Friday 20 January 2012

Attraction of Kashmir


Srinagar Sightseeing

Srinagar is located in the heart of the Kashmir valley at an altitude of 1,730 m above sea level, spread on both sides
of the river Jhelum. The Dal and Nagin lakes enhance its picturesque setting, while the changing play of the
seasons and the salubrious climate ensures that the city is equally attractive to visitors around the year.



Sonagmarg Sightseeing


Sonamarg is the base of a major trek that passes along several mountain lakes –Vishansar, Kishansar,
Gadsar, Satsar and Gangabal. Sonamarg is also the take off station for the drive to Ladakh across the
Zojila, a major pass in the Great Himalayan Range, through which the Srinagar-Leh Road passes.



Pahalgam Sightseeing

Pahalgam is probaly the most popular hill resort in the Kashmir valley. Since it is rather lower than
Gulmarg the nighttime temperatures do not drop so low and it has the further advantage
of the beautiful Lidder River running right through the town.




Gulmarg Sightseeing

Gulmarg looks like a fantasy set in a film and not surprisingly have been the venue of several films.
The valley of Gulmarg, a large meadow about 3-sq-kms in area stands at 2,730 metres, 56-km
south west of Srinagar . The name means 'Meadow Of Flowers' and in the spring it's just that,
a rolling meadow dotted with countless colourful Bluebells, Daisies, Forget Me Not's and
Buttercups. The valley itself is about 3-km long and up to a km wide.



Amarnath Yatra Sightseeing

Amarnath pilgrimages is the oldest organized travel system, evolved over time by Hindu sages and
embodying the spirit of wander, adventure and spirituality. One of the holy trinity, Shiva is a living god.
The most ancient and sacred book of India, the Rig Veda evokes his presence in its hymns. Vedic myths,
ritual and even astronomy testify to his existence from the dawn of time.



Vaishno Devi Temple


Shri Mata Vaishno Devi, which is approachable on foot along a 13 kms long well laid footpath.
Every year, more than 4.5 million pilgrims pass through Katra on their way to the holy shrine.
The cave shrine of Mata Vasihnodeviji or Trikuta Bhagwati (alt: 5,200 ft.) has been a beacon
of faith and fulfilment to millions of devotees from all over the world.
The pilgrimage to the Shrine holds great significance for the pilgrims.

Sunday 15 January 2012

Kashmir Best Tour Packages


Kashmir Best Tour Packages
Kashmir lies at the tip of India. It is divided into three main regions- Ladakh, the plains of Jammu and the Kashmir Valley. It is mainly known for its magnificent beauty and has some of the mind-blowing tourist sites. The Kashmir Tour Packages bring to you offers that are worth your money, a trip to the glorious hill station. You can get to see the Mughal Gardens. Kashmir tour tourism gives you a chance to visit the valleys and lakes, the mountains and the high altitude plains. The capital city also provides you with exclusive Kashmiri handmade crafts.
Kashmir tour tourism gives you an opportunity to live and experience the cool and carefree-paced living culture of its residents.

