Kashmir Tour Package from Katra | ADT20220037

1. Srinagar:

   • Accommodation: Stay on a traditional houseboat on Dal Lake.
   • Activities: Enjoy peaceful evening Shikara rides on the lake and explore the local culture.

2. Mughal Gardens:

   • Locations: Visit Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, and Chashme Shahi, celebrated for their exquisite architecture and beautifully arranged terraces and water features.

3. Gulmarg:

   • Attractions: Experience the Gulmarg Gondola, one of the highest cable car rides globally.
   • Activities: Offers seasonal skiing and year-round trekking with panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains.

4. Pahalgam:

   • Exploration: Discover the natural beauty by horseback, visiting lush valleys like Aru and Betaab.
   • Scenery: Known for its stunning river views and verdant meadows.

5. Katra:

   • Pilgrimage: Complete the spiritually significant trek to Vaishno Devi Shrine, a revered site for many.
   • Experience: The journey is both physically challenging and spiritually uplifting, marked by vibrant devotee chants.

6. Local Crafts and Cuisine:

   • Workshops: Engage in creating traditional crafts such as Pashmina shawls and papier-mâché items.
   • Dining: Relish authentic Kashmiri cuisine, featuring local specialties like Rogan Josh and Kahwa tea.

Overview 

Discover the stunning beauty of Kashmir and experience a spiritual journey to Vaishno Devi with our 11-day tour, perfect for Indian travelers of all kinds, including families, couples, honeymooners, and groups of friends. This tour offers a blend of breathtaking scenery, cultural activities, and a pilgrimage, all organized to give you a memorable and comfortable adventure.

 

What’s Included in Your Trip 

• Stay on a Houseboat: Begin your adventure in Srinagar on a traditional houseboat on Dal Lake. It’s a unique and peaceful place to stay, and you’ll enjoy a relaxing boat ride and tasty local dishes right where you’re staying.
• Visit Beautiful Gardens: See the famous Mughal Gardens in Srinagar, like Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh. These gardens are beautiful, with lots of flowers and fountains—perfect for taking walks and enjoying nature.
• Learn Local Crafts: Try your hand at making Kashmiri crafts such as Pashmina shawls and papier-mâché. It’s a fun way to learn about the local culture and create something yourself.
• Adventure in Gulmarg and Pahalgam: Travel to Gulmarg for exciting activities like cable car rides and skiing, and visit Pahalgam to enjoy horse riding and beautiful views. These places are great for adventure and enjoying the outdoors.
• Spiritual Trek to Vaishno Devi: Experience the famous trek to the Vaishno Devi shrine in Katra. This pilgrimage is special and meaningful, and it’s a journey many people take for spiritual reasons.

 

Why You’ll Love This Tour 

• Suitable for Everyone: Whether you’re coming with family, your spouse, or friends, this tour has something for everyone to enjoy.
• Comfort and Safety: We’ve planned everything to make sure you’re comfortable and safe throughout your trip, from where you stay to the activities you do.
• Delicious Food: You’ll get to try different kinds of Kashmiri food throughout the tour, each dish giving you a taste of the local cuisine.
• Beautiful Scenery: From lakes and gardens to mountains and valleys, you’ll see some of the most beautiful places in India.

This tour is a fantastic way to spend time with your loved ones and make lasting memories while exploring the beauty and culture of Kashmir and experiencing the spirituality of Vaishno Devi. Whether you’re looking for peace and relaxation, fun and adventure, or cultural and spiritual enrichment, this tour offers a complete package that promises an unforgettable journey.

 

Desitions and Activities Covered 

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar

Upon your arrival at Srinagar Airport, you'll be greeted by the cool, fresh air of the valley—a welcome respite from the plains. A representative will escort you to your houseboat on Dal Lake, a symbol of Kashmir's heritage and a unique accommodation experience. Settle into the intricately carved wooden interiors of your floating home.

