Kashmir | Beyond The Ordinary

Day 1: Welcome to Heaven

Arrive in the paradise of Srinagar. Once we’re all checked in, we’re going to head out to explore the beautiful city of Srinagar.

First stop: The beautiful spot that is Pari Mahal. This was once a residence of the unfortunate Mughal Prince Dara Shikoh. This seven-tiered garden was a place for academic and spiritual practices for Sufi scholars. Nestled on the side of the Zabarwan mountain, this garden also opens up to an aerial view of Dal Lake.

On our way down, we’ll stop by the magnificent Mughal-era gardens of Chasme-Shahi. Built around a natural spring that originates at the top of the hill, this garden is a great example of Persian garden architecture and excellent horticulture.

We’ll drive along Dal Lake and return to our hotel for dinner.

• Meals included: Dinner
• Stay: Srinagar
• Travel: Approx. 2-3 hours (Airport > Hotel > Srinagar sightseeing)

Day 2: Journey to the Valley of Serenity

We start our journey west today towards the stunning Pir-Panjal mountain range, which is home to many natural hidden gems. After checking out of our hotel in Srinagar, we will make our way to Doodhpatri, a breathtaking valley situated at almost 9,000 feet above sea level. Doodhpatri, meaning ‘Valley of Milk,’ gets its name from the milky appearance of the stream that flows through this serene landscape. This picturesque valley is also home to nomadic shepherds who have used it as their summer retreat for centuries. After exploring Doodhpathri, we'll return to Srinagar, where we'll enjoy a peaceful Shikara ride before checking into our houseboats for the night.

• Meals included: Breakfast and Dinner
• Stay: Houseboat on Dal Lake
• Travel: Approx. 5 hours (Srinagar > Doodhpathri > Srinagar)

Day 3: Fall-ing for Gulmarg’s Beauty!

We’re going to Gulmarg! Brace yourself for one of India’s crown jewels in mountain tourism. This gorgeous township is a result of years and years of patronage from nature lovers. This hill station has been a frequent favorite of royalty since the early 1500s. ‘Gulmarg’, meaning meadow of flowers, is known to have vibrant flower beds growing all over. It is truly one of nature’s special places.

Today, Gulmarg is a global tourist hotspot with activities like zip lining, gondola rides, and luxurious hotels. We’ll take the famous gondola ride up to the breathtaking heights of Afarwat. The crisp autumn air and the picturesque scenery will make for a memorable experience.

We'll settle in for the night in Gulmarg.

• Meals included: Breakfast and Dinner
• Stay: Gulmarg
• Travel: Approx. 3 hours (Srinagar > Gulmarg)

Day 4: In Nature’s Lap

After our sojourn in western Kashmir, we will head eastward towards Pahalgam, a renowned destination located on the banks of the Lidder River. On our way, we'll stop at an apple orchard, where you can enjoy the sight of lush apple trees and perhaps sample some fresh fruit. From Pahalgam, we will board our union taxis and make our way to the beautiful Aru Valley, nestled closer to the source of the Lidder River. Aru is a true paradise, with its serene surroundings and untouched beauty. After reaching Aru Valley, we'll spend the rest of the day relaxing and soaking up the beauty of the mountains. We’ll stay the night in Aru Valley, fully immersing ourselves in this tranquil setting.

• Meals included: Breakfast and Dinner
• Stay: Aru Valley
• Travel: 6 hours (Srinagar > Pahalgam > Aru Valley)

Day 5: A Meadow Escape

After an early breakfast, we'll set off on a 3-4 hour hike towards Lidderwat, a picturesque meadow nestled deeper in the valley. As we trek, we’ll pass by old rock houses built by shepherds, a testament to the region's traditional way of life. Along the way, you’ll also encounter mountain goats and sheep grazing in their natural habitat. The journey to Lidderwat offers stunning views and a glimpse into the rustic charm of the high-altitude pastures.

Once we arrive at Lidderwat, we’ll set up camp along the river, spending the night in tents under the stars. The soothing sounds of the river and the fresh mountain air will make for a peaceful night’s rest before we make our way back to Aru Valley the next morning.

• Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
• Stay: Camping at Lidderwat
• Hiking: Approx. 3-4 hours (Aru Valley > Lidderwat)

Day 6: Muscle-Discovery Day

After breakfast at Lidderwat, we will begin our hike towards Aru Valley. Upon reaching Aru Valley, we'll take some time to rest, and you’ll have the rest of the day to explore the area at your leisure. Overnight stay in Aru Valley.

• Meals included: Breakfast and Dinner
• Stay: Aru Valley
• Hiking: Approx. 3-4 hours (Lidderwat > Aru Valley)

Day 7: Last Day, Last Chance

After a relaxed morning, we will start our journey back to Srinagar. Look out for apricot trees and flourishing local industries along the route. Spend time in the evening shopping for the many things that Kashmir is known for — dry fruits, handicrafts, saffron, cricket bats, and pashmina. It is very easy to get a little carried away.

