Start your Kashmir adventure in Srinagar, the summer capital of the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. Take a shikara (wooden boat) ride on Dal Lake and explore the floating markets, gardens and houseboats. Visit the Mughal Gardens - Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh and Chashme Shahi, which are known for their beautiful fountains, terraced gardens and stunning views. Don't miss out on the delicious street food, especially the kebabs and biryanis.
Head to Gulmarg, a beautiful hill station known for its snow-capped mountains and skiing. Take a gondola ride to the top of the mountain and enjoy panoramic views of the valley. If you're feeling adventurous, try skiing, snowboarding or sledging. In the afternoon, visit the Maharani Temple, St. Mary's Church and the Gulmarg Golf Course, which is one of the highest in the world.
Visit Sonamarg, also known as the 'Meadow of Gold', for its alpine meadows, glaciers and snow-capped mountains. Take a pony ride to Thajiwas Glacier and enjoy the scenic beauty of the valley. In the afternoon, go trout fishing in the Sindh River and try the local delicacy - trout curry. You can also visit the Gangabal Lake, which is considered sacred by Hindus and Muslims.
Explore Pahalgam, a picturesque town known for its lush green meadows, rivers and waterfalls. Visit the Betaab Valley, which was named after the Bollywood movie 'Betaab' that was shot here. Take a pony ride to the Aru Valley and explore the beautiful landscape. In the evening, visit the Pahalgam Golf Course and enjoy the beautiful sunset views.
End your Kashmir trip by visiting Kokernag, a small town known for its natural springs and botanical gardens. Visit the Kokernag Spring, which is believed to have medicinal properties, and enjoy a picnic by the river. In the afternoon, visit the Kokerbagh Garden, which has a variety of trees, plants and flowers. Don't forget to buy some local saffron and honey as souvenirs.
If you have an extra day, visit the Dachigam National Park, which is known for its population of Hangul deer and black bears. You can also visit the Martand Sun Temple, which is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to the Sun God. To maximize your fun, try hot air ballooning in Gulmarg and paragliding in Pahalgam. Make sure to pack warm clothes, as the temperature drops in the evenings.
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