Day 1: Arrival – Local Sightseen After an arrival at Srinagar meet and greet on arrival drive proceed Srinagar & straight drive towards hotel. Srinagar is the capital city of Jammu & Kashmir. It is situated at an altitude of 1, 730 m. In the heart of the Kashmir valley, Srinagar spreads out on both sides of the Jhelum River. The valley's beauty has enticed visitors from distant lands. Srinagar bears the hallmark of the Mughal’s dry fruits and the traditional Kashmiri handicrafts are the other major attractions of the hill resort. If there is a heaven on earth, it's here, it's here, and it’s here in Srinagar. Shankeracharya Temple is located at 1100 ft. above surface level of the main city on the Shankaracharya hill, also known as Takht-E-Suleiman. The Shiva temple was constructed by Raja Gopadatya in the year 371 BC & as such is the oldest shrine in Kashmir. After the trip of Shankeracharya Temple tour to famous Mughal Garden, Nishat Garden known as ‘Garden of pleasure’ built in 16th century (1633) by Mughal King Asif Khan. or "The garden of bliss". The garden boasts of being the largest one of the Mughal gardens in Kashmir. Located about 11 km from the Srinagar city, the garden is popular for its unique location that offers a splendid view of the Dal Lake, as well as the snow capped Pir Panjal mountain range, with the famous Zabarwan Mountains as its backdrop. The Nishat Garden was laid out by Asif Khan, the brother of Mughal Empress Nur Jehan, in 1633. Shalimar Garden known as ‘Garden of love’ built in 16th century (1619) by Mughal King Jahangir for his beloved wife Noor Jahan or (Mehr-un-Nissa. “If there is a paradise on earth, it is this, it is this, it is this.” - Jahangir, the Mughal Emperor originally called the Farah Bakhsh or 'Delightful Garden', the Shalimar Bagh is known as one of the finest foundation by the Mughals. The Shalimar Bagh is located in Srinagar, by the Dal Lake. With its four terraces, the bagh includes a number of fountains, shaded trees and innumerable varieties of flowers that blossom in spring and autumn. The best best views of the garden's beauty are afforded during Autumn and Spring seasons, when leaves change their colour and the flowers blossom respectively. Chashmashahi is the smallest of the Srinagar Mughal gardens, the Chashma Shahi or 'Royal Spring' has always been the favourite of royal families (from Mughals to Maharaja Ranjit Singh of Punjab and even the Dogra rulers). The garden was laid out by the renowned Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, in 1632. 'Chashma' is basically an Urdu word that means “waterfall”. The garden was so named because of a mountain spring/waterfall that feeds it. The famous fresh water spring inside the garden is believed to have medicinal values. Pari Mahal or The Angels' Abode is a seven terraced garden located at the top of Zabarwan mountain range over-looking city of Srinagar and south-west of Dal Lake. The architecture depicts an example of Islamic architecture and patronage of art during the reign of the then Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. It is five-minute drive from Cheshmashahi.

After breakfast at hotel in Srinagar drive Sonamarg is situated at an altitude of 2730m,‘The meadow of gold’, as its backdrop, snowy mountains against a cerulean sky. The Sindh River that meanders through the valley abounds with trout & mahaseer. The drive to Sonamarg is through the Sindh Valley which presents yet another spectacular facet of countryside in Kashmir. It is the base of a major trek that passes along several mountain lakes. Sonamarg is the best natural beauty reserve in Kashmir. Lush green meadows, foaming rivers and streams that cut through the lofty mountains offer a picturesque location. Situated in close proximity to Zojila Pass that connects Ladakh with the Vale of Kashmir, it is an ideal place for those who have profound love for nature and enjoy solitude. An apt location for setting up base camps, where trekkers can catch their breath before resuming on their trekking expeditions, including the Amarnath Temple, Sonamarg is an asset to Jammu & Kashmir tourism. Pristine Gangabal Lake, Vishansar Lake, Kishansar Lake and Gadsar Lake are the major attractions in Sonamarg, where as Naranag and Thajiwas Glacier are popular tourist places in Sonamarg. An epitome of beauty, Sonamarg is indeed the true reflection of the valley of Kashmir. In Sonamarg to explore the natural surroundings; Here are some interesting things to do when you are in Sonamarg by own cost. Thajiwas Glacier: It offers many adventurous routes with amazing green water & frozen lakes around and Thajiwas Glacier is a one such major tourist attraction in the region. Located 7 km from Sonamarg, it is an Monsoon (July to September) is not very vigorous but the hilly rugged terrains can become slippery. It is challenging to take up. Ponies can be hired for the trip up to Thajiwas Glacier, which is a major local attraction during the summer months. Zero Point: To experience snow in July one has to reach the glacier in Sonamarg or opt to go further by another 35 kms to a location called Zero Point beyond Zojila pass along the NH. I where the snow remains almost throughout the year. And back to Srinagar.

