Best Of Kashmir with Vaishnodevi (8 Nights)

Arrive at Srinagar (5000+ ft asl) and transfer to Gulmarg (50 kms - 1.5 hrs - 8000+ ft asl). Possible evening visit to Khilanmarg (View point), time permitting.

Go for famous Gondola Ride (Cable Car. Online booking in advance is recommended), Asia's highest and longest cable car. Its a two-stage rope-way. The first stage transfers from Gulmarg to Kongdoori Station. The timing of the gondola is 10 AM to 5 PM (It's highly dependent upon the weather at both stages). Return after visiting first stage and proceed for Srinagar(50 kms - 1.5 hours).

Day sightseeing in Srinagar visiting Mughal Gardens (Chesmashahi, Nishat and Shalimar), Jama Masjid, Shankaracharya Temple, Hari Parbat etc.

Full day excursion to Sonmarg (85 kms - 3.5 hours - 8500+ ft asl) and Baltal valley. Alternatively guests have an option to visit Manasbal lake (30 kms) where there are water-sports on offer. Back to Srinagar in evening.

Proceed to Pahalgam (100 kms - 4 hrs - 7000+ ft asl). En-route visit Matrand Sun Temple. On arrival time permitting walk around the area to local markets.

Undertake sightseeing around Pahalgam to spots like Baisaran, Tulian Lake, Chandanwari (16 kms - 8000+ ft asl - close range views) where you can find snow even in summer, Betaab Valley and Aru Valley etc.

Proceed to Katra (254 kms - 9 hrs), a base point to visit renowned Vaishnodevi Pilgrimage, one of the most revered and visited temples in India.

Early morning start for Vaishnodevi climb (Total 13 kms walk to the temple that takes about 4-5 hours). En-route stops at Adhkwari Temple and darshan at Baba Bhaironath Temple is recommended). During Summer and peak travel season it may be advisable to start the climb previous evening. Once queue tickets are purchased the wait period could be half an hour to 3 hours depending on the rush. During season Yatra Parchi (entry tickets required to begin the uphill walk), it is recommended to purchase in advance to avoid delays. Guests looking for Helidarshan (Helicopter ride, darshan and back), morning flights are recommended for best weather and least uncertainty. Return by late evening.

Depart for the onward journey.