A Nature Lover's Paradise: A 3-Day Itinerary in Kashmir

  1. Day 1: Srinagar
    Estimated Time from Arrival: 2 hours

    Start your trip in Srinagar, the summer capital of Kashmir. Take a serene Shikara ride on the Dal Lake and witness the floating markets and beautiful houseboats. After this, visit the Mughal Gardens - Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh and Chashme Shahi, and marvel at the vibrant flowers and fountains. End the day with paragliding and trekking at the Harwan Garden.

  2. Day 2: Pahalgam
    Distance from Srinagar: 90 km (2.5-hour drive)

    Take a scenic drive to the charming town of Pahalgam, also known as the 'Valley of Shepherds'. Visit the beautiful Betaab Valley and Aru Valley for a leisurely walk in the lush meadows and meandering streams. Next, take a pony ride to see the breathtaking Kolhoi Glacier. Follow this up with a picnic at the serene Lidder Valley.

  3. Day 3: Gulmarg
    Distance from Pahalgam: 140 km (4-hour drive)

    Head towards the snowy meadow of Gulmarg, known as the 'Meadow of Flowers'. Take the Gondola ride to the peak of the Apharwat Mountains and enjoy skiing and snowboarding in the snow-filled slopes. Later, visit the Khilanmarg Valley for a cup of hot tea and an awe-inspiring view of the Nanga Parbat and Haramukh. End the day with a ride on the Alpather Lake and take mesmerizing pictures of the crystal clear waters.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Shikara ride on Dal Lake (2 hours) - ₹1000 per person
  • Mughal Gardens visit (2 hours) - ₹50 per person
  • Paragliding and Trekking at Harwan Garden (3 hours) - ₹500 per person
  • Betaab Valley visit (2 hours) - ₹50 per person
  • Kolhoi Glacier Pony Ride (4 hours) - ₹2000 per pony
  • Gondola ride to Apharwat Mountains (3 hours) - ₹700 per person
  • Alpather Lake ride (2 hours) - ₹500 per person
  • Total Estimated Costs - ₹4800 per person

Useful Tips

Add an extra day to the itinerary to explore Sonamarg and visit Thajiwas Glacier. Also, carry warm clothes and snow gear during winter months as Gulmarg can be chilly. If you have less time, you could skip Pahalgam and travel directly to Gulmarg. However, plan to reach Gulmarg early to complete all activities before sunset.

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