Devotional Kashmir Tour (08 Nights & 09 Days)

After breakfast, embark on your trek to the revered Mata Vaishno Devi Temple. The 12-kilometer journey typically takes around 4 to 5 hours to reach the cave temple. Along the way, you can stop at various eateries to savor delicious snacks and meals. Upon arrival at the temple, join the queue to enter the Mata Darbar, where you will see the three pindis inside the cave, representing the three forms of Goddess Shakti: Goddess Kali, Goddess Lakshmi, and Goddess Saraswati. After receiving the blessings, return to Katra for dinner and an overnight stay.

After breakfast, you will be transferred from Katra to Pahalgam, also known as the “Valley of Shepherds.” Upon arrival, check-in at the hotel and take some time to relax.

In Pahalgam, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area and enjoy a leisurely walk along the banks of the River Lidder. Known for its picturesque trekking routes, Pahalgam also serves as the base camp for the Amarnath Pilgrimage. This popular tourist destination attracts numerous visitors each year with its breathtaking scenery.

Situated at an altitude of 7,200 feet above sea level, Pahalgam is renowned as a world-famous hill station. Its stunning landscapes have made it a favored location for Bollywood film shoots, and it continues to be a sought-after health resort.

Optional activities include a pony ride or sightseeing tours to Aru, Betaab Valley, and Chandanwari.

Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Pahalgam.

After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely day or choose to hire a car for a trip to Aru, Chandanwari, and Betaab Valley. Pahalgam offers numerous places of interest, set amidst fairly steep hills, making pony rides a popular option. Pony fares are posted at prominent locations. One of the most beautiful spots is the vast, undulating meadow of Baisaran, surrounded by dense pine forests.

On the way to Chandanwari, you will find Hajan, an idyllic picnic spot and a popular film location. Pahalgam encompasses eight tiny villages, including Mamal, home to a Shiva temple considered to be Kashmir’s oldest, dating back to the 5th century.

Chandanwari, situated at 2,895 meters, is 16 kilometers from Pahalgam and is the starting point of the Amarnath Yatra, which takes place every year in the month of Sawan (July to August). The road from Pahalgam to Chandanwari is flat and can be traveled by car. From Chandanwari, the track becomes steeper, accessible on foot or by pony. About 11 kilometers from Chandanwari lies the mountain lake of Sheshnag, and 13 kilometers further is Panchtarni. The Amarnath cave, located 6 kilometers from Panchtarni, features an ice stalagmite that forms a natural shiv ling during the month of Sawan, which waxes and wanes with the moon.

Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

After breakfast, you will be transferred from Pahalgam to Srinagar. Upon arrival, check-in at your hotel. Post check-in, embark on a visit to the enchanting Mughal Gardens. These gardens, including Chesmashahi, Nishat, and Shalimar, feature terraced lawns, cascading fountains, and vibrant flowerbeds with the picturesque Dal Lake as their backdrop. They were once the Mughal Emperors’ concept of paradise and remain popular destinations today.

Srinagar, located at an altitude of 1,730 meters (5,675 feet) in the heart of the Kashmir Valley, is beautifully spread on both sides of the river Jhelum. The Dal and Nigin lakes add to its scenic charm. The city’s changing seasons and pleasant climate make it an attractive destination throughout the year. Take in the breathtaking scenery and the colorful splendor of Kashmir, truly a paradise on Earth.

Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Srinagar.

After breakfast, embark on a full-day excursion to Sonamarg, also known as the “Meadow of Gold,” situated at an altitude of 9000 feet and 84 kilometers from Srinagar. Surrounded by snowy mountains and set against a bright blue sky, Sonamarg offers breathtaking views. The Sindh River, which winds through the valley, is rich with trout and mahaseer fish. Visitors can hire ponies to reach the Thajiwas Glacier, a popular summer attraction.

Optional: Pony Ride / Thajiwas Glacier Sightseeing

Return to Srinagar for dinner and an overnight stay.

After breakfast, depart for Gulmarg, famously known as the “Meadow of Flowers.” Located 53 kilometers from Srinagar at an altitude of 8,700 feet, Gulmarg is often referred to as the “Switzerland of India.” This enchanting destination is renowned for its ski resort and boasts the world’s highest 18-hole golf course.

Gulmarg gained prominence during the British period, when it was a favored holiday destination. Its legendary beauty, prime location, and proximity to Srinagar make it one of the premier hill resorts in the country. Originally called ‘Gaurimarg’ by shepherds, the present name was given by Sultan Yusuf Shah in the 16th century, inspired by the sight of its grassy slopes adorned with wildflowers. Emperor Jehangir was also captivated by Gulmarg, famously collecting 21 different varieties of flowers from the area.

Today, Gulmarg stands as a mountain resort of exceptional beauty, featuring the highest green golf course in the world at an altitude of 2,650 meters, and serving as the country’s premier ski resort in winter.

Optional Activity: Gondola Ride

Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

After breakfast, transfer from Gulmarg to Srinagar. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure, engaging in independent activities of your choice. In the evening, embark on a serene 1-hour Shikara boat ride on Dal Lake, often referred to as the “Venice of India.” Experience the tranquil beauty of the lake and the vibrant aquatic life of Srinagar. After the boat ride, explore the local crafts market, where you can admire and purchase finely carved handmade articles from Paper Mache and walnut wood. Return to the houseboat for a delightful dinner and an overnight stay.

After enjoying breakfast at the houseboat, you will be transferred to Srinagar Airport in time for your flight to your onward destination.