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364 Embassy, Koramangala, Bangalore. Ph: +91 9483958408, 9880388991, holiday@takeabreak.in, www.takeabreak.in

BEST OF KASHMIR

Pahalgam – Gulmarg – Srinagar

8 Days / 7 Nights

Validity: 1st March 2016 – 31st March 2017

(Blackout Dates: 15th December 2016 to 5th January 2017)

Pahalgam

Gulmarg

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Srinagar

Overview

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS Pahalgam: Aru valley, Betaab Valley, Baisaran, Mamaleshwara Temple, Panchtarni, Awantipura ruins Gulmarg: St Mary's Church, Alpathar Lake, Ferozpur Nallah, Khilanmarg, Lienmarg, Maharani Temple, Ningle Nallah Srinagar: Sonamarg (Thajiwas glacier, Zoji-la, Krishnasar Lake, Nilagrad River), Shankaracharya Temple / Takht-e-Suleiman and Mughal gardens

Destination Nights Basis

Gulmarg

Pahalgam

Srinagar

2

2

3

BB

BB

BB

RO: Room only I SC: Self Catering I HB: Half Board I B&B: Bed and breakfast I D, B&B: Dinner, bed and breakfast I FB: Dinner, bed, breakfast and lunch I FB+: Dinner, bed, breakfast, lunch and activities daily I FI: Fully inclusive

HB – breakfast & dinner

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Day 1: AIRPORT – GULMARG (3hrs DRIVE)

Gulmarg Rated among the best hill stations of the world, Gulmarg is truly a treat for tourists. Lush greenery, snow capped mountains, fragrant meadows and host of adventure activities are some of the facets that characterize Gulmarg. Located in the heavenly state of Jammu and Kashmir, Gulmarg can be easily reached by following the roadways from Jammu. The nearest railhead is at Jammu while the airport is at Srinagar. Alpathar Lake, Khilanmarg Lake and Shrine of Baba Reshi are some of the main attractions. For adventure seekers, trekking, horse riding, skiing and golfing are some of the best options. Do not miss enjoying the pony ride from Gulmarg to Khilanmarg. The best time to visit Gulmarg is from the winter months of November to February, when the best of skiing can be enjoyed. Alternatively, summer months from May to September are ideal for those seeking refuge from the scorching heat that grips North India during that time.

Day Notes

Arrive in Srinagar Airport. You will be greeted by our chauffeur and drive to Gulmarg

Reach Gulmarg by early evening. Check-in to the Hotel & rest of the day at leisure

Overnight at Gulmarg

Included BB

Day 2: GULMARG

Day Notes

After breakfast, proceed for sightseeing of Gulmarg

Sightseeing of Gulmarg: St Mary's Church, Alpathar Lake, Ferozpur Nallah, Khilanmarg, Lienmarg, Maharani Temple, Ningle Nallah, Gondola Ride

Return to the resort and rest of the evening at leisure Overnight at Gulmarg

Included

BB

Visit the below sightseeing points

Gulmarg Gondola Gulmarg boasts Asia's highest and longest cable car project, the Gulmarg Gondola. The two-stage ropeway ferries about 600 people per hour to and from Kongdoori Mountain, a shoulder of nearby Afarwat Peak (4,200 m (13,780 ft)). The ropeway project is a joint venture of the Jammu and Kashmir government and French firm Pomagalski. The first stage transfers from the Gulmarg resort at 2,600 m (8,530 ft) to Kongdoori Station in the bowl-shaped Kongdori valley. The timing of the gondola is 10 AM (IST) to 5 PM (It's highly dependent upon the weather at both stages). A gondola can carry six people at a time. The price is 600 Indian Rupees (10 US$) for the first stage and 800 Indian Rupees (14 US$) for the second stage. Also offered is Chair Cars for phase-II for 300/- INR. It takes approximately 9 minutes to reach the first stage and 12 minutes for second stage.

Kongdori Asia’s largest and highest cable car project lead to Kongdori Mountain perched at an altitude of 3099.6 meters from the resort situated in Gulmarg. A bowl shaped area, it is known for its abundant opportunities for enjoyable sessions of powder skiing and snowboarding. As a popular destination for skiing, Kongdori has earned fame as one of the best Gulmarg tourist places to visit. A lofty mountain that adjoins Apharwat peak, Kongdori can rightly be called the skier’s paradise.

