The tour is available from 29 May to 30 Sep on all days of the week.
It is a miracle to visit the "Paradise on earth", from soundly mountain lakes to naturalistic snow-covered mountains, coolest airwaves, to charming holidays on Dal Lake. Get some time from your busy schedule and live some time for yourself. Book a tour to rediscover nature and feel close to nature. You can enjoy nature, and the operators will take care of the necessary arrangements. It is this contrast which led the poets of all nations to speak of it as an 'Emerald set in Pearls'.
Nishat Garden is the most famous Mughal Garden of Kashmir Valley. Varied reasons contribute to the popularity of the garden, such as its historic importance, architectural style, garden layout, lush green parks, and eye-catching colourful blossoms. It is a terraced Mughal Garden built on the eastern side of the scenic Dal Lake with the Zabarwan Mountains as its backdrop. At the fifth terrace, a stone bench is provided across the channel to enjoy the scenic beauty of the garden. Nishat Garden was built by the elder brother of Mughal Empress Nur Jahan, Abdul Hasan Asaf Khan, who also designed the layout of the garden, and it was opened in 1633 AD. Nishat Bagh in Urdu means "Garden of Joy", "Garden of Gladness", and "Garden of Delight". It is the second-largest Mughal garden in Kashmir Valley. The largest in size is Shalimar Garden, which is also located on the bank of Dal Lake. Nishat Garden offers a panoramic view of the world-famed Dal Lake.
Shalimar Garden (Bagh): One of the most beautiful Mughal Gardens in the entire country, Shalimar Garden in Kashmir, Srinagar, is truly a colourful gift of nature. The word "Shalimar" in Sanskrit means "Abode of Love". Mughal Emperor Jahangir built the Shalimar Bagh for his wife Nur Jahan (Nur Jahan means light of the world) in 1619 AD. Located on the right bank of Dal Lake, this Persian-modelled garden is a three-terraced Mughal Garden and is a testimony to the architectural grandeur of the past. It is laced with several landmarks and structures that once served the royals. "Diwan-e-Aam" (Hall of Public Audience), "Diwan-e-Khas" (Hall of Private Audience), "Zenana (Women) Terrace", "Black Pavilion", "Shah Nahar", and the magnificent 410 fountains within the premises are the main attraction points of this garden. This garden was the inspiration for other gardens of the same name, notably the Shalimar Bagh in Delhi built in 1653 AD, which now also has an upscale colony. The Black Pavilion on the top terrace of the Shalimar Bagh has the famous inscription in the Persian language, which says; Agar firdaus bar roy-e zamin ast, hamin ast-o, hamin ast-o, hamin ast-o (If there is a paradise on earth, it is here, it is here, it is here). The garden is considered very beautiful during the autumn season due to the colour change in the leaves of the famed Chinar trees. Thus, over the years, the garden was extended and improved by many rulers and called by different names such as "Farah Baksh" (the delightful) and "Faiz Baksh" (the bountiful), but the most popular name, Shalimar Bagh, continues to this day. Even now, it is one of the prominent visitor attractions around Dal Lake. In addition, historians say that when Mughal Emperor Jahangir was asked on his deathbed about his cherished desire, he is credited to have said; Kashmir, the rest is worthless.
Chashme Shahi Garden: Chashme Shahi or Chashma-i-Shahi literally means the "Royal Spring". It is a freshwater spring known for its medicinal benefits, and tourists are allowed to fetch water from the spring. The cool water of the spring is highly refreshing and digestive. The former Prime Minister of India, Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru, used to get the water of the spring sent to Delhi. This Mughal Garden is named Chashme Shahi after the spring around which it is built. The spring was said to be founded by "Rupa Bhawani". She is one of the popular female saints of Kashmir from the Sahib Clan, in which the word Sahib denotes her family name. So the spring she discovered was initially named "Chashme Sahibi", which over the years became Chashme Shahi, and the garden around it is named Chashme Shahi Garden.
Overlooking the gorgeous Dal Lake, this Mughal Garden is perched in the Zabarwan Mountains. This tranquil garden is a mixed blend of Mughal and Irani architecture. The garden was built in 1632 AD by the then Mughal Governor Ali Mardan Khan, as per the orders of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, as a gift for his elder son Prince Dara Shikoh. The garden is also close to Jammu & Kashmir's Governor Residence, Raj Bhawan. It is the smallest garden among the three Mughal Gardens of Srinagar; Shalimar Garden is the largest and Nishat Garden is the second largest. All three gardens were built on the left bank of Dal Lake, with the Zabarwan Mountains as the backdrop.
