Kashmir Paradise Tour Package

Kashmir, in the north of India, is a multi-ethnic, multi-religious, multicultural region. The majority of Kashmiri people are Muslim, with a Hindu minority. The region has an area of about 222,236 km2 (85,806 sq mi), and its population is mostly in Jammu and Kashmir. The region has been the site of political unrest and violence for over 70 years and has been the subject of numerous international disputes. The western parts of the region are administered by Pakistan and the eastern part by India. The northernmost territory of Kashmir is the Siachen Glacier, the world’s second-largest glacier, and the largest in India. Kashmir has a rich history and culture, and the region’s people are known for their craftsmanship, music, and cuisine. Kashmir is a beautiful place with a lot of scenic beauty and is also known as the “Switzerland of India”. Kashmir is also home to some of the most beautiful lakes in the world such as Dal Lake, Wular Lake, and Anchar Lake. The climate of Kashmir is mostly cool in summer and very cold in winter. Snowfall is common in the higher reaches of the region.

The Kashmir problem dates back to the formation of the Indian Union on15 August 1947. India was partitioned into two sovereign states, India and Pakistan, on the basis of religious divisions. The Muslim-majority states of the northern part of the subcontinent went to Pakistan, and the Hindu-majority states of the southern part went to India. The state of Jammu and Kashmir in the northwest was a Muslim-majority state with a Hindu ruler, Maharaja Hari Singh. He was offered the option of joining either India or Pakistan, but he chose to remain independent. Pashtun tribesmen from the northwest frontier province of Pakistan invaded the state in October 1947. The roots of the Kashmir conflict can be traced back to the period of British rule in India. whenever you go to Kashmir, you find people who are very gentle and Soft spoken.

How to reach Kashmir 

By Air: The Srinagar International Airport is the only airport in Kashmir. It is connected to all cities of India, including New Delhi and Mumbai.

By Rail: There are no direct trains to Srinagar. The nearest railhead is Jammu Tawi, which is 314 km from Srinagar. 

By Road: Srinagar is connected to all parts of India by road.

Surrounded by the Himalayan Mountains adorned with the beautiful Mughal gardens and the tranquil Dal & Nigeen lakes, Srinagar is rightly referred to as the ‘Land of Lakes and Gardens’. This beautiful place also boasts of being one of the dream travel destinations in India for honeymooners and family vacationers.

The summer capital of J&K union territory, Srinagar is one of the most popular holiday destinations in India that impresses vacationers primarily with its unique experiences of a shikhara ride and houseboat stay on Dal and Nigeen lakes. Another experience to relish is witnessing one of its kind Floating Vegetable Market on Dal

Lake. 

Nigeen Lake 

The numerous lakes and gardens of the city lend it its famous charm. A small distance away from Dal Lake is Nigeen Lake where you can do boating, swim and attempt water skiing.

Dal Lake 

Dal Lake is a beautiful water body nestled amidst scenic surroundings in Srinagar. Representing tourism in Srinagar on an international level, it is rightly referred to as the ‘Jewel in the Crown of Kashmir’. With an area of 22 sq. km, this monotonic lake prides itself on being the second largest lake in the northern state. It has a significant association with different aspects of Srinagar’s heritage and lifestyle, including its culture, traditions, and mythology.
Mythological legends state that this lake had an island named Isabar towards its eastern coast, which was the abode of Goddess Durga. It was fed by a spring called Satadhara and the region along its banks was known as Sureshwari. With passing time, this lake became the hub of commercial operations like water plant harvesting and fishing, thus playing a crucial role in Srinagar’s economy.
The lake has a shoreline of 15.5 km, which is lined with verdant gardens, hotels, restaurants, and souvenir shops. Visitors can purchase a variety of articles from these shops, including traditional pashmina shawls, paper mache goods, and exquisite Kashmiri carpets. An island named Chaar Chinaar, owned by the state’s royal family lies in the center of this lake. Nehru Park – the floating park and a lakeside golf course are other attractions. What serve as the star attractions of this lake are the beautiful Shikaras – traditional houseboats. Used as floating shops and tourist retreats, these Shikaras are known all over the world for their unmatched charm.
With the arrival of winter, the lake freezes due to weather conditions. A thick sheet of ice covers the surface and makes it a perfect ice skating venue. In terms of weather, the most suitable time to visit this beautiful lake is from April to September.

