The Top 5 Best Group Tour Packages for Exploring the Beauty of Kashmir

Dec 24, 2023 By Sean William

Have you ever dreamed of visiting a place that seems almost too stunning, to be honest? Welcome to Kashmir, a Himalayan paradise of snowcapped mountains, glacial lakes, and lush forests. The beauty of Kashmir is legendary, but exploring on your own can be challenging. These tours range from budget-friendly to high-end luxury, so there's an option for every travel style.

Please keep reading to discover our picks for the top 5 best group tour packages for exploring the breathtaking beauty of Kashmir. By the end of this list, you'll be ready to book your trip to one of the most spectacular destinations in India.

Experience the Breathtaking Beauty of Kashmir on a Group Tour

A group tour is one of the best ways to take in the stunning natural scenery of Kashmir. You'll get to experience the beauty of the valley with like-minded travellers and an experienced guide.

On a group tour of Kashmir, you can expect to visit some of the top attractions. This includes scenic mountain vistas, verdant meadows filled with wildflowers, tranquil lakes, and rushing rivers. Some of the must-sees are Pahalgam, known as the 'Valley of Shepherds,' the peaceful Dal Lake, where you can take a boat ride, and Gulmarg, one of India's best places for snowboarding and skiing.

Group tours in Kashmir typically include comfortable accommodation, all meals, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle. Most also offer optional activities like a cable car ride, village tours, hiking and horseback riding. With a range of budget to luxury options, you will find a time that suits your needs.

Our Top Recommended Kashmir Group Tour Itineraries

If you want to experience the beauty of Kashmir in an organized group setting, here are our top recommended itineraries:

The Classic Kashmir Tour (8 Days)

This popular itinerary covers the highlights of Kashmir, including stays on a luxury houseboat and charming mountain resorts. You'll visit the Mughal Gardens, Shankaracharya Temple and Hazratbal Mosque in Srinagar, enjoy a sunset cruise on Dal Lake, and see the snow-capped Himalayas.

Comprehensive Kashmir with Ladakh (14 Days)

For those wanting to explore further, this epic 2-week tour takes you to the lush Kashmir Valley and the dramatic, arid Ladakh region. In Kashmir, you'll experience the same attractions as the Classic tour. Then, travel over mountain passes to Ladakh, with its ancient Buddhist monasteries, palaces and stunning moonscapes. Visit Pangong Lake, a gorgeous turquoise saltwater lake, and see the ruins of former Silk Road outposts.

Kashmir Family Adventure (7 Days)

This action-packed itinerary is ideal if you're looking for an exciting family getaway. In Srinagar, enjoy shikara boat rides, Mughal Gardens and Wular Lake. Head to Gulmarg for gondola rides, hiking and pony trekking. Visit Sonamarg, a picturesque valley town set amid forests and glaciers. Try white water rafting on the Lidder River and stay in an eco-lodge.

What to See and Do on a Kashmir Group Tour Package

A Kashmir group tour package offers a chance to experience this Himalayan region's stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Here are some of the top things you can see and do on a guided tour of Kashmir:

Explore Srinagar

Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, is situated in the Kashmir Valley on the banks of the Jhelum River. You can take a shikara boat ride on Dal Lake, visit the famous Mughal gardens like Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh, and shop for handicrafts, textiles, and dry fruits at Lal Chowk market. The Hazratbal Shrine and Jama Masjid are also popular attractions.

Trek in Sonamarg

Sonamarg, meaning 'meadow of gold,' offers picturesque alpine meadows and snow-capped mountains. It's a popular base camp for trekking and hiking, with trails leading to Thajiwas Glacier, Vishansar Lake, and Gangabal Lake. You may spot wildlife like the Himalayan black bear or the elusive snow leopard.

Experience Pahalgam

Pahalgam, called the 'valley of shepherds,' is a resort town set amidst pine-covered mountains, gushing rivers and grassy meadows. You can go river rafting, angling or horse riding, visit the Aru Valley and Kolahoi Glacier, or trek to Tulian Lake and Sheshnag Lake. The Pahalgam Club offers golfing with stunning mountain views.

Visit Gulmarg

Gulmarg, 'the meadow of flowers,' is a popular ski and snowboarding destination. In summer, you can take a gondola ride up to Kongdori and Apparwat peaks for panoramic views of the Pir Panjal mountains, play golf at the world's highest green golf course, go horse riding, or visit Alpather Lake. The shrine of Baba Reshi, a Muslim saint, is another attraction.

With enchanting natural scenery and outdoor activities galore, a guided tour of Kashmir offers an unforgettable experience exploring the top places to see and things to do in this Himalayan paradise.

Accommodation and Transportation - What's Included in Kashmir Group Tours

Kashmir group tour packages typically include comfortable accommodation and transportation to make your trip enjoyable.

Accommodation

Most Kashmir tours offer hotel stays ranging from 3 to 5 stars. You'll find hotels with beautiful architecture, gardens and mountain views. Some terms may include houseboat stays on Dal Lake or Nagin Lake for a unique experience. Houseboats come with basic facilities and staff to cater to your needs.

Tours provide clean and comfortable homestays, guest houses or cottages for budget-friendly options. These offer a glimpse into the local lifestyle and culture. Some times also arrange camping under the stars in locations like Pahalgam, Sonamarg or Gulmarg.

Transportation

Kashmir Group Tours takes care of all your transportation needs during the trip. You'll travel in comfortable vehicles suitable for the mountain terrain, like SUVs, Tempo Travelers or Mini Coaches. These are great for sightseeing with panoramic views. For smaller groups, some tours use sedans.

Transfers to and from the airport or railway station are arranged. For places not accessible by road, tours may include shikara rides on lakes, cable car rides, or even pony rides. Adventurous times also offer optional day treks and hikes for stunning views.

Conclusion

So there you have it, the top 5 group tour packages for soaking in the scenic splendour of Kashmir. Any of these tours would be a fantastic way for you and your friends or family to experience the best this region offers. Get your tickets booked, pack your bags, and embark on an unforgettable adventure discovering the wonders of Kashmir with a fantastic group of fellow travel companions. The stunning beauty of this place will stay with you long after you return home.