Pahalgam (Abode of Shepherds): Kashmir in its south is probably at its best. In the centre of the beauty of South Kashmir lies Pahalgam. It is yet another heavenly place in Kashmir Valley. This beautiful resort is located in South Kashmir at a distance of about 96 km from Srinagar at an altitude of 2130 metres. Pahalgam was once a humble shepherd's village with breathtaking views. Now, Pahalgam is a famous hill resort in Kashmir Valley and remains cool even during the summer. Pahalgam is said to have derived its name from two words, "Pahal" meaning "Shepherd" and "Gam" meaning "Village", collectively representing "Abode of Shepherds". Once you are in Pahalgam, you will understand all the reasons why this magnificent hill station is among the most sought-after destinations in Jammu and Kashmir. It is located at the confluence of the Lidder River and Sheeshnag Lake. Thick pine trees, breathtaking vistas of meadows, and the snow-clad Himalayan Mountains surround Pahalgam. Pahalgam is also a famous hill station where many films have been shot.
Jamia Masjid: The green-roofed masjid just near the main market, with its beautiful design, is a major attraction. The location of the masjid also adds another dimension to its aura. The Lidder River below and the mountains as the backdrop make it a peaceful place to worship.
Gauri Shankar Temple: This temple is one of the oldest temples in Pahalgam. The temple is small but much revered by Hindus. Gauri Shankar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and it is said that Lord Shiva left his bull here before travelling to Amarnath. An amusement park has come up where you can take rides. River rafting in the Lidder River has been introduced. You can play golf at the Golf Course as well. Pahalgam is also the base camp for the annual Hindu pilgrimage to the Holy Cave of Amarnath. Around Pahalgam are many inner line sightseeing places. Some can be visited by local cab from the Pahalgam Taxi Stand and some by pony ride.
Betaab Valley: Earlier known as Hagan or Hagoon Valley, Betaab Valley got its name from the Sunny Deol and Amrita Singh hit debut Bollywood movie Betaab, which was shot in 1983. Betaab Valley falls between Pahalgam and Chandanwari. The valley is surrounded by lush green meadows, snow-clad mountains, deodar and pine forests, and dense vegetation. The crystal-clear and chilly water of the stream bubbling down from the snowy hills is a delight. Locals here drink this chilly water. Betaab Valley is a perfect gateway to enjoy the heavenly pleasure of Mother Nature. The valley has also been featured in several Hindi movies, including Aarzoo, Kashmir Ki Kali, Jab Jab Phool Khile, Kabhie Kabhie, Silsila, Rockstar, Jab Tak Hai Jaan, and several others.
Chandanwari: Chandanwari is at a distance of about 15 km from Pahalgam. The road passes through old Pahalgam Town with traditional Kashmiri houses. On your right side, the Lidder River flows, and you pass through hills and winding roads. Many waterfalls can be seen on both sides of the road. These waterfalls are created by the melting snow from the mountains. Chandanwari is the end of the road journey, and devotees of Amarnath Yatra have to trek from here to reach the Holy Cave of Sri Amarnath.
Aru Valley: It is located around 12 km from Pahalgam. The valley is known for its scenic meadows, lakes, and mountains. It is popular among tourists for its peaceful environment and scenic beauty. It is a base camp for trekking to the "Kolahoi Glacier", "Tarsar Lake", and "Marsar Lake". There are about 20 alpine lakes, peaks, and meadows around Aru Valley. The Overa-Aru Biosphere Reserve is also home to several rare and endangered species. There is a small zoo on the way to Aru Valley.
Baisaran (Mini Switzerland): Baisaran is an eye-catching meadow, often dubbed Mini Switzerland because of its long dark meadows resembling those in Switzerland. The dense pine forests that give the meadow its green carpet look provide a contrasting hue to the snow-capped peaks of the surrounding mountains. Additionally, Baisaran is also an ideal campsite for trekkers who want to move further up to "Tulian Lake". Accessible through pony ride from Pahalgam, this off-beaten track offers panoramic sights of Lidder Valley.
Pahalgam Golf Course: The Golf Course is equally beautiful and of good standard. Golfing in Pahalgam, amid great natural beauty, the dancing Lidder River, and splendid greenery, is a charm. Initially established as a 9-hole golf course, Pahalgam Golf Course has now been upgraded to an 18-hole golf course.
Gulmarg (Meadow of Flowers): Gulmarg is one of the most beautiful places in Jammu and Kashmir. The best thing about Gulmarg is that it is a year-round resort. One can visit it at any time of the year and enjoy the numerous natural as well as man-made bounties that this beautiful place is blessed with. Gulmarg is a lush green meadow at an altitude of 2730 metres above sea level and at a distance of 60 km from Srinagar city. The road from Tangmarg climbs uphill in the last 12 km to Gulmarg, passing through forests of pine and fir. At one point known simply as "View Point", travellers generally stop their vehicles for a few minutes and look out at a spectacle of snow-covered mountains almost within touching distance. Gulmarg is a heavenly place and a beautiful hilly pasture surrounded by lofty snow-clad mountains. This picturesque hill station is popularly known as the "Meadow of Flowers" and is further adorned by the magical beauty of the mighty Himalayan Range. Today, Gulmarg is not only a mountain resort of exemplary beauty, but it also has the highest green golf course in the world and is the country's major ski resort in winter.
The chief attraction for picnickers is, however, the cable car, Gondola. The cable car was originally meant to take skiers up to the higher and tougher slopes, but it became a favourite among picnickers as well because it is a beautiful way to access the higher and more beautiful places around Gulmarg, such as Khilanmarg, Apparwath Mountain, and Frozen Lake. These places are even more beautiful than Gulmarg and remain snow-clad for most of the year. In the present times, Gulmarg has been declared the Winter Games Capital of India by the Winter Games Federation of India and boasts the highest and longest ski slope in Asia. Gulmarg has been the shooting location for many Bollywood films like Bobby, Jab Tak Hai Jaan, Yeh Jawanni Hai Deewani, Highway, Phantom, Haider, and others.
In May 1998, Gondola Phase 1 between Gulmarg and Kungdoor began its commercial operation. In May 2005, Gondola Phase 2 was also inaugurated, making it one of the longest and highest ropeways in Asia. The chairlift installed as a part of Phase 3 of the project began operations in 2011. India's National Winter Games were held in Gulmarg in 1998, 2004, and 2008.
Outside vehicles are not allowed in Gulmarg except for pick-up and drop-off at hotels. Guests are required to move around Gulmarg on horseback or by walking. If there is snow on the road to Gulmarg, then you have to hire a local taxi at your own cost from Tangmarg to Gulmarg (nearly 12 km distance from Tangmarg to Gulmarg) as per the government's precautionary measures for travellers.
Around Gulmarg are many inner line sightseeing places:
Gulmarg Golf Course: Gulmarg Golf Course is a dream destination for golfers. Whether a golfer or not, a visit to this remarkable site is a must in the Gulmarg itinerary. Gulmarg Golf Course is counted among the most beautiful golf courses in India. This golf course was started by the British, who used Gulmarg as a holiday resort. In 1904, this golf course was opened to golf lovers. In 1922, the first Golf Championship was organized at this golf course. Many people visit the golf course just for its beauty and not for the game.
Maharani Temple: Maharani Temple, located on a small hillock in the middle of Gulmarg hill station, previously served as the royal temple of the Dogra Kings and is often known as Mohineshwar Shivalalaya. It houses idols of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is also referred to as Rani Temple, as it was built by Mohini Bai Sisodhia, the wife of the erstwhile ruler of Kashmir, Maharaja Hari Singh. Maharaja Hari Singh was the last king of Kashmir who ruled the Valley. Mohini Bai Sisodhia is believed to have spent some time at the temple worshipping Lord Shiva.
St Mary's Church: St Mary's Church is a Roman Catholic Church. Constructed in the early 20th century, the church is a beautiful example of Victorian architecture.
Gulmarg Gondola Cable Car: Gondola is the name of the cable car lift that operates in the famous ski resort of Gulmarg. Gulmarg Gondola in Kashmir became the world's second-highest operating cable car after the closure of the Merida Cable Car in Venezuela in 2008. Each gondola is a yellow-coloured cabin. The cable car operates in two phases.
