DETAILED ITINERARY:
Day 1 :
Arrival in Srinagar
- Arrival: Arrive at Srinagar airport, transfer to your houseboat or hotel.
- Shikara Ride: After lunch, enjoy a relaxing Shikara ride on the iconic Dal Lake. Witness the beauty of the lake, floating gardens, and houseboats.
- Mughal Gardens: Visit the Mughal Gardens (Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, and Chashme Shahi).
- Overnight Stay: Houseboat/Hotel in Srinagar.
- Gulmarg Meadows: Post breakfast, drive to Gulmarg, a famous hill station known for its meadows and ski slopes.
- Gondola Ride: Take the Gondola ride (cable car) up to Apharwat Peak. You can indulge in snow activities (seasonal).
- Leisure Time: Explore the town, and if you're a golf enthusiast, visit the highest golf course in the world.
- Overnight Stay: Hotel in Gulmarg.
- Drive to Pahalgam: After breakfast, drive to the picturesque town of Pahalgam via Pampore (saffron fields) and Awantipora ruins.
- Betaab Valley: En route, visit Betaab Valley, known for its lush greenery and river views.
- Leisure: After checking in, take a leisure walk along the Lidder River or explore the local market.
Overnight Stay: Hotel in Pahalgam.
- Aru & Baisaran Valleys: After breakfast, explore Aru Valley and Baisaran (mini Switzerland) by horse or trekking.
- Drive Back to Srinagar: Head back to Srinagar by late afternoon.
- Old Srinagar: Visit the old city of Srinagar and explore the Jamia Masjid and Shankaracharya Temple.
- Overnight Stay: Houseboat/Hotel in Srinagar.
Day 5 :
Departure from Srinagar
- Shopping: If time permits, visit the local markets for souvenirs like Kashmiri Pashmina, saffron, and dry fruits.
- Departure: Transfer to the Srinagar airport for your return journey.