After breakfast drive towards Gulmarg . Gulmarg is (8700 ft i.e. 2652 meters,the resort was named Gulmarg “meadow of flowers”by Sultan Yusuf Shah of the Chak Dynasty who frequented visit the place with his queen Habba Khatoon in the 16th century. Wild flowers of 21 different varieties were collected by the Mughal emperor Jahangir for his gardens in Gulmarg.Gulmarg also discovered by the Kashmiri romantic poet in the 16th century who was inspired with its grassy slopes covered with wild flowers. It is one of the India’s premier Hill resorts. Gulmarg today is not merely a mountain resort of exceptional beauty – It also turns into India’s premier Ski resort in winter. The Gondola (Cable Car) offers rides to the upland meadows of Kongdori and beyond to the top of Apharwat range to a height of 14000 feet for viewing the Himalayan Peaks in summer and for downhill skiing in winter. In Gulmarg to explore the natural surroundings; Here are some interesting things to do by own cost when you are in Gulmarg : Gondola (Cable Car): Gulmarg Gondola is one of the highest in the world reaching 3,979 metres. The two-stage ropeway ferries about 600 people per hour to and from Gulmarg to a shoulder of nearby Mt. Apharwat Summit (4,200 m (13,780 ft)). The first stage transfers from Gulmarg at 2,600 m (8,530 ft) to Kongdoori at 3,080 m. The second stage which has 36 cabins and 18 towers, takes passengers to a height of 3,950 m (12,959 ft) on the Apharwat Peak (4,200 m (13,780 ft)). A chair lift system connects Kongdoori with Mary’s shoulder for taking skiers to higher altitude. St Mary’s Church: The Roman Catholic St Mary's Church is located in the valley of Shepherds in Gulmarg. It was built in 1902, during the period of British rule, and was constructed in a British style. Made of grey brick with a green roof and decorated wooden interior walls, it has been described as a "Victorian architectural wonder" In 1920 the church saw the wedding of the brother of Bruce Bairnsfather; Miss Eleanor Hardy Tipping married Capt. T. D. Bairnsfather, with newspapers describing the church as "very prettily decorated" and with the service conducted by Rev Canon Buckwell in the presence of both organ and a full choir. Snow Sking & Snow Sledge and much more places to visit and move to hotel for an overnight stay.

After breakfast at Hotel in Srinagar drive towards Pahalgam via Awantipora Ruins & Saffron fields. Pahalgam (2133 mts) also known as ‘The valley of Shepherds or Trekker’s Paradise. Pahalgam is the most famous place for Indian Film Industry. Pahalgam offers breath-taking views. One can just enjoy the town of Pahalgam trek to some of the most beautiful places on earth. One can trek to Lidderwater. Pahalgam is also the entry point for the famous Amarnath Cave, a holy site for Hindus.In evening move back to Srinagar for an overnight stay. Here are some interesting things to do by own cost when you are in Pahalgam : In local taxi you can visit; Visit Betaab Valley: Betaab Valley is 15 km from Pahalgam town and is one of the most beautiful valleys around Pahalgam. The valley is famed as a setting for a popular Bollywood film, Betaab. Visit Aru Village: Aru village is around 12 km from Pahalgam. Taxis are available from Pahalgam on shared basis. It is a beautiful village, visited by far lesser tourists and is more peaceful than Pahalgam. Some scenes from the film ‘Jaab Tak Hai Jaan,’ were shot here. The ride from Pahalgam to Aru has some of the most picturesque view points. Pony rides are organised on the gentle slopes at Aru. By ponies/horses you can visit; Baisaran: Baisaran is a large, grassy meadow with small rolling hills and fantastic views of the mountain peaks that surround it. The wide, mud track that leads up to it from Pahalgam village is beautifully shaded on one side by Deodhar trees, with lovely valley views on the other. Dabiyan: Dabiyan is a small settlement of Gujjar tribes consisting of low-roofed mud huts enclosed within a wooden fence. Gujjars are a nomadic tribe which moves up to the mountains in the summer months to graze their cattle in the nearby meadows. Just before winter hits they move back down to the plains, on foot, cattle in tow Gauri Shankar Temple: This temple is one of the oldest temples in Pahalgam. The Amarnath Yatra also begins here. The temple is small but much revered by the Hindus. Visit the Zoo: Around 1 km from Pahalgam town, wildlife lovers can see different species of deer, leopard and bear at the zoo. Visit club Park: Club Park is one of the oldest parks in Pahalgam. It is crowded, specifically on weekends. The garden blends perfectly with its surrounding hills and river running nearby and looks more like a naturally created garden. Trout fishing at Lidder River: If you want to indulge in some fishing, there is no better place than Pahalgam. As much fun as it is, it doesn’t come cheap. Fishing permits are issued only in Srinagar by the Fisheries Department. If you are a first timer you can hire the service of a shikara (offered by fishermen in this case) but it can be quite expensive. Pahalgam is thus also known as a ‘anglers paradise. Rafting at Lidder River: River rafting is one popular sport here. Some people just come here to indulge in the sport. The white frothing water makes it more enticing. Jamia Masjid Mosque: The green roof mosque just near the main bazaar (market) with its beautiful design is a major attraction. The location of the mosque also adds another dimension to its aura.Overnight hotel.

After breakfast move towards Srinagar for 01 night stay at houseboat in Dal Lake. It is situated at an altitude of 1, 730 m. In the heart of the Kashmir valley, Srinagar spreads out on both sides of the Jhelum River. The valley's beauty has enticed visitors from distant lands. Srinagar bears the hallmark of the Mughal’s dry fruits and the traditional Kashmiri handicrafts are the other major attractions of the hill resort.In evening go for 1 hour Shikara ride .Overnight at houseboat in Srinagar. If there is a heaven on earth, it's here, it's here, and it’s here in Srinagar.

After breakfast transfer from Srinagar towards Srinagar air port for onward destination with Sweet holiday.