“Embark on an unforgettable journey through Kashmir’s serene lakes, lush valleys and snow-tipped mountains — a true paradise on Earth.”
Our 10-day Kashmir tour was a truly unforgettable experience — a perfect blend of snow-covered mountains, lush green valleys, crystal-clear rivers, and heartwarming hospitality. From the peaceful Dal Lake houseboat stay in Srinagar to the breathtaking Pahalgam valleys, the majestic Mughal Gardens, the thrilling Gulmarg Gondola ride, and the serene meadows of Doodhpathri, Sonmarg, and Yusmarg, every destination offered a new story to tell.
This trip wasn’t just about sightseeing — it was about feeling Kashmir. The charm of Lidder River, the beauty of Tulip Garden, the silence of snow-filled hills, and the kindness of local Kashmiri people made this journey truly magical. Each place gifted us countless memories — from capturing scenic landscapes and joyful horse rides to enjoying authentic Kashmiri Wazwan cuisine and witnessing sunsets over Dal Lake.
Whether you’re planning your Kashmir family trip, a Srinagar honeymoon, or simply exploring Kashmir travel guides, this day-by-day story will help you experience the beauty of Kashmir from our eyes — calm, real, and unforgettable. 🌄✨
🏞️ Day 1 – Arrival at Srinagar & Night Stay on a Houseboat
As our flight descended into Srinagar, the first glimpse of snow-clad Himalayan peaks bathed in golden evening light left us speechless. It felt like flying through a dream. After landing at 6:05 PM, we met our friendly driver from Umifar Tour & Travels and soon began our short ride to Dal Lake Ghat No. 19.
The real magic began when we boarded our first-ever Shikara ride, gliding gently over the calm waters of Dal Lake under the soft evening glow. The shimmering reflections of lights danced on the water as we reached our beautiful Deluxe Houseboat – “Balmoral Castle.”
A warm welcome with traditional Kashmiri Kahwa and a royal candlelight dinner made our first night in Kashmir truly unforgettable. Wrapped in cold night air, we ended the day with hearts full of excitement for the adventures ahead.
🛏️ Overnight stay: Balmoral Castle Houseboat, Dal Lake
🎥 Experience the full story in our Day 1
🌄 Day 2 – From Dal Lake to Pahalgam | Through Rain, Meadows & Mountain Trails
The morning on Dal Lake began with silence — only the gentle ripples against our houseboat and the faint call of distant shikaras. Wrapped in the cool Kashmiri breeze, we sipped our morning tea made right inside our room with an electric kettle, feeling the warmth spread through our palms. The air smelled of pine and mist; sunlight played hide-and-seek behind drifting clouds, hinting at a day that could turn rainy at any time.
From the balcony, the sacred Shankaracharya Temple stood gracefully on the hill — now clearly visible in the daylight. After a hearty breakfast of Aloo Paratha, Mix Veg, Pickle, Watermelon, and hot tea, we checked out from our floating home with a quiet promise to return again later in our trip.
A short motorized Shikara ride carried us back to Ghat No. 19, where our friendly driver Zuneid Bhai awaited us with a warm smile. Just as we left Dal Lake, light raindrops began to fall — creating ripples on the water that looked like a painter’s brush strokes. The drive to Pahalgam – The Valley of Shepherds began around 9:30 AM.
As we crossed NH-44, sunlight gently broke through the clouds, revealing endless mustard fields glowing bright yellow like waves of gold. We passed by Anantnag’s famous willow bat factories, and though we didn’t stop to buy one, we admired the craftsmanship through the car window. Our next halt came at a small apple garden, where we tasted freshly pressed apple juice — sweet, crisp, and refreshing — and bought a few bottles of apple jam and pickle to take home.
Further along, at Pampore, known as the “Saffron Capital of India,” we learned about the delicate process of growing and preserving saffron. The fragrance of saffron mixed with the aroma of Kashmiri Kahwa made the place feel timeless. After some shopping for saffron and dry fruits, and a few more captures for my video log, we resumed our drive through tall pine forests, with the Lidder River flowing gracefully beside us.
By early afternoon, the clouds returned as we reached Baisaran Valley – famously called Mini Switzerland. After some intense bargaining (a must skill in Kashmir!), we hired three horses with two guides for the mountain trail. The path was steep, rocky, and wet from the previous night’s rain — part thrill, part fear, and all adventure.
