Jewel of the Himalayas: Enchanting Kashmir & Houseboat Paradise

5 Nights | 6 Days

Jewel of the Himalayas

Embark on a breathtaking journey from Colombo to the enchanting valleys of Kashmir with Browns Tours. This luxury holiday includes flights from Sri Lanka, a stay in a traditional Dal Lake houseboat, and guided excursions to Kashmir’s most iconic destinations. Experience a sunset Shikara ride across floating gardens, stroll through the Mughal Gardens of Srinagar, and ascend the world’s highest Gulmarg Gondola. Discover the scenic beauty of Pahalgam Valley and Sonamarg Glacier, before shopping for Kashmiri shawls and saffron. A perfect blend of culture, nature, and luxury awaits.

Unforgettable Experiences

Tour Highlights

Dal Lake

Dal Lake in Srinagar is the shimmering jewel of Kashmir, celebrated for its tranquil waters, floating gardens, and traditional wooden houseboats.

Mughal Gardens

The Mughal Gardens of Srinagar are among the most enchanting attractions in Kashmir, reflecting the grandeur of Mughal architecture and the natural beauty of the valley.

Srinagar City

Srinagar City is the cultural and spiritual heart of Kashmir, blending Mughal elegance, natural beauty

Gulmarg

Gulmarg is Kashmir’s crown jewel, famed for its alpine meadows, snow‑clad peaks, and thrilling adventures.

Gondola Cable Car Ride

The Gondola Cable Car Ride in Gulmarg is one of the most thrilling highlights of Kashmir, offering breathtaking views of snow‑clad peaks and lush meadows.

Betaab Valley

Betaab Valley in Pahalgam is one of Kashmir’s most picturesque destinations, named after the Bollywood film Betaab that was shot here.

Sonamarg

Sonamarg – the “Meadow of Gold” – is one of Kashmir’s most stunning alpine destinations, famed for its glaciers, rivers, and mountain scenery.

Glacier Excursion

A Glacier Excursion in Sonamarg is one of the most memorable adventures in Kashmir, combining alpine beauty with thrilling exploration.

01 Heritage Planters' Club

Step inside the Maturata Planters’ Club — home to Sri Lanka’s first bowling alley — and walk the misted ridges of Ragalla Estate.

02 Heritage Planters' Club

Step inside the Maturata Planters’ Club — home to Sri Lanka’s first bowling alley — and walk the misted ridges of Ragalla Estate.

03 Heritage Planters' Club

Step inside the Maturata Planters’ Club — home to Sri Lanka’s first bowling alley — and walk the misted ridges of Ragalla Estate.

04 Heritage Planters' Club

Step inside the Maturata Planters’ Club — home to Sri Lanka’s first bowling alley — and walk the misted ridges of Ragalla Estate.

Inclusions

1 Night Deluxe Dal Lake Houseboat Stay + 4 Nights 4-Star Hotel

Daily Breakfast & Dinner

Shikara Ride Pass

Gulmarg Gondola Cable Car Tickets

Union Taxi Rentals in Pahalgam

All Airport Transfers

India e-Visa Support

Your Questions, Answered

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for families?

Yes. The itinerary offers a comfortable balance of sightseeing, leisure, and beach experiences suitable for most travellers.

What is the best time to visit India?

The best time to visit India is between October and March, when the weather is cool, dry, and comfortable across most regions, making it ideal for sightseeing, festivals, and cultural immersion. Summers (April–June) are very hot, while the monsoon season (July–September) brings heavy rains but lush landscapes.

Can this itinerary be customised?

Yes. The itinerary can be tailored to suit your preferred travel dates, destinations, hotel category, and budget.

This itinerary is a suggestion and can be fully customized to your interests and pace. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions or mobility concerns in advance.
The order of activities may change based on weather conditions, the national park availability, and train schedules to ensure the best possible experience.
Please note the Whale Watching excursion is a seasonal activity operational from November to April. For travel outside this period, an alternative coastal experience will be provided.
Dress Code for Religious Sites: As a sign of respect, visitors must dress modestly at all temples and sacred sites. This means clothing that covers your shoulders, chest, and legs below the knees. You will be required to remove your shoes and hats before entering.

Day 01

Direct Flight Colombo to Delhi & Onward to Srinagar (Dal Lake Houseboat)

Flight from Colombo (CMB) to Srinagar (SXR) via Delhi

Check-in to a traditional luxury wooden Houseboat on Dal Lake

Sunset Shikara ride across the floating gardens

Direct Flight Colombo to Delhi & Onward to Srinagar (Dal Lake Houseboat)

Activities

Flight from Colombo (CMB) to Srinagar (SXR) via Delhi. Check-in to a traditional luxury wooden Houseboat on Dal Lake. Sunset Shikara ride across the floating gardens.

Day 02

Mughal Gardens & Srinagar City Highlights

Visit famous Mughal Gardens: Nishat Bagh (Garden of Pleasure)

Shalimar Bagh (Abode of Love)

Pari Mahal

Shankaracharya Temple

Mughal Gardens & Srinagar City Highlights

Activities

Visit famous Mughal Gardens: Nishat Bagh (Garden of Pleasure), Shalimar Bagh (Abode of Love), Pari Mahal, and Shankaracharya Temple.

Day 03

Excursion to Gulmarg & Gondola Cable Car Ride

Drive to Gulmarg ('Meadow of Flowers')

Ride the world's highest cable car-the Gulmarg Gondola-up to Phase 1 (Kongdoori)

Phase 2 (Apharwat Peak) for snow sports

Excursion to Gulmarg & Gondola Cable Car Ride

Activities

Drive to Gulmarg ('Meadow of Flowers'). Ride the world's highest cable car—the Gulmarg Gondola—up to Phase 1 (Kongdoori) and Phase 2 (Apharwat Peak) for snow sports.

Day 04