Destination Covered: Delhi - Srinagar - Gulmarg - Srinagar - Pahalgam - Srinagar - Delhi  
Duration: 06 Nights/ 07 Days
Details of Tour
Day 01 : Delhi - Srinagar
Meet upon arrival and transfer to Deluxe Houseboats. Late afternoon Shikara ride on Dal Lake visiting floating and Vegetable gardens etc. Also witness walnut woodcarving and papier machie making demonstration. Dinner overnight in Deluxe Houseboats.
Day 02 : In Srinagar
Morning sightseeing of Mughal Gardens visiting Nishat Bagh (Abode of pleasure) built by Asif Khan brother in law of Jehangir in 1632 AD. And Shalimar Bagh (Abode of love) built by Jehangir
Best Kashmir Honeymoon Tour Packages Kashmir Srinagar
for his wife Empress Noor Jehan. All the gardens are situated on the bank of Dal Lake with the Zabarwan Mountains in the background. The distance from Srinagar to the said gardens is about 12 and 15 kms respectively. Enroute visit carpet-weaving factory. Dinner overnight in Deluxe Houseboats.
Day 03 : Srinagar - Gulmarg
Full day trip Gulmarg (Meadow of Flowers) 2730 Mts. above sea level. The distance of 60 kms will be covered in about 2 hrs. Gulmarg has one of the best Ski slopes in the world and highest golf course of the world with 18 holes. One can also have the view of Nanga Parbhat if weather permits. The view enroute from Tangmarg to Gulmarg is fascinating. One can also have a short trek upto Khilangmarg, which can be covered in about 3 hrs. Also enjoy sledge riding on snow. Chair Lifts for mountain ride are also available. Lunch will be carried from Houseboat. Dinner and overnight stay in Deluxe Houseboats.
Day 04 : Srinagar - Pahalgam
After breakfast drive to Pahalgam (Valley of Shepherds). The distance of about 96 kms will be covered in about 3 hrs. 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. Arrive Pahalgam transfer to Hotel. After lunch have bridle walks and feed your cameras with the picture of magnificent view of mountains. Dinner overnight in hotel at Pahalgam
Day 05 : Pahalgam - Srinagar
Drive back to Srinagar from Pahalgam and transfer to Deluxe Houseboats. Dinner overnight in Deluxe Houseboats.
Day 06 : In Srinagar
Free for Shopping and other individual activities. Dinner overnight in Deluxe Houseboats.
Day 07 : Srinagar - Delhi
After breakfast transfer to Airport catch flight for Delhi.
Kashmir tour tourism Provided all information About Kashmir Best Tour Packages 

Saturday 14 January 2012

Kashmir Best Tour Packages


Kashmir Best Tour Packages
Kashmir lies at the tip of India. It is divided into three main regions- Ladakh, the plains of Jammu and the Kashmir Valley. It is mainly known for its magnificent beauty and has some of the mind-blowing tourist sites. The Kashmir Tour Packages bring to you offers that are worth your money, a trip to the glorious hill station. You can get to see the Mughal Gardens. Kashmir tour tourism gives you a chance to visit the valleys and lakes, the mountains and the high altitude plains. The capital city also provides you with exclusive Kashmiri handmade crafts.
Kashmir tour tourism gives you an opportunity to live and experience the cool and carefree-paced living culture of its residents.

Destination Covered: Delhi - Srinagar - Gulmarg - Srinagar - Pahalgam - Srinagar - Delhi  
Duration: 06 Nights/ 07 Days
Details of Tour
Day 01 : Delhi - Srinagar
Meet upon arrival and transfer to Deluxe Houseboats. Late afternoon Shikara ride on Dal Lake visiting floating and Vegetable gardens etc. Also witness walnut woodcarving and papier machie making demonstration. Dinner overnight in Deluxe Houseboats.
Day 02 : In Srinagar
Morning sightseeing of Mughal Gardens visiting Nishat Bagh (Abode of pleasure) built by Asif Khan brother in law of Jehangir in 1632 AD. And Shalimar Bagh (Abode of love) built by Jehangir
Best Kashmir Honeymoon Tour Packages Kashmir Srinagar
for his wife Empress Noor Jehan. All the gardens are situated on the bank of Dal Lake with the Zabarwan Mountains in the background. The distance from Srinagar to the said gardens is about 12 and 15 kms respectively. Enroute visit carpet-weaving factory. Dinner overnight in Deluxe Houseboats.
Day 03 : Srinagar - Gulmarg
Full day trip Gulmarg (Meadow of Flowers) 2730 Mts. above sea level. The distance of 60 kms will be covered in about 2 hrs. Gulmarg has one of the best Ski slopes in the world and highest golf course of the world with 18 holes. One can also have the view of Nanga Parbhat if weather permits. The view enroute from Tangmarg to Gulmarg is fascinating. One can also have a short trek upto Khilangmarg, which can be covered in about 3 hrs. Also enjoy sledge riding on snow. Chair Lifts for mountain ride are also available. Lunch will be carried from Houseboat. Dinner and overnight stay in Deluxe Houseboats.
Day 04 : Srinagar - Pahalgam
After breakfast drive to Pahalgam (Valley of Shepherds). The distance of about 96 kms will be covered in about 3 hrs. 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. Arrive Pahalgam transfer to Hotel. After lunch have bridle walks and feed your cameras with the picture of magnificent view of mountains. Dinner overnight in hotel at Pahalgam
Day 05 : Pahalgam - Srinagar
Drive back to Srinagar from Pahalgam and transfer to Deluxe Houseboats. Dinner overnight in Deluxe Houseboats.
Day 06 : In Srinagar
Free for Shopping and other individual activities. Dinner overnight in Deluxe Houseboats.
Day 07 : Srinagar - Delhi
After breakfast transfer to Airport catch flight for Delhi.
Kashmir tour tourism Provided all information About Kashmir Best Tour Packages

