After breakfast at the hotel, drive towards Doodhpathri, often called the “Valley of Milk” for its flowing streams and wide green pastures. Surrounded by dense forests and gentle hills, this offbeat destination is ideal for those who enjoy calm surroundings and natural beauty. Spend the day exploring the meadows, relaxing by the streams, and capturing scenic views.
Later in the afternoon, begin your return journey to Srinagar. On arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy a relaxed evening followed by an overnight stay.
Places Covered:
Doodhpathri, Alpine Meadows, Forest Trails, Natural Streams
Activities:
Leisure sightseeing, short walks, photography, relaxation
Inclusions:
Breakfast and Dinner
Night stay at Srinagar hotelA 9-day Kashmir tour typically covers five main destinations that showcase the valley’s diverse landscapes, from serene lakes to snow-capped meadows and glacial valleys.
Primary Destinations
Srinagar serves as the base for most Kashmir tours, being the summer capital with iconic attractions like Dal Lake for Shikara rides and houseboat stays. The city features renowned Mughal Gardens including Shalimar Bagh (established in 1619), Nishat Bagh and the famous Indira Gandhi Tulip Garden – Asia’s largest tulip garden with 15 lakh tulips across 68 varieties. Other key attractions include Shankaracharya Temple offering panoramic city views from 1,100 feet elevation.
Gulmarg, known as one of India’s most popular ski destinations features the world’s highest green golf course and the Gulmarg Gondola – one of the world’s highest cable cars. This popular destination is best for winter sports and offers expansive mountain vistas.
Pahalgam, called the “Valley of Shepherds,” sits along the Lidder River and serves as a gateway for nature activities like river rafting and trout fishing. Key attractions include Betaab Valley (named after a Bollywood film), Aru Valley, and Chandanwari – the starting point for the Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage.
Sonmarg, meaning “Meadow of Golden Light,” provides access to the Thajiwas Glacier and Zojila Pass. Located at high altitude with snow-capped mountain surroundings, it historically served as part of the ancient Silk Route connecting India with Tibet.
Additional Destinations
Many 9-day packages also include Manasbal, Doodhpathri, an unexplored scenic destination featuring attractions like Parihas Meadow and the Shaliganga River. Some tours may incorporate Gurez Valley, an offbeat destination at 2,400m altitude known for the Kishanganga River and Habba Khatoon Peak.
The tour circuit allows for comprehensive exploration of Kashmir’s natural beauty, from houseboats and gardens to glaciers and high altitude meadows, typically requiring 8 nights to adequately cover these diverse destinations