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St Mary's Church Situated in the valley of shepherds in Gulmarg is the 150 years old St Mary's Church. Built during British rule, the church got its new look in 2003 with a renovated façade and it is worth a place to visit in Gulmarg. Besides, Gulmarg Golf Club is a nearby attraction to visit. Baba Reshi Shrine popular Shrine (Ziarat) of Baba Reshi, dedicated to Muslim scholar and saint Baba Reshi, is a sacred mosque in the valley of Gulmarg. Built in 1480, this sacred tomb is a highly revered religious attraction and thousands of devotees visit this shrine every year. Tourists can access by local means of transportation such as sledges and field chutes.

Alpathar Lake Located 13 km from Gulmarg at the foot of the twin 4,511 m Apharwat peaks is the beautiful Alpathar Lake. Triangular in shape, this serene lake is frozen until June and during the summer streams of clear water bubbling through the lake with floating ice pieces. The lake can be reached through trekking the snowy mountains and is a perfect location for trekking enthusiast.

Ferozepur Nallah Ferozpur Nallah is a beautiful stream located between the Nurpur and Chinamarg Pass, 5 km from Gulmarg. Popular for good trout fishing, the stream can be reached from either Tangmarg road or from the circular walk. It is a very scenic spot and is ideal for picnicking as well. From here, tourists from further continue to Tosamaidan, a 3 day, 50 km walk to one of the most beautiful meadows of Kashmir.

Lienmarg A breath taking meadow of flowers, Lienmarg is beautifully located amidst the pine trees near Ningle Nallah (10km from Gulmarg). This meadow can be visited all year round. It sprawls on an elevation of 2,653 m above sea level and offers great views of the surrounding. It is also a good spot for camping, which is easily reachable by crossing the bridge over Ningle Nallah.

Ningle Nallah Located just 10 km from Gulmarg, Ningle Nallah is a popular tourist spot. Formed by the melting snow on Apharwat peak and Alpather Lake, a long bridge crosses the Nallah and from here tourists can enjoy the view of the tranquil streams.

Gulmarg Gondola Kongdori

St. Mary’s Church Alpather Lake

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Day 3: GULMARG – PAHALGAM (4 ½ hrs / 140km)

Pahalgam Pahalgam, the beautiful hill station in Kashmir’s Anantnag district lies about 96 km from the state capital of Srinagar. Located at the confluence of Lidder River and the streams originating from serene Sheshnag Lake, this lush green valley is most sought by travelers seeking relaxation and leisure. Apart from offering the breathtaking panoramic views of the beautiful Himalayan Ranges, the place is also the base camp for pilgrims going to Amarnath Cave and a famous shopping place for woolen cloths. It forms a part of the region in Asia where Saffron is growing. The valley offers adventurous activities such as golf, horse riding, trekking and many water sports making it an ideal location for adventurous enthusiasts. Endowed with natural beauty, Pahalgam offers many mesmerizing attractions which include the meadow of Baisaran, Liddar valley and snow covered Tulian Lake. The Shiva temple located in Pahalgam is considered to be Kashmir's oldest existing temple dating back to the 5th century.

Day Notes

After breakfast, check-out from the hotel and drive to Pahalgam Enroute visiting Saffron fields, Awantipura ruins (1100 years old temple of Lord Vishnu built by King Awantiwareman),

see the beautiful countryside on the way and lot of rice fields. Drive through the pine forest and enjoy the scenic side of Kashmir Arrive in Pahalgam and check-in to the Hotel In the evening you may wish to go shopping to explore the local markets of Pahalgam

Overnight at Pahalgam

Included

BB

Awantipura Ruins

Nestled between Srinagar and Pahalgam, located on the banks of the river Jhelum, is a small yet historically important town of Awantipura. It is situated about 30 kms away from Srinagar, Kashmir. This town is home to the famous Awantipura ruins, representing the once grand Awantipura temple. These charming shrines stand serenely amidst the scenic green valleys and gorges of Pahalgam. The temple itself was erected by the emperor Avantivarman, during his reign in Jammu and Kashmir (9th century AD). He was a great devotee of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu and hence built two major shrines for these deities. According to traditional trivia, the temple bears the imprints of the aristocratic lineage of Jammu and Kashmir spanning over almost 1100 years. The original layout of the complex shows that the temple was constructed on the central part of an oblong shaped spacious courtyard and four small shrines on each corner. The temple is decorated with beautiful carvings and structures which reveals the masterly architecture and art of that time. Moreover, it has withstood the invasions that the township of Awantipura faced. The Awantipura temple had been intricately designed and it attracts a lot of pilgrims and spiritual folks almost all times of the year. Awantipura has drawn Hindu and Muslim devotees, characteristic of the state which is known for its rich cultural diversity.