Friday 13 January 2012

Kashmir Holiday Packages


Kashmir Holiday Packages
Kashmir is considered to be one of the most famed traveler destinations of India and has a considerable amount of tourists every year. Kashmir is positioned in the northern part of India and is consecrated with natural gifts. From the snow-covered valleys of the Himalayas to the hazy jaded valleys, Kashmir is simply amazing. It is also pretty renowned for the exciting activity and spiritual places and you can discover the magnificence and brilliance of Kashmir throughout the tour packages. You want to holiday for the pilgrim spots, exploration spots or outstanding waterfalls and hilly landscape, the trip packages promise a satisfied tour to Kashmir.
Destinations: 2 Nights Srinagar – Sonmarg- 2 Nights Gulmarg -2 Nights Pahalgam-1 Night Srinagar
Duration: 7N / 8D
Itinerary
Day 01: Srinagar Tour
On arrival at Srinagar airport our representative heartily greets you and assists you to transfer you to houseboat. Check in at houseboat, freshen up and relax at the luxury of the royal hospitality. In the evening enjoy Shikara ride on Dal Lake and witness the marvel of the nature that is beyond visual and verbal descriptions. The Sun-set view from the Shikara will engulf your heart and leave your spell bound. Later enjoy the welcome dinner and overnight stay in the houseboat.
Day 02: Srinagar - Sonmarg – Srinagar
Enjoy the healthy breakfast in the houseboat and proceed for excursion to Sonmarg. Sonmarg is a famous tourist destination in Kashmir, known for its inviting natural beauty, landscape and alpine flowers, pine trees and sycamore silver birch. Return on time from the excursion and enjoy overnight stay and dinner at the houseboat in Srinagar.
Day 03: Srinagar – Gulmarg
Enjoy the breakfast viewing the enigmatic beauty of the nature on the houseboat. Later we proceed to Gulmarg (60kms/2hrs drive) the scenic tour destination in Kashmir, primarily famous for ski slopes and natural 18 holes golf course, which is also the highest golf course in the world. Dinner and overnight stay will be at Gulmarg hotel.
Day 04: Gulmarg Sightseeing
After breakfast today we go for a full day sightseeing tour of Gulmarg visiting Alpather Lake the picturesque Lake when even during the mid June lump of ice is seen floating, Baba Reshi Shrine, Gondola, Cable Car to Kongdor, Khilanmarg, Skiing, St Marys Church and Maharani Temple. After a tour in the picturesque landscape visiting to inviting sightseeing spots, return back on time for dinner and overnight stay at hotel in Gulmarg.
Day 05: Gulmarg – Pahalgam
After healthy breakfast at the hotel, transfer on wheel to Pahalgam (150 Kms/4hrs) a lovely tourist spot in Kashmir also address as Valley of Shepherds. Pahalgam is also famous for its alpine treks, nature walk and is also the central point of Amarnath Yatra. Dinner and overnight stay will be at the hotel in Pahalgam.
Day 06: Pahalgam Sightseeing Tour
Enjoy the breakfast at the hotel and today we go for a full day local sightseeing of Pahalgam. Pahalgam is very popular for trekking, pony trekking, fishing, camping and nature walks. So take pleasure in the tour and treasure remarkable and lovable memories to relish in forever. Dinner and overnight stay will be at the hotel in Pahalgam.
Day 07: Pahalgam – Srinagar
After breakfast we check out from the hotel and drive to Srinagar (85 Kms/2.5 hrs). On arrival check in at pre-booked hotel and later proceed for local sightseeing tour visiting to Mughal Gardens, Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, Shankarcharya Temple and Hazratbal Shrine. After memorable tour enjoy delicious dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Srinagar.
Day 08: Srinagar – Departure
After breakfast at the hotel, on-time we transfer you to Srinagar airport to board flight for onwards journey or way back home. In this way the tour ends as well as the magic of Kashmir holiday packages offering loads of fun-filled memories to relish in forever and ever.

