh” (the delightful) and “Faiz Baksh” (the bountiful) but the most popular name Shalimar Bagh continues to this day. As even now, it is one of the prominent visitors’ attractions around the Dal Lake. In addition, historians say that when Mughal Emperor Jahangir was asked on his deathbed about his cherished desire he is credited to have said; Kashmir, the rest is worthless.
Chashme Shahi Garden: Chashme Shahi or Chashma i Shahi literally means the “Royal Spring” is a freshwater spring known for its medicinal benefits and the tourists are allowed to fetch water from the spring. The cool water of the spring is highly refreshing and digestive. The former Prime Minister of India Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru used to get the water of the spring to Delhi. This Mughal Garden is named Chashme Shahi after the spring around which it is built. The spring was said to be founded by “Rupa Bhawani”. She is one of the popular female saints of Kashmir from Sahib Clan in which the word Sahib denotes her family name. So the spring she discovered was initially named as “Chashme Sahibi”, which over years becomes Chashme Shahi and the garden around it is named as Chashme Shahi Garden.
Overlooking the gorgeous Dal Lake, this Mughal Garden is perched in the Zabarwan Mountains. This tranquil garden is a mixed blend of Mughal and Irani architecture. The garden was built in 1632AD by then the Mughal Governor Ali Mardan Khan as per the orders of the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan to gift his elder son Prince Dara Shikoh. The garden is also close to Jammu & Kashmir’s Governor Residence Raj Bhawan. It is the smallest garden among the three Mughal Gardens of Srinagar; the Shalimar Garden is the largest and the Nishat Garden is the second largest. All the three gardens were built at the left bank of the Dal Lake, with Zabarwan Mountains at the backdrop.
Pahalgam (Abode of Shepherds): Kashmir in its south is probably at its best. In the centre of the beauty of South Kashmir lies Pahalgam. It is yet another heavenly place in Kashmir Valley. This beautiful resort is located in the South of Kashmir at a distance of about 96km from Srinagar at an altitude of 2130 metres. Pahalgam was once humble shepherd's village with breathtaking views. Now Pahalgam is the famous hill resort in Kashmir Valley and cools even during the summer. Pahalgam is said to have derived its name from two words “Pahal” meaning “Shepherd” and “Gam” meaning “Village” collectively representing “Abode of Shepherds”. Once you are in Pahalgam you will get to know all the reasons why this magnificent hill station is among the most sought after destinations in Jammu and Kashmir. It is located at the confluence point of Lidder River and Sheeshnag Lake. Thickly pine trees, breathtaking vistas of meadows and the snow-clad Himalayan Mountains surround the Pahalgam. Pahalgam is also a famous hill station where many films have been shot.
Jamia Masjid: The green roof masjid just near the main market with its beautiful design is a major attraction. The location of the masjid also adds another dimension to its aura. The Lidder River below and the Mountains as the backdrop make it a peaceful place to worship.
Gauri Shankar Temple: This temple is one of the oldest temples in Pahalgam. The temple is small but much revered by the Hindus. Gouri Shankar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and it is said that Lord Shiva left his bull here before travelling to Amarnath. An Amusement Park has come up where you can take rides. River Rafting in the Lidder River has been introduced. You can play golf in the Golf Course as well. Pahalgam is also base camp for the Annual Hindu Pilgrimage to the Holy Cave of Amarnath. Around Pahalgam are many inner line sightseeing places. Some can be done by the local cab of Pahalgam Taxi Stand and some by Horse (Pony) Ride.
Betaab Valley: Earlier known as Hagan or Hagoon Valley, BetaabValleygot its name from the Sunny Deol and Amrita Singh hit debut Bollywood movie Betaab that was shot in 1983. The Betaab Valley falls between Pahalgam and Chandanwari. The BetaabValleyis surrounded by lush green meadows, snow-clad mountains featuring deodar and pine forests and covered with dense vegetation. The crystal clear & chilly water of the stream bubbling down from the snowy hills is a delight. Locals here drink this chilly water. Betaab Valley is a perfect gateway to enjoy the heavenly pleasure of Mother Nature. The Betaab Valley has also been featured in several Hindi Movies and to name a few are Aarzoo, Kashmir Ki Kali, Jab Jab Phool Khile, Kabhie Kabhie, Silsila, Rockstar, Jab Tak Hai Jaan and several other Movies.
Chandanwari: Chandanwari is at a distance of about 15km from Pahalgam. The road passes through old Pahalgam Town with traditional Kashmiri Houses. At your right side, Lidder River will be flowing and you will be passing through hills and bend roads. Many waterfalls will be there at both sides of the road. These waterfalls are created by the melting of snow from the mountains. Chandanwari is the end of road journey and devotees of Amaranth Yatra have to trek from here to reach the Holy Cave of Sri Amarnath.