Mughal Gardens 

Shalimar, Nishat, and Chashm-e-Shahi constitute the famous Mughal Gardens of Srinagar. They are known as much for their architectural exquisiteness as for the history that surrounds them. It was in the 17th century that Shalimar Bagh (garden) was built as a summer residence and royal court. The layout of both Shalimar and Nishat Bagh is similar to that of the Persian gardens with a water source in the center and four streams radiating from it.
Chashm-e-Shahi Bagh is known for its freshwater springs, which are popular for their medicinal value. There is also a mountain spring near a shrine called Chasma Sahibi after which the garden is named. In autumn, the Mughal Gardens are covered with fallen red golden leaves – a walk with your beloved is a memory that will last Gulmarg.

A cup-shaped meadow, Gulmarg, also known as the ‘Meadow of Flowers’ boasts of the world’s highest golf course, a triangular frozen lake, and a famous Gondola ride. In addition, the Gulmarg Ski Resort at over 8,600 feet offers smooth slopes to both amateurs and skiing professionals.

Pahalgam 

The village of shepherds is perched at 8,200 feet above sea level. This lavish emerald green valley is a paradise of recreation and leisure. Pahalgam is home to a fantastic 9-hole golf course perched atop the valley at 7,800 feet. From Pahalgam, you can visit the temple ruins in Avantipur or go on a family picnic on the banks of the Lidder River.

By Air: The nearest airport to Pahalgam is in Srinagar, which is well connected to the rest of the country by regular flights. 

By Rail: The nearest railway station to Pahalgam is in Jammu Tawi, which is well connected to the rest of the country by regular trains. 

By Road: Pahalgam is well connected to the rest of the country by an excellent network of roads.

Must-visit attractions in Gulmarg

Some of the must-visit attractions in Gulmarg include

• Gulmarg Gondola: is A popular cable car ride that takes you to Apharwat Peak, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
• Khilanmarg: is A picturesque meadow located about 4 kilometers from Gulmarg, known for its scenic beauty and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
• Alpather Lake: is A serene and pristine lake located at the foot of Apharwat Peak, offering a peaceful ambiance for nature lovers.
• Golf Course: One of the highest golf courses in the world, offering a unique golfing experience amidst the picturesque landscape of Gulmarg.
• Strawberry Valley: is A beautiful valley known for its lush green meadows, wildflowers, and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Sonmarg 

Sonmarg is known to have a lot of significance in the old times. This is because it was the gateway of the Silk Road, which connected Kashmir and China. This is also a great base camp for Ladakh. This is a military strong point for India too. When you visit this place in winter, you will see that the valley becomes the place that will be covered with white gold. Thus, that is how it got its name. Zero Point is a little further away and is 35 km away from Sonamarg toward the Drass side and the Zokila Pass. It is said to be one of the most dangerous passes in the world. The name is called zero-point because, at that place, the temperature is always close to zero or simply zero.

Best time to visit Sonmarg

The best time to visit Sonmarg is from April to October. During this period, the weather is pleasant, and the natural beauty of the region is at its best. The temperature remains moderate, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The summer months from May to September are the peak season for tourism in Sonmarg, and the place is bustling with tourists from all over the world. In the winter months from November to March, Sonmarg experiences heavy snowfall, and the region becomes inaccessible due to the heavy snow. Hence, the ideal time to visit Sonmarg is from April to October.

Climate of Kashmir 

The climate of Kashmir is temperate and ranges from cool and humid to alpine and arid. The valley of Kashmir is surrounded by the Himalayan mountains. The valley is relatively sheltered from the cold winds that blow across the plains of northern India. The climate in Kashmir is temperate with cool winters and warm summers. The average temperature in summer is around 27°C and in winter it is around 10°C. However, the temperature can drop below freezing point in winter, especially in higher altitude areas. Kashmir receives rainfall from the southwest monsoon from

July to September. The average annual rainfall is around 1,000mm. 

During the summer; the valley is warm and humid, with temperatures often reaching 40°C (104°F). The monsoon rains occur from July to September and can bring heavy rain and severe flooding. 

During the winter; the valley is cold and snowy, with temperatures often dipping below freezing. Snowfall usually occurs from December to February.

Best time to visit Kashmir

The best time to visit Kashmir is during the months of March to August. Tourists come to Kashmir valley so they too can witness this ‘heaven on earth and enjoy all that it offers. During this period two seasons are covered in Kashmir. Spring (March to early May) and Summer (early May to late August).