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Day 4: PAHALGAM

Day Notes

After breakfast, proceed for sightseeing of Pahalgam

Sightseeing of Pahalgam: Aru valley, Betaab Valley, Baisaran, Mamaleshwara Temple, Panchtarni Return to the resort and rest of the evening at leisure Overnight at Pahalgam

O

Included BB Visit the below sightseeing points

Aru valley

Overlooking the majestic snow-capped peaks of Himalayan Range, Aru Valley is a pristine scenic village situated in the region of Trans-Himalaya. Clear blue canopy over the head, misty surroundings, whispers of the native pines and conifer forests and beautiful meadows create a captivating diorama for travelers thronging the place. Though the village is the smallest hill station in the state, but still its breathtaking beauty and interesting activities like trekking, hiking and horse riding make it one of the most popular tourist places to visit in Pahalgam. An excellent choice for both leisure seekers and adventure lovers, Aru Valley enriches the glory of Jammu and Kashmir tourism by being the starting point of trekking expeditions to Kolahoi Glacier and Sonmarg. Apart from the trekkers, the village also caters to the skiing desires of tourists who love to visit the place during winters. Aru Valley is located at a distance of about 12 km from Pahalgam.

Betaab Valley Earlier known as Hagan Valley or Hagoon, Betaab Valley got its present name after the blockbuster Bollywood movie ‘Betaab’ was shot there in 1983. A combination of picturesque surroundings, the valley falls on the way to Amarnath Temple Yatra and is one of the three angelic valleys of Pahalgam; the other two being Aru and Chandanwadi. Encircled by mountains featuring deodar and pine forests, Betaab Valley is a perfect gateway to enjoy the heavenly pleasure of Mother Nature. The sights of colouring beds of flowers amid the lush walnut and willow vistas make the entire panorama quite stunning casting a spell of magic on this land of eternal beauty. The experience is even more heightened by the musical whispers of several birds. Being a precious jewel of Jammu and Kashmir tourism, Betaab Valley is among a handful of Pahalgam tourist places to visit that should not be missed. Situated at a walking distance from the main center of Pahalgam, the valley is also an excellent camping site for trekkers and explorers.

Chandanwari Nestled at an elevation point of 2,895 meters above sea level, Chandanwari is situated on a motorable road, around 16 km from main Pahalgam. Blessed with Goddess Nature in its full bloom, the valley is mainly known as the starting point of he sacred Amarnath Temple expedition, which is an annual event held during the months of July – August. Along with special significance, this pristine valley is also known for its snow bridge and serves as an excellent hiking destination among the troves of Jammu and Kashmir tourism.

Baisaran Often dubbed as ‘Mini Switzerland’ because of its long dark meadows resembling the ones in Switzerland, Baisaran is an eye-catching meadow, located just 5 km away from Pahalgam. The dense pine forest that gives the green carpet look to the meadow provides a contrasting hue to snow-capped peaks of the surrounding mountains. A major tourist place to visit in Pahalgam, a voyage to the meadow is truly a treat for the senses. Additionally, Baisaran is also an ideal campsite for trekkers who want to move further up to Tulian Lake. Accessible through ponies from Pahalgam, this off-beaten track of Jammu and Kashmir tourism offers panoramic sights of the town and Lidder Valley.

Mamaleshwara Temple Mamaleshwara is an ancient temple located near Pahalgam. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple was constructed in the 12th century by the then king King Jayasima. Located just 1 km from Pahalgam (walking distance), this temple is built entirely of stone and invites pilgrims from all over the state. Baisaran (meadow) is one nearby attraction that can be visited.

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Sheshnag Nestled at an altitude of 3590 meters above sea level, Sheshnag Lake is an oligotrophic lake (water body that has low content of algal production and thus has clear water of high-drinking quality) that is home to several species of fish including the brown trout. The lake appears greenish in colour because of its lush green meadows that surrounds it making it a breathtaking beauty to admire. With a measurement of 1.1 km in length and 0.7 km wide, the lake is considered as one of the most beautiful sights of Jammu and Kashmir tourism. Sheshnag Lake is mainly fed by the streams and snow mountains above it and it usually freezes in winter. Along with its scientific importance, the lake has special significance for Hindu followers as well. Though there are various mythological stories related to the lake but the most commonly believed one is that Sheshnag Lake basically belongs to Sheshnag, the Lord of Snakes, and is said to be dug by the Lord himself. And because of its presence on the route to holy Amarnath Cave, Sheshnag Lake is also a sacred pilgrimage site.