Phase 1 takes you to a height of 10,000 meters above sea level. In Phase 1, you land in Kungdoor, where Seven Springs is located. It is a natural water resource where seven springs originate naturally. From here, you can go to Khilanmarg, another beautiful place, and you can access ski slopes for skiing as well.
Phase 2 is far better; however, it takes you to a fearful height of 13,500 meters above sea level with a steep rise to the rocky mountain of Apparwath. It also at times travels through clouds, making the ride feel like a dream. From Apparwath Mountain, you can have a fascinating panoramic view of the whole Kashmir Valley. You may also visit the frozen Alpather Lake. It remains frozen until June.
Gondola ride in Gulmarg is too good an experience to be missed. Many people even consider it a blunder to miss the Gondola ride, particularly Phase 2. Tickets are available online and also at the ticket counter in Gulmarg. However, it is better to book online as the counters are usually overcrowded. Even if you are not a skier, you must take a Gondola ride.
However, due to the weather and steep rise in altitude, there are some restrictions in place. Persons suffering from heart ailments, respiratory problems, and children below the age of 5 years are not allowed. Also, the weather can get very cold at any time of the year, so it is advisable to carry some warm clothes along. Warm clothes like jackets, overcoats, and raincoats are hired in the Tangmarg area at reasonable rates. Don't forget to take sunscreen for your eyes and face, as it is white everywhere and you may end up with snow burns, since snow reflects most of the sunlight it receives.
Sonmarg (Meadow of Gold): Sonmarg is an alpine valley situated on the bank of the Sindh River. Having served as the base for the upward journey to Central Asia through Ladakh from ancient times, the place received the attention of the British, who transformed Sonmarg into a hill station. Sonmarg is situated on the Srinagar-Leh highway at a distance of about 100 km from Srinagar at an altitude of 9200 feet above sea level. The route from Srinagar to Sonmarg is equally enthralling and beautiful. The drive goes along the furious Sindh River, dominated by the superb views of the majestic Harmukh Range that leave travellers fascinated. The Sindh River that meanders through the valley abounds with trout and mahseer fish. River rafting in the Sindh River is the prime interest here. The water of the Sindh River is fast and hence provides real excitement for adventure lovers. The Sindh River is the largest tributary of the Jehlum River in the Kashmir Valley.
Sonmarg literally means the "Meadow of Gold". The Meadow of Gold got its name from its snow-clad mountains that reflect the magical views of the cerulean sky. A number of Hindi movies have been pictured in the serene beauty of Sonmarg. Sonmarg receives heavy snowfall during winter and therefore remains cut off from the rest of the Valley during that time. In winter, local traffic is permitted only up to Gagangear Village.
Sonmarg is nestled within the imposing Himalayan peaks. In its vicinity lie the great Himalayan glaciers of Kashmir Valley, namely "Kolahoi Glacier" and "Machoi Glacier". Also in its vicinity lies "Thajiwas Glacier", which is a major tourist attraction. One can hire a pony from Sonmarg to Thajiwas Glacier or, if adventurous, can set out on the trek to enjoy nature. Sonmarg is also the base camp for the annual Hindu pilgrimage to the Holy Cave of Amarnath. The Sonmarg route is shorter in distance than the Pahalgam route to reach the Holy Cave.
Thajiwas Glacier: Snow-masked Thajiwas Glacier is one of the most enchanting tourist places in Jammu and Kashmir. Thajiwas Glacier is located at a height of 3000 metres above sea level. It is covered with snow almost all year round. It is a lovely vantage point to observe snow. Thajiwas Glacier is among the most adventurous treks from Sonmarg. The trek passes through lush greenery. Tourists can enjoy delightful views of the glacier and its surroundings from the hill. The meadow is covered with fir and pine trees, and the area has a number of waterfalls, making it look like Paradise. From Sonmarg, Thajiwas Glacier is just a few kilometres away. Transportation in the form of pony ride or local cab is easily available from Sonmarg to Thajiwas Glacier. Be very careful of pony and car touts. They may misguide you and ask a handsome amount to access Thajiwas Glacier.
Outside vehicles do not have access to reach Thajiwas Glacier. You must hire either a pony or a local taxi at your own cost to reach there.