Thursday 12 January 2012

KASHMIR SPECIAL TOUR PACKAGE


KASHMIR SPECIAL TOUR PACKAGE
Duration : 09 Night - 10 Days
Places Covered : Delhi - Srinagar - Gulmarg - Pahalgam - Sonamarg - Srinagar - Delhi 
.
Day 01 : Delhi - Srinagar
Meet upon arrival and transfer to Deluxe Houseboats. Late afternoon Shikara ride on Dal Lake visiting floating and Vegetable gardens etc. Also witness walnut woodcarving and papier machie making demonstration. Dinner overnight in Deluxe Houseboats.

Day 02 : In Srinagar
Morning sightseeing of Mughal Gardens visiting Nishat Bagh (Abode of pleasure) built by Asif Khan brother in law of Jehangir in 1632 AD. And Shalimar Bagh (Abode of love) built by Jehangir for his wife Empress Noor Jehan. All the gardens are situated on the bank of Dal Lake with the Zabarwan Mountains in the background. The distance from Srinagar to the said gardens is about 12 and 15 kms respectively. Enroute visit carpet-weaving factory. Dinner overnight in Deluxe Houseboats.

Day 03 : Srinagar - Gulmarg
Drive to Gulmarg (Meadow of Flowers) 2730 Mts. above sea level. The distance of 60 kms will be covered in about 2 hrs. Gulmarg has one of the best Ski slopes in the world and highest golf course of the world with 18 holes. One can also have the view of Nanga Parbhat if weather permits. The view enroute from Tangmarg to Gulmarg is fascinating. One can also have a short trek upto Khilangmarg which can be covered in about 3 to 4 hrs. Chair Lifts for mountain ride are also available. Lunch will be carried from the Houseboat. Dinner overnight in Hotel at Gulmarg.

Day 04 : In Gulmarg
Free for individual activities. Dinner overnight in hotel at Gulmarg.

Day 05 : Gulmarg - Pahalgam
Leave Gulmarg after early breakfast and drive to Pahalgam (Valley of Shepherds) via Srinagar. Drive through Saffron fields, visit Awantipura ruins (1100 years old temple of Lord Vishnu built by King Awantiwareman). Drive through the pine forest and along Lidder River. The total distance of about 140 kms will be covered in about 4 hrs. On arrival in Pahalgam, transfer to Hotel. Lunch, Dinner and overnight in Hotel at Pahalgam.

Day 06 : In Pahalgam
Free for individual activities. Dinner overnight in hotel at Pahalgam.

Day 07 : Pahalgam - Srinagar
Drive back to Srinagar from Pahalgam and transfer to deluxe Houseboats Dinner overnight in Deluxe Houseboats.

Day 08 : Srinagar - Sonamarg
Full day excursion to Sonamarg by cars. The distance of about 83 kms will be covered about 2-½ hrs. Sonamarg lies in Sindh Valley streamed with flowers and surrounded by mountains. Sonamarg is also the base for some interesting treks to the high altitude of Himalayan Lake. Drive back from Sonamarg and transfer to Deluxe Houseboats for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 09 : In Srinagar
Free for shopping and other individual activities. Dinner overnight in Houseboats.