Aru Valley Betaab Valley

Baisaran Mamaleshwara Temple

Day 5: PAHALGAM – SRINAGAR (1 h 24 min 48.4 km)

Srinagar Srinagar is the capital of the state which is better known as ‘Heaven on Earth’, Kashmir. Known for its pristine valleys, floating markets on

the shimmering Dal Lake, Mughal styled Gardens, holy temples and an array of adventure options, Srinager is one-of-a-kind hill station in

India. Enjoy golfing, trekking, skiing and other winter sports on the snowy Himalayan peaks or just laze on the houseboats on Dal Lake,

Srinagar is a nonpareil holiday destination. The Shalimar and Nishat gardens are a must visit for nature lovers. The temple of

Shankaracharya, built by Asoka in the 3rd century is apt for the religiously inclined. Srinagar has its own airport connected to major cities of

India. However, the flight is bound by many restrictions owing to the unrest in the state. Srinagar does not have a railway station and the

nearest one is at Jammu Tawi (305 kms). Well linked roads connect Srinagar to important cities like Delhi and Chandigarh.

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Day Notes

After breakfast, check-out from your Hotel and drive to Srinagar Arrive in Srinagar and check-in to the Hotel Rest of the day at leisure.

In the evening you may wish to take the Shikara boat Ride on Dal lake

Overnight at Srinagar

Included

BB

Day 6: SRINAGAR – SONMARG – SRINAGAR

Day Notes

After breakfast, leave from Srinagar and drive to Sonamarg full day excursion to Sonamarg. Sonamarg is known as “Gateway of Ladakh”.

Sightseeing of Sonamarg: Thajiwas glacier, Zoji-la pass, Krishnasar Lake, Nilagrad River, Vishansar Lake Return to the hotel and rest of the evening at leisure Overnight at Srinagar

Included

BB

Visit the below sightseeing points

Sonamarg Sonamarg, literally meaning 'Meadow of Gold' is a picturesque town located in Kashmir valley. Bounded by natural beauty, breathtaking glaciers and serene lakes the place is a popular tourist attraction of Jammu & Kashmir. Situated at 87 km from Srinagar, place is renowned for trekking and hiking trails. The major treks passing through various mountain lakes such as Gangabal, Vishansar, Gadsar, Satsar and Kishansar has its base at Sonamarg. Endowed with scenic beauty, the place offers many mind blowing attractions. Nilagrad, a colony of the Baltics, is a picturesque location that one can always visit. Sonamarg is the home of many beautiful and serene lakes. Various mountain lakes such as Gangabal, Vishansar, Gadsar, Satsar and Kishansar are situated in and around Sonamarg. Another scenic eye catching lake in Sonamarg also includes Vishansar. Krishnasar Lake, at a height of 3,801m above sea level, is popular for fishing especially for trout fishing.

Thajiwas Glacier Sonamarg offer many adventurous routes with amazing green water & frozen lakes around and Thajiwas glacier is a one such major tourist attraction in the region. Located 7 km from Sonamarg, it is an ideal spot for enjoying a sledge ride on the snow even in mid-summer. The nearby area is perfect camping site too. Confined to gentle ice-slopes in the summers, Thajiwas Glacier dwindles in the valley of Sonmarg, and is the most easily accessible glacier in the region.

Nilagrad River Situated 6 km from Sonamarg is the Nilagrad River, a major attraction known for its reddish water. According to the locals, the water has curative power of various diseases and many people visit this place every Sunday to bath in the river.

Vishansar Lake Perched at a height of 3710 m above sea level, Vishansar Lake lies around 35 km from Shitkadi, Sonmarg. With a length of a kilometre and a width of 0.6 km, this charming lake is among the visitor’s delight in Sonmarg. The spectacular surrounding with snow covered mountains and meadows around with alpine flowers make it a haven for trekkers and adventure lovers. Besides, the lake is home to different species of fishes. Fed by Krishansar Lake and glaciers, the lake is the main source of Neelum River. During winter, the lake freezes while in summer, the lush green meadow surrounding the lake gives truly an amazing sight. A

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high altitude lake, it can be reached through trekking or pony ride. The lake is also accessible from Nichinai Pass, which is another high elevation well-known tourist spot.

Thajiwas Glacier Zoji La

Krishnasar Lake Nilagrad River

Day 7: SRINAGAR

Day Notes

After breakfast, proceed for sightseeing of Srinagar Sightseeing of Srinagar: Shankaracharya Temple / Takht-e-Suleimanand then visit famous Mughal gardens of

Cheshmashahi, Nishant and Shalimar are the Mughal Emperors concept of Paradise.