Summer in Kashmir (March to May)

Summer is the best time to visit Kashmir as it is neither too cold nor too hot and the climate is quite suitable for sightseeing. The daytime temperature ranges from around 15 °C to 30 °C. Early morning hours are usually the best time to explore this place. Explore and see the melting snow over the valley, a sight to behold. Do not miss visiting Pahalgam, Srinagar, and Gulmarg in the summer.

Monsoon in Kashmir begins from June to September. Though monsoon season is generally considered a shoulder season or off-season, visiting Kashmir during monsoon, is an experience in itself.  Also, during this off-season, you will find a good amount of discounts on flights and hotels. The temperatures during these months range from 15°C to 30°C. Another added advantage is to go for the apple-picking activity. There are many visiting places in Kashmir to explore. Do remember to carry your jackets, sturdy boots, rain gear, and raincoats while traveling to Kashmir.

Winter in Kashmir (October to February)

Winter in Kashmir is another peak season. The temperatures range from 0 °C to 10 °C. Most of the activities that you can enjoy during other months such as visiting Mughal gardens and shikhara rides on Dal Lake may not be feasible during winter. The best time to visit Kashmir for snowfall is during this season. There is snowfall from December to March, wherein the whole valley gets covered in a blanket of snow, and the view is similar to that of Yash Chopra films. Thus Kashmir honeymoon packages are quite popular during the winter months. Apart from honeymooners, adventure activists too would love to enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and skating. 

What is the best time to visit Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam?

The best time to visit these places is during the summer months between March and June and then from September to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and you can enjoy outdoor activities without any hindrance.

Is it safe to visit Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam?

Yes, it is safe to visit these places. However, it is recommended to take necessary precautions while traveling, such as not venturing out at night and avoiding crowded places.

How can I reach Srinagar?

Srinagar has an international airport, and you can also reach there by train or bus. However, the most convenient way is to take a flight.

How far is Gulmarg from Srinagar, and how can I reach there?

Gulmarg is about 50 km away from Srinagar, and you can reach there by taxi or bus. It takes around 1.5 hours to reach Gulmarg from Srinagar.

What are the must-visit places in Gulmarg?

Some of the must-visit places in Gulmarg are Gulmarg Gondola, Khilanmarg, Alpather Lake, and Ningle Nallah.

How far is Pahalgam from Srinagar, and how can I reach there?

Pahalgam is about 90 km from Srinagar, and you can reach there by taxi or

bus. It takes around 2.5 to 3 hours to reach Pahalgam from Srinagar.

What are the must-visit places in Pahalgam?

Some of the must-visit places in Pahalgam are Betaab Valley, Aru Valley, Chandanwari, and Lidder River.

What is the best way to travel from Srinagar to Gulmarg and Pahalgam?

The best way to travel is by hiring a taxi or taking a shared cab. You can also book a private car for the entire trip.

What are the best activities to do in Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam?

Some of the best activities to do in these places are skiing, trekking, Shikara riding, golfing, and enjoying the scenic beauty of the place.

What are the best accommodations options in Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam?

There are various accommodation options ranging from budget to luxury hotels and resorts. Some of the popular options are Vivanta by Taj, The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa, and Pine N Peak.

What is the best time to visit Gulmarg?

The best time to visit Gulmarg is during the summer months of May to September when the weather is pleasant with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C. This is also the time when the famous Gulmarg Gondola, the highest cable car in the world, operates and offers stunning views of the snow-capped Himalayas.

What are the must-visit attractions in Pahalgam?

Some of the must-visit attractions in Pahalgam include

Betaab Valley: is a picturesque valley known for its lush green meadows, gushing streams, and snow-capped mountains. It is also a popular spot for Bollywood film shootings.

Aru Valley: is a scenic valley located about 12 kilometers from Pahalgam, known for its pristine beauty, meadows, and forests. It is a popular base for various treks.

Chandanwari: is a famous tourist spot located about 16 kilometers from Pahalgam, known for its scenic beauty and as the starting point of the Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage.

Lidder River: is a beautiful river that flows through Pahalgam, offering opportunities for fishing, picnicking, and river rafting.

Pahalgam Golf Course: is a scenic golf course located amidst the stunning Himalayan landscape, offering a unique golfing experience.

What are the adventure activities I can do in Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam?

Trekking There are several trekking routes in Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam. You can trek through beautiful landscapes and scenic routes.

Camping You can go camping in Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam. There are several camping sites available, and you can rent tents and other camping equipment.

River Rafting can go river rafting in Pahalgam. The Lidder River is a popular spot for river rafting.

Mountain Biking can rent a mountain bike and explore the beautiful landscapes of Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam.

