Kashmir is one of the destinations that practically always spring to mind when people consider travel in India. It’s more than just a place to go. It’s a sensation, a mental image of snow-capped mountains, glistening lakes, blossoming gardens, and an ethereal quiet. When you’re there, it doesn’t feel like an exaggeration to say that it’s Heaven on Earth. One of those trips you take once and never forget is most likely a Kashmir tour package.
Imagine waking up in Srinagar, the city of lakes and gardens, whether you’re planning a trip there or are just thinking about it. It makes sense that most trips begin here. Everything is soft, the air is clean, and the temperature is cool. A houseboat vacation on Dal Lake is among the better options. You awaken to the sound of oars slowly gliding through the water, the sight of water everywhere, and the morning mist hovering just above the surface. It’s the type of morning that you remember.
The Shikara ride is rather famous. The boatman carefully paddles you past floating gardens, markets, and other houseboats while you sit back beneath a canopy. From their boats, people offer food, flowers, and handicrafts. It would be possible to shop without ever setting foot on land.
The Mughal Gardens—Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, and Chashme Shahi—are located close to Dal Lake. Even though they are so old, they are nonetheless immaculately kept. You could stroll around the flower pathways and fountains for hours. Everything is verdant and blooming in the spring and early summer. Because everything looks like a postcard, you wind up snapping 100 extra pictures.
Perched atop a hill, Pari Mahal is another must-see while in Srinagar. The entire city opens up beneath you from here. Particularly at sunset, when the lake begins to mirror the orange sky, the scene is quite breathtaking. Additionally, the largest tulip garden in Asia can be seen if you’re fortunate enough to visit during tulip season. Walking into a rainbow is how it feels.
The majority of Kashmir travel packages currently include transportation from Srinagar to Gulmarg. Known for its snow sports in the winter, this location is stunning throughout the year. The main draw is the Gondola ride, which is among the tallest cable cars in the world. The landscape shifts from pine trees to snow-capped peaks as you ascend, giving the impression that you are soaring. This is the place to go if you enjoy snowboarding, skiing, or simply playing in the snow.
Gulmarg turns green in the summer. Long treks through alpine meadows, wildflowers, and a golf course are all there. If you’re game, some packages even include short treks or pony rides. Kashmir has something to offer in every season, which is fantastic. Winter brings snow, spring brings flowers, summer brings hiking, and autumn brings golden leaves.
Pahalgam, which is a little more laid back and encircled by rivers and pine forests, is typically the next destination from Gulmarg. You may go white-water rafting here or simply relax by the banks and take a bath in the Lidder River. The sound of rushing water and the clean mountain air have a very soothing effect. You can also go to Betaab Valley, which got its name from the movie that was filmed there. It nearly looks false because it is so gorgeous and lush.
The little, serene settlement of Aru Valley, where time seems to slow down, is another undiscovered treasure in Pahalgam. It’s ideal for taking nature walks and relaxing. There are only hills, woods, and silence—no stores playing loud music, no traffic. Everyone should, in all honesty, take advantage of the overnight stays that some tours provide in these wooden houses.
The “meadow of gold,” Sonamarg, comes next. This is one of those locations where the trip is equally as lovely as the final destination. You pass little towns and snow walls (sometimes even in May) as you travel beside rivers before coming to this glacier-enclosed valley. You can touch snow even in the summer at Thajiwas Glacier, which is accessible by a quick pony ride. It’s silent, chilly, and somewhat surreal.
Less visited but equally beautiful locations like Yusmarg and Doodhpathri are also included in certain tours. It’s actually wonderful that there isn’t a lot of commercial activity going on in these areas. The scenery here is reminiscent of a dream film, and you get to spend more time in nature.
Generally speaking, a decent travel package offers you options according to your comfort level. You can choose an expensive tour with homestays and shared taxis, or a luxurious one with five-star hotels and private cars. In any case, Kashmir feels wealthy—not just financially, but also in terms of experience. The food is delicious (you must try Rogan Josh, Gushtaba, Kahwa tea, and fresh breads from roadside bakeries), the people are friendly, and the atmosphere is really soulful.
However, you should be mindful of the weather. Particularly in steep regions, it can alter quickly. Thus, even in the heat, always have a jacket with you. Additionally, it’s a good idea to allow an additional day or two for travel delays due to snow or rain. Additionally, phone coverage in rural locations isn’t always excellent, but that adds to the allure.
Afterward, there is shopping. Kashmir is well-known for its walnut wood products, hand-knotted carpets, paper mache artwork, pashmina shawls, and, of course, dry fruits like almonds and saffron. It is best to go with a local guide or someone you trust, though, as some establishments may overcharge visitors.
Cultural activities like touring apple orchards, interacting with craftspeople, taking in a local dance, or even putting on traditional Kashmiri attire for amusing pictures are also included in certain packages. In addition to giving you stories to share later, these things give the vacation more color.
Another issue that people occasionally worry about is safety. Indeed, despite Kashmir’s history of problems, the majority of the tourist destinations are now incredibly secure and friendly. Locals go out of their way to make guests feel welcome because they genuinely want tourism to flourish. However, it’s always a good idea to keep informed and heed travel advisories before making any plans.
Overall, experiencing places is just as important as seeing them when taking a Kashmir trip package. There, you breathe more deeply and more slowly. You notice that you’re grinning more. And a piece of you remains there, in the stillness of a lake or the echo of a valley, even after you’ve left.
Like the flavor of hot tea on a chilly morning or the aroma of pine trees, the memories stick with you. And odds are you’ll respond Kashmir without hesitation if someone asks you one day, “Where’s the most beautiful place you’ve ever been?”
Go with an open mind and a camera that has enough room if you intend to go because everything, everywhere, needs to be captured on camera.