Tour overview
Dal is a lake in Srinagar, Kashmir in India. The urban lake, which is the second largest in the union territory, is integral to tourism and recreation in Kashmir and is named the ” Lake of Flowers”. The lake is also an important source for commercial operations in fishing and water plant harvesting.
The shore line of the lake, about 15.5 kilometres (9.6 mi), is encompassed by a boulevard lined with Mughal era gardens, parks, houseboats and hotels. Scenic views of the lake can be witnessed from the shore line Mughal gardens, such as Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh built during the reign of Mughal Emperor Jahangir and from houseboats cruising along the lake in the colourful shikaras. During the winter season, the temperature sometimes reaches −11 °C (12 °F), freezing the lake.
The lake covers an area of 18 square kilometres (6.9 sq mi) and is part of a natural wetland which covers 21.1 square kilometres (8.1 sq mi), including its floating gardens. The floating gardens, known as “Rad” in Kashmiri, blossom with lotus flowers during July and August. The wetland is divided by causeways into four basins; Gagribal, Lokut Dal, Bod Dal and Nigeen (although Nigeen is also considered as an independent lake). Lokut-dal and Bod-dal each have an island in the centre, known as Rup Lank (or Char Chinari) and Sona Lank respectively.
Day 01
Arrive Srinagar Pick up from Srinagar airport & Transfer Hotel / Houseboat as Applicable. After than visit to Dal Lake and take Sikara Ride 1 Hours, and back to the Hotel / Houseboat. fts Emporium for hand-knotted specialty Silken carpets, shawls, jewellery ornaments. In second half day Visit Shankracharya Temple. Overnight stay
Day 02
Srinagar Sightseeing After Breakfast full day Visit Mughal Gardens “Nishat” (The Garden of Pleasure) and “Shalimar” (Abode of All) and Chesma Shahi (Royal Spring).Drive along the Lake side on Boulevard .On return visit a local Handicrafts Emporium for hand-knotted specialty Silken carpets, shawls, jewellery ornaments. In second half day Visit Shankracharya Temple. Overnight stay at the Hotel as Applicable.
Day 03
Srinagar – Gulmarg – Srinagar (8700 Feet, 52 kms, 1.5 hrs One way) After Breakfast, transfer to Gulmarg called as “Meadow of Flowers” . Gulmarg is 52 Kms from Srinagar at an altitude of 8700-ft. Gulmarg also referred as Meadow of Flowers is a famous Ski Resort & the world’s highest 18 hole Golf Course. The place was prominent during the British time. You can enjoy a Pony ride (Optional At your own cost). Enjoy the scenic view of Kongdori (12,293 ft) first stage and Affarwat Peak (13,780 ft) second Stage on a Cable Car Ride (Optional At your own cost) .By evening return to Srinagar. In Evening enjoy a Shikara Ride in Dal Lake and witness the ride on lake, called Venice of India & experience the aquatic life of Srinagar. Also see the scenic extravaganza of the Kashmir and enjoy the profusion of colors in the Paradise on Earth. While returning visit to the local crafts market and see the fine carved hand-made articles from Paper Machine & wood of a walnut. Overnight stay at the Deluxe Houseboat.
Day 04
Srinagar – Pahalgam – Srinagar (7200 Feet, 96kms, 3 hrs one way) After Breakfast Transfer for full Day excursion of Pahalgam called as “Valley of Shepherds”. In Pahalgam, Enjoy the nature & walk around the banks of River Lidder. Pahalgam is famous for some trekking routes also & is the base camp for Amarnath Pilgrimage. By evening return to Srinagar. Overnight stay at the Deluxe Houseboat.
Day 05
Srinagar After Breakfast Transfer to Srinagar Airport for Departure with the memories that can’t be forgotten.