Kashmir Paradise Tour

Arrive at Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport, Srinagar. Transfer to Dal Lake and board your traditional handcrafted cedarwood houseboat. Settle in, then embark on a magical sunset Shikara ride past floating gardens, lotus ponds, and the colourful Nagin Lake market. Welcome dinner on board. Overnight on houseboat.

After breakfast, visit the three grand Mughal Gardens: Nishat Bagh (Garden of Bliss), Shalimar Bagh (Garden of Love), and Chashme Shahi. Explore the historic Shankaracharya Temple on a hilltop for panoramic views of the city. Afternoon visit to Old Srinagar's vibrant Lal Chowk market and wooden carved Jamia Masjid mosque. Overnight in Srinagar.

Drive 56 km to Gulmarg (2,730 m). Board the Apharwat Gondola cable car (Phase I to Kongdori, Phase II to 4,200 m peak) for extraordinary views of the glaciated Affarwat range and Nanga Parbat. Enjoy snow sports — skiing, snowboarding, and horse riding through the flower meadows of the Bafliaz bowl. Return to Srinagar. Overnight in Srinagar.

Drive 97 km along the Jhelum and Lidder River valleys to Pahalgam — the 'Valley of Shepherds'. Explore Betaab Valley with its pine-forested river banks, visit Aru Valley for trout fishing and meadow walks, and stop at Chandanwari (the starting point for Amarnath Yatra). Afternoon leisure in Pahalgam bazaar. Overnight in Pahalgam.

Drive from Pahalgam back to Srinagar, then onward 84 km north-east to Sonmarg — 'Meadow of Gold'. Walk or take a pony up to the Thajiwas Glacier (7 km), crossing wild alpine flowers, snow bridges, and glacial streams. Enjoy the breathtaking scale of the glacier and surrounding peaks. Return to Srinagar for final night. Overnight in Srinagar.

After breakfast, explore Srinagar's renowned handicraft emporia for Pashmina shawls, papier-mâché, Kashmiri carpets, and walnut wood carvings at the Government Arts Emporium. Transfer to Sheikh ul-Alam Airport for departure. Tour concludes.