Kashmir & Katra
8 Night / 9 Days.
Destinations: Jammu, Srinagar, Gulmarg, Sonmarg, Pahalgam, Katra – Mata Vasihnodevi
Activities
Day 1: Jammu to Srinagar
Pick-up from Jammu and you will be escorted to Srinagar. The distance between Jammu to Srinagar is approximately 300 kms and will be covered in about 8-9 hours.
Day 2 Mughal Gardens and Srinagar City Tour
Visit Cheshmashahi Garden, Botanical Garden & Hazratbal Mosque
Half day trip to the celebrated Mogul gardens-Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh. Nishat Bagh (Abode of pleasure) was built by Asif Khan, brother of Empress Noorjehan in 1632 AD. Shalimar Bagh (Abode of love) was built by Jehangir for his wife Noor Jehan. Situated on the bank of Dal Lake , these gardens are overlooked by picturesque Zabarwan Mountains . Cheshmashahi is the first Mughal Garden you will pass after Nehru Park . Built at a height above the city, its views are as stupendous as its layout. The smallest of Srinagar ‘s Mughal gardens, Cheshmashahi has only three terraces in addition to a natural spring of water enclosed in a stone pavillion. Hazratbal Mosque is the most important Muslim Religious place, situated on the western shore of Dal Lake . Its pristine white marble elegance is reflected in the waters of the lake. Hazratbal’s special significance is derived from the fact that it houses a hair of the prophet Muhammad. This is displayed to the public on religious occasions, usually accompanied by fairs. Apart from these occasions, Friday prayers are offered at Hazratbal and attended by throngs of people. Hazratbal is remarkable for being the only domed mosque in Srinagar ; the others having distinct pagoda like roofs. The shrine – mosque complex is situated on the western shore of the Dal Lake opposite Nishat Bagh and commands a grand view of the lake and the mountain beyond. Also experience the walnut woodcarving and papier machie making demonstration. Overnight at hotel.
Day 3: Gulmarg
In the morning start for Gulmarg-the Meadow of Flowers, which is situated at an altitude of 2730 m above the sea level. The distance between Srinagar and Gulmarg is approximately 60 km and it takes two hours drive from Srinagar to reach Gulmarg. Gulmarg is one of India ‘s premier hill resorts. Explore Gulmarg and spend the day by individual activities. Gulmarg is a place of exceptional beauty and has the world’s highest green golf course and also turns into India ‘s premier ski resort in winter. Gulmarg offers breathtaking views of majestic Nanga Parbat on a clear day. Pony riding is a popular activity in Gulmarg; you can ride to the upland meadow of Khilanmarg and back. The Gondola Cable Car offers rides to the upland meadow of Kongdori for viewing the Himalayan peaks in the summer and for downhill skiing in winter. Drive back from Gulmarg and you’ll be escorted to hotel in srinagar .
Day 4: Srinagar – Sonamarg:
Today, a full day excursion to Sonamarg by car. The distance of about 84 km will be covered about 2.5 h. Sonamarg lies at the head of the Sindh valley. There are attractive walks and option of pony ride to the Thajiwas glacier. Drive back from Sonmarg to Srinagar . Overnight at Hotel.
Day 5: Srinagar – Pahalgam:
After a leisurely breakfast and drive to Pahalgam or the Valley of Shepherds via Srinagar . Drive through the eye-catching Saffron fields; visit Awantipura ruins, an 1100 years old temple of Lord Vishnu built by King Awantiwareman. The total distance of about 95 km will be covered in about 3 hrs. Time at leisure to soak in the panoramic sights all around, a glimpse of heaven on earth. Overnight at hotel in Pahalgam
Day 6: Pahalgam – Srinagar
Spend the day in Pahalgam and explore the place in leisure. Pahalgam is situated at the confluence of the Sheshnag and the Lidder streams. Set amidst soaring mountains, glistening glaciers, gushing silvery streams and dense pine and cedar forests, Pahalgam offers many options for walks, pony trekking, fishing and camping. Drive back to Srinagar and you will be escorted to Srinagar . Overnight at houseboat.
Day 7: Srinagar to Katra
After breakfast, you will be escorted to Katra. The distance between Srinagar to Katra is approximately 300 kms and will be covered in about 7-8 hours. In the evening, you will be escorted to hotel. Overnight at hotel.
Day 8: Katra Vaishnodevi
Today you will visit Mata Vaishnodevi. The journey to the Holy Shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi is an enchanting journey of the places where Mata Vaishnavi had spent some time while observing various spiritual disciplines and penances. Overnight in Katra.
Day 9: Katra to Jammu
After breakfast, you will be transferred to Jammu for Departure.