As our horses climbed higher, cold wind brushed against our faces, and raindrops sparkled on the leaves. My daughter, experiencing this kind of adventure for the first time, clutched the saddle tightly yet smiled with excitement. The valley finally opened up before us — green meadows surrounded by misty hills, where the silence was broken only by the rhythmic steps of horses and the distant laughter of travelers.
We enjoyed hot Maggi and coffee at a small stall, watching the clouds roll across the mountains. After some photos and videos, we returned to the base and had a delicious vegetarian lunch at a local Punjabi Dhaba before checking into our cozy stay — Hotel The Home 2, Pahalgam.
The evening rain softly drummed on the windows as we ended the day with a hearty dinner and quiet smiles, replaying every moment — from the cold breeze of Dal Lake to the wild trails of Baisaran. Kashmir had already begun to touch our souls in ways words can barely describe.
🛏️ Overnight stay: Hotel The Home 2, Pahalgam
🎥 Experience the full story in our Day 2
🌄 Day 3 – Aru Valley, Chandanwari & Betab Valley | Kashmir Tour
Our third day in Kashmir began with a scenic journey through the heart of Pahalgam. The morning air was crisp, and the snow-covered peaks shimmered under the sunlight as we set off to explore the region’s most captivating valleys.
Our first stop was Aru Valley, a serene alpine paradise surrounded by pine forests and snowy slopes. The stillness of the place was soothing — only broken by the distant murmur of the river and the laughter of a few tourists trying their hands at pony rides.
Next, we drove to Chandanwari, a gateway to the Amarnath Yatra, where ice sheets and mountain streams painted a breathtaking scene. The chill in the air, the echoing sound of flowing water, and the sight of untouched snow made it a truly picture-perfect location.
Finally, we reached the enchanting Betab Valley, where the Lidder River flows gently against the backdrop of ice-capped hills. The valley’s cinematic charm — made famous by Bollywood — made it an ideal place for photography. You can easily spend 1–2 hours here, enjoying the cool breeze and capturing the beauty around every corner.
By noon, we were back in Pahalgam town — a little tired, a little hungry, but completely mesmerized. We had lunch at a cozy non-veg restaurant, Dine Fine Café, where the hot, flavorful dishes and the warm hospitality created the perfect midday break. Kashmiri Pulao fragrant with saffron and nuts, and a hearty serving of Mutton Rogan Josh, rich and flavorful. It was one of those simple yet memorable meals that linger on your tongue long after the journey ends.
Originally, our plan was to stay another night in Pahalgam. But as the day slowed down and we realized we had covered most of the local attractions, we decided to make the most of our time and return early to Srinagar. The other reason was a kind one — our driver, Zubair Bhai, was observing Roza during Ramadan, and we didn’t want his early-morning prayers the next day to delay our local Srinagar sightseeing.
So, after collecting our luggage from the hotel, we began our drive back through the misty roads, where gentle rain tapped against the car windows — a peaceful farewell from Pahalgam. By the time we reached Srinagar around 7:30 PM, twilight had wrapped the city in a soft, golden glow.
That night, we checked into The Grand Comfort, a luxurious 4-star hotel — not part of our original itinerary, but a pleasant surprise. With elegant interiors, warm hospitality, and the comfort of a heater humming softly in the background, it was the perfect place to unwind after three magical days in the valleys of Kashmir.
🛏️ Overnight Stay: The Grand Comfort Hotel, Srinagar
🎥 Watch the full experience in our Day 3
🌸 Day 4 – Mughal Gardens, Kashmiri Thali & Sunset on Dal Lake | Srinagar Sightseeing
The morning began with a warm breakfast at The Grand Comfort, where the aroma of tea and toast mingled with the crisp Srinagar air. After checking out, we packed our luggage into the car for a day of exploration before moving to our next hotel. The plan was simple yet exciting — a full-day tour of Srinagar’s legendary Mughal gardens.
Our driver Zuied Bhai dropped us near the Tulip Garden parking area, and from there, we hired a cheerful local auto driver for ₹200 to cover Pari Mahal, Chashme Shahi, and Nehru Botanical Garden. He gave us his number and patiently waited at each stop, arriving promptly whenever we called — a small gesture that made the day smoother.
