Kashmir | Winter Special

Day 1: Welcome to Heaven

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

Next 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 the 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 the Dal Lake and return to our hotel for dinner.

• Travel: Approx. 2-3 hours (Airport > Hotel > Srinagar Sightseeing)

Day 2: Whatever Floats Your Boat

We’ll start our morning slowly. After breakfast to keep us warm, we’ll head out to see the beautifully designed Mughal gardens of Shalimar and Nishat. These beautiful gardens were built by Mughal kings who were nostalgic about their homeland and wanted to recreate the famous gardens of Persia. With their intricate fountains and sophisticated drainage systems, these gardens were an excellent display of scientific and aesthetic skill.

We’ll spend the evening in the most famous way to experience Kashmir — floating on water. We’ll board our shikaras and explore the Dal Lake slowly. Our rides will take us to our homes for the night: the wooden houseboats. These intricately crafted boats were used by the wealthy families of the city to experience some solace. We are also gonna get a taste of that life.

• Travel: Approx. 2-3 hours

Day 3: We’re Getting High

We start our journey west today towards the fantastic Pir-Panjal mountain range which is home to many natural hidden gems. At almost 9,000 feet from sea level, Doodhpatri literally translates to ‘Valley of Milk’ owing to the milky appearance of the stream of water that flows through this beautiful valley. It is also home to some nomadic shepherds who have used this gorgeous place as their summer home for centuries.

After spending the day here, we start our journey to Tangmarg, but not without a halt at the famous Drung waterfall. This frozen cascading waterfall is truly a sight to behold. We’ll head to our hotel in Tangmarg to get a good night’s rest.

• Travel: Approx. 5 hours (Srinagar>Doodhpathri>Drung Waterfall>Tangmarg)

Day 4: It’s Time For A Snowdown

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 favourite 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 — winter sports like skiing and snowmobile-riding, ziplining, fancy hotels, and a lot more. We are going to take the famous gondola rides up to the perennial glacier of Afarwat. Spend time chilling and playing with snow. If you’ve travelled with us before, you would know that we take our snowball fights very seriously.

After a whole day in Gulmarg, we will start our ride back down to Tangmarg.

• Travel: Approx 1 hour (Tangmarg > Gulmarg > Tangmarg)

Day 5: In Nature’s Lap

After our sojourn in western Kashmir, we will make our way eastward towards Pahalgam. Located on the banks of the Lidder River, Pahalgam is one of Kashmir’s most famous places. It acts as a base for many treks and is known for being the starting point for the holy Amarnath Trek.

We will also visit Hagan Valley AKA Betaab for a lovely view of the river and head to the edge of the forests in the beautiful Aru Valley. Nestled closer to the source of the Lidder River. Aru is a nature lover’s paradise. We’ll return to the bustling markets of Pahalgam and make ourselves home in our hotel.

• Travel: 5 hours (Tangmarg > Pahalgam)

Day 6: 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 others’ warmth.

• Travel: 3 hours (Pahalgam > Srinagar)

Day 7: So Long, Fare Well! 

We’ll check out from our hotels after checkout. 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!

• Travel: 30 minutes (Srinagar > Srinagar Airport)

Inclusions:

• Accommodation in twin-sharing hotel rooms (Check photos here)
• Stay in a boathouse on Dal Lake
• Shikara boat rides
• Gulmarg Gondola ride to Phase 2 (subject to availability while booking)
• 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 traveller/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

Exclusions:

• One meal a day in Kashmir
• Adventure sports (skiing, sledging etc)
• Travel insurance (we recommend you take one)

8th Dec: Rs. 41,500 Rs. 38,500/- (+5% GST)

20th Dec (Christmas Special): Rs. 43,500 Rs. 41,500/- (+5% GST)

27th Dec (NYE Special): Rs. 43,500 Rs. 41,500/- (+5% GST)

12th Jan: Rs. 41,500 Rs. 38,500/- (+5% GST)

• Early bird price expires 45 days before the date of departure
• You can block your seat for an advance of Rs. 15,000 (+5% GST)
• The balance amount will have to be paid 30 days prior to the trip

Accommodation:

• Rooming will be on a double-sharing basis (except on the boathouse) (Check photos here)
• The hotels in Srinagar, Pahalgam, and Tangmarg will have running hot water facilities
• All rooms will provide electric heated blankets

Meals:

• Vagabond will provide 2 meals a day. We will take care of breakfast and lunch or dinner every day in Kashmir.
• The food we're providing during the trip will be regular nutritious food (veg and non-veg).