We’ll go out for a feast and sample some famous Kashmiri cuisine. Spend the last night chilling together, sharing stories in each other’s warmth.

• Meals included: Breakfast and Dinner
• Stay: Srinagar
• Travel: Approx. 4-5 hours (Aru Valley > Pahalgam > Srinagar)

Day 8: So Long, Fare Well! 

We’ll check out from our hotels after breakfast. Say goodbye to heaven on earth as you make your way to the airport and go back to your life, renewed. See you soon, vagabonds!

• Meals included: Breakfast
• Travel: 30 minutes (Srinagar > Srinagar Airport)

• • Accommodation in twin-sharing hotel rooms and tents at Lidderwat (Check photos here)
  • Stay in a boathouse on Dal Lake
  • Shikara boat rides
  • Gulmarg Gondola rides (cable car)
  • Tickets/entry cost wherever applicable (Chashme Shahi, Pari Mahal, Hari Parbat, Mughal Gardens, etc)
  • Two meals a day, i.e. breakfast and dinner, while in Kashmir [Veg & Non-veg (if available)]
  • Private internal transport during the trip (tempo traveler/jeeps)
  • All activities as per itinerary
  • Visits to places as per itinerary
  • First-aid kit and assistance
  • All permits, tolls, and parking charges
  • Assistance by Vagabond EMs

• One meal a day in Kashmir
• Travel insurance (we recommend you take it)

Regular: Rs. 38,500/- (+5% GST)

Vagafam*: Rs. 36,500/- (+5% GST)

• *Vagafam is a loyalty discount for anyone who's joined us for 3+ experiences
• You can block your seat for an advance of Rs. 15,000 (+5% GST)
• The balance amount will have to be paid 30 days before the trip

Accommodation:

• Rooming will be on a double-sharing basis (except at the boathouse) (Check photos here)
• The hotels in Srinagar, Aru Valley, and Gulmarg will have running hot water facilities
• Camping at Lidderwat will be on a double-sharing basis

Meals:

• Vagabond will provide 2 meals a day. We will take care of breakfast and dinner every day in Kashmir, and breakfast, lunch and dinner at Aru Valley
• The food we're providing during the trip will be regular nutritious food [Veg & Non-veg (if available)].

Transport:

• The entire journey inside Kashmir will be in privately booked tempo traveller buses or jeeps (Mahindra Xylo or similar) depending on the group size.

• Footwear: Shoes meant for rugged outdoor conditions, slippers/flip-flops.
• Warm wear: Warm fleece/down jackets, beanie, neck warmer/scarf/muffler
• Accessories: Torch, cap, polarised sunglasses, Swiss knife (optional), water bottle (1L), multi-plug device
• Toiletries: Towel, soap, face wash, lip balm, sunscreen (min 40 SPF), hand sanitiser, toothbrush, toothpaste, toilet paper
• Medical: Personal medication (Asthma, Allergen medication, etc.), crepe bandage (each person should have a roll), basic medicines (aspirin, cold and flu, painkillers, motion sickness, etc.)
• Personal recreation: Camera, binoculars, books, music, cards, etc.
• Miscellaneous: A rucksack (for maximum convenience), an extra day bag for day outings, valid photo ID/address proof, 3 passport-sized photographs
• Tips: Avoid jeans and other kinds of rigid/uncomfortable clothing.

• The temperature in Srinagar during the day will be about 22°C and will drop to 5°C at night.
• Please carry some winter wear.
• It is advisable to carry a few extra pieces of quality, temperature-appropriate winter wear as opposed to several layers of regular clothing.
• On your journey to Srinagar, please book a flight that lands at 12 pm or before.
• The ideal time to book your return flights will be after 11 am.
• Despite this being a backpacking trip, we will be running on a fixed schedule. Punctuality will be appreciated.
• Most of Kashmir follows Islam. Please be sensitive with your language, honour the local cultures and do not be disrespectful.
• Please be prepared for a good amount of walking.
• While we're moving in groups to various places, try to stick to the group and not wander off.
• Gondola rides are subject to availability
• The trip schedule is subject to change. The day of visits to the mentioned places could be shifted back and forth.
• A week prior, you will be added to a WhatsApp group with all the other participants and your assigned Experience Manager. Further instructions will be shared in this group, and you can coordinate your travel with your co-travellers. If you have any doubts before this, feel free to WhatsApp us at 74000 54929

1) What region of North India are we travelling to?

Our trip will begin in Srinagar. We’re in the capital city of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Located in the north of India, this lake city is situated in a valley between the Zabarwan and Pir-Panjal Mountains.