We started with Pari Mahal, perched above the city with panoramic views of Dal Lake and Zabarwan hills. The silence here was profound, broken only by the rustle of leaves and distant bird calls. Next came Chashme Shahi, where the natural spring water is said to have healing properties. The garden’s symmetry and floral beauty were mesmerizing. At Nehru Botanical Garden, we wandered through vibrant flower beds and towering trees, soaking in the serenity.
By noon, hunger nudged us toward a local restaurant recommended by our driver — and what a treat it was! We indulged in the famous Kashmiri Wazwan Thali, a royal spread of flavors that included Rogan Josh, Dum Aloo, and Gustaba. The richness of spices and the warmth of hospitality made it a meal to remember.
Post lunch, we visited Shalimar Bagh, the “Abode of Love,” where fountains danced in perfect rhythm and ancient chinar trees whispered stories of emperors past. Then came Nishat Bagh, the “Garden of Pleasure,” where we spent a quiet hour. Zuied Bhai then dropped us at Nishat Garden, where we spent a relaxing evening and witnessed a breathtaking sunset over Dal Lake from the garden ghat. We walked back to the hotel, a pleasant 1–1.5 km stroll.
Originally, we had planned a Shikara ride, but strong winds over Dal Lake made it unsafe — so we postponed it for another day. Instead, we walked back to our hotel, HASSANZ ENCLAVE SRINAGAR, just 1.5 km away, enjoying the cool breeze and fading light.
The hotel, chosen for its deluxe amenities, had a cozy restaurant and elegant interiors. However, we were given a ground-floor room, which didn’t quite meet our expectations. We called our travel agent and requested a first or second-floor room for our return stay after Gulmarg — they assured us it would be arranged. Another hiccup was the bedding: only one master-size bed was provided. We requested an extra mattress, which the staff promised to arrange upon our return.
Despite these minor issues, the day ended on a peaceful note — with memories of gardens, flavors, and sunset reflections etched into our hearts.
🛏️ Overnight Stay: Hassanz Enclave Hotel, Srinagar
🎥 Watch the full experience in our Day 4
🏔️ Day 5 – Srinagar to Gulmarg | Gondola Ride, Snow Adventures & Night Stay at Beigh Resort
The day began before sunrise, with a twist in our itinerary. The previous evening, our driver Zuneid Bhai informed us that the Gulmarg Gondola tickets—which were supposed to be pre-booked—had not been arranged. To secure tickets, we had to leave Srinagar by 4:30 AM, reaching Gulmarg early enough to stand in the queue. The hotel staff at Hassanz Enclave kindly packed breakfast for us, which we carried along.
As we drove through the quiet morning, the landscape slowly came alive. The 60 km journey to Gulmarg, nestled at 2,730 meters above sea level, was filled with anticipation. The route from Tangmarg to Gulmarg was especially scenic — pine forests, winding roads, and snow-draped peaks greeted us at every turn.
Fortunately, we managed to secure Phase I Gondola tickets, and the adventure began. We soared above the snow-covered slopes on the Gondola, followed by thrilling rides on snowmobiles, skiing, and the simple joy of playing in the snow — laughter echoing across the white expanse.
After the snow fun, we headed to Strawberry Valley, where we finally took a break and enjoyed our packed breakfast amidst the serene surroundings. The crisp mountain air and quiet charm of the valley made it a perfect spot to recharge.
Next, we explored the Gulmarg Golf Course — the highest 18-hole golf course in the world — followed by visits to Maharaja Hari Singh’s Palace and the Army Museum, each offering glimpses into Kashmir’s regal and military heritage.
By 4:30 PM, we reached our hotel for the night — Beigh Resort in Tangmarg. Lunch was served late, around 5:30 PM, as we hadn’t had a moment to eat earlier. The hotel wasn’t our originally suggested Signature Hotel, and at first glance, it felt modest — room size, bed comfort, bathroom amenities, and the outside view were all average. The room heater was available only between 6–9 PM, but after a discussion with our travel agent, the hotel agreed to provide full-time heating, and we chose one of the better rooms.
Despite the basic infrastructure, the hospitality was exceptional. The manager — a young, well-qualified gentleman with an MBA in Mass Communication — was warm and attentive. The staff, many of whom were school-going boys under 18, were polite and eager to help. The hotel owner’s residence stood just opposite, resembling a small palace, with an apple orchard nestled within the hotel’s boundary — a charming touch that added to the experience.
Dinner was served around 9:30 PM, and like lunch, it was delicious — full of flavor and warmth. In the end, Beigh Resort turned out to be a pleasant surprise, thanks to the people who made it feel like home.
