Best of Jammu & Kashmir Tour

Detailed Program

• Day 01 : Arrive Srinagar - Evening Shikara Ride
  Welcome to Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir! Upon arrival at Srinagar Airport, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel or houseboat. As you travel, take in the beautiful scenery and get your first glimpse of the stunning landscapes this region has to offer.
  
  After checking in, you can spend the rest of the day at your leisure. Relax and unwind in the comfort of your accommodation, enjoying the unique experience of staying on a traditional houseboat if you have chosen this option. The serene waters of Dal Lake or Nigeen Lake provide a picturesque backdrop, making your stay truly memorable.
  
  In the evening, you may choose to take a shikara ride on the lake, exploring its tranquil beauty and the vibrant floating markets. As the sun sets, the lake offers a mesmerizing view, reflecting the changing colors of the sky. Dinner will be served at your hotel or houseboat. Overnight stay in Srinagar.

  • Dinner
  • Srinagar
• Day 02 : Srinagar Local Tour
  After a delicious breakfast at your hotel or houseboat, embark on a full-day tour of Srinagar's local attractions.
  
  Mughal Gardens: Begin your day with a visit to the famous Mughal Gardens, which include Nishat Bagh (Garden of Pleasure), Shalimar Bagh (Abode of Love), and Chashme Shahi (Royal Spring). These gardens, built by Mughal emperors, are renowned for their stunning layouts, vibrant flowers, terraced lawns, and intricate fountains, all set against the backdrop of the majestic Zabarwan Mountains.
  
  Shankaracharya Temple: Next, head to the Shankaracharya Temple, perched atop Shankaracharya Hill. This ancient temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, offers panoramic views of Srinagar, Dal Lake, and the surrounding mountains. The climb to the temple involves several steps, but the breathtaking vistas make it well worth the effort.
  
  Hazratbal Shrine: Visit the Hazratbal Shrine, located on the northern shores of Dal Lake. This white marble mosque is revered by Muslims and is known for housing a relic believed to be a hair strand of the Prophet Muhammad.
  
  Pari Mahal: Conclude your day with a visit to Pari Mahal, also known as the Palace of Fairies. This historical monument, set atop Zabarwan Mountain, offers splendid views of Dal Lake and the city of Srinagar. The beautifully terraced garden, with its arched niches and lush greenery, is a perfect spot to end your sightseeing tour.
  
  Return to your hotel or houseboat in the evening. Dinner will be served, and you can spend the night relaxing and reflecting on the day’s experiences.

  • Breakfast and Dinner
  • Srinagar
• Day 03 : Srinagar to Gulmarg - Local Tour of Gulmarg
  After breakfast, check out from your hotel or houseboat and embark on a scenic drive to Gulmarg, known as the "Meadow of Flowers." The journey takes approximately 2 hours and offers beautiful views of the lush countryside, quaint villages, and the majestic Himalayas.
  Upon arrival in Gulmarg, check in to your hotel and freshen up before starting your local tour.
  
  Gulmarg Gondola:(at your own cost) Begin your exploration with a ride on the Gulmarg Gondola, one of the highest cable cars in the world. The Gondola ride is divided into two phases: the first phase takes you to Kongdoori Station, and the second phase ascends to Apharwat Peak, offering breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains and the verdant valleys below. During winter, this area is a popular skiing destination.
  
  St. Mary's Church: Visit the historic St. Mary's Church, located in the heart of Gulmarg. This charming church, built during the British era, is surrounded by scenic beauty and provides a peaceful spot for reflection.
  
  Maharani Temple: Explore the Maharani Temple, also known as Rani Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is perched on a hill and offers panoramic views of Gulmarg's picturesque landscape.
  
  Gulmarg Golf Course: Take a stroll through the Gulmarg Golf Course, one of the highest golf courses in the world. Even if you're not a golfer, the lush greenery and stunning views make it a pleasant place to walk and relax.
  
  Strawberry Valley: If time permits, visit Strawberry Valley, where you can enjoy the sight of vibrant strawberry fields. This offbeat spot is less crowded and offers a tranquil experience amidst nature.
  
  Return to your hotel in the evening. Dinner will be served, and you can spend the night relaxing and enjoying the serene ambiance of Gulmarg. Overnight stay in Gulmarg.

  • Breakfast and Dinner
  • 56 Kms/2 Hrs
  • Gulmarg
• Day 04 : Gulmarg to Pahalgam - Day at Leisure
  After breakfast, check out from your hotel in Gulmarg and embark on a picturesque drive to Pahalgam, also known as the "Valley of Shepherds." The journey takes around 4 hours and is filled with scenic views of verdant meadows, rolling hills, and charming villages.
  