Return to the hotel and rest of the evening at leisure Overnight at Srinagar

Included

BB

Visit the below sightseeing points

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Shankaracharya Temple (Takht-e-Suleiman) Known to be built by Jaluka, the son of Emperor Ashoka around 200 BC, this ancient shrine is perched on the Shankaracharya Hill. This sacred site, situated at a height of about 1100 feet on the south-east of the city, offers splendid views of the valley and the snow clad mountains of the Pir Panjal range. Local folks tell a story that saint Shankaracharya spent some of his time at this site during his visit to Kashmir to revitalize Sanatan Dharma. Accessible by taxi or bus, the inner sanctum of the temple adorns modern ceiling & several Persian inscriptions. Rozabal shrine is a nearby attraction to visit.

Mughal Gardens Built in the Mughal period, the Mughal Gardens is a major attraction for tourists coming to Srinagar. A fine example of Mughal style architecture, the garden is a combination of the Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Gardens & Chashm-e-shahi. All of these gardens are located on different sides of the picturesque Dal Lake & hence provide great views of the lake. The most prominent feature of the gardens its long stretches of cascading fountains makes this a must see for every traveler. Taxis, local buses or auto rickshaws can be taken from different points within the city to reach the gardens, which approximately take 20 minutes. Rashtrapati Bhawan, Gandhi’s Monument and Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Museum are nearby attractions to visit.

Shalilmar Bagh Covering 12.4 hectares of land, Shalimar Garden adds to the beauty of Srinagar. A chinar-lined canal passes through the middle of the well-organized garden offering an immaculate picture of Mughal creation. Divided into threemain terraces, Shalimar Bagh blends natural beauty with architectural genius and offers itself as a prime attraction in Jammu & Kashmir tourism. Each terrace has been designed carefully and displays a colorful picture; the first terrace comprises Diwan-e-Aam, whereas the second terrace shelters Diwan-e-Khas. Attracting people of all ages, this 400 years old garden is a wonderful tourist place to visit in Srinagar. Overcoming many tides of time, this exquisite Mughal marvel has been able to maintain its timeless beauty.

Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip garden previously Model Floriculture Center is a tulip garden in Srinagar, India. It is the largest tulip garden in Asia spread over an area of about 12 hectares.[2] It is situated on the foothills of Zabarwan Range with an overview of Dal Lake. The garden was opened in 2007 with the aim to boost floriculture and tourism in Kashmir Valley

Dal Lake Popularly known as 'Srinagar's jewel' the Dal Lake, spread over a straggling 26 sq.km, is the most popular tourist attraction in Srinagar (10 km). The best way to enjoy the lake in its full beauty is to take a relaxed ride aboard the traditional Shikara. The lake is also a hub for many water sports including water surfing, swimming, Shikara rides, kayaking, houseboat stays, angling and canoeing. Some other attractions that can be visited include Nehru Park, Char Chinar, Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh.

Shankaracharya Temple Mughal Gardens

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DAY 8 – 29th April: SRINAGAR

Day Notes

After breakfast, checkout form the Hotel You will transferred to airport for your return journey

Included

BB

PRICE: Starts from USD 634 per person

INCLUSIONS

Accommodation on double occupancy in the well rated 3* properties

Breakfast Plan on all days

Transportation by chauffer driven vehicle as per the itinerary

Sightseeing as per the itinerary – (final Itinerary will be shared one week prior to the travel date)

Usage of Resort/ Hotel facilities

All Govt. Taxes as on date

EXCLUSIONS

Airfare / Railway fare

Expense of personal nature

Meals not specified in the inclusions

Additional guest requests, orders and services

Additional Activities taken up at the resort

Transport for personal use

Exigency cost – in case of emergency

Travel Insurance

Entrance fees at points of interest

Gratitude & Portage

NOTE

- Since Kashmir is at an altitude of over 10,000ft, guests require to be at leisure on day 1 to get acclimatized to the weather.

- This program isn’t suitable for parents travelling with infants or kids less than 3yrs of age & for guests having asthma problems

- Above cost is calculated based on minimum 2 adults travelling together. Any change in the total no. of guests travelling will

result in change of rates.

- Most of our programs are customised and we work in line with the requirements of our clients and hence the final detailed

itinerary is prepared 5 days prior to the travel date based on the weather conditions and feasibility of visiting places during

sightseeing.