One final reflection from the day: our driver, Zuneid Bhai, is not just a guide — he holds a Master’s degree in Economics. With limited job opportunities in the region, he chose to drive and guide tourists, sharing his knowledge and kindness along the way. His story added depth to our journey, reminding us of the resilience and grace of the people of Kashmir.
🛏️ Overnight Stay: Beigh Resort, Tangmarg
🎥 Watch the full experience in our Day 5
🌄 Day 6 – Gulmarg to Srinagar | Waterfalls, Village Trails & Shikara Ride on Eid Evening
Our second morning in Gulmarg began with a warm breakfast at Beigh Resort, nestled in Tangmarg. Though technically outside Gulmarg, the surrounding beauty was just as captivating. The meadows of flowers, perched at 2,730 meters above sea level, greeted us with fresh mountain air and golden sunlight filtering through pine trees.
We set off to explore Dunga Waterfalls, where the sound of rushing water echoed through the forest, creating a peaceful rhythm. The trail led us through charming local villages, offering glimpses of Kashmiri life — children waving from rooftops, women tending to gardens, and the scent of wood smoke drifting through the air. At Chill Point, we paused to take in the panoramic views and soak in the quiet magic of the hills.
These local sights were made possible thanks to Javed Bhai, introduced to us by our driver Zuneid Bhai on Day 5. Javed Bhai helped us secure Gondola tickets in Tatkal for ₹1,500 and guided us throughout our Phase I adventures. He also arranged a local Tata Sumo for sightseeing across two days — covering Strawberry Valley, Golf Course, Maharaja Hari Singh’s Palace, and Army Museum on Day 5, and Dunga Waterfalls, Chill Point, and village trails on Day 6 — all for ₹4,500. His coordination made our Gulmarg experience smooth and memorable.
Meanwhile, Zuneid Bhai had returned to Srinagar after dropping us at Beigh Resort on Day 5. He had settled our room arrangements and promised to pick us up the next day from the local meeting point where Javed Bhai’s car would drop us after sightseeing. He also collected our luggage and handled the hotel checkout — a thoughtful gesture that highlighted his dedication. One surprising detail we learned: most hotels in Kashmir don’t offer accommodation for drivers. Zuneid Bhai had to stay in a separate shared room with other drivers, both here and earlier at Hotel Home 2 in Pahalgam.
By late afternoon, we began our drive back to Srinagar. On the way, we stopped at a renowned Pashmina Shawl Showroom, where we witnessed the intricate process of shawl-making. A short video captured the artistry — spinning, weaving, and dyeing — while the staff shared stories of heritage and craftsmanship passed down through generations.
We checked back into HASSANZ ENCLAVE SRINAGAR, this time on the first floor, with a room that offered a perfect view of the city. Before settling in, we headed to a nearby restaurant for lunch — Kashmiri Biryani and chicken dishes were on the menu. The food was average, but the flavors of the region still lingered on our tongues.
As the sun began to set, we returned to Dal Lake Ghat No. 19 for our long-awaited Shikara ride. Our package included a 90-minute ride, and though the boatman suggested extending it for an extra fee, we politely declined — and still managed to cover all the major points around the lake, including the floating market Mina Bazaar. The ride was enchanting: floating past houseboats, lotus gardens, and heritage buildings, with the lake shimmering under the golden light. Srinagar, often compared to Venice, felt like a dream woven in water and sky.
After the ride, we took a local auto back to the hotel for ₹150. Interestingly, autos in Srinagar run on meters just like Kolkata taxis, and the fare matched exactly. We reached the hotel around 6:30 PM, a little tired but content. A quiet evening followed — sipping room-made tea and munching on biscuits we had carried from Kolkata.
That night held special meaning — March 30, 2025, was Eid. The crescent moon had been sighted, and our driver Zuneid Bhai had some last-minute shopping to do for the festival. He left us early to celebrate with his family, and we were happy to let him enjoy his moment. He informed us that he’d pick us up a bit later the next day, around 12 noon, so we planned a short self-guided visit to the Tulip Festival, which was conveniently close to our hotel. He would meet us at the Tulip Garden parking area the next morning.
