Travelogue- 9 things to do while in Kashmir

When to visit: Atleast twice in a lifetime - once for winter beauty (Mar end) and once to witness the spring glory (Jul end/ Aug)! 

My itinerary (April first week) -

Day 1: Chandigarh - Srinagar (by direct flight)

Day 2: Srinagar - Gulmarg (by road ~2 hours)

Day 3: Gulmarg - Pahalgam (by road ~ 4 hours)

Day 4: Pahalgam - Srinagar

Day 5: Srinagar - Chandigarh

Based on my own limited experience I've compiled list of 'touristy' things to do while you are there:

1) Relax and stay in a houseboat in Srinagar

Highly recommended to spend a night in a houseboat.  The wooden carvings and beautiful views of the lake at dusk and dawn are worth it. I stayed at Fantasia Houseboat in Nigeen Lake, as I wanted a calm and peaceful location versus the clutter of Dal Lake. Nigeen Lake separated by a causeway from Dal lake is much serene, quiet and picturesque. One can take a Shikara ride to the Dal Lake from here for a 2-3 hrs round trip.

2) Admire the splendor of the gardens built in the Mughal Era in Srinagar

Spend half a day walking through the three gardens of Shalimar, Nishat and Chesmashai early in the morning (open around 10am) to avoid mid-day crowds. Nishat, with unique design of terraced gardens, is my favourite pick.

3) Be amazed at the picturesque little town of Gulmarg 

Gulmarg was easily my favourite location of the 3 towns visited. The small town stretching over just 2-3 kms was covered in 6-8 feet deep snow, making it a sight to behold! Stayed overnight at Nedous Hotel, offering great voews and away from centre with majority of crowd. If you visit in summer, the slopes transform into meadows filled with flowers and for snow you can take the cable car to top of Mt. Apharwat.

4) Buy Pashmina and local handicrafts in the village on way to Gulmarg

Pleasure to just look at the artistic paper machie handicrafts, Pashmina shawls and carpets. The local artisans have their own shops here and you will get cheaper rates than in the main city.

5) Shop in the land of real Saffron fields and dry fruits on way to Pahalgam

On way to Pahalgam, stop at the village of Pampore where you can see actual saffron fields (bloom in summer) and buy original saffron and dry fruits and reasonable prices.

6) Walk along the banks of the river Lidder in Pahalgam

Pahalgam is a picturesque small town with a river running throughout and surrounded by pine forests and mountains. Stayed at Hotel Himalaya House just by the river, away from market place and offering great views.

7)  Ride a pony in Pahalgam

Explore the valleys for gorgeous views on a horseback

8) Savour Kahwa and flavours of Kashmiri Wazwan

Kahwa is a refreshing green tea with saffron and spices added to it, and must have while in Kashmir. If you are a non-vegetarian do try the Kashmiri Wazwan (Ahdoos, Mughal Darbar and Taj in Srinagar are good options) and for veg food Krishna Dhaba in Srinagar is a great option.

9) Trek to the Great Lakes of Kashmir in Summer

First hand details coming up in August! :)

Trip album up here.

For more info on any of this feel free to ping me/ write an email, I will be happy to assist, if you are planning a trip to Kashmir!