Aru Valley: It is located around 12km from Pahalgam. The valley is known for its scenic meadows, lakes and mountains. It is popular among the tourists for its peaceful environment and scenic beauty. It is a base camp for trekking to the “Kolahoi Glacier”, “Tarsar Lake” and “Marsar Lake”. There are about 20 alpine lakes, peaks and meadows around the Aru Valley. The Overa-Aru Biosphere Reserve is also home for several rare and endangered species. There is a small zoo on the way to Aru valley.
Baisaran (Mini Switzerland); Baisaran is an eye-catching meadow. Often dubbed as Mini Switzerland because of its long dark meadows resembling the ones in Switzerland. The dense pine forests that give the green carpet look to the meadow provides a contrasting hue to snow-capped peaks of the surrounding mountains. Additionally, Baisaran is also an ideal campsite for trekkers who want to move further up to “Tulian Lake”. Accessible through ponies (horse) ride from Pahalgam, this off-beaten track offers panoramic sights of Lidder Valley.
Pahalgam Golf Course: The Golf Course is equally beautiful and standard. Golfing in Pahalgam, amid great natural beauty, dancing Lidder River and splendid greenery is a charm. Initially established as a 9-hole golf course, the Pahalgam Golf Course has now been upgraded to an 18-hole golf course.
Gulmarg (Meadow of Flowers): Gulmarg is one of the most beautiful places of Jammu and Kashmir. The best thing about Gulmarg is that it is a year-round resort. One can visit it any time in the year and enjoy the numerous natural as well as man-made bounties that this beautiful place is blessed with. Gulmarg is a lush green meadow at an altitude of 2730 meters above sea level and at a distance of 60km from Srinagar city. The road from Tangmarg climbs uphill in the last 12km to Gulmarg passing through forests of pine and fir. At one point known simply as “View Point” travellers generally stop their vehicles for a few minutes and look out a spectacle of snow-covered mountains almost within touching distance. Gulmarg is a heavenly place and is beautiful hilly pasture surrounded by lofty snow-clad mountains. This picturesque hill station is popularly known as the “Meadow of Flowers” and is further adorned by the magical beauty of the mighty Himalayan Range. Today Gulmarg is not only a mountain resort of exemplary beauty, but it also has the highest green golf course in the world and is the country's major ski resort in the winter.
The chief attraction for the picnickers is, however, the cable car, Gondola. The cable car was originally meant to take skiers up to the higher and tougher slopes, but it became a favourite among the picnickers as well because it is a beautiful way to access the higher and more beautiful places around Gulmarg like; Khilanmarg, Apparwath Mountain, Frozen Lake etc. These places are even more beautiful than Gulmarg and remain snow-clad for the most part of the year. In the present times, Gulmarg has been declared the Winter Games Capital of India by Winter Games Federation of India and boasts the highest and the longest ski slope in Asia. Gulmarg has been the shooting location for many Bollywood films like Bobby, Jab Tak Hai Jaan, Yeh Jawanni Hai Deewani, Highway, Phantom, Haider etc.
In May 1998, Gondola Phase 1 between Gulmarg to Kungdoor began its commercial operation. In May 2005, Gondola Phase 2 was also inaugurated making it one of the longest and highest ropeways of Asia. The chairlift installed as a part of Phase 3 of the project began its operations in 2011. India’s National Winter Games were held in Gulmarg in 1998, 2004 and 2008.
Outside vehicles are not allowed in Gulmarg except for pick-up and drop to hotels. Guests are required to move around the Gulmarg on a horseback or by walking. If there will be snow on the road of Gulmarg, then you have to hire local Taxi at own cost from Tangmarg to Gulmarg (Nearly 12km distance from Tangmarg to Gulmarg) as per Government’s precautionary measures for Travellers.
Around Gulmarg are many inner line sightseeing places:
Gulmarg Golf Course: Gulmarg Golf Course is a dream destination for the golfers. Whether a golfer or not, a visit to this remarkable site is a must in the Gulmarg itinerary. Gulmarg Golf Course counted among the most beautiful golf courses in India. This golf course was started by the British who used Gulmarg as a holiday resort. In 1904, this golf course was opened to golf lovers. In 1922, first Golf Championship was organized at this golf course. Many people visit the golf course just for its beauty and not for the game.
Maharani Temple: Maharani Temple located on a small hillock in the middle of Gulmarg hill station previously served as the royal temple of Dogra Kings often known as Mohineshwar Shivalalaya. It houses idols of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is also referred to as Rani Temple, as it was built by Mohini Bai Sisodhia, the wife of the erstwhile ruler of Kashmir Maharaja Hari Singh. Maharaja Hari Singh was the last king of Kashmir who ruled the Valley. Mohini Bai Sisodhia is believed to have spent some time at the temple worshipping Lord Shiva.