🛏️ Overnight Stay: Hassanz Enclave Hotel, Srinagar
🎥 Watch the full experience in our Day 6
🌷 Day 7 – Tulip Garden, Doodhpathri Meadows & Cricket with Locals | Srinagar Day Trip
The morning began with a gentle breeze and a plan to visit the famous Tulip Garden. After breakfast at Hassanz Enclave, we stepped out in search of an auto — but none were available. Just as we began walking, a local car passed us, paused about 50 feet ahead, and reversed. The driver, a kind Kashmiri gentleman, asked where we were headed and where we were from. When we said “Kolkata, West Bengal” and mentioned our walk to the Tulip Garden, he warmly offered us a lift and dropped us near the garden parking. It was a simple act of kindness that reminded us once again of the humility and generosity of Kashmiri people.
We reached the Indira Gandhi Tulip Garden just as the gates opened at 9 AM. For the next three hours, we wandered through rows of vibrant tulips in full bloom — red, yellow, purple, and white — each petal swaying gently in the morning breeze. The garden felt like a living painting, and we captured countless photos and memories.
At 12 noon, our driver Zuneid Bhai, fresh from celebrating Eid, met us at the Tulip Garden parking. With smiles and greetings, we began our journey to Doodhpathri, located 65 km away in Budgam district. The drive was scenic, winding through pine forests and open valleys. On the way, we stopped at a roadside dhaba and enjoyed a traditional lunch of Makai ki Roti and Sarson ka Saag, served with warmth and a cold drink — a special moment as Zuneid Bhai joined us for lunch for the first time, as his Roza was ended yesterday.
Upon reaching Doodhpathri, we transferred to a local Alto car, driven by a gentle and helpful uncle who charged ₹1,800. His kindness touched us deeply — he guided us through the meadows, helped my wife and daughter at every step, and made the experience truly memorable. As a gesture of gratitude, I gave him an extra ₹200 — not as a tip, but as a heartfelt reward for his sincerity.
Near the car parking, we found a vast green meadow where my daughter enjoyed a short horse ride, her laughter echoing across the valley. The landscape was breathtaking — rolling hills, whispering winds, and the soft murmur of distant streams.
We returned to Srinagar by 5 PM, a little earlier than usual. At the hotel, I noticed the staff playing cricket in the passage outside. They invited me to join, and I did — spending an hour playing with young Kashmiri boys who worked as managers, cooks, and room staff. Their energy, education, and warmth left a lasting impression. It was one of those rare moments where travel truly connects hearts.
That night, we stayed again at Hassanz Enclave. Around bedtime, Zuneid Bhai called to inform us that from the next day, a new driver would accompany us with the same car. His father’s health had worsened, and he needed to return home near Pahalgam. We wished him well and thanked him for being such a wonderful companion throughout the journey.
🛏️ Overnight Stay: Hassanz Enclave Hotel, Srinagar
🎥 Watch the full experience in our Day 7
🏞️ Day 8 – Srinagar to Sonamarg | Glacier Views, Himalayan Trails & Return Journey
After breakfast at Hassanz Enclave, we began our journey to Sonamarg at 8:30 AM, this time with our new driver Sartaz Bhai. Though Zuneid Bhai had to leave due to his father’s health, Sartaz Bhai welcomed us with a smile and drove the same trusted 6935 Grey 7-seater Ertiga. The road to Sonamarg is often called one of the most beautiful drives from Srinagar — and it truly lived up to its name.
We passed through scenic spots like Ganderbal, where the landscape opened up into lush valleys and winding rivers. The 80 km drive took about 3 hours, crossing the majestic Atal Tunnel and weaving through pine forests and mountain curves. Sonamarg — the “Meadow of Gold” — is also the gateway to Ladakh, with the legendary Zojila Pass marking the transition into the high Himalayas.
Upon arrival, we hired a local union car for ₹2,500, complete with gumboots for the snowy terrain. Over the next 2.5–3 hours, we explored Glacier Point, Table Top, and the Last Village — each offering breathtaking views of snow-covered peaks and icy trails. Unfortunately, Zero Point was inaccessible due to heavy ice blockage. Cars had been waiting in queue for 2–3 days, hoping the road would reopen. Still, the places we did cover were nothing short of magical.
For lunch, we stopped at Glacier View Point Hotel, nestled beside the flowing Lidder River. The food was simple yet satisfying, and the view — snow-capped mountains reflected in the river — made it a meal to remember.