  Upon arrival in Pahalgam, check in to your hotel and take some time to relax and settle in. The serene and tranquil environment of Pahalgam is perfect for unwinding and enjoying the natural beauty around you. Take advantage of the facilities at your hotel. Whether it's enjoying a spa treatment, reading a book, or simply resting in your room, use this time to rejuvenate Or you can take a leisurely walk along the banks of the Lidder River, Stroll through the local market of Pahalgam, where you can shop for traditional Kashmiri handicrafts, woolen clothing, and souvenirs. Interact with the friendly locals and experience the culture and lifestyle of the region. Enjoy a cup of Kahwa, a traditional Kashmiri tea, at one of the local cafes. Savor the flavors of this aromatic beverage while taking in the beautiful surroundings.
  
  Dinner will be served at your hotel in the evening.Overnight stay in Pahalgam, allowing you to wake up refreshed and ready for more adventures in this enchanting valley.

  • Breakfast and Dinner
  • 140 Kms/4-5 Hrs
  • Pahalgam
• Day 05 : Pahalgam - Trip to Aru Valley, Betaab Valley, and Chandanwari
  After breakfast at your hotel, get ready for an exciting day exploring some of the most beautiful valleys in the Pahalgam region.
  
  Aru Valley: Start your journey with a visit to Aru Valley, located about 12 km from Pahalgam. This picturesque valley is known for its lush meadows, pristine streams, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the valley, take in the fresh mountain air, and perhaps indulge in some photography to capture the breathtaking scenery.
  
  Betaab Valley: Next, head to Betaab Valley, named after the Bollywood movie "Betaab" that was filmed here. This valley is known for its lush green meadows, crystal-clear streams, and snow-capped mountains. It's an ideal place for picnics and leisurely walks. The beauty of Betaab Valley is truly mesmerizing, making it a popular spot for photography and nature enthusiasts.
  
  Chandanwari: Continue your journey to Chandanwari, situated about 16 kilometers from Pahalgam. This picturesque location serves as the starting point for the annual Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage. Chandanwari is known for its snow bridge, pristine landscapes, and the scenic Lidder River. Depending on the season, you may even experience snow here, making it a delightful spot for snowball fights and capturing stunning photos.
  
  After a day filled with natural beauty and serene landscapes, return to Pahalgam in the late afternoon. You can spend the evening at leisure, exploring more of Pahalgam or simply relaxing at your hotel. Dinner will be served at your hotel. Overnight stay in Pahalgam, ensuring you are well-rested for the next leg of your journey.

  • Breakfast and Dinner
  • Pahalgam
• Day 06 : Pahalgam to Katra - Evening at Leisure
  After breakfast, check out from your hotel in Pahalgam and embark on a scenic drive to Katra. The journey takes approximately 7-8 hours, passing through picturesque landscapes, charming towns, and serene countryside.
  
  Upon arrival in Katra, check in to your hotel and take some time to relax and freshen up. Katra is the base camp for pilgrims visiting the holy shrine of Vaishno Devi, one of the most revered Hindu pilgrimage sites in India. Spend the evening at leisure, allowing yourself to relax and prepare for the Vaishno Devi Yatra. Get an early night’s rest to ensure you are well-rested and ready for the spiritual journey ahead. The yatra to Vaishno Devi can be physically demanding, so adequate rest is essential.

  • Breakfast and Dinner
  • 210 KMS/6-7 Hrs Per way
  • Katra
• Day 07 : Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra by Foot or by Pony
  Today marks the beginning of your spiritual journey to the holy shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi. The pilgrimage is undertaken by foot or on ponies, depending on your preference and physical ability.
  
  Begin your day early to avoid the crowds and to experience the serenity of the pilgrimage. The yatra typically starts from Katra. The trek from Katra to Vaishno Devi Bhawan is approximately 13-14 kilometers long. The path is well-maintained and passes through scenic surroundings. The trek is divided into several segments, with resting points, water coolers, and refreshment stalls along the way. The holy cave of Mata Vaishno Devi is located at an altitude of 5,200 feet. If you prefer, you can opt for a pony ride for the uphill journey. Ponies are available up to a certain point, after which you need to continue the journey on foot.
  
  Upon reaching the Bhawan, join the queue for darshan of Mata Vaishno Devi. The wait time can vary depending on the crowd, but the experience of being in the presence of the divine is deeply fulfilling. After darshan, begin your descent back to Katra. You can choose to walk back or take a pony ride down, depending on your preference. Once back in Katra, rest and relax at your hotel. The yatra can be physically demanding, so take time to rejuvenate. Dinner and overnight stay in Katra, reminiscing about the memorable experiences of the day and preparing for your onward journey.

  • Breakfast and Dinner
  • Katra
• Day 08 : Katra - Departure
  After sumptuous breakfast at hotel, checkout from hotel. Our representative/driver will transfer you to Jammu airport for your onward journey with everlasting memories of your Jammu and Kashmir tour package

  • Breakfast