Evening Shikara Ride: As the sun begins to set, embark on a Shikara ride across Dal Lake. The water reflects the fiery colors of the sunset and the silhouettes of the distant mountains. This tranquil experience introduces you to the floating gardens and the famous vegetable markets of Srinagar. The rhythmic rowing of the boatman and the gentle waves will be your first taste of Kashmir's serene beauty.

Welcome Dinner: Return to your houseboat for a welcome dinner. The meal, featuring traditional Kashmiri dishes such as Rogan Josh, Modur Pulao (sweetened saffron rice with nuts), and succulent grilled trout, offers an authentic taste of local cuisine. Each dish is accompanied by stories of its origin, ingredients, and cooking methods shared by your host, making your first evening in Kashmir both delicious and informative.

Day 2: Explore Srinagar

Start your first morning with a hearty breakfast of traditional Kashmiri breads and a sip of aromatic Kahwa tea on the deck of your houseboat, overlooking the misty lake.

Mughal Gardens: Your exploration begins with a visit to the Mughal Gardens—Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, and Chashme Shahi. Each garden, a remnant of the Mughal Emperor's legacy, is beautifully laid out with fountains, canals, and lush, landscaped terraces. Shalimar Bagh, known as the garden of love, was built by Emperor Jahangir for his wife Noor Jahan and is the largest of the three. Nishat Bagh, or the garden of joy, offers stunning views of the lake beneath the Zabarwan mountains.

Crafts Workshop: In the afternoon, participate in a workshop on Kashmiri handicrafts. Kashmir is renowned for its Pashmina shawls, intricate woodwork, and papier-mâché items. You'll have a chance to try your hand at some of these crafts, learning from artisans who have inherited centuries-old skills.

Culinary Experience: End the day with a visit to a local restaurant specializing in Wazwan, the royal cuisine of Kashmir. This elaborate meal consists of various dishes made primarily from lamb and chicken, cooked with rich spices, yogurt, and clarified butter. Each dish is steeped in history and tradition, making your dinner a cultural exploration in itself.

Day 3: Srinagar Local Sightseeing

After breakfast, delve into the heart of Srinagar's history and culture with a visit to the Old City, also known as Shehr-e-Khaas.

Heritage Walk: Wander through narrow lanes lined with ancient houses, vibrant bazaars, and historic mosques. Visit the Jamia Masjid, an architectural wonder with 378 wooden pillars, each made from a single deodar trunk. Explore the bustling markets, where you can find everything from Kashmiri spices to handmade silver jewelry.

Houseboat Lunch: Return to your houseboat for a lunch featuring Kashmiri street food delicacies like Tsot Tsochvor (local breads) served with Mutton Kebabs and Lyodur Tschaman (cottage cheese in turmeric gravy).

Shankaracharya Temple: In the afternoon, visit the Shankaracharya Temple, perched on a hilltop. The temple offers panoramic views of Srinagar and is a site of great religious and historical significance. The climb to the temple is steep, but the spiritual and visual rewards atop are immense.

Dinner and Cultural Evening: Enjoy a quiet dinner back on your houseboat, followed by a cultural evening where local musicians perform traditional Kashmiri music, offering a soothing end to your day.

This detailed approach will be continued for each subsequent day, enriching your experience with deep cultural insights, diverse activities, and immersive local interactions, ensuring that every moment of your journey is memorable and engaging. If this aligns with your expectations, I'll proceed with similar details for the following days!

Day 4: Day Trip to Gulmarg

After an early breakfast on your houseboat, prepare for a scenic drive to Gulmarg, known as the 'Meadow of Flowers'. This journey of about 50 km will take approximately 2 hours, during which you'll pass through picturesque villages and apple orchards, witnessing rural Kashmiri life.

Gulmarg Gondola: One of the major highlights of Gulmarg is its famous Gondola lift, which is one of the highest in the world. The two-stage ropeway ferries about 600 people per hour to and from Apharwat Peak, offering stunning views of the lush meadows below and snowy peaks in the distance. The first stage takes you to Kongdori Station at 2600 meters, while the second stage, which is one of the highest cable car projects in the world, goes up to 3747 meters near Apharwat Peak.