Day 10 : Srinagar - Delhi
After breakfast transfer to airport to catch flight for Delhi.

Friday 6 January 2012

Kashmir Tour Package




kashmirtourtourism.com the heavenly abode located in the northern most part of India is the most preferred holidaying destinations. Lovingly called Paradise on Earth, Kashmir is the jewel in the crown of India, which invites not just the nature lovers or the honeymooners but it is the perfect destination for all sorts of vacations where visitors can enjoy fun-filled moments with dear ones beyond imaginations.
Kashmir adorned in with unmatched natural wonderments and sightseeing spots is the best place in India that you will love to visit again and again for holidaying. From the enigmatic view of the snow capped mountains to the gorgeous greenery, green meadows dotted with blossoming flowers to the picturesque holidaying destinations, revered temples and amazing natural sightseeing spots, Kashmir the multi faceted diamond is extravagantly beauty that engulf the heart of tourist with its unmatched beauty that is beyond visual and verbal descriptions.
KASHMIR TOUR PACKAGEDuration : 08 Days
Duration : 07 Night - 08 Days
Places Covered : Delhi - Srinagar - Gulmarg - Pahalgam - Sonamarg - Srinagar - Delhi 
Day 01 : Arrive Srinagar 
Meet and greet on arrival. Transfer by car to your House Boat. Welcome drink on arrival and check-in. Stay at House Boat for 3 nights.
Meals : Lunch & dinner
Day 02 : Srinagar
In the morning visit the Mughal Gardens: Chashmi – e Shahi (The Royal Spring), Nishat Bagh (Garden of Pleasure) and Shalimar Bagh (Adobe of Love). In the afternoon enjoy a Shikara ride on the Dal Lake.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch & dinner
Day 03 : Srinagar
After breakfast we take you for a full day tour of Sonmarg. Return to the houseboat in the evening.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch & dinner
Day 04 : Srinagar - Gulmarg 
Drive to Gulmarg (2 hours). Welcome drink on arrival and check-in. Rest of the day free at leisure. You can visit Khilanmarg by pony and then walk down. Stay at Hotel Hill Top for 1 night.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch & dinner
Day 05 : Gulmarg - Pahalgam
Drive to Pahalgam (5 hours drive). Welcome drink on arrival and check-in. Rest of the day free at leisure. Stay at Hotel Mount View for 2 nights,
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch & dinner
Day 06 : Pahalgam 
Full day at leisure to explore the natural beauty of Pahalgam. Enjoy pony rides to beautiful spots around Pahalgam.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch & dinner
Day 07 : Pahalgam - Srinagar
Drive to Srinagar. Welcome drink on arrival and check-in. Stay at House Boat for 1 night. Afternoon free for shopping.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch & dinner
Day 08 : Leave Srinagar 
After breakfast transfer to the airport for your flight to next destination.
Meals : Breakfast
Kashmir Tour Tourism Provided All Information about Kashmir Tour Package

Gulmarg Tourism


Gulmarg - Fast Facts
Altitude2730 meters
StateJammu and Kashmir
LanguagesKashmiri and Hindi
AttractionsSkiing

Gulmarg - Introduction
Welcome to Gulmarg the hill resort with magical meadows and mountains. Then natural beauty of Gulmarg has attracted tourists since long. In fact the hill resort of Gulmarg literally means "the meadow of flowers". The snow-clad peaks and the lovely landscapes of Gulmarg have provided background for several Bollywood ventures. The slopes of Gulmarg make it Asia's only heli-skiing resort. There are immense beauty and adventure activities that make Gulmarg much more than a cool hill resort
The hill resort of Gulmarg is located in the Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir. At an amazing altitude of 2730 meters above sea level the hill resort has a gently sloping topography. Gulmarg is 57 km southwest from the capital city of Srinagar and is close to the Indo-Pakistan border.