2) What altitude would we be travelling to?

Srinagar is at 5200 feet above sea level. It’s not too high, and one does not really need to worry about altitude sickness.

3) What will the temperature be like while we're there?

Temperatures rise to a maximum of 20-22°C during the day and can drop to a minimum of 5°C during the night.

4) Is there mobile connectivity in Kashmir?

Only postpaid BSNL, Airtel and JIO networks get coverage in Kashmir.

5) Are there any ATMs where we're travelling?

All major banks such as HDFC, SBI, and ICICI Bank ATMs are available in Srinagar. They accept international Visa and MasterCard. AMEX is not widely used in India. UPI transfer works as well. Please carry adequate liquid cash while traveling away from Srinagar.

6) Can I smoke/drink on this trip?

We at Vagabond do not refrain our participants from smoking or drinking on our backpacking trips, apart from wherever necessary. Since Kashmir is an Islamic-majority area, alcohol is not easily available. It is also not very polite to consume alcohol. In any case, please indulge in these activities responsibly. Any misbehaviour on any account will warrant severe penalties.

7) What will the group size be?

We will be between 12-15 travellers, including 1-2 Vagabond EMs.

8) Is there any age limit to join this trip?

No. There is no age limit to join this trip. However, based on our previous experiences, the age group of travellers is usually between 21 and 35.

9) Can I join this expedition solo?

Of course, you can! We have a good number of solo travellers on almost every Vagabond experience.

10) How physically fit do I need to be to join this trip?

This trip doesn't have a very high physical requirement. You need to be able to walk long distances on flat plains and be able to do a few climbs too. Our Kashmir expedition doesn't have any physical activity other than our hike to Lidderwat. Those who have a low tolerance for cold should be prepared with temperature-appropriate clothing.

11) Are there doctors/hospitals in Kashmir?

Most of the places we’re visiting have well-equipped hospitals and clinics.

12) When should we book our flights?

On your journey to Srinagar, please book a flight that lands at 12 pm or earlier. The ideal time to book your return flights on the last day would be after 11 am.

Years of experience: We’ve been leading trips around the country since 2014. Our time in this field has helped us learn about places and people. This knowledge about the destination contributes to a safe, wholesome, and enriching group experience.

Footfall: Since our inception, we’ve led more than 5,800 people on treks, backpacking trips, camps, and meaningful experiences. Rest assured, we’ve dealt with all kinds of people.

Safety first: Given the time we’ve spent in the travel field, we know and believe in the importance of safety. All our experience managers are first-aid certified, and carry a well-equipped first-aid kit on every trip.

Solo traveller-friendly: Over the years, we have had a healthy number of solo travellers who have been from diverse backgrounds. Especially those who got tired of waiting on their friends to agree to a plan.

Group size: Taking large groups of people compromises on an intimate interpersonal experience. Thus, we do small groups which makes it easier for people to get to know each other over the course of the trip.

No discrimination: At Vagabond, we believe that your age, social class, caste, gender or sexual orientation doesn’t determine your travel experience. Everyone is welcome to travel with us and explore new places, and new ideas.

Flexible itinerary: On a Vagabond experience, you’re free to stray away from our scheduled itinerary and explore the place on your own. You do you. We’re not your school teachers. We’re here to facilitate a better understanding of the place and help you experience it in your own comfort zone.

Mindfulness to nature: Over the years we’ve seen the places we visit turn filthier by the day. We don’t want to contribute to that any further. At a Vagabond experience, we encourage you to reduce your contribution to waste and follow sustainable tourism practices as much as possible. Check out #LeaveNoTrace

In-depth research: We're not a tour & travel agency. Every experience we offer you has been researched and experienced first hand by our core members. We visit the locations ourselves and curate an experience that we believe to be in sync with our ideologies.

• More than 30 days prior to the date of departure, 20% of the full payable amount will be deducted.
• Between 29 to 15 days prior to the date of departure, 50% of the full payable amount will be deducted.
• Between 14 to 7 days prior to the date of departure, 75% of the full payable amount will be deducted.
• 6 days to the date of departure, no refund shall be admissible
• 3.8% of all booking amounts are payment gateway charges. This amount is not refundable
• The cancellation policy applies to the full payable amount and not just to the advance blocking amount (if you've chosen that option)
• Please refer to the further Terms and Conditions mentioned in the footer of the website

• All timings and activities are subject to weather, group size, capabilities of participants, etc.
• Vagabond holds the right to cancel the event due to unforeseen circumstances (for eg. unfavorable weather)
• By registering for this trip, you agree to have read through and abide by the Vagabond Terms & Conditions mentioned in the footer.

For further inquiries, feel free to Whatsapp/call: 7400054929

PS: We respect and love our personal lives. Please contact us only between 11 am and 7 pm on weekdays.

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