Paragliding can go paragliding in Gulmarg. The experience of paragliding over snow-capped mountains is truly unforgettable.

Hot Air Ballooning: You can go hot air ballooning in Srinagar. The view of the city

from a hot air balloon is stunning.

Water Sports: You can enjoy water sports like water skiing, kayaking, and fishing in Dal Lake, Srinagar.

Hiking: You can go hiking in the forests and hills of Gulmarg and Pahalgam. The beautiful natural surroundings make for a perfect hiking experience.

Can I find snow in Gulmarg in the summer?

No, it’s highly unlikely to find snow in Gulmarg during the summer months. Gulmarg experiences a moderate climate during the summer, with temperatures ranging from 13°C to 29°C (55°F to 84°F). Snowfall occurs in Gulmarg during the winter months, usually from December to February. However, the snow cover in the upper reaches of Gulmarg may last until mid-April or early May, depending on the weather conditions. If you want to experience snow in Gulmarg, it’s recommended that you

visit during the winter months.

How much time should I spend in Gulmarg?

The amount of time you should spend in Gulmarg depends on your interests and itinerary. If you’re only interested in skiing or snowboarding, you can plan a trip for 2-3 days during the winter months. However, if you want to explore the natural beauty of Gulmarg and engage in other activities like trekking, hiking, and camping, it’s recommended that you spend at least 4-5 days. During this time, you can explore the local market, visit nearby attractions like Alpather Lake, and take a gondola ride to the highest point in Gulmarg for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Keep in mind that the weather conditions in Gulmarg can be unpredictable, so it’s always a good idea to plan for some extra time in case of unexpected changes in the weather.

What is the distance between Srinagar and Pahalgam?

The distance between Srinagar and Pahalgam is approximately 95 kilometers (59 miles) by road. The journey takes around 2-3 hours depending on the traffic and road conditions. The route from Srinagar to Pahalgam passes through beautiful valleys, hills, and forests, and is a popular tourist destination in Kashmir. Along the way, you can stop at several scenic spots, such as the Awantipora ruins, the Saffron fields of Pampore, and the Lidder River. You can travel to Pahalgam by hiring a private taxi, taking a shared cab, or using the public transportation system.

Can I find river rafting in Pahalgam?

Yes, you can find river rafting in Pahalgam. The Lidder River, which flows through Pahalgam, is a popular destination for river rafting. The rafting stretch on the Lidder River covers a distance of about 6 kilometers and offers different grades of rapids, ranging from Grade I to Grade IV, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters. The best time to go river rafting in Pahalgam is during the summer months, from April to September when the weather is pleasant and the water level is just right for rafting. However, it’s always advisable to check the weather conditions and water level before planning your rafting trip. You can book a river rafting tour in Pahalgam through various tour operators or at the local tourism office.

What are the best trekking routes in Pahalgam?

Pahalgam has several trekking routes that offer stunning views of the Himalayan ranges, forests, and meadows. Here are some of the best trekking routes in Pahalgam Kolahoi Glacier Trek, Tarsar Marsar Trek, Sheshnag Lake Trek, Aru Valley Trek, Chandanwari to Pahalgam Trek.

Can I find mountain biking in Pahalgam?

India is a popular destination for mountain biking enthusiasts. The beautiful landscape, hilly terrain, and scenic trails make it an ideal location for biking. There are several biking trails in and around Pahalgam that cater to all levels of bikers, from beginners to experienced riders. The Lidder Valley in Pahalgam is a popular mountain biking route that takes you through the picturesque countryside, forests, and streams. The trail offers a mix of challenging terrain and scenic views, making it an exciting biking experience. Another popular biking route is the Aru Valley, which is located about 12 km from Pahalgam. The route takes you through the stunning countryside, meadows, and small villages. There are several adventure sports companies and tour operators in Pahalgam that offer mountain biking tours and rental services. They provide all the necessary equipment, including bikes, helmets, and safety gear, and also offer experienced guides to accompany you on your biking adventure.

What are the best souvenirs to buy in Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam?

Pashmina Shawls Srinagar is known for its high-quality Pashmina shawls, which are made by skilled artisans.

Kashmiri Carpet is known for its intricate designs and superior quality. 

Kashmiri tea, also known as Kahwa, is a popular local beverage that is made by blending green tea leaves, saffron, cinnamon, and cardamom. It is available in local markets and is a great souvenir to take back home.

Walnut wood carvings are a specialty of Kashmir and are available in Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam. These carvings are made by skilled craftsmen and feature intricate designs and patterns.