St Mary's Church: St Mary's Church is a Roman Catholic Church. Constructed in the early 20th century, the church is a beautiful example of Victorian architecture.
Gulmarg Gondola Cable Car: Gondola is the name of the cable car lift that operates in the famous ski resort of Gulmarg. Gulmarg Gondola in Kashmir became the world’s second-highest operating cable car after the closure of Merida Cable car in Venezuela in 2008. Each gondola is a yellow coloured cabin. The cable car operates in two phases.
Phase 1 takes you to a height of 10,000 meters above sea level. In Phase 1 you land in Kungdoor, seven springs is here. It is a natural water resource, where seven springs originate naturally. From here you can go to Khilanmarg, another beautiful place and you can access ski slopes for skiing as well.
Phase 2 is far better; however, it takes you to a fearful height of 13,500 meters above the sea level with a steep height to the rocky mountain of Apparwath. It also at times travels through clouds making the ride a dream. From the Apparwath Mountain, you can have a fascinating panoramic view of the whole valley of Kashmir. You may also visit the frozen Alpather Lake. It remains frozen until June.
Gondola ride in Gulmarg is too good an experience to be missed. Many people even consider it a blunder to miss the Gondola ride, particularly Phase 2. Tickets are available online and also at the ticket counter in Gulmarg. However, it is better to book online as the counters are usually overcrowded. Even if you are not a skier, you must take a Gondola ride.
However, due to the weather and steep rise in altitude, there are some restrictions in place. Persons suffering from heart ailments, respiratory problems and children below the age of 5 years are not allowed. Also, the weather can get very cold in any part of the year, so it is advisable to carry some warm clothes along. Warm clothes like jackets, overcoats and raincoats are hired in Tangmarg area at reasonable rates. Don’t forget to take sunscreen for your eyes and face, as it is white everywhere and you may end up having snow burns, as snow reflects most of the sunlight it receives.
Sonmarg (Meadow of Gold): Sonamarg an alpine valley situated at the bank of Sindh River. Having served as the base for the upward journey to Central Asia through Ladakh from ancient times, the place received the attention of the British who transformed Sonmarg into a hill station. Sonmarg situated on Srinagar-Leh highway at a distance of about 100km from Srinagar at an altitude of 9200 feet above sea level. The route from Srinagar to Sonamarg is equally enthralling and beautiful. The drive goes along a furious Sindh River, dominated by the superb views of majestic Harmukh Range that leaves the travellers fascinated. The Sindh River that meanders through the valley abounds with Trout and Mahseer Fishes. River Rafting in Sindh River is the prime interest here. The water of the Sindh River is fast and hence provides the real excitement for the adventure lovers. The Sindh River is the largest tributary of the Jehlum River in the Kashmir Valley.
The Sonmarg literally means the “Meadow of Gold”. The Meadow of Gold got its name from its snow-clad mountains that reflect the magical views of the cerulean sky. A number of Hindi movies have been pictured in the serene beauties of Sonamarg. The Sonmarg receives heavy snowfall during winter and therefore it remains cut off from rest of the Valley during that time. In winters, the local traffic is permitted only up to Gagangear Village.
Sonmarg is nestled within the imposing Himalayan Peaks. In its vicinity lies the great Himalayan glaciers of Kashmir Valley namely “Kolahoi Glacier” and “Machoi Glacier”. Also in its vicinity lies “Thajiwas Glacier” which is a major tourist attraction. One can hire a pony (horse) from Sonmarg to Thajiwas Glacier or if adventurous can set foot on the trek to enjoy nature. Sonamarg is also base camp for the Annual Hindu Pilgrimage to the Holy Cave of Amarnath. The Sonmarg route is shorter in distance than Pahalgam route to reach the Holy Cave.
Thajiwas Glacier: Snow masked Thajiwas Glacier is one of the most enchanting tourist places of Jammu and Kashmir. Thajiwas Glacier is located at a height of 3000 metres above sea level. It is covered with snow almost all around the year. It is a lovely vantage point to observe snow. Thajiwas Glacier is among the most adventurous treks from Sonmarg. The trek passes through lush greenery. Tourists can enjoy delightful views of the glacier and its surroundings from the hill. The meadow is covered with fir and pine trees and the area has a number of waterfalls making it look like Paradise. From Sonmarg, Thajiwas Glacier is just a few kilometres away. Transportation in the form of pony (horse) ride or local cab is easily available from Sonmarg to Thajiwas Glacier. Be very careful from the pony & car touts. They will miss guide you and ask a handsome amount to access Thaijwas Glacier.
Outside vehicles will not have access to reach Thajiwas Glacier. You must need to hire either pony or local Taxi at own cost to reach there.
Meeting Point
Airport Check In, Srinagar
Cancellation Policy
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For cancellations upto 2 days before the tour -
Refund of 80% of the tour price.
Price
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