Heaven on Earth – Kashmir
Shikara glides on mirror-still Dal Lake, snowfields of Gulmarg, pine-scented Pahalgam valleys, the turquoise waters of Sonamarg and Mughal Gardens in full bloom — Kashmir's timeless magic in seven days.
A journey through paradise — where Himalayan peaks meet sapphire lakes, meadows blaze with wildflowers, and every valley tells a story of timeless beauty.
Drift across the jewel of Kashmir in a hand-carved shikara at dawn, past floating vegetable markets, lotus gardens and the iconic Char Chinar island. An experience unlike any other in India.
Ascend to 3,980 metres aboard one of the world's highest gondolas. In winter, ski on virgin Himalayan powder; in summer, walk through alpine meadows with Nanga Parbat as your backdrop.
The "Valley of Shepherds" — Betaab Valley's silver streams, Chandanwari's glacial meadows and Aru Valley's horse rides through dense conifer forests. Bollywood's favourite outdoor set.
Cross the "Meadow of Gold" to reach Thajiwas Glacier — a living river of ice at 2,740 metres. Pony rides on glacial moraines with a panorama of Himalayan ice-peaks all around.
Walk the terraced Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh and Chashme Shahi — Persian-Mughal water gardens built by Emperor Jahangir for his queen, still perfumed with roses and chinars.
Sleep on a hand-carved cedar-wood houseboat moored on Dal Lake. Wake to the sound of the lake, enjoy a Wazwan dinner on your private deck, and watch the Zabarwan hills glow at dusk.
An expertly paced 7-day journey balancing sightseeing, adventure, culture and serene relaxation across Kashmir's most iconic landscapes.
Arrive at Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport or by road from Dharamshala. Transfer to your hotel or houseboat on Dal Lake. After freshening up, take your first shikara ride on the lake — glide past the famous floating gardens and the Char Chinar (Four Chinar) island as the Zabarwan hills blush in the evening light. Welcome Kashmiri Wazwan dinner at your accommodation, featuring dishes like Rogan Josh, Yakhni and Gushtaba.
Morning visit to Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh — Mughal pleasure gardens built along Dal Lake's eastern shore. Climb the steps of Shankaracharya Temple perched 1,000 feet above the city for panoramic views of the Kashmir Valley. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant old city: Jama Masjid's towering wooden columns, the Shah Hamdan Shrine, and the lively Lal Chowk bazaar for Pashmina shawls, saffron and papier-mâché crafts. Sunset from the Lal Chowk clock tower.
Drive 56 km to Gulmarg, the "Meadow of Flowers" and one of Asia's premier ski resorts. Board the Gulmarg Gondola (Phase 1 to Kongdoori at 2,650m, Phase 2 to Apharwat Peak at 3,980m) for breathtaking views of Nanga Parbat (8,125m). In winter, enjoy skiing, snowboarding and sledging on pristine Himalayan powder. In summer, trek through rolling meadows carpeted with wildflowers, visit the colonial-era Gulmarg Golf Course (one of the world's highest), and horse-ride around the meadow rim. Return to Srinagar by evening.
Drive 96 km southeast to Pahalgam, the "Valley of Shepherds" cradled between the Lidder River and the Pir Panjal range. Morning excursion to Betaab Valley — a lush riverside bowl made famous by Bollywood. Continue to Chandanwari, the starting point of the Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage, where glacial snowfields stretch to the valley floor even in summer. Afternoon in Aru Village — horse rides through Himalayan forest to quiet alpine meadows. Those seeking adventure can try white-water rafting on the Lidder River (Grade II–III). Overnight in Pahalgam.
Drive north from Srinagar to Sonamarg (87 km) — the "Meadow of Gold" that marks the gateway to Ladakh. The valley opens dramatically: snowfields on one side, wildflower meadows on the other. Take a pony ride or short hike to Thajiwas Glacier, a magnificent tongue of ice descending from the Greater Himalayan range. Walk across glacial bridges, photograph ice caves and survey the Sindh River rushing below. En route, stop at Baltal — the other Amarnath base camp. Return to Srinagar for your last night on the houseboat.
Rise before dawn for the most magical shikara experience: paddle through the floating vegetable market as Kashmiri farmers row their produce to the lake market in the half-light of morning. Visit traditional artisan workshops — see Kani and Sozni embroidery weavers, walnut woodcarvers and hand-knotted carpet makers at work. Afternoon at Chashme Shahi (Kashmir's oldest Mughal garden, fed by a natural spring) and the Hazratbal Shrine on Dal Lake's north shore, which houses a sacred relic. Grand farewell Wazwan dinner: a 36-course feast with authentic Kashmiri hospitality.
Final morning at leisure — a last cup of Kahwa (Kashmiri saffron tea) on the houseboat deck, last-minute souvenir shopping at Lal Chowk for Kashmiri saffron, dry fruits, Pashmina and handicrafts. Timely transfer to Sheikh ul-Alam Airport for your departure flight, or road transfer back to Dharamshala with our team. We also arrange onward connections to Leh-Ladakh for those extending their Himalayan adventure.
Exact hotel confirmed 2 weeks before departure. Similar or better properties guaranteed.
Toyota Innova or Tempo Traveller for all transfers and sightseeing throughout Kashmir. Experienced local drivers familiar with mountain roads.
Traditional hand-carved wooden shikara included for Dal Lake rides (2 sessions). Additional shikara can be arranged on request at Nagin Lake.
Phase 1 and Phase 2 gondola tickets pre-booked to avoid queues. In peak winter season, slots are limited — advance booking is essential.
Pony rides in Pahalgam, Aru and Sonamarg arranged through licensed local operators. Costs are payable directly (not included in package).
Pick-up from Srinagar Airport and drop-off included. We also handle road transfers from Dharamshala or Chandigarh on request.
All packages include 6 nights, daily breakfast & dinner, private transport and all sightseeing. Upgrade for a houseboat stay and exclusive experiences.
Prices are per person on twin-sharing basis. Solo and group rates available on request. Seasonal surcharges may apply during peak periods (Dec–Jan, Apr–May).
Each season reveals a different face of Kashmir — from tulip-blanketed spring to snow-perfect winter. Here's our guide to choosing yours.
Tulip bloom in Asia's largest tulip garden, apple blossoms, Dal Lake at its most photogenic. Ideal weather for couples and families.
Pleasant 20–28°C perfect for Pahalgam treks, Sonamarg glacier walks and Gulmarg meadow hikes. Peak tourist season.
Chinar trees turn golden-red across Srinagar. Clear skies after monsoon offer the sharpest Himalayan views. Fewer crowds.
Gulmarg becomes an international ski destination with 4–5 metres of powder. Frozen Dal Lake and magical snow-draped Mughal Gardens.
Everything you need to know before booking your Kashmir journey with RJ Holidays.
