The Journey at a Glance
Seven days in the valley poets refused to describe in ordinary words. Glide across Dal Lake in a hand-carved shikara, ride the world's highest gondola in Gulmarg, picnic beside the Lidder River at Pahalgam, and wander Mughal gardens laid out four centuries ago. One night is reserved for Kashmir's most iconic stay — a cedar houseboat with carved walnut interiors.
Detailed Itinerary
Touch down at Srinagar and settle into your hotel by Dal Lake. As the light softens, take a slow shikara ride past floating gardens and the lake's famous wooden mosques.
Walk the terraces of Nishat, Shalimar, and Chashme Shahi gardens, then explore the old city's papier-mâché and pashmina workshops with our local host.
Day trip to the 'Meadow of Flowers'. Ride the Gulmarg Gondola towards Apharwat Peak (Phase I included) for views that stretch to the Line of Control on clear days.
Drive through Pampore's saffron fields and Avantipora ruins to the shepherd town of Pahalgam, set on the banks of the Lidder River.
Explore the cinematic trio of Betaab Valley, Aru meadows, and Chandanwari by local union taxi, with time for pony rides and riverside photographs.
Back in Srinagar, board your heritage houseboat. Evening kahwa on the deck as shikara vendors drift past selling flowers and saffron.
One last lake-view breakfast before your airport transfer, with dry fruits and saffron from our trusted sellers if you wish to shop en route.
What's Included
Inclusions
- 5 nights premium hotels + 1 night deluxe houseboat
- Daily breakfast and dinner
- 1-hour private shikara ride on Dal Lake
- Gulmarg Gondola Phase I tickets
- All transfers & sightseeing in a private vehicle
- Union taxi charges at Pahalgam (Betaab/Aru/Chandanwari)
- All applicable taxes & driver allowances
Exclusions
- Flights to/from Srinagar
- Gondola Phase II tickets & pony rides
- Lunches and beverages
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses, tips & shopping
Trip Gallery
Dal Lake and the Zabarwan range
Snow-capped peaks over pristine waters
Meadows on the road to Gulmarg
Still waters, golden hoursFrequently Asked Questions
Tourist circuits — Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonmarg — are well-policed and heavily visited year-round. Our on-ground team monitors conditions daily and adjusts routes in the rare event of local disruptions.
You stay in a full-service deluxe houseboat with attached bathrooms, hot water, a dining lounge, and an open deck. Dinner and breakfast are served on board by the houseboat family.
Yes — we regularly upgrade this route with candlelight dinners, room décor, and premium houseboats. Mention 'honeymoon' in your enquiry and our designer will share options.
