Leisure · India
Houseboats, gardens and glaciers in the valley they call Paradise on Earth
Journey overview
Discover the breathtaking Kashmir Valley: shikara rides across Dal Lake, nights on a traditional houseboat, the Mughal gardens of Srinagar, the alpine meadows of Gulmarg and Pahalgam, and the glacier valley of Sonmarg. A holiday of extraordinary natural beauty, comfortable hotels and unhurried days.
Day by day
Every day is thoughtfully paced, with time to experience each place—not simply pass through it.
Fly via Delhi to Srinagar, the summer capital of Kashmir. Check in to a traditional houseboat on Dal Lake and enjoy a sunset shikara ride past floating gardens and lakeside life.
Day excursion to Gulmarg, the “Meadow of Flowers” and one of Asia’s premier mountain resorts. Ride the famous Gulmarg Gondola for spectacular Himalayan views, with time for snow activities in season.
Drive through saffron fields and pine forests to Pahalgam, the “Valley of Shepherds”. Visit Betaab Valley and the banks of the Lidder River, with optional pony rides into the meadows.
Travel to Sonmarg, the “Meadow of Gold”, gateway to the Thajiwas Glacier. Enjoy the alpine scenery before returning to Srinagar for the night.
Explore Srinagar’s famous Mughal gardens, Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh, and the hilltop Shankaracharya viewpoint, with the afternoon free for shopping: pashmina shawls, saffron, walnut wood and papier-mâché crafts.
Fly back to Delhi and connect to the return flight to Colombo.
Travel with ease
From a fellow traveller
Real words from people who have travelled this route with Manel Travels.
“Kashmir was breathtaking. The houseboat stay and Gulmarg gondola were unforgettable. Only small delays at the airport, otherwise a wonderful trip. Would travel with them again.”
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Ask about upcoming departures, current pricing and availability.
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