The return journey to Srinagar was slower than expected due to heavy traffic caused by Eid celebrations and the Tulip Festival. We reached our hotel around 8 PM, tired but filled with awe from the day’s adventures.
🛏️ Overnight Stay: Hassanz Enclave Hotel, Srinagar
🎥 Watch the full experience in our Day 8
🌧️ Day 9 – Yousmarg Meadows & Srinagar Cityscape | A Rainy Ride to Doodh Ganga
The day began early at Hassanz Enclave, with breakfast packed and spirits high. At 7:30 AM, we set off toward Yousmarg, a hidden gem nestled in the Budgam district, about 40 km from Srinagar. The journey usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, but today unfolded with unexpected twists.
Our new driver, Sartaz Bhai, was unfamiliar with the route — it was his first time navigating this valley. Somewhere along the way, we took a wrong turn and found ourselves lost amidst winding roads and dwindling fuel. The tension was real, but so was the adventure. We missed the iconic Jamia Masjid, known for its vast courtyard and hundreds of wooden pillars, as we couldn’t locate it on the detoured path. After refueling and regaining direction, we finally reached Yousmarg around 1 PM, nearly 5 hours later.
Unlike the clear skies we had enjoyed in Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Doodhpathri, and Sonamarg, today brought clouds and light rain — adding a misty charm to the meadows. From the car parking point, we hired three horses to reach the serene Doodh Ganga stream. The ride was peaceful, and we explored the area without guides, letting the horses lead us through pine forests and grassy trails. The sound of flowing water, the scent of wet earth, and the quietude of the valley made it a soulful experience.
On our return to Srinagar, we made a short detour to explore the bustling Lal Chowk Market, the iconic Clock Tower, and the vibrant city traffic — a contrast to the silence of the mountains. The streets were alive with color, movement, and the pulse of everyday Kashmiri life.
Back at the hotel, we reflected on the day — a mix of misdirection, misty meadows, and meaningful moments. Despite the challenges, Yousmarg had offered us something unique: a glimpse into the raw, untamed beauty of Kashmir and the resilience of its people.
🛏️ Overnight Stay: Hassanz Enclave Hotel, Srinagar
🎥 Watch the full experience in our Day 9
✈️ Day 10 – Farewell to Paradise | Tulips, Temple Views & Heartfelt Goodbyes
Our final morning in Srinagar began with a quiet breakfast and a sense of bittersweet anticipation. After checking out from Hassanz Enclave around 9:30 AM, we made one last visit to the Tulip Garden — drawn by the promise of newly bloomed flowers. The garden, now in fuller glory, welcomed us with vibrant rows of tulips swaying gently in the breeze. We spent a peaceful three hours soaking in the colors, capturing photos, and cherishing every moment.
By 12 noon, we headed to Shankaracharya Temple, perched high above the city. Cars aren’t allowed all the way up, so we walked nearly 1 km before climbing the 280 steps to reach the summit. From the top, the view of Dal Lake was breathtaking — a panoramic canvas of water, mountains, and sky. My daughter chose to skip the climb, instead enjoying a photoshoot in the serene surroundings below.
Next, as promised by our travel agent, we revisited the Houseboat at Ghat No. 19 for a final photoshoot and video session in daylight. The Shikara ride to and from the houseboat was calm and reflective — a quiet goodbye to the waters that had welcomed us on Day 1. I paid just ₹200 to the boatman for the round trip, and we spent nearly two hours reliving the charm of floating life.
Lunch followed at a lakeside restaurant around 3 PM, where we enjoyed our final Kashmiri meal with views of Dal Lake shimmering in the afternoon light.
From there, we made a special visit to the Umifar Tour & Travels office near Lal Chowk to meet Rehena Madam, the heart behind our journey. She had been our first point of contact six months ago when the planning began, and her guidance had shaped every detail of this trip. Meeting her in person was a moment of joy and gratitude. She welcomed us warmly, treated us to cold drinks, and gifted chocolates to my daughter — a gesture that touched us deeply.
Though Umifar Bhai, the owner of the agency, couldn’t be present due to other client commitments, we hope to meet him on our next visit.
Finally, Sartaz Bhai dropped us at Srinagar Airport around 5:30 PM. As we waited for our 7:50 PM flight to Kolkata, we looked back on ten days filled with adventure, kindness, laughter, and unforgettable memories.
Kashmir had not only shown us its beauty — it had touched our hearts.
