




Paradise of Kashmir
Shikara rides, Mughal gardens, and the Meadow of Gold
Trip overview
Kashmir earned its nickname 'Heaven on Earth' for good reason. This 5-day group tour is built around three of the most breathtaking valleys in the Indian Himalayas โ Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonmarg โ with plenty of time to slow down in Srinagar itself. You'll sleep on a traditional houseboat, cruise the lotus-covered lanes of Dal Lake at sunrise, and stop by the Mughal gardens that inspired emperors. Ideal for first-time visitors to India and travelers who want mountain beauty without a demanding itinerary.
Trip highlights
- Stay on a hand-carved wooden houseboat on Dal Lake
- Gondola cable car above Gulmarg's alpine meadows
- Nature walks along the Lidder River in Pahalgam
- Sonmarg โ the Meadow of Gold โ with views of Thajiwas Glacier
- Mughal gardens: Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh & Shankaracharya Temple
Day-by-day itinerary
- 1
Arrival in Srinagar + Mughal Gardens
Arrive at Srinagar airport and transfer to your houseboat on Dal Lake. Afternoon visit to Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh (the Garden of Pleasure and Abode of All), followed by Shankaracharya Temple with its sunset view over the valley.
๐ Deluxe houseboat on Dal Lakeโจ Sunset shikara ride - 2
Day trip to Gulmarg
Drive 53 km to Gulmarg (8,700 ft), also known as the Meadow of Flowers. Ride the world's second-highest gondola up to Kongdori for panoramic Himalayan views, explore the golf course (world's highest 18-hole course), and return to Srinagar by evening.
๐ Deluxe hotel / houseboat in Srinagarโจ Gulmarg Gondola cable car
Good to know
- โขMost EU/EEA, UK, Swiss and Norwegian passport holders are eligible for the Indian e-Visa โ apply online at least 4โ7 days before travel
- โขPlug types C, D & M, 230V
- โขVegetarian, non-vegetarian and halal Kashmiri Wazwan options are all available โ vegan and Jain requests easily accommodated
What's included
- โ4 nights accommodation on twin-sharing (MAP basis)
- โAll airport transfers + private vehicle for sightseeing
- โDaily breakfast and dinner
- โ1-hour shikara ride on Dal Lake
- โMeeting & assistance by our local representative on arrival
Not included
- โAirfare to/from Srinagar
- โLunches during tour days
- โEntry fees, cable-car tickets (Gulmarg Gondola), pony rides
- โPersonal expenses (tips, laundry, beverages)
- โ5% GST on total package
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