Papier Mache is a traditional Kashmiri art form that involves creating decorative objects using a mixture of paper pulp and glue. These objects are then painted with vibrant colors and intricate designs, making them a popular souvenir item.

Kashmir is known for its rich and flavorful spices, including saffron, cardamom, and cinnamon. These spices are available in local markets and are great souvenirs for food enthusiasts.

Handmade jewelry, including earrings, necklaces, and bracelets, is available in Srinagar and Pahalgam. These pieces are made by skilled artisans using traditional techniques and feature intricate designs and patterns.

Can I find ATMs in Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam?

Many ATMs are easily reachable day or night and offer various services. ATMs are practical because they let users complete quick self-service tasks like deposits, cash withdrawals, bill payments, and account transfers.

What are the best photography spots in Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam?

Srinagar Dal Lake is known for its serene waters, colorful houseboats, and stunning sunsets, Shalimar Bagh is a Mughal garden located on the banks of Dal Lake and is known for its beautiful fountains, terraces, and pavilions, Gulmarg offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and is a great spot for photography,  Pahalgam, Betaab Valley is a scenic spot located near Pahalgam and is known for its lush greenery, and crystal-clear streams, Aru Valley is a picturesque valley located near Pahalgam, Lidder River is a popular spot for photography in Pahalgam and is known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning natural beauty.

What are the best places to shop in Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam?

Srinagar: Lal Chowk, Kashmir Government Arts Emporium, Badshah Chowk

Gulmarg: The Floating Market, Gulmarg Golf Course Market

Pahalgam: Pahalgam Market, Kashmir Treasures

These are just a few of the many shopping destinations in Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam. Each place has its own unique shopping experience, and there are countless other locations that offer traditional handicrafts and souvenirs. It is always recommended to bargain for the best price while shopping in these markets.

What is Sonmarg known for?

Sonmarg is known for its stunning natural beauty, which includes snow-capped peaks, glaciers, alpine meadows, and gushing streams. It is often referred to as the “Meadow of Gold” due to the golden color of its flowers that bloom during the spring season. Sonmarg is also the starting point for many treks, including the famous trek to the Amarnath Cave, which is considered one of the holiest shrines for Hindus. Additionally, Sonmarg is known for its trout fishing, horse riding, and adventure sports like skiing and snowboarding during the winter months.

How can I reach Sonmarg, from Srinagar?

There are several ways to reach Sonmarg from Srinagar, and here are the most popular modes of transportation:

By road: You can hire a taxi or take a shared cab from Srinagar to Sonmarg. The journey takes around 3-4 hours and passes through beautiful scenery along the way.

By bus: State-run and private buses are available from Srinagar to Sonmarg. The journey takes around 4-5 hours.

By helicopter: During the Amarnath Yatra season, helicopter services are available from Srinagar to Neelgrath, which is the base camp for the Amarnath Cave. From

there, you can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to reach Sonmarg.

By train: The nearest railway station to Sonmarg is Jammu Tawi, which is around 400 km away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Sonmarg.

By air: The nearest airport to Sonmarg is the Srinagar International Airport, which is around 85 km away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to reach Sonmarg.

What are the popular tourist attractions in Sonmarg?

Here are some of the top tourist attractions that you can visit in Sonmarg in a day Thajiwas Glacier, Baltal Valley, Zojila Pass, Nilagrad River, and Shishnag Lake, These attractions can be covered in a day trip from Sonmarg, but you may need to prioritize based on your interests and available time.

What is the best time to visit Sonmarg?

The best time to visit Sonmarg is from April to October. During this period, the weather is pleasant, and the natural beauty of the region is at its best.

Are there any local customs or traditions in Sonmarg that visitors should be aware of?

There are a few local customs and traditions in Sonmarg that visitors should be aware of to respect the local culture and traditions. Dress modestly: Sonmarg is a conservative place, and it is advisable to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious places.

• Respect local customs
• Ask for permission before taking photographs
• Do not litter
• Be cautious of the weather

By keeping these customs and traditions in mind, visitors can have a more meaningful and respectful experience in Sonmarg.

What are some safety tips for visiting Sonmarg?

• Visitors to Sonmarg should take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Check the weather forecast and carry appropriate clothing and gear.
• Be aware of altitude sickness and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
• Hire a skilled driver who is familiar with the terrain and avoids speeding or reckless driving.
• If trekking, hire a local guide, stay on designated trails, and carry enough water and food.
• Respect local customs and traditions to avoid offending the locals.