Kashmir with Vaishnodevi

Jammu to Katra (45 kms / approx. 1 hr)

Arrive in Jammu, the city of temples, and drive to Katra (45 kms / approx. 1 hr). On arrival, transfer to the hotel. Katra serves as the base camp for visiting the famous shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Temple.

Overnight stay in Katra.

Katra

Morning, proceed to the Cave shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi – a 12 km long walk, one of the most popular pilgrimages in India, situated in the lap of the Trikuta Mountains across Katra town at an altitude of 5,200 feet. One can also visit by taking the helicopter service from Katra, which takes just 8 minutes one way. After darshan, return back to Katra. Another alternative to perform darshan is by ponies, palkis, or half-way battery car.

If time permits, visit Bhairo Temple. Rest of the day at leisure.

Overnight stay in Katra.

Katra – Pahalgam

Morning, after breakfast, drive to Pahalgam – 200 km, approximately 5 to 6 hours (Valley of Shepherds) via Chenani Nashri Tunnel, Ramban, Batote, and Banihal Tunnel. Continue the drive and arrive at Pahalgam, transfer to hotel. Rest of the day at leisure.

Pahalgam is an idyllic resort located on the banks of the rivers Lidder and Sheshnag. It is the base for several treks in the region and for the annual pilgrimage to the Holy Cave Shrine of Amarnath. The surroundings are ideal for relaxation and leisure in the true spirit of a traditional hill resort.

Overnight stay in Pahalgam.

Pahalgam

Morning, after breakfast, visit Aru Valley. The Aru Valley is noted for its scenic meadows and is popular among tourists for its peaceful environment and natural beauty. The village also serves as a base camp for trekkers to the Kolahoi Glacier.

After that, visit Betaab Valley, named after the film Betaab. The valley is surrounded by lush green meadows, snow-clad mountains, and dense forests. Then proceed to Chandanwari, the base camp for the Amarnath Yatra. Later, drive back to Pahalgam.

In the afternoon, one can visit Basarun Valley by pony on direct payment. It is a large grassy meadow with small rolling hills, an eye-catching meadow, and an ideal campsite for trekkers heading further to Tulian Lake.

Overnight stay in Pahalgam.

Pahalgam - Gulmarg (150 kms approx 4 hrs)

Morning, after breakfast, drive to Gulmarg – 150 km, approximately 4 hours. Enroute, visit Mattan Temple, Pampore famous for saffron fields, Cricket Bat Factory, and Apple Orchards. Continue the drive and arrive at Gulmarg, also known as the “Meadow of Flowers,” at a height of 8,800 feet above sea level. Here, you will witness the natural beauty of Kashmir set out like a doll’s village. Gulmarg was a favorite hunting spot of the British in summer, and the village still has old-fashioned hotels and shops.

Gulmarg also has the highest 18-hole golf course in the world and has developed into a ski resort in winter. After lunch, take a Gondola ride (optional, on your own) high above the meadows and snow-covered slopes of Apharwat and Khilanmarg mountains, which provide a playground for skiing, pony rides, and skating (optional). Rest of the day at leisure.

Overnight stay in Gulmarg.

Gulmarg - Srinagar (55 kms approx 1.5 hrs)

Morning, after breakfast, drive to Srinagar – approximately 1.5 hours, 55 km. Arrive and transfer to hotel or houseboat.

In the afternoon, take a Shikara ride on Dal Lake (optional, on direct payment). The cruise will go through canals, visiting Floating Gardens, Lotus Gardens, and Vegetable Gardens, as well as backwaters of the lake. Also, pay a visit to handicraft centres for paper-mâché and wood carving factories.

Overnight stay in Srinagar.

Day trip to Sonamarg (80 kms approx 2.5 hrs)

Morning, after breakfast, proceed for a full-day excursion to Sonamarg (Meadow of Gold) – 86 km. On the way, enjoy the beauty of Sind Valley. Sonamarg is situated at a height of 2,690 meters above sea level. The blooming valley has been chiselled over the ages by the mighty Indus River, and major trekking routes begin from here. Two lakes, Gadsar and Satsar, are on the periphery of Sonamarg.

The journey offers sheer scenic splendour with a metalled road snaking through massive mountains laden with firs and forests. Arrive at Sonamarg and visit Thajiwas Glacier, where snow remains throughout the year. In the late afternoon, return to Srinagar.

Overnight stay in Srinagar.

Srinagar

Morning, after breakfast, enjoy a full day of Srinagar local sightseeing. Visit Shankaracharya Temple, followed by the famous Mughal Gardens – Nishat (Garden of Pleasure), overlooking the crystal-clear emerald green waters of Dal Lake, and then Shalimar (Garden of Love). Each garden is more beautiful than the one before.

Walk along the terraced flower beds, past splashing fountains and marble pavilions, with the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas in the background. Visit Cheshma Shahi (Royal Spring), and if time permits, one can also visit Hazratbal Shrine. Rest of the day is free for personal activities and shopping.

Overnight stay in Srinagar.

Srinagar – Onwards

This day, after breakfast, proceed for Srinagar Airport drop for your onward journey.