Santosh's Kashmir Trip with Thrillophilia: Seven Days, Six Different Sides of Kashmir

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PNR: BKD9BYQRXNK
Rating: ★★★★★
Travellers: Santosh Kumar, his wife, and their son
Trip Duration: 7 Days | 6 Nights
Trip Date: 25 June 2024 to 1 July 2024
Destination: Kashmir
Package Booked: Best of Kashmir 

When most people think of Kashmir, they picture a single postcard image—snow-capped mountains, wooden houseboats, and peaceful lakes.

What Santosh Kumar and his family discovered during their seven-day journey was that Kashmir is far more diverse than that.

Over the course of a week, they stayed on Dal Lake, wandered through mountain valleys, explored historic gardens, crossed flower-filled meadows, and stood in front of glaciers. Each day brought a completely different landscape, making the trip feel like several holidays rolled into one.

Most importantly, it was a chance for the family to step away from their routines and spend uninterrupted time together in one of India's most beautiful destinations.

Kashmir Started on the Water

The trip began in a way that few family vacations do, with a stay on a traditional houseboat in Srinagar.

Instead of checking into a regular hotel on the first day, Santosh and his family found themselves surrounded by the calm waters of Dal Lake. The pace immediately felt different. There was no rush to begin sightseeing. The family could simply settle in and enjoy the experience.

As the day unfolded, they watched boats glide across the lake and admired the mountains rising in the distance. For many travellers, Dal Lake is one of Kashmir's most iconic attractions. For Santosