06 Nights / 07 Days
Package Price :₹0.00/-Per Person
Booking Price :₹ 0.00/- Per Person
Destination: 2N Srinagar | 1N Kargil | 1N Sonamarg | 1N Gulmarg | 1N Srinagar | 1Hr Shikara RideIndian Lunch | 1N stay at houseboat
Srinagar is the capital city of Kashmir famous for its enthralling Dal Lake and several other attractions. The city is known for its charm and natural beauty which attracts tourists worldwide. A shikara ride on the pristine Dal Lake, luxurious houseboats, gorgeous gardens, majestic snow-capped mountains and beautiful handicrafts are the popular attractions of Srinagar.
Kargil is another fascinating and offbeat destination included in your Kashmir offbeat tour itinerary for 6 Nights 7 Days. Kargil is best remembered for Kargil War when the Indian army emerged victorious in the battle. Kargil boasts of an interesting landscape with plenty of contrast. Its valleys, monasteries and mountains look amazing. It is an offbeat destination which offers its own uniqueness and glory. Famous as the ‘Meadow of Golden Light’, Sonmarg is a popular tourist destination in Kashmir. Its gorgeous green meadows, scenic landscape, gushing streams, beautiful rivers, majestic mountains and glaciers will surely make your Kashmir holidays memorable. For adventure enthusiasts, it offers activities such as trekking, skiing, hiking, fishing, river rafting, etc.
The fascinating Gulmarg Valley is known as ‘the Meadow of Flowers’. This valley is a world-famous skiing destination, an amazing destination for trekking and a paradise for honeymooners. You must try out its breathtaking Gondola Ride, offering the sheer natural beauty of snow-covered mountains and an abundance of adventure.
Day 1 : Arrive at Srinagar (Height 1,585 m)
Arrive at the Srinagar airport/railway station! Our representative will welcome you warmly and drive you to the houseboat in Srinagar. Check in at the houseboat and get the feel of it. After that, you can go out for a leisurely walk on Boulevard Road which offers majestic views of Zabarwan Mountain Ranges. Now it’s time to enjoy a Shikara Ride on Dal Lake (1-hour ride). After the ride, you can go shopping in Srinagar to take back home some amazing souvenirs such as pashmina shawls, embroidered sari, saffron, walnut wood items, etc. Post that, come back to the houseboat for a memorable stay. Stay overnight.
Day 2 : Srinagar Sightseeing (Height 1,585 m)
After breakfast, get ready for a sightseeing tour in Srinagar and explore its amazing attractions. We will take you to the famous Shalimar Bagh, a lovely garden built in 1619 by the Mughal emperor. There you will be greeted with amazing architecture, flowers, fountains and a peaceful environment.After that, visit the Chashme Shahi, another delightful garden known for its stunning terrace garden, amazing walkways, pools of water and different varieties of plants. At the end of the day, you will be driven back to the hotel for an overnight stay in Srinagar.
Day 3 : Srinagar to Kargil (5 hr 19 min, 201.8 km, height 2,676 m)
Post breakfast we will drive you to Kargil. Upon reaching there check into the hotel and relax for a while. Then we will visit the Kargil War Memorial, an important and great part of India’s history, a symbol of victory. This memorial commemorates the soldiers of the Indian army who sacrificed their lives for their country.Next, we will visit the enchanting Suru Valley, renowned for being the most fertile and beautiful valley in the entire Ladakh. The Suru river meanders through the valley making it look lovelier. There are picturesque villages here and a great destination for some photography. It is located on the Pensi La on the Kargil road. Stay overnight at the hotel in Kargil.
Day 4 : Kargil to Sonamarg (3 hrs, 122.8 km, height 2,730 m)
Post breakfast, get ready to head for Sonmarg, popularly known as the ‘Meadow of Golden Light’. As you travel through this wonderful hill station through its winding roads you will be greeted with contrasts in its landscape. Upon arrival, we will visit the Baltal Valley located at an altitude of 2,743. It is a bewitching valley blessed with sheer natural beauty including spectacular views of the Zoji La Pass. This valley is the starting point for the famous Hindu pilgrimage, Amarnath Yatra. Overnight stay at Sonmarg hotel.
Day 5 : Sonmarg to Gulmarg (3 hr 13 min, 125.0 km, height 2,650 m)
After breakfast, check out from the hotel and today we will drive you to Gulmarg Valley, popularly known as the ‘Meadow of Flowers’. There you will enjoy the Gondola Ride, the second-longest and highest cable ride in the world. Amidst snow-capped mountains at a high altitude, this ride is full of excitement and thrill! Skiing in Gulmarg is another fascinating attraction for which travellers come here from across the globe. Skiing opportunities for both amateurs and professionals are available here. Stay overnight at the hotel in Gulmarg.