Lunch at a Hilltop Restaurant: Enjoy a meal at one of the highest restaurants in the world, where you can dine with views of the Himalayan ranges that are simply breathtaking.

Activities in Gulmarg: Post lunch, choose from a variety of activities. In the summer, you can go trekking, mountain biking, or horse riding. In the winter, Gulmarg transforms into a skiing paradise. For those interested in a relaxed afternoon, take a walk exploring the lush greenery of the meadows or play a round of golf at the historic Gulmarg Golf Course.

Evening Return to Srinagar: After a day full of adventure and scenic beauty, drive back to Srinagar. The evening is free for you to relax on your houseboat or explore local markets for some souvenir shopping.

Dinner on Houseboat: Enjoy another delightful dinner on your houseboat, featuring Kashmiri delicacies that you might not have tried yet, like Haak (a local greens dish) or Nadir-Waangan (lotus stem with eggplant).

Day 5: Srinagar to Pahalgam

Begin with an early breakfast before departing for Pahalgam, which is approximately 90 km away from Srinagar. This journey will take about 2.5 to 3 hours, traversing the countryside with views of saffron fields and the picturesque ruins of Avantipur along the way.

Arrival in Pahalgam: Known as the 'Valley of Shepherds', Pahalgam is a resort town located at the confluence of the Lidder River and the Sheshnag Lake. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and freshen up.

Local Sightseeing: Explore the local market in Pahalgam. Visit the Pahalgam Golf Course and take a leisurely walk along the River Lidder. Pahalgam is also famous for its many trekking routes and is the starting point for the Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage.

Lunch by the River: Have lunch at a riverside cafe, enjoying the views and the sound of the flowing river.

Afternoon Horseback Riding: Post lunch, take a horseback ride to Baisaran, known as Mini Switzerland due to its lush meadows surrounded by thick pine forests and the backdrop of snow-capped mountains.

Dinner and Overnight in Pahalgam: End your day with a peaceful dinner at your hotel, and if you’re up for it, enjoy a bonfire night arranged by the hotel, sharing stories and enjoying the starlit sky.

Day 6: Explore Around Pahalgam

Morning Excursion: After breakfast, head out for a day trip to the nearby attractions.

Aru Valley and Betaab Valley: Drive to Aru Valley, a small village that's a base for trekking to the Kolahoi glacier. Then visit Betaab Valley, named after the Bollywood movie 'Betaab', which was shot here. These valleys offer picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and are perfect for photography.

Lunch in the Valley: Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the natural beauty of these valleys.

Afternoon at Leisure: Return to Pahalgam and spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure. You can choose to relax by the river, visit a local handicraft shop, or try your hand at trout fishing (permissions required).

Dinner at the Hotel: Enjoy a quiet dinner at your hotel, reflecting on the tranquil moments spent amidst nature.

Day 7: Pahalgam to Katra

Early Morning Departure: After breakfast, embark on the drive to Katra, the starting point for the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage. This journey covers approximately 260 km and takes around 6-7 hours.

En Route Visit to Patnitop: Stop at Patnitop, a beautiful hill station halfway to Katra, for lunch. Enjoy the panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks and dense pine forests.

Arrive in Katra: Check into your hotel, relax, and prepare for the trek the next day. Enjoy dinner at your hotel and go to bed early to rest before the trek.

Day 8: Trek to Vaishno Devi Shrine

Begin your day early with a pre-dawn start for the trek to Vaishno Devi. The journey covers 13 km uphill, and you can choose to walk, hire a pony, or take a palanquin service. The path is well-paved and bustling with pilgrims chanting and singing devotional songs, creating a vibrant spiritual atmosphere.

