Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar – The City of Lakes and Gardens

Welcome to Paradise – The moment my plane touched down in Srinagar, I felt an instant calm wash over me. The city, cradled by mountains and dotted with lakes, is like a painter’s masterpiece. My first stop was the famous Dal Lake. Gliding over the water in a colorful Shikara boat, I saw houseboats, vendors selling flowers, and the majestic Zabarwan mountains in the distance.

The Mughal Gardens were my next stop, and they were every bit as grand as I imagined. From Shalimar Bagh to Nishat Bagh and Chashme Shahi, each garden felt like a dream with fountains, vibrant flowers, and a perfect blend of Mughal and Persian architecture. As the day ended, I returned to my cozy houseboat, where I spent a magical evening gazing at the starlit sky over Dal Lake. Kashmir had already begun casting its spell on me.

Day 2: A Day Trip to Sonamarg – The Meadow of Gold

An early breakfast fueled me for a drive to Sonamarg, also known as the Meadow of Gold. The road journey alone was an adventure, with endless valleys and towering pine forests around every corner. Sonamarg’s beauty was unparalleled, and I felt like I was walking into a postcard. I decided to take a pony ride to the Thajiwas Glacier, and it was worth every moment. The glacier, with its untouched white snow, seemed almost otherworldly.

Standing by the banks of the Sindh River, I soaked in the tranquility. Snowcapped mountains surrounded me, reflecting perfectly in the crystal-clear water. Sonamarg gave me a taste of Kashmir’s pristine nature, leaving me spellbound.

Day 3: Gulmarg – Snow, Adventure, and Endless Beauty

Day three took me to Gulmarg, a haven for winter sports enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The drive was short but filled with beautiful scenery. The star attraction here is the Gulmarg Gondola, which is Asia’s highest cable car. As the cable car ascended to Apharwat Peak, I was treated to a breathtaking view of snow-covered mountains stretching as far as the eye could see.

For those who love adventure, Gulmarg offers skiing, snowboarding, and even snowshoeing! I tried my hand at skiing, and while I may not be a pro, the thrill and the view made every second worth it. As the sun set, I enjoyed a warm dinner by the fireplace in a cozy hotel, feeling like I was in a winter wonderland.

Day 4: Pahalgam – Valleys, Rivers, and Bollywood Vibes

After an early breakfast, I began my journey to Pahalgam, a gem nestled in Kashmir’s heart. The drive alone was a highlight, with the Lidder River accompanying us, flowing in all its glory. Known for its Bollywood connection, Pahalgam didn’t disappoint. First, I visited Betaab Valley, where the stunning mountains and lush meadows were straight out of a movie scene. I could see why it’s a favorite location for Bollywood films!

Later, I took a pony ride to Baisaran, also called Mini Switzerland. The valley, blanketed in pine trees, was serene and beautiful, with lush green meadows surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Pahalgam felt like the perfect mix of adventure and peace.

Day 5: Return to Srinagar and Departure – A Heartfelt Goodbye

On my last day in Kashmir, I soaked up as much of Srinagar’s beauty as possible. After returning from Pahalgam, I spent some time exploring the city’s local markets. Srinagar is famous for its exquisite Pashmina shawls, saffron, and beautiful handicrafts, so I couldn’t resist taking a few souvenirs with me. I also tried the local Wazwan cuisine – Rogan Josh and Gushtaba were absolute delights!