Day 6 : Gulmarg to Srinagar (55.5 km, 1 hr 38 mins)
In the morning post breakfast, we will drive back to Srinagar. After arrival in Srinagar, we will take you to the houseboat for an overnight stay. After resting for some time, you can go on a shopping spree in Srinagar or just go for a leisurely walk. The handicrafts of Kashmir are attractive and famous the world over. Stay overnight at the houseboat.
Day 7 : Departure from Srinagar
Today your Kashmir offbeat tour for 6 Nights 7 Days comes to an end. Post breakfast, our representative will drive you to the Srinagar airport/ railway station.
1- What is the best time to visit Kashmir and Kargil?
Best Time: The best time to visit Kashmir and Kargil is from May to September, as the weather is pleasant and roads are accessible. Winter (November to February) can be harsh in Kargil with snow blocking roads.
2. How do I reach Kashmir and Kargil?
By Air: You can fly into Srinagar (the capital of Jammu & Kashmir) from major Indian cities. The nearest airport to Kargil is Leh Airport, but flights to Kargil are limited.
By Road: You can travel by road from Srinagar to Kargil via National Highway 1D. It's about a 6–7-hour drive. There are also bus services available.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Srinagar is Jammu Tawi, and from there, you can take a bus or taxi to reach Srinagar and onward to Kargil.
3. What are the must-visit places in Kashmir and Kargil?
Kashmir:
Srinagar: Dal Lake, Mughal Gardens, Shankaracharya Temple.
Gulmarg: Skiing and snow activities.
Pahalgam: Betaab Valley, Lidder River, and Sonamarg.
Sonamarg: Meadows and trekking spots.
Kargil:
War Memorials: Kargil War Memorial.
Drass: The second coldest inhabited place in the world, with its historical sites.
Mulbekh Monastery: Ancient Buddhist monastery.
Panikar: Scenic village with traditional Ladakhi culture.
4. What are the travel restrictions for Kashmir and Kargil?
Security Concerns: Kashmir is a sensitive region. Always check for travel advisories issued by the government or consult your tour operator for the latest updates. In some areas, permits may be required, particularly for border areas.
Inner Line Permits: Some regions near Kargil and the Line of Control (LoC) may require special permits, and these can be arranged through tour agencies or the government.
5. What kind of accommodation is available?
In Kashmir: You can choose from luxurious hotels, houseboats on Dal Lake, guesthouses, and budget hotels.
In Kargil: Accommodation options range from guesthouses and basic hotels to campsites. In remote areas, facilities can be more basic.
6. What is the food like in Kashmir and Kargil?
Kashmir: Famous for its Wazwan cuisine, including dishes like Rogan Josh, Gushtaba, Yakhni, and Kahwa (traditional green tea). You’ll find plenty of street food like Samosas and Kashmiri bread.
Kargil: Food here is a mix of Ladakhi and Kashmiri cuisine. You can try dishes like Tsewang, Thukpa (noodle soup), and Momos (dumplings).
7. What is the weather like in Kashmir and Kargil?
Kashmir: The region has a temperate climate, with summers being cool and pleasant, especially in the higher altitude areas. Winters can be very cold, with heavy snowfall.
Kargil: Kargil has a cold desert climate, with very cold winters and mild summers. Temperatures can drop to below freezing point in winter, so pack accordingly.
8. Is it safe to travel to Kashmir and Kargil?
Kashmir: While security has improved in recent years, always stay updated with government advisories and avoid sensitive areas. It's important to follow the guidance of local authorities.
Kargil: Generally safe for tourists, especially in the more populated areas. However, always ensure that you have updated information regarding the political and security situation.
9. What activities can I do during the tour?
In Kashmir: You can enjoy activities like trekking, river rafting, skiing, horse riding, and shikara rides on Dal Lake.
In Kargil: Popular activities include trekking, visiting historical sites, exploring monasteries, and enjoying the scenic landscapes. If you're a history buff, the Kargil War Memorial is a significant site to visit.
10. What should I pack for a Kashmir with Kargil tour?
Warm Clothing: Especially if traveling in winter, pack layers, thermal wear, a good jacket, gloves, and scarves.
Comfortable Footwear: For trekking or exploring mountainous terrain.
Travel Essentials: Sunscreen, sunglasses, camera, first-aid kit, and any necessary medications.
Documents: Carry valid identification, permits, and any travel documentation needed for sensitive areas.
11. How long should the tour last?
A typical Kashmir with Kargil tour lasts anywhere between 7 to 10 days, depending on the number of places you want to visit and the pace of your travel.
12. Is it possible to travel from Kashmir to Kargil by road?
Yes, you can travel from Srinagar to Kargil by road. The drive is scenic but can be long, taking approximately 6-7 hours. The road is open during the summer months, but check the weather conditions if you're traveling during the winter.
13. Are there any special cultural practices to be aware of?
Kashmir: Respect local traditions and customs, especially when visiting religious sites. Kashmiris are known for their hospitality, so be polite and respectful.
Kargil: Kargil is a mix of Muslim and Buddhist cultures, so be aware of the religious practices in monasteries and local communities.