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.

1. Footwear: Shoes meant for rugged outdoor conditions, slippers/flip-flops.
2. Warm wear (VERY IMP): Warm fleece/down jackets, thick socks, snow gloves, beanie, neck warmer/scarf/muffler, thermals (base layer).
3. Accessories: Torch, cap, polarised sunglasses, Swiss knife (optional), reusable water bottle (1L), multi-plug device
4. Toiletries: Towel, soap, face wash, lip balm, sunscreen (min 40 SPF), hand sanitiser, toothbrush, toothpaste, toilet paper
5. 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.)
6. Personal recreation: Camera, binoculars, books, music, cards, etc.
7. Miscellaneous: A rucksack (for maximum convenience), an extra day bag for day outings, valid photo ID/address proof, 3 passport-sized photographs
8. Tips: Avoid jeans and other kinds of rigid/uncomfortable clothing.

• The temperature in Srinagar during the day would be about 7°C and will drop to -2°C at night. Please be physically and mentally prepared for very cold weather.
• Please carry good quality winter wear. You will need: thermal pants and tops, at least 2 thick caps, woollen socks, woollen gloves, and thick jackets.
• 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.
• This is a backpacking trip. Please be prepared for a good amount of walking.
• While we're moving in groups to various places, try and 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 on 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 +91 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 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) When should we book our flights?

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

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

Temperatures rise to a maximum of 7-8°C during the day and can drop to a minimum of -2°C during the night. At Pahalgam, it will be about 5°C through the day and the temperature at night can drop to as low as -6°C.

5) Is there mobile connectivity in Kashmir?

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

6) 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 Master Card. AMEX is not widely used in India. UPI transfer works as well. Please carry adequate liquid cash while travelling away from Srinagar.

7) 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.

8) What will the group size be?

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

9) 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 21-35.

10) Can I join this expedition solo?

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

11) 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 much physical activity but it's always safe to be in a good physical condition. Those who have a low tolerance for cold should be prepared with temperature-appropriate clothing.

12) Are there doctors/hospitals in Kashmir?

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

• There isn’t an age restriction on any of our experiences, everyone is welcome. However, the average Vagabond customer is anywhere between 20 – 35 years old. The experiences involve a good amount of time spent with the group. Depending on what experience you’re opting for, there could be a lot of walking and physical exertion.
• It’s important to understand that most of our experiences include very rustic accommodation and not a luxurious means of transport. These may be basic in their facilities, but the hospitality is homely and comforting. If you’re someone who doesn’t like compromising on your comforts while travelling, this experience may not be very enjoyable.
• Most of our trips have a healthy number of solo travellers. We encourage you to join us solo, especially if you’re tired of waiting on your friends. We promise you’ll return with many more.
• We try our best to be responsible travellers. Everyone is welcome to explore with us, but we pay utmost importance to cleanliness on all our experiences. We encourage you to #LeaveNoTrace behind while you discover the beauty of the outdoors.
• It’s important to understand that in a limited amount of time, only a limited amount of experiences can be had. We like to cover a few places in-depth rather than just ticking off a long list of things-to-do and places-to-go. However, if you are that kind of traveller, on almost all trips you can feel free to wander by yourself to places of your interest.
• At a Vagabond Experience, it’s important to stay open-minded and positive when things don’t go as per plan. The essence of traveling in a group is being able to help each other out when in need. The weather could go bad, and plans could get altered. In such situations, we urge you to have faith in your group leader to make the most informed decision for the group.

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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