Gulmarg - Past
British discovered the hill resort of Gulmarg in 1927 during their colonial rule in India.

Gulmarg - Sites In and Around
The gorgeous hill resort of Gulmarg is dotted with sites of interest for the tourists. Khilanmarg is the spot for skiing in winters. You must enjoy the views of the Kashmir valley and the Himalayan range from Khilanmarg. It takes a couple of hours by pony, to reach Kilanmarg as it is slightly longer on foot.

Then there is the Alpather Lake, a picturesque alpine lake that remains frozen until late June. From Khilanmarg the lake lies across the Apharwat peak. Adventure seekers must take the one-day and thirteen km trip to the Alpather Lake from Gulmarg.

While at Gulmarg you may even visit the shrine of Baba Reshi, a Muslim mystic saint

Gulmarg - Adventure Sports 
Skiing Gulmarg
For the adventure seekers Gulmarg is the ultimate destination for skiing. You may easily hire the skis and sticks, snow boots, woolen socks, mufflers, windproof jackets, goggles, and caps. With all the equipments and the Ski instructors at hand it is the best bet to enjoy the holidays at Gulmarg. The skiing season at Gulmarg is from November to February. The slopes in Gulmarg varying between 8,700 and 10,500 feet make the ski runs the highest in India. It is noteworthy that Gulmarg is the only heli-skiing resort in Asia. Even the amateurs can enjoy with the ski lifts and the chair lifts.

Gulmarg also boasts of a gorgeous green golf course that happens to be the world's highest too. You may even hire the golf sets from Gulmarg. The Golf Club offers short-term memberships to the players.

Gulmarg also offers some excellent opportunities for long walks. In case you take up the outer circle walk you can enjoy the pine forests and wonderful vistas. The beauty of the Kashmir valley will not fail to mesmerize you. Then there are the Nanga Parbat and the Haramukh that you may explore.

Gulmarg - How to Reach 
The airport at Srinagar at 57 km is nearest to Gulmarg. The airport caters to the air transport to the hill resort. Regular flights connect Srinagar with the other major cities in India. The railway station in Jammu is the nearest to Gulmarg that caters to the rail transport to the hill resort.

Gulmarg - Best Time to Visit 
The hill resort of Gulmarg is a gorgeous place to be at throughout the year. There are winter months from November to February that are ideal for skiing. The adventurers are known to throng the hill resort as soon as the snow falls. As it is the summer months from May to September offer pleasant weather to the tourists. The sun scorched souls from the plains flock to the hill resort as a summer retreat.

Gulmarg - Where to Stay
Accommodation in Gulmarg is easily available. There are several hotels and huts that cater to the needs of the tourists. There are hotels that suit the varying budgets of the tourists to Gulmarg. All the basic facilities are available to make your stay in Gulmarg comfortable. You may check out for accommodation options run by the Jammu and Kashmir Tourist Development Corporation or the private parties. It is advisable to go in advance reservations in the peak seasons.

Delicious and hygienic food is easily available in the restaurants and the eateries of Gulmarg. In the non-vegetarian food there is the traditional dish of Rogan Josh that must taste.

Gulmarg - Travel Information
Off late there have been security issues concerning the safety of tourists in Gulmarg. Due to the fear of terrorism it is advisable to update oneself of the current law and order situation in the area.

