Kashmir & Gurez Backpacking

Overview

About Kashmir & Gurez Backpacking Trip Package

Get ready for an epic journey across the breathtaking sceneries of mountains with our specially curated Kashmir & Gurez Backpacking Trip Package.This isn't just a trip but an odyssey into the Himalayas at large, where nature's grandness and ancient traditions blend together to form something beyond imagination.

Your trail of adventure kick-starts from the very essence of Kashmir, Srinagar. Day two takes you across calm waters of Dal Lake in traditional shikaras, surrounded by floating gardens and the majestic backdrop of the Pir Panjal range. Drown in the fragrance of spice markets and intricate Mughal gardens, after which we press deeper into the wild.

As we continue on to Gurez, witness the changing landscape. Towering pine forests make way for alpine meadows bursting with wildflowers. Deep in this valley flanking the Line of Control, you'll find a world preserved in amber, as the Dard-Shin people invite you into their homes to share stories and customs passed down generations in their unique culture and language.

Our expert guides will lead you on eye-opening treks to out-of-the-way lakes and snow-capped peaks. Camp under the starriest skies you've ever seen, sit around bonfires, and enjoy making friends for life. For the more adventurous, drop a line in crystal-clear streams for trout fishing or spot incredibly rare wildlife in its natural habitat.

Our Kashmir Tour Package is not just for visiting Kashmir, but experiencing it with all five senses. Savor the rich flavors of Wazwan cuisine, learn the art of Kashmiri embroidery, and get enchanted with soulful melodies of traditional folk music.

Whether you're a seasoned trekker or a first-time backpacker, rest assured that our customized itinerary will make it an adventure of a lifetime. We offer top-notch gear, experienced local guides, and a commitment to sustainable tourism to ensure that we respect and preserve the sensitive ecosystems and cultures we meet.

Best Places to Visit During Kashmir & Gurez Backpacking Trip

Dal Lake: This serene expanse in Srinagar is known as the crown of Kashmir. Famed for its houseboats and floating gardens, this is where one would find peace and serenity, truly a sight one had not seen before. Take an experience of riding in shikaras during sunset, explore floating markets, and witness the different moods of the lake during every rise and fall of the sun.

Hazratbal Dargah: This pure white marble shrine to the side of Dal Lake enshrines a relic purported to be Prophet Muhammad's hair. It is an important pilgrimage site and an excellent blend of Kashmiri and Mughal architecture. The dargah's reflection in the lake is simply impeccable.

Mughal Gardens: Chashma Shahi and Nishat Bagh present the acmes of Mughal landscaping brilliance. Chashma Shahi offers one of the most panoramic views over Srinagar, composed of a terraced garden with a freshwater spring. Nishat Bagh, or the "Garden of Bliss," cascades down toward the Dal Lake in twelve terraces representing the zodiac signs.

Razdan Pass: At an altitude of 3,300 meters Razdan Pass connects Bandipora with Gurez Valley. This high-altitude route rehouses some breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks and lush green valleys. The journey through this pass is itself an adventure that reveals Kashmir in its most raw beauty.

Wular Lake: The largest freshwater lake in Asia, Wular is sited close to Srinagar. It reverberates with the chirping of a number of birds that migrate here to this water body, so to say. A nature-lover's heaven, fringed on three sides by mountains, the lake offers fine boating and birdwatching facilities, besides a unique insight into the lives of people engaged in fishing.

Dawar: The centrally located town of the Gurez Valley is Dawar, which is a cultural hub of the Dard-Shin people. The place has towering peaks all around, and it reflects a glimpse of a different life. It is attracted by its traditional wooden architecture and warm hospitality.

Tulail Valley: Beyond Dawar is the Tulail Valley of Gurez, a secluded wonder, an absolutely unblemished beauty. Laced with unparalleled virginity, it is surely a trekkers' paradise. The isolation of the valley has preserved its natural splendor with diversified biodiversity.

Husangham: This tiny hamlet in Gurez is located on the banks of the Kishanganga River. It has houses of the Dards dating back to thousands of years and villagers who are very warm to their visitors. It is a taste of the real rural Kashmiri way of life. Meadows around also offer excellent camping sites.

Sheikhpora: Pic essence in views of this very beautiful Himalayan village of Gurez, this is the trek destination for many to get immaculate views of the Habba Khatoon peak. The place has been a must-visit if one wants to relish an offbeat experience of witnessing age-old traditional ways of life and hospitality of the people.

Chakwali: Situated next to the Line of Control, Chakwali village offers a breathless view of the Gurez Valley. Photographers and nature lovers like the place very much because of its location and beauty. The isolation of the village adds to its charm.

Tangmarg: It is often called the "Gateway to Gulmarg." Tangmarg is a lovely town, Ignore surrounded by pine forests, serving as a base to adventures in Gulmarg. It offers beautiful views of the Pir Panjal range. The town is known for its apple orchards.

Betaab Valley: This place was named Betaab Valley after a Bollywood movie that was filmed here. It is a beautiful view adjacent to Pahalgam. Lush green meadows surrounded with pine forests and Lidder River make it an ideal destination for picnics and camping. More than this, the beauty of the valley cannot be expressed in words only.

