Dominated largely by long stretches of Scenic Mountains, the Valley of Kashmir covers an area of 224,739 sq km.
Dominated largely by long stretches of Scenic Mountains, the Valley of Kashmir covers an area of 224,739 sq km. The prized possession of Jammu & Kashmir state, the Valley of Kashmir renders opportunities to experience nature’s best. From splendid Srinagar to isolated Gurez valley, the gamut of awe-aspiring vista is endless here. Travel to Kashmir to cherish the impeccable natural beauty, where inhabits a gentle race of people.
4:00am-1:00pm : Katra
4:00pm-5:30pm : Nau Devi Temple
10:00am-12:00pm : Maasharda Holidays Private Limited
12:30pm-3:00pm : Vaishno Devi Mandir
Visit Vaishno Devi Mandir, a temple perched in the Trikuta Mountains and dedicated to the Hindu mother goddess Mahalakshmi. Embark on a steep hike to reach the attraction, or alternatively hire a pony to ride to the temple in relative comfort. Once there, observe devotees as they worship and perform holy traditions, or speak to other visitors on pilgrimages. The temple also offers the opportunity to stay overnight in simple, clean rooms. Be sure to reserve your place in advance if you require a room or, for an adrenaline rush, take a helicopter ride near to the temple.
3:30pm-5:30pm : Ranbireshwar Temple
6:30pm-9:00pm : Srinagar
10:30am-12:30pm : Shankaracharya Hill
Climb the 250 steps to the top of Shankaracharya Hill to enjoy panoramic views over Srinagar. Take in the peaceful atmosphere as you ascend the verdant, forested hill, on top of which sits a small Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Admire the ancient temple, built in the ninth century from massive grey stone blocks. Military personnel guard the steps, so you’ll have to deposit any electronic devices with them before you start climbing.
1:00pm-4:30pm : Dal Lake
Sail the vast, placid waters of Dal Lake, surrounded by lush Mughal-style gardens and lined with British-built houseboats. Nestled in the foothills of the Zabarwan mountain range, the lake, nicknamed “Jewel in the Crown of Kashmir,” was for centuries the region’s favorite summer destination, known for its pleasant, cool climate. Relax on the deck of one the houseboats and enjoy the scenic vista, or take a ride on a "shikara" (a gondola-like boat) and admire the sight of floating gardens and markets, filled with vibrant lotus flowers, fruits, and vegetables.
5:30pm-6:00pm : Durga Nag Temple
Durga Nag Temple is best known for its holy spring. This small shrine was built right above and around the spring. At special occasions, you can witness Hindu devotees performing traditional Vedic rituals at the sanctuary. The area around the temple boasts a number of shops selling popular Kashmir shawls, tops, and handmade bags.
10:00am-12:00pm : Ningle Nallah
12:00pm-2:00pm : Horseback Riding Tours
2:30pm-4:30pm : The Khyber Spa by L'Occitane
10:00am-12:00pm : Gulmarg Golf Course
12:30pm-2:30pm : Apharwat Peak
Standing at a height of 4,390 m (14,403 ft) above sea level, Apharwat Peak is a popular location for winter activities. Snow covers the peak most of the year, making it a perfect attraction for skiers and snowboarders in almost any month. Runs here offer something for everyone, from beginner skiers to advanced enthusiasts. However, in the summer, the greenery blooms, creating the perfect conditions for you to enjoy horseback rides through the mountains. Keep in mind this area receives heavy snowfall, and the weather may disrupt your travel plans.
3:00pm-5:00pm : Outer Circle Walk
10:30am-12:30pm : Gurudwara Shri Pathar Sahib
See an impressive, colorful, and intriguing place of worship at Gurudwara Shri Pathar Sahib. Located at the spot where a demon reportedly attacked Guru Nanak, founder of the Sikh religion, the sahib centers around a rock that the demon threw at the guru. Meditating at the time, the Guru's powers made the rock as soft as wax, and today it bears an impression from where the demon tried to kick it. The site tells the interesting legend that inspired it, and the story of collaboration between army officials, Buddhists, and local sikhs that brought it about in the late 1970s. Prepare for high altitudes and cold weather in winter.
1:00pm-3:00pm : Magnetic Hill
Turn off your engine and put your vehicle in neutral to see a natural optical illusion at Magnetic Hill. Some call the phenomenon a "gravity hill," because objects moving downhill appear to be going uphill, thus defying a natural law. Though local myths have suggested a magnetism stronger than gravity lies in the hills here, the fun effect is actually a trick of the mind, with surrounding hills obstructing the horizon and confusing the way the eye perceives the lay of the land. Bring your video camera.
3:30pm-5:30pm : Confluence of the Indus and Zanskar Rivers
Witness the merging of a mighty river and one of its north-flowing tributaries at Confluence of the Indus and Zanskar Rivers. The main river, a regional lifeline, has a green and brown coloration, while its tributary has a particularly shiny blue color: as they meet, the combining of the colors creates a pleasing visual effect, so make sure to bring your camera. Take time to appreciate the dramatic surrounding scenery, where barren valleys and rugged peaks frame the two rivers and provide a number of natural viewpoints.
10:00am-11:30am : Hall of Fame
Hall of Fame commemorates the Indian Army soldiers who lost their lives in the India-Pakistan wars. On the ground floor you can gather information about the troops and learn details about their fates, as well as purchase souvenirs. On your way up to the first floor, examine the exhibited war artifacts, weaponry used during combat, and important documents. The museum's displays can help you imagine what high-altitude battles at -50 C (-58 F) looked like; you can also watch a 30-minute film about the 1999 Kargil War.
12:00pm-4:00pm : River Rafting & Tubing