Overview
Kashmir, often called 'Paradise on Earth' and 'Heaven on Earth,' lives up to every poetic description. This 5-day journey takes you through the surreal beauty of Srinagar's Dal Lake on a traditional Shikara boat, to the snow-capped meadows of Gulmarg with its world-famous Gondola cable car, and through Mughal gardens that inspired Persian poetry. Stay aboard a luxurious houseboat, taste authentic Kashmiri Wazwan cuisine, and witness the warm hospitality of the valley's people.
Highlights
Itinerary
Arrive Srinagar — Houseboat Check-in
Arrive at Srinagar International Airport where our representative welcomes you. Transfer to your beautifully crafted wooden houseboat on the legendary Dal Lake. These traditional Kashmiri houseboats, crafted from deodar cedar and walnut wood, feature intricately carved interiors, antique furniture, and Persian carpets. Afternoon Shikara ride across Dal Lake — glide past floating vegetable gardens, traditional wooden homes built on stilts, the picturesque Char Chinar island with its 400-year-old Chinar trees, and colorful floating markets where vendors sell flowers, vegetables, and handicrafts directly from their boats. Watch the sun set over the surrounding snow-capped Himalayan peaks. Dinner aboard the houseboat featuring traditional Kashmiri cuisine. Overnight on houseboat.
Srinagar Sightseeing — Mughal Gardens
After breakfast, explore Srinagar's famous Mughal Gardens, built by the Mughal emperors as pleasure retreats. Visit Nishat Bagh (Garden of Pleasure) built in 1633 by Asaf Khan, with its 12 terraced levels representing the zodiac signs and stunning views of Dal Lake. Continue to Shalimar Bagh (Garden of Love) built by Emperor Jahangir for his beloved wife Nur Jahan, featuring cascading fountains and Chinar trees. Visit Chashme Shahi (Royal Spring) known for its fresh water said to have medicinal properties. Afternoon visit Shankaracharya Temple perched atop a hill at 1,100 feet, offering panoramic views of the entire Srinagar valley and Dal Lake. Explore the old city bazaars for Kashmiri handicrafts: Pashmina shawls, walnut woodcarvings, papier-mâché items, and saffron. Overnight on houseboat.
Srinagar to Gulmarg — Day Trip
Day excursion to Gulmarg (meaning 'Meadow of Flowers'), a pristine ski resort at 2,650 meters in the Pir Panjal range. The 2-hour drive through pine forests and apple orchards is spectacular. Ride the famous Gulmarg Gondola — one of the world's highest cable cars — to Kongdoori station (Phase 1) at 3,050 meters for breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Optional Phase 2 continues to Apharwat Peak at 3,979 meters (weather permitting). In summer, enjoy the lush green meadows dotted with wildflowers; in winter, witness the snow-covered wonderland that makes Gulmarg Asia's premier skiing destination. Optional pony rides through the meadows to Strawberry Valley and Ningli Nallah. Return to Srinagar by evening. Overnight on houseboat.
Srinagar to Pahalgam — Day Trip
Day excursion to Pahalgam (meaning 'Valley of Shepherds') at 2,130 meters, a stunning hill station where the Lidder River flows through pine forests and meadows. The 2.5-hour drive passes through Sangam (confluence of Lidder and Arun rivers), the saffron fields of Pampore (producing the world's finest saffron), and Awantipura with its 9th-century Hindu temple ruins. Explore Betaab Valley (named after a Bollywood film) with its lush green meadows surrounded by snow-capped peaks and crystalline streams. Visit Aru Valley (12 km from Pahalgam), a picturesque meadow that serves as a base for trekkers heading to Kolahoi Glacier. Optional pony ride to Chandanwari, the starting point of the Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage. Return to Srinagar. Overnight on houseboat.
Srinagar — Departure
Morning at leisure on the houseboat. Optional last-minute Shikara ride or shopping for Kashmiri specialties. Transfer to Srinagar International Airport for your onward journey with memories of Paradise on Earth.
What's Included
- 4 nights accommodation (hotel + houseboat)
- Daily breakfast and dinner
- Private AC vehicle with driver
- Shikara ride on Dal Lake
- Gulmarg Gondola ticket (Phase 1)
- Airport pickup & drop-off
- All taxes
Not Included
- Lunch
- Gulmarg Gondola Phase 2
- Horse riding and pony charges
- Personal expenses
- Tips and gratuities
per person
Ready to Explore India?
Let us craft your perfect Indian adventure. No hidden fees, no hassle — just unforgettable experiences.