🛫 Flight: Srinagar to Kolkata, 7:50 PM
🎥 Watch the full experience in our Day 10
🌄 Kashmir – A Journey Through Paradise on Earth
10 Days of Wonder, Warmth & Unforgettable Moments
From the moment our flight descended into Srinagar, we knew this trip would be unlike any other. What followed was a 10-day odyssey through valleys kissed by snow, meadows painted with wildflowers, and lakes that shimmered like mirrors under the Himalayan sky. Each day unfolded like a chapter in a story — filled with adventure, kindness, and the quiet magic that only Kashmir can offer.
🗓️ Day-by-Day Highlights
- Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar, candlelight dinner on a houseboat, and our first Shikara ride under the stars.
- Day 2: Rain-kissed journey to Pahalgam through saffron fields and apple orchards, ending with a horseback ride to Baisaran Valley.
- Day 3: Exploring Aru Valley, Chandanwari, and Betab Valley — cinematic landscapes and unforgettable meals.
- Day 4: Mughal Gardens tour in Srinagar, Kashmiri Wazwan Thali, and sunset at Dal Lake.
- Day 5: Early morning rush to Gulmarg for Gondola tickets, snow adventures, and a cozy stay at Beigh Resort.
- Day 6: Waterfalls, village trails, and heartfelt hospitality in Tangmarg, followed by a magical Shikara ride on Eid evening.
- Day 7: Tulip Garden in full bloom, Doodhpathri meadows, and cricket with Kashmiri hotel staff — laughter and connection.
- Day 8: Glacier views in Sonamarg, lunch by the Lidder River, and navigating Eid traffic back to Srinagar.
- Day 9: Rainy trails in Yousmarg, horse ride to Doodh Ganga, and a glimpse of Srinagar’s bustling Lal Chowk.
- Day 10: Farewell day — revisiting Tulip Garden, climbing to Shankaracharya Temple, final houseboat memories, and a warm goodbye with our travel coordinator.
💌 Closing Note to My Readers
Dear friends and fellow travelers,
Kashmir is not just a destination — it’s a feeling. It’s the warmth of strangers offering a lift, the laughter of hotel staff inviting you to play cricket, the silence of snow-covered valleys, and the scent of saffron in the breeze. Over these ten days, we didn’t just see places — we met people, heard stories, and created memories that will stay with us forever.
This journey was made possible by the incredible support of our driver Zuneid Bhai, guide Javed Bhai, and the entire team at Umifar Tour & Travels — especially Rehena Madam, whose care and coordination turned a dream into reality.
As we boarded our flight back to Kolkata, our hearts were full. Kashmir had touched our souls — and we hope this travelogue touches yours.
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Kashmir Tour – Frequently Asked Questions
The best time to visit Kashmir depends on your travel preference:
March to June – Pleasant weather, flowers, sightseeing
July to September – Green valleys and fewer tourists
December to February – Snowfall and winter sports in Gulmarg
TravelWithSurajit visited Kashmir to experience both nature and adventure.
You can reach Kashmir by:
✈️ Flight – Direct flights available from Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, and other major cities to Srinagar
🚗 Road/Train – Train to Jammu and then road trip to Srinagar
Flights are the fastest and most comfortable option.
Top attractions in Kashmir include:
Srinagar
Dal Lake & Houseboats
Gulmarg
Pahalgam
Sonamarg
Shankaracharya Temple
Pari Mahal
Mughal Gardens (Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, Chashme Shahi)
TravelWithSurajit covered these places with personal travel experiences.
Popular activities include:
Shikara ride on Dal Lake
Gulmarg Gondola cable car ride
Snow skiing and snow activities
Pony rides in Pahalgam
Trekking and nature walks
Shopping in Srinagar local markets
Kashmir is famous for:
Rogan Josh
Goshtaba
Dum Aloo
Kashmiri Kahwa Tea
Wazwan cuisine
Local street foods and bakery items
TravelWithSurajit shared personal food experiences in daily blogs.
Both destinations are beautiful:
Gulmarg – Best for snow, skiing, and Gondola ride
Pahalgam – Best for nature, rivers, and valleys like Betaab Valley
TravelWithSurajit visited both places and shared detailed comparisons.
TravelWithSurajit Kashmir tour blogs provide:
Day-wise itinerary with emotions and personal experience
Honest hotel and transport reviews
Real travel tips and budget details
YouTube vlog integration
Practical advice for first-time travelers
