Traveling to Kashmir with my family was a dream come true, but like any trip, it had its share of surprises—some delightful, others challenging. Here’s how our journey unfolded, from booking with you to exploring the incredible paradise that is Kashmir.
The Start: A Smooth Booking, Minor Snags
The booking process with your platform was straightforward. We appreciated the detailed itinerary and the prompt confirmations. However, when we landed in Srinagar, there was some confusion with the airport pickup. The driver’s phone was unreachable, and we had to wait for about 20 minutes before he arrived. While a little frustrating, your support team was responsive, and the issue was resolved quickly.
Day 1: A Magical Evening on Dal Lake
Our stay began with a houseboat experience on Dal Lake. The houseboat was cozy, with intricate wooden carvings and a warm Kashmiri vibe. My kids were fascinated by the Shikara ride—watching the vendors float by with flowers, handicrafts, and snacks was like stepping into another world.
That evening, we had a funny incident: my younger son leaned too far over the edge of the Shikara and managed to splash water all over himself. The boatman, unfazed, offered him a warm blanket, and we couldn’t stop laughing at his sheepish grin.
Day 2: Adventure in Gulmarg
Gulmarg was a winter wonderland. The Gondola ride to the higher slopes was thrilling, though my wife and mom clung to their seats nervously as the cable car swayed slightly in the wind. At the top, the snow was pristine, and the views of the Himalayas were breathtaking.
Skiing: None of us had skied before, so we signed up for a quick beginner’s lesson. My dad, surprisingly, was the star of the day, balancing on his skis like a pro, while I spent most of the time face-planting into the snow.
Sledging: This was a hit with the kids. The sheer joy of speeding downhill with snow spraying everywhere was infectious.
A Warm Lunch: We warmed up with bowls of Maggi noodles and kahwa at a small café on the slopes. It wasn’t fancy, but after all the activity, it felt like the best meal we’d ever had.
Day 3: The Calm of Pahalgam
Pahalgam was like stepping into a painting. The Lidder River flowed serenely, and the valleys were lush and green. We started the day with a pony ride to Baisaran Valley, also called “Mini Switzerland.” My wife was a bit uneasy about the steep trails, but the ponies were well-trained, and the guides were very reassuring.
Later, we tried a short trek along the riverbank. My kids splashed around in the icy water despite our warnings, and their laughter echoed through the valley. This was one of those moments where we all felt completely at peace.
Day 4: A Thrilling Visit to Sonmarg
Our final adventure was a trip to Sonmarg. The drive itself was stunning, with mountains on one side and the Sindh River on the other. We rented snowmobiles to reach Thajiwas Glacier, which was an absolute thrill! Even my mom, who usually avoids such activities, couldn’t stop smiling.
The glacier itself was magical—sparkling ice, towering peaks, and a quiet that felt otherworldly. The kids built snowmen, and we all took turns sliding down small icy slopes.
Challenges Along the Way
Weather-Related Delays: In Gulmarg, a sudden snowfall slowed down our return to the hotel. While it was a bit stressful at the time, our driver was experienced and handled the situation well.
Food Preferences: While we loved the local wazwan dishes, my kids missed their usual favorites. Thankfully, we found a few places in Srinagar offering pizzas and pasta, which kept them happy.
Pace of the Trip: We tried to fit a lot into the itinerary, which left us a little exhausted by the end. A day of rest in between might have been better.
The Best Part: Memories to Last a Lifetime
Despite the minor challenges, this trip was nothing short of magical. The mix of adventure, natural beauty, and warm hospitality made it a truly unique experience.
My dad can’t stop talking about his skiing triumph.
My mom cherishes her snowmobile ride.
My kids are already begging to go back, especially for sledging in Gulmarg.
Thank you for organizing such a memorable trip for us. Kashmir wasn’t just a destination; it became a part of our family story. We’ll treasure this experience forever.