Wednesday 4 January 2012

Sufi Tour in Kashmir


There is many palaces in india where you can visit sufis and sufi shrines but Kashmir has been home to many Sufis (Muslim saints) and there are numerous Sufi shrinesin the region. The greatest influence here has been the more mystical Rishi order, named after Nund Rishi, which evolved in the valley beginning in the fifteenthcentury and was probably influenced by both the Hinduism and Buddhism that prevailed in the region before then. There are many Sufi shrines around sringar Makhdoom Sahib, Shah-i-Hamadan and and Pir Dastgir Sahib. Baba-Zain-ud-Din Wali R.A. (Aishmuqam), Baba Hyder Reshi R.A. (Anantnag), the last of the giants of the Rishi order in Kashmir about whose resting place the Alamdar-i-Kashmir (Flag Bearer of Kashmir), Sheikh Noor-ud-Din Rishi R.A. (Charar- e -Sharief) had foretold his disciples, , Hazrat Noor Shah Bagdadi R.A. (Kund), Hazrat Sheikh Syed Samnani R.A. (Kulgam), Baba Naseeb-ud-Din Ghazi R.A. (Bijbehara) Hazrat Syed Yaqoob Sarfi R.A.,Hazrat Baba Gulindin Sahib (R.A.),Hazrat Baba Reshi Sahib R.A. Gulmarg, Hazrat Baba Shikur – u –din Sahib R.A. Watlab Sopore, Dargah Sharif Hazratbal All are beautiful, interesting and have fascinating vibes 

Sonamarg Tour in Kashmir


Location: 81 km from Srinagar, at an altitude of 2,740 m from the sea level.
Best Time To Visit: May To September, and November To February.
For all those adventure loving people who wish to enjoy camping at a hill station, Sonmarg is the ideal destination. Tourists flock to this small hill resort in heavy numbers to see the enchanting natural beauty and snow clad peaks. Known as the 'Meadow of Gold', Sonmarg is set amidst a valley of flowers and lakes. The word “Son” literally means “Gold” in Hindi, and this golden beauty covered with white snow is most attractive in the spring. The exotic flora of the region is nurtured by the Sindh river. Sonmarg is the gateway to Ladakh.
The dense forests of Sonmarg comprise of sycamore and alpine flowers, silver birch, fir and pine. The place is frequently visited by nature lovers in the search oftranquil peace and soothing natural beauty. The stunning blue water lakes and grasslands are the other attractions. The enchanting beauty of the towering snow clad mountains is a real treat to the eyes.
Enveloped by alpine trees, Sonmarg is a base camp for the holy Amarnath yatra. The yatra is organized during the month of July-August every year, and thousands of tourists are drawn towards Sonmarg. While visiting Sonmarg, make sure you include a trip to Nilagrad, the confluence of mountain rivers with the Indus river. The most amazing aspect of this place is that the river water is pure red in colour, and is believed to have curative powers for skin ailments. People often take a bath in this water. Krishnasar Lake, one of the most mesmerizing lakes in the chain of many Himalayan lakes, is a good spot for picnics. The place is surrounded by dense alpines and provides a cool and peaceul atmosphere at a height of 3801 m above sea level. People enjoy trout fishing and other water activities here. Vishansar is another popular lake. Walk along the exotic grasslands of Baltal to explore the untouched beauty of Sonmarg. Situated at the foot of Zoji-la-pass (gateway to the Ladakh plateau, 3540 m from the sea level), Baltal is close to the Amarnath cave. Baltal grasslands witness a number of pilgrims during the Amarnath yatra.
The weather is alpine. Summers (April-June) are mild, one can get by with thick cottons. But the place receives heavy snowfall in December-February. The best time to visit Sonamarg is during the summers.
You can find a number of Hotels and lodges of various types and budgets in Sonmarg. Most of these are operated in summers only. If you visit Sonmarg in winters, you can hire cottages or guest rooms. JKTDC, a government initiative, has a Dak Banglow and number of Huts which are available on hire.
By Air: The nearest airport is that of Badgam District.
By Rail: Jammu Railway Station.
By Road: Regular and smooth bus services are available to and from Srinagar.