Aru Valley: A serene hamlet 12 km from Pahalgam, Aru Valley is a starting point for various treks. Known for its scenic beauty, gushing streams, and meadows, it's a paradise for nature lovers. The valley offers a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility.

Chandanwari: The starting point of the Amarnath Yatra, Chandanwari is a beautiful spot 16 km from Pahalgam. Known for its snow bridges and the starting point of the famous Sheshnag Lake trek, it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Things to do During Kashmir & Gurez Backpacking Trip

Take a shikara ride on the Dal Lake: It means to glide across tranquil waters of Dal Lake in a coloured shikara. Explore floating gardens, get to the vibrant morning market, and watch the sunset paint the sky, what a serene experience. It encapsulates Kashmir in its totality. Trek in the Himalayas:

Take a gondola ride for the view: Reach Apharwat peak in Gulmarg via one of the highest cable cars in the world. At 4,200 meters, witness breathtaking views of snow-laden Himalayan peaks, green valleys, and open skies.

Experience white water rafting: Take on the Lidder River near Pahalgam and ride down its exciting rapids. The adrenaline rush will be there when you paddle through its grade II and III rapids, surrounded by the picturesque landscape of the Kashmir Valley.

Stay overnight in a houseboat: Stay and get the feel of a traditional Kashmiri houseboat on Dal or Nagin Lake. Once inside a houseboat, one should experience the ornate wood carvings, taste local cuisine, and get lashed with the lapping of water to soak in serenity.

Skiing or snowboarding (in winter): Skiing in Gulmarg is certainly Asia's highest and amongst the best. With its powder snow and all grades of runs, it's a winter sports haven, and more so against the backdrop of majestic Himalayan peaks.

Camp under the stars: Make camps at beautiful spots like Aru Valley or Naranag. Drop off to sleep with the sound of mountain streams and rise to misty mornings with the raw beauty of Kashmir's wilderness all around.

Try Kashmiri cuisine, especially Wazwan: Indulge in rich flavors of traditional Kashmiri cuisine. Try Wazwan, the multi-course feast featuring aromatic rice, tender meats, and unique spice blends. Vegetarian options are equally delectable.

Go trout fishing: Experience the crystal clear streams of Pahalgam or Gurez Valley for some fabulous trout fishing. Enjoy the tranquility that gives you company as you patiently wait to catch your fish in the best fishing area in the country.

Take a landscape and cultural photography tour: Capture the ultimate beauty of Kashmir by capturing, from misty mountains to mirror-like lakes, vibrant markets to traditional architecture as every frame is so picturesque.

Horseback Ride in Landscaped Valleys: Get on horseback to explore some pretty scenes around Pahalgam or Gulmarg. Whatever will leave you in awe can be included in this ride from pine forests, gushing rivers, to scenic viewpoints.

Shop for traditional Kashmiri handicrafts: Stroll around the nearby markets for classy Pashmina shawls, exquisitely walnut wood-etched items, colorful paper goods, as well as stunning Kashmiri carpets. It is one of the finest ways to support local artisans and take back meritorious pictures of the Almighty.

Visit a saffron field (seasonal): Observe the purple hue of flowering saffron in Pampore by October-November. Take an insight into how the world's most expensive spice gets cultivated and processed, so close to heart for Kashmiri culture and culinary life.

Attend an authentic Kashmiri music performance: Get enchanted by the soulful Sufi music or the rhythm in the folk songs. Attend live performances at cultural centers or villages, which bring out the rich musical heritage of Kashmir.

Practice yoga and meditation amidst serene environs: Unwind your inner self in the middle of nature's picturesque surroundings. Join the session beside a lake, in a serene garden, or on a mountain meadow for a practice system designed to heighten awareness.

How to Reach Kashmir

By Air: Fly to Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport in Srinagar, Kashmir's main gateway. Regular flights connect Srinagar to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. From the airport, taxis and prepaid cabs are available to reach your destination.

By Road: Drive or take a bus from cities like Jammu or Chandigarh. The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH44) is the primary route. The journey offers scenic views but can be challenging in winter due to weather conditions.

By Train: The nearest major railway station is Jammu Tawi. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Srinagar. The 300 km journey takes about 8-10 hours and passes through picturesque landscapes.

Best Time to Visit Kashmir

Spring (March to early May): This period is ideal for nature lovers since Kashmir is in bloom with its varicolored flowers, and the weather is very pleasurable. This is the time to enjoy sightseeing, trekking, and the famous tulip gardens of Srinagar.

Summer (May to August): This period is perfect as tourists flock there the most. Warm days and cool nights make it best suited for outdoor activities like trekking and visiting higher altitude places like Gulmarg and Sonamarg. However, during this time, it gets seriously crowded.

Autumn (September to November): A land of golden landscapes and what more can a photographer wish for? The weather is bracing, and the hordes of tourists gradually thin out. Perfect for trekking and seeing the fall foliage.

Winter (December to February): Paradise for the snow-lovers. Gulmarg transforms into an international-level skiing resort. The landscape under heavy snowfall is simply stunning; places around become inaccessible due to heavy snow.

Things To Pack