Morning: Start of Trek

• Begin the ascent from Katra. The route is dotted with shops and stalls where you can buy offerings or refreshments.
• Stop at Ardhkuwari, the halfway point, known for the cave where the goddess is believed to have meditated for nine months. Take a short break and explore the cave if the queue allows.

Afternoon: Reach the Shrine

• Arrive at the Bhawan, the sanctum sanctorum, where the main deity resides. Participate in the darshan, a holy viewing of the goddess's idol, which is a spiritually uplifting experience.
• After the darshan, have lunch at one of the community kitchens (Langars) that offer free meals to all pilgrims.

Evening: Return to Katra

• Begin your descent back to Katra in the late afternoon or early evening.
• Dinner at your hotel in Katra, reflecting on the spiritual journey of the day.

Day 9: Rest and Local Exploration in Katra

After the demanding trek the previous day, take this day to rest and rejuvenate. Katra, nestled in the foothills of the Trikuta Mountains, offers several leisure activities.

Morning: Spa Treatment

• Enjoy a rejuvenating spa session at your hotel, which offers treatments tailored to soothe tired muscles and promote relaxation.

Afternoon: Explore Local Markets

• Visit Katra’s local markets to shop for souvenirs. Popular items include shawls, woolen clothes, and religious artifacts.
• Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant, trying regional dishes like Rajma (red kidney beans) and Rice.

Evening: Attend a Local Cultural Program

• Many hotels in Katra organize cultural evenings featuring Dogri folk music and dance. Participate in these cultural events to get a closer look at the local traditions and arts.

Day 10: Return to Jammu or Srinagar

Depending on your travel plans, you'll either return to Jammu or Srinagar. Each city offers distinct experiences to wrap up your journey.

Morning: Departure from Katra

• After breakfast, check out from your hotel and depart for Jammu or Srinagar by road. The drive to Jammu takes about 1 hour, while Srinagar takes around 6-7 hours.

Afternoon: Last-minute Shopping and Sightseeing

• If returning to Jammu: Visit the Raghunath Temple, one of the largest temple complexes in North India, and shop for famous Jammu Basmati rice and walnuts.
• If returning to Srinagar: Visit the Dal Lake for last-minute shopping at the floating markets, buying Kashmiri handicrafts or saffron.

Evening: Farewell Dinner

• Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, celebrating the end of your memorable journey through the mystical lands of Kashmir and Katra.

Day 11: Departure

• Depending on your departure time, enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your hotel.
• Transfer to Jammu or Srinagar airport for your return flight, taking with you a heart full of memories and spiritual peace from your journey.

Inclusions

1. Accommodation: Stay in premium houseboats in Srinagar and comfortable hotels in Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Katra.
2. Meals: Daily breakfast at all locations. Welcome dinner in Srinagar and other selected meals as specified in the itinerary.
3. Transportation: All transfers and intercity travel by private, air-conditioned vehicle.
4. Guided Tours: Professional guides for tours in Srinagar (Mughal Gardens, Old City), Gulmarg, and Pahalgam.
5. Activities:
   • Shikara ride on Dal Lake.
   • Entry tickets to all Mughal Gardens.
   • Gondola ride in Gulmarg.
   • Horseback riding in Pahalgam.
6. Local Experiences:
   • Craft workshops in Srinagar.
   • Cultural performances and traditional Kashmiri music evening.
   • Culinary experiences including traditional Kashmiri meals and a cooking class.
7. Support: 24/7 support from a local tour coordinator.

Exclusions

1. Airfare: International and domestic flights to and from Srinagar are not included.
2. Additional Meals: Lunches and dinners not specified in the itinerary.
3. Personal Expenses: Expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, mini-bar, and tips.
4. Optional Activities: Any activities not included in the itinerary like additional sightseeing, optional tours, or adventure sports.
5. Travel Insurance: Highly recommended but not included.
6. Visa Fees: Any required visas or travel permits.
7. Entry Fees: Any additional fees for attractions not listed in the itinerary.