- Overview
- Trip Outline
- Trip Includes
- Trip Excludes
- Gallery
- Booking
- FAQ
Kashmir has long been admired for its extraordinary natural beauty, where snowcovered mountains, serene lakes, and green valleys create one of the most enchanting landscapes in the Himalayas. This journey explores the heart of the Kashmir Valley, combining the charm of Srinagar with the alpine landscapes of Gulmarg and the dramatic scenery of Sonamarg.
From the peaceful waters of Dal Lake to the sweeping mountain meadows of Gulmarg, and the glacierfed valleys of Sonamarg, this itinerary offers a relaxed and immersive experience of Kashmir.
For those who love the outdoors, two beautiful hikes await you. One leads to the stunning Thajiwas Glacier near Sonamarg, where snowfields and mountain streams accompany your steps. The other takes you to Dumail, a serene meadow at the confluence of rivers, surrounded by untouched alpine beauty.
One special afternoon is reserved for an elaborate riverside picnic unhurried, scenic and filled with laughter, conversation and warm sunshine.
Our boutique riverside stay in Sonamarg is a highlight in itself. Waking up to the sound of flowing water, enjoying cozy evenings and travelling in a small, like-minded group makes this more than a holiday it becomes a shared experience.
Designed for travellers who wish to explore the valley at an easy pace, the journey blends scenic drives, cultural encounters, and time to simply enjoy the remarkable landscapes of this Himalayan paradise.
- Shikara ride on Dal Lake
- Explore the Mughal gardens of Srinagar - Nishat & Shalimar
- Spiritual experience at Shankaracharya Temple with panoramic city views
- Visit the scenic valley of Sonamarg
- Discover the landscapes and culture of Kashmir
- Excursion to Gulmarg with an exciting Gondola cable car ride
- Journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Sonamarg
Itineraries
Day 1
Date : March 30, 2026
Arrival in Srinagar
Arrival in Srinagar where our representative will welcome you and assist with the transfer to your hotel or houseboat.
After settling in, enjoy a traditional Shikara ride on Dal Lake, one of the most iconic experiences in Kashmir. The ride offers a glimpse into the unique floating lifestyle of the lake, with houseboats, gardens, and mountain views surrounding the water.
Overnight stay in Srinagar.
Day 2
Date : March 31, 2026
Srinagar Sightseeing
After breakfast, begin exploring the highlights of Srinagar.
Visit the famous Mughal gardens built during the Mughal era, known for their beautifully landscaped terraces, flowing water channels, and views overlooking Dal Lake, specially during the Tulip peak season
Later spend time exploring the city local bazaar for fine handwomen textile and carpets and experiencing the atmosphere of Srinagar. End the day with sweeping sunset views from Pari Mahal overlooking Dal Lake.
Overnight stay in Srinagar.
Day 3
Date : April 1, 2026
Srinagar to Gulmarg
After breakfast drive to Gulmarg, a picturesque mountain destination located in the Pir Panjal range.
Known for its expansive meadows and stunning Himalayan views, Gulmarg offers a refreshing mountain environment. Spend time exploring the scenic surroundings and enjoying the natural beauty of the area. Walk on snow, breathe crisp mountain air
Overnight stay in Srinagar.
Day 4
Date : April 2, 2026
Sonmarg Exploration
Today you have time to explore Gulmarg and its surroundings.
Enjoy the serene landscapes, walk through the alpine meadows, or simply take in the panoramic views of the mountains that surround the valley. Enjoy a relaxed village walk and share kahwa at a local home
Overnight stay in Gulmarg.
Day 5
Date : April 3, 2026
Hike to Naranag & Scenic Riverside Drive
Set out for a scenic hike to Naranag, known for its ancient stone temple ruins and sweeping alpine landscapes. The setting is expansive and peaceful, framed by forests and open meadows. After the hike, enjoy a leisurely drive along the river, stopping wherever the scenery invites you.
Overnight stay in Gulmarg.
Day 6
Date : April 4, 2026
Hike to Thajiwas Glacier & Riverside Picnic
Embark on a rewarding hike to Thajiwas Glacier, walking alongside glacial streams, snow patches and dramatic Himalayan views. Later, enjoy an elaborate riverside picnic lunch in a breathtaking natural setting - unhurried, scenic and beautifully curated.
Overnight stay in Gulmarg.
Day 7
Date : April 5, 2026
Departure
After breakfast check out from the hotel.
Transfer to the airport for your onward journey, carrying memories of Kashmir’s lakes, valleys, and spectacular Himalayan landscapes.
- Accommodation at The Retreat on double / twin-sharing basis
- All meals from Day 1 breakfast to Day 6 lunch as per the itinerary (Meals at the airport are not included)
- Dedicated AC Tempo Traveler for all transfers and sightseeing
- Bonfire evenings under the stars (subject to weather conditions)
- All required permits and entry fees for sightseeing as per itinerary
- Services of an experienced tour leader throughout the trip
- Airfare
- Personal expenses (tips, laundry, phone calls, shopping, etc.)
- Expenses due to weather conditions, roadblocks, or natural calamities
- Travel insurance
- Anything not mentioned under “Tour Inclusions”
Generally, only Indian postpaid SIM cards (Airtel, Jio, BSNL) work in the Kashmir Valley due to security regulations. Prepaid SIMs from outside the state usually stop functioning the moment you land. If you only have a prepaid connection, you will need to buy a local "Tourist SIM" at Srinagar airport or in the city (keep your Aadhaar card and a photo handy). While 4G/5G is stable in Srinagar, expect patchy data in the higher reaches of Sonamarg.
March/April is a transition month, so you need two types of shoes. For the Tulip Garden and Srinagar walks, comfortable sneakers are perfect. However, for the Thajiwas Glacier hike, the trail can be very slushy or snowy. You will need waterproof hiking boots with good grip. If you don't own these, you can rent "gum boots" from local vendors in Sonamarg or Gulmarg for about ₹100–₹200 a day.
The Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden is a major highlight and gets extremely crowded between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM. To get the best photos and a peaceful experience, aim to be there at the opening time (9:00 AM). The "Golden Hour" (late afternoon) also offers beautiful lighting for photography, but the morning is significantly cooler and less congested.
Kashmir has a structured tipping culture. For your dedicated driver, a tip of ₹300–₹500 per day from the group is standard if you are happy with the service. In restaurants, a 5–10% tip is appreciated. Also, carry extra cash for "pony rides" in Sonamarg or Gulmarg; these are often governed by a local union with fixed rates (usually ₹500–₹1500 depending on distance), and they usually do not accept UPI or cards.
-> Dress Modestly: When visiting shrines or rural villages like Naranag, ensure shoulders and knees are covered. Women should carry a light stole/scarf to cover their heads if entering a mosque or shrine.
-> Photography: Always ask for permission before photographing local people, especially women or children.
-> The "First Tea": If a local host offers you Kahwa (saffron tea), it is a gesture of hospitality; accepting at least one cup is considered polite.
While the mentioned itinerary is a fixed group tour, you can contact us to get a custom itinerary tailored to your specific needs.
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