Lakes and Pine – 05nts/06days

Meet our representative upon arrival in Srinagar and proceed to your houseboat at Dal Lake. This place is famous for its lakes and the charming houseboats, Srinagar is also known for traditional Kashmiri handicrafts. The lake comprises a series of water bodies, including the Nagin Lake. One can take in the panoramic view of the mountains surrounding Srinagar from this lake. Kashmiri boats called Shikara, are used to explore the intricate maze of waterways on this lake. In evening, enjoy a Shikara-ride on Dal Lake.Overnight stay in houseboat.

After breakfast depart for full day excursion to the Sonmarg, ‘Meadow of Gold’ on Srinagar- Leh road, a gushing river is the highlight of this meadow, flowing down from snowy heights into the dense woodlands of firs and silver birches. Glaciers pour down from this stream from the Himalayas on to the many camping sites in Sonmarg. A thick forest-cover of sycamore, alpine flowers, silver birch, fir and pine, Sonmarg offers adventure in the form of treks, sledging, angling, alpine skiing and white water rafting. Enjoy leisurely walks around the meadow. Return to Srinagar for dinner & overnight stay in houseboat.

After breakfast, proceed to Pahalgam, also called the Valley of Shepherds. Visit Aru Valley which is a small village, 15 km upstream the Lidder River, The route is picturesque with ample campsites. This village is the starting point for treks to the Kolahoi glacier. Later, visit Chandanwari, 16 Km which is the starting point of sacred Amarnath Yatra. Chandanwari is famous for snow sledging on a snow bridge, enroute you can visit Hajan, an idyllic picnic spot and Betaab valley. Return to Srinagar for dinner and overnight stay in houseboat.

After breakfast, enjoy sightseeing tour covering Mughal Gardens -Nishat (The Garden of Pleasure) and Shalimar (Abode of All). Drive along the Lake side on Boulevard. On your way back, visit a local Handicrafts Emporium for hand-knotted silk carpets and shawls as well as ornaments. Also, go to Shankaracharya Temple. Dinner and Overnight stay in houseboat.

After breakfast drive to Gulmarg, ‘Meadow of Flowers’ situated at an altitude of 2730 meters, full day at leisure to take walks on the lush green meadows of flowers with a backdrop of the snow-capped mountains. Enjoy local sightseeing of Gulmarg and Gandola-ride (cable car). By evening return to Srinagar for dinner and overnight stay in houseboat.

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Srinagarairport for return flight back home.