Here’s a suggested itinerary for a 5 nights, 6 days tour of Kashmir:
Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar
- Arrive at Srinagar International Airport and transfer to your hotel or houseboat.
- Spend the rest of the day at leisure, exploring the local markets or taking a shikara ride on Dal Lake.
- Visit the famous Mughal Gardens, including Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh, known for their beautiful terraced gardens and scenic views.
Day 2: Srinagar – Gulmarg
- After breakfast, proceed to Gulmarg, known as the “Meadow of Flowers.”
- Enjoy the breathtaking scenery during the drive as you ascend to higher altitudes.
- Once in Gulmarg, you can take a gondola ride (cable car) to Khilanmarg and enjoy panoramic views of the snow-covered mountains.
- Explore the picturesque town and indulge in activities like horse riding or golfing.
Day 3: Gulmarg – Pahalgam
- After breakfast, drive to Pahalgam, also known as the “Valley of Shepherds.”
- En route, visit the saffron fields in Pampore and the ruins of Avantipur temple.
- Arrive in Pahalgam and spend the day exploring the scenic beauty of the region.
- Visit Betaab Valley, Chandanwari, and Aru Valley, known for their picturesque landscapes and serene ambiance.
Day 4: Pahalgam – Sonamarg – Srinagar
- After breakfast, head to Sonamarg, also called the “Meadow of Gold.”
- Enjoy the mesmerizing views of the Thajiwas Glacier and the surrounding snow-capped peaks.
- In the afternoon, return to Srinagar and explore the old city area, including the historic Jama Masjid and the bustling markets of Lal Chowk.
- You can also visit the Shankaracharya Temple for panoramic views of the city.
Day 5: Srinagar – Dal Lake Houseboat Experience
- After breakfast, embark on a memorable houseboat experience on Dal Lake.
- Enjoy the tranquility of the lake and the unique experience of staying in a floating house.
- Explore the floating gardens and take a shikara ride around the lake.
- In the evening, witness the beautiful sunset over the lake and indulge in traditional Kashmiri cuisine.
Day 6: Departure
- After breakfast, check out from your houseboat and transfer to the Srinagar International Airport for your departure.
- If time permits, you can visit the famous Hazratbal Shrine before heading to the airport.
Note: This itinerary is just a suggestion, and you can customize it according to your preferences and the time you have available. Make sure to check the local weather and road conditions before traveling, as they can affect your plans in the mountainous regions of Kashmir.