Tuesday 3 January 2012

Kashmir Trekking


Trekking is among the most popular attractions of Kashmir tour tourism The mountain ranges of Himalayas blessed this state with number of trekking tour options which calls on adventure sports enthusiasm from across the globe. And for trekkers, Jammu and Kashmir is the ultimate paradise. This state of India has diverse topography which cannot be seen anywhere in the world. During trekking trekkers gets an opportunity to see alpine pastures, snow - clad mountains, green meadows, flower valleys, diverse flora and fauna. The Jammu and Kashmir trek ranges from one day to week - long. Some of the well-known trekking regions of Jammu and Kashmir. Trekking forms an integral part of the adventure sports flourishing in the hilly tracts of Jammu and Kashmir It is only recently that adventure tourism has got its long-due attention from the tourism industry but now, a considerable part of the tourists who visit Kashmir like to trek, if just to glimpse at its matchless natural beauty.


Mountaineering
Several mountain ranges through the state of Jammu & Kashmir among them Pir Panjal,Great Himalayas,Zanskar,Ladakh,Karakoram. Climbing in these Himalayas can be very stimulating and typically an expedition can take a month,Srinagar to Srinagar.Rich in flora and fauna,the summits of most peaks are an exhilirating experience and from a top them,one can look beyond to neighbouring countries Pakistan and Tibet.Off Sonamarg are the lesser peaks Kolahoi(5,425 m) and Harmukh (5,148 m).These are peaks one can get to quickly making an alpine ascent.Similarly thhe peaks in the Kishtwar region are not too high but offer technically dicfficult climbing with many challenging faces and ridges.Some are still virgin peaks.The popular peaks are Sickle Moon 6,575 m ,Riger 6,001m,Brammah-I 6,416m,Crooked Finger 5,630m, Arjuna 6,230m,Katori 6,138m and Flat Top 6,100m.In the Zanskar region are the famous peaks of Nun 7,135m and Kun 7,077m.Around these are White Needle 6,500m,Pinacle 6,930m and Z-1 6,400m.These peaks are located at the head of the Shafat glacier.The 'Z' series also cluster around the Durung Drung glacier which is visible from the Pensita.In the Ladakh region are the Stok Kangri 6,153m, Parcha Kangri 6,065m and Kanglcha 6,400m.More recently peaks in the restricted area of the Nubra valley in the Inaian Karakorams have also been opened to foreigners and Indian.Gulmarg Trekking
An excellent base for trekking in the northern Pir Panjal Range, one can see Nanga Parbat from here from several viewpoints. One such viewpoint is Khilanmarg to the west of Gulmarg. From a distance, the Pir Panjal appears to be rounded but while trekking one realizes that it seem quite equal in steepness to those of the main Himalayas. To the south of Gulmarg is a pleasant trek of the walk up the Ferozepur Nala and beyond to the hamlets of Danwas, Tejjan, and to Samaidan. One needs a guide for trekking here as many stock trails intersect the route. The walk from Gulmarg to Tosamaidan is considered to be three stages long. One may return by way of Riyar and Khag villages or continue south toward Sunset Peak and then walk into the foothills along the Romushi Nala to Yusmarg.
Sonamarg Trekking
Sonamarg is the starting point of a major trek passing several mountain lakes that include Vishansar, Kishansar, Gadsar, Satsar and Gangabal. One trek even leads all the way to the Amarnath Cave.

Thajiwas Trek

A popular short walk from Sonamarg, which is a major highlight of the place in the summers, is the 4-km route to Thajiwas, a small valley at the foot of the Sonamarg glacier. It leads up to the Shakhdar hill that overlooks the glacier from the northeast. Climbing the steep slope leading up to the glacier can prove to be dangerous and one may hire opt for ponies for the trip. In early summer, one may also spot the nomadic groups of Gujar passing through Sonamarg on their way to the alpine meadows for the summer.

Trek from Sonamarg to The Valley via Gangabal Lake:

To the west of Sonamarg, is a fine trek where one crosses the Nichinai pass to Gangabal Lake. Accompanied by a guide, the starting point of the trek is the bridge in Shitkari village, where the road crosses the Sind River. One starts across the right bank of the river to the lakes called Krishan Sar and Vishan Sar, all the way to Gangabal Lake near Haramukh, which is the highest peak in the vicinity of the Kashmir valley.