Overview

Jammu and Kashmir: A Land of Scenic Valleys and Diverse Attractions

Jammu and Kashmir, often referred to as "Paradise on Earth," is a region renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and religious significance. From the lush green meadows and snow-capped mountains to its vibrant markets and sacred temples, the region is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and spiritual travelers alike. The state's economy is deeply intertwined with the annual pilgrimage of Hindu devotees to revered shrines such as Vaishno Devi and Amarnath, which draw millions of visitors every year.

Jammu and Kashmir: A Symphony of Valleys

The state is home to a diverse range of valleys, each offering a unique charm and experience. Visitors can immerse themselves in the serene beauty of the Kashmir Valley, explore the pristine landscapes of the Chenab Valley, discover the peaceful haven of the Sindh Valley, or experience the dramatic vistas of the Lidder Valley. Whether you’re looking for tranquility or adventure, these valleys provide a rich tapestry of natural wonders, perfect for creating unforgettable memories.

Top Tourist Attractions in Jammu and Kashmir

Srinagar: The Jewel of Kashmir

Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, is an iconic destination known for its tranquil Dal Lake, picturesque houseboats, and historic Mughal gardens. A Shikara ride on the serene waters of Dal Lake offers a unique view of floating gardens, while the city’s vibrant markets sell everything from traditional Kashmiri carpets to handcrafted Pashmina shawls. Srinagar’s charm lies in its blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and laid-back ambiance.

Mughal Gardens: A Glimpse into Royal History

The famous Mughal Gardens of Srinagar—Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh—stand as a testament to the grandeur of Mughal architecture and horticulture. These meticulously designed gardens, with their cascading fountains, intricate layouts, and beautiful terraced lawns, provide visitors with a stunning experience of Kashmir’s royal past. The gardens are a perfect spot for leisurely walks and photography, set against the backdrop of snow-clad mountains.

Gulmarg: The Meadow of Flowers

Gulmarg, often called the "Meadow of Flowers," is a breathtaking hill station that is as famous for its natural beauty in the summer as it is for its winter sports. Known for its world-class golf course and the Gulmarg Gondola, one of the highest cable cars in the world, it offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. In winter, the area becomes a paradise for skiers and snowboarders, with pristine white slopes and snow-covered pine trees. Whether you visit for the lush green meadows or the snow-capped peaks, Gulmarg is a year-round destination for adventurers.

Pahalgam: Gateway to Amarnath and Beyond

Nestled along the Lidder River, Pahalgam is a picturesque town that serves as a gateway to the sacred Amarnath Yatrapilgrimage. Surrounded by lush forests, alpine meadows, and rugged mountains, Pahalgam is ideal for nature walks, fishing, and trekking. The town is also a base for various treks, including the popular Aru Valley and Betaab Valley, which offer stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere for nature lovers.

Patnitop: A Serene Hill Station

Located in the Shivalik Range, Patnitop is a tranquil hill station known for its breathtaking views, pine forests, and cool climate. Perfect for a quick getaway, Patnitop offers a peaceful retreat with opportunities for adventure activities such as trekking, paragliding, and nature walks. The scenic beauty of the area, with its lush meadows and panoramic vistas, makes it an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility away from city life.

Jammu: The City of Temples

The winter capital of Jammu and Kashmir, Jammu is famed for its spiritual significance and historical landmarks. The Vaishno Devi Shrine, perched high in the Trikuta Mountains, is one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in India, attracting millions of devotees each year. The Raghunath Temple, with its intricate architecture, and Bahu Fort, offering panoramic views of the city, are also notable attractions. Jammu’s vibrant markets and historic sites add to the city's cultural and religious importance.

Conclusion: A Journey of Unforgettable Experiences

From the tranquil waters of Dal Lake to the snow-capped peaks of Gulmarg, and the sacred pilgrimage sites of Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir offers a remarkable blend of natural beauty, spiritual significance, and adventure. Each valley, town, and landmark provides a unique experience, making this region a must-visit destination for those seeking peace, adventure, or a deep connection with nature and spirituality.

4 Nights 5 Days 16 May, 23 May, 30 May, and more

Details

Things to Carry

Clothing:

Thermal innerwear (top and bottom)
Fleece jacket or woollen sweater (2 pairs)
Waterproof jacket and windcheater
Trekking pants (avoid jeans or cotton pants)
Warm gloves and woollen socks (4-5 pairs)
Cap/beanie and balaclava for warmth
Sunglasses with UV protection (important for snow glare)
Poncho/rain cover (optional, for unexpected rain)

Footwear:

Trekking shoes with good grip and ankle support (water-resistant)
Gaiters (to prevent snow from entering shoes)
Flip-flops (for campsite use)

Backpack:

50-60 litre backpack with rain cover
Daypack (for summit day or short hikes)

Sleeping Gear (optional if not provided by the trek operator):

Sleeping bag liner
Sleeping mat (for extra warmth)

Personal Items:

Water bottles or hydration bladder (2-3 litres)
Trekking pole (helps with stability on snow)
Headlamp with extra batteries
Quick-dry towel
Personal toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.)
Sunscreen lotion (SPF 50+), lip balm, and moisturizer
First aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic, etc.)
Personal medication (if needed)
Wet wipes and toilet paper
Snacks/energy bars for quick energy boosts

Miscellaneous:

Camera or GoPro to capture the beauty
Power bank for your electronics
Garbage bags (to carry waste)

Inclusions/Exclusions

What we'll give. What we won't

What is included in the tour

Transportation
Airport pick up & drop
All local sightseeing
Driver allowance/toll/parking/road tax/fuel charge/permit charge
Internal transport in Nonac vehicle
Stay
1 Night Stay in a houseboat in Dal Lake
1 Night Stay in Pahalgam (2/3/4 sharing room in a 3 Star Property as per booking)
2 Night Stay in Srinagar (2/3/4 sharing room in a 3 Star Property as per booking)
Hot water, Wifi & Power backup
Food MAP (Veg & Non Veg Buffet)
Day 1 (Dinner)
Day 2 (Breakfast and Dinner)
Day 3 (Breakfast and Dinner)
Day 4 (Breakfast and Dinner)
Day 5 (Breakfast)
Shikara Ride for 1 hour in Dal Lake
24/7 Back-end Support

What is NOT included in the tour

Gulmarg Gondola Charges as mentioned below:
Phase I (Gulmarg to Kongdoor) Rs. 740/-
Phase II (Kongdoor to Aparwath) Rs. 950/-
Total Amount for both Phases Rs. 1,690/-
Entry fees for Gardens, Museums, or any other monuments
Zojila Pass, Thajwas Glacier (Sonamarg) @ 4500/- Approx. Per 07 Seater Vehicle
Betaab Valley, Aru Valley &Chandanwari (Pahalgam) @ 2200 Per 07 Seater vehicle
Chain Jeeps due to Heavy snowfall to reach Gulmarg from Tangmarg During Winters if Required
Items of personal use like Porter, Tips, Laundry, Telephone calls, Mineral water, etc
Pony rides
GST

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar & Local Sightseeing

Arrive in Srinagar

Arrive at Sheikh-ul-Alam International Airport, Srinagar. A warm welcome will greet you as you begin your journey in the beautiful Kashmir Valley.
Transfer to your hotel or houseboat on Dal Lake. Enjoy the traditional Kashmiri hospitality.

Mughal Gardens Tour (Nishat Bagh & Shalimar Bagh)

Visit Nishat Bagh (The Garden of Joy), a stunning Mughal garden located along the eastern shore of Dal Lake. Take a peaceful walk in this 16th-century garden, which offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Next, explore Shalimar Bagh, one of the most famous Mughal gardens, known for its fountains, terraces, and cascading water features. The garden was designed by Emperor Jahangir for his wife Nur Jahan.

Shankaracharya Temple

Head up to Shankaracharya Hill for a visit to the ancient Shankaracharya Temple. Perched high above the city, it offers stunning views of Srinagar, Dal Lake, and the surrounding valleys. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the key landmarks of Srinagar.

Romantic Shikara Ride on Dal Lake

In the evening, enjoy a Shikara ride on Dal Lake. Glide peacefully across the serene waters, surrounded by the majestic Himalayan mountains, and enjoy the picturesque landscape. This experience offers a unique view of Srinagar’s traditional wooden houseboats and floating gardens.

Overnight Stay

Stay in a traditional houseboat on Dal Lake, where you can enjoy a cozy, serene atmosphere with incredible views.

Day 2: Srinagar to Sonmarg (Day Trip)

Drive to Sonmarg (90 km, approx. 3 hours)

Begin your day with a scenic drive from Srinagar to Sonmarg. This charming town, known as the ‘Meadow of Gold,’ is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and lush green valleys.

Explore Sonmarg

Visit Sonmarg and enjoy its breathtaking natural beauty. Take a leisurely walk or explore the meadows, offering majestic views of the Kundalika River and snow-clad peaks.

Thajiwas Glacier (Optional)

Optionally, you can take a short trek or hire a pony to visit Thajiwas Glacier, a pristine glacier surrounded by rugged mountain landscapes. The glacier is located at an altitude of 9,000 feet and is a popular spot for adventure lovers.

Return to Srinagar

After exploring Sonmarg, drive back to Srinagar in the evening.
Enjoy a relaxing evening at your houseboat or hotel.

Day 3: Srinagar to Gulmarg (Day Trip)

Drive to Gulmarg (55 km, approx. 2 hours)

Set off early for a scenic drive from Srinagar to Gulmarg, a popular hill station known for its snow-covered slopes and alpine beauty.

Gulmarg Activities

Once in Gulmarg, enjoy the world-famous Gondola ride, which takes you up to Apharwat Peak, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Depending on the season, you can engage in various activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeingduring winter, or go for a nature walk and enjoy the lush meadows in summer.

Explore Gulmarg's Scenic Beauty

Take some time to stroll through the verdant meadows, enjoy the fresh air, and capture the beauty of the place, with views of the Alpine forests and snow-capped peaks.
Visit St. Mary's Church, a charming colonial-era church in the heart of Gulmarg, if time permits.

Return to Srinagar

In the evening, drive back to Srinagar and relax after an adventurous day.
Overnight in Srinagar.

Day 4: Srinagar to Pahalgam

Drive to Pahalgam (95 km, approx. 3.5 hours)

After breakfast, head out for a scenic drive to Pahalgam, a picturesque town located along the Lidder River. Known for its lush greenery, Pahalgam is a haven for nature lovers.

Explore Pahalgam & Surroundings

Visit Aru Valley, which offers beautiful alpine meadows and breathtaking views of surrounding peaks. It’s perfect for a peaceful retreat or a short hike.
Next, explore Betaab Valley, named after the Bollywood film Betaab. Surrounded by towering peaks and lush greenery, it's a perfect spot for nature walks and photography.
If time allows, head to Chandwari, a small village known for its natural beauty, located on the way to the famous Amarnath Cave.

Explore the Local Market

In the evening, visit Pahalgam’s local market, which is a great place to shop for traditional Kashmiri handicrafts such as Pashmina shawls, carpets, and wooden artifacts.

Overnight Stay

Stay overnight in a cozy hotel or guesthouse in Pahalgam, nestled in the scenic surroundings.

Day 5: Pahalgam to Srinagar Airport (Departure)

Drive Back to Srinagar (95 km, approx. 3.5 hours)

After a leisurely breakfast, embark on your return journey to Srinagar.
Depending on your flight schedule, you can stop at scenic spots along the way or visit a few final landmarks in Srinagar.

Departure from Srinagar Airport