Welcome to Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir! Start your trip by checking into your hotel and unwind after the journey. In the morning, take a relaxing shikara ride on the serene Dal Lake, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and floating gardens. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Mughal Gardens, namely Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh. As the evening sets in, visit the enchanting Hazratbal Shrine, a sacred shrine of the Muslim community.
Today, embark on a day trip to Gulmarg, a picturesque hill station famous for its stunning landscapes and winter sports activities. Start your morning with a gondola cable car ride to reach Apharwat Peak, where you can marvel at breathtaking views of the snow-covered peaks. In the afternoon, indulge in winter sports like skiing or snowboarding. Don't forget to capture the moments amidst the snow-clad wonderland. In the evening, return to Srinagar.
On New Year's Eve, take a day trip to Pahalgam, a quaint town known for its natural beauty. Start your day by visiting Betaab Valley, nestled amidst lush greenery and snow-capped mountains. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the valley, capturing the serene surroundings. In the afternoon, explore the enchanting Aru Valley, known for its picturesque landscapes and meandering streams. As the evening approaches, head back to Srinagar to celebrate the New Year.
Start the new year by exploring the architectural wonders of Srinagar. Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Mughal Gardens, Chashme Shahi, and Pari Mahal. Immerse yourself in the tranquility and beauty of these meticulously crafted gardens. In the afternoon, visit Jamia Masjid, one of the oldest mosques in Srinagar, and soak in the spiritual ambiance. Spend the evening exploring the local markets, such as Lal Chowk, offering traditional handicrafts and delicious street food.
On the final day, visit Sonamarg, also known as the "Meadow of Gold." Start your day by hopping on a pony ride to explore the mesmerizing Thajiwas Glacier. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the glacier and indulge in activities like snowball fights or sledging. In the afternoon, visit the serene Gangabal Lake, surrounded by picturesque mountains. Bid farewell to the natural splendors of Kashmir as you head back to Srinagar.
While Kashmir is known for its popular tourist attractions, there are also several hidden gems and local favorites that are worth exploring. Visit Achabal Gardens, a lesser-known Mughal garden offering tranquility and beautiful fountains. Take a stroll through the old city area of Srinagar, where you can experience the local culture and architecture. Don't forget to savor the local cuisine, such as Rogan Josh and Kashmiri Pulao, at cozy local restaurants like Ahdoos and Mughal Darbar.
For checking hotel and flight prices, you can visit https://kayak.com/in?a=kan_252520_563153&p=v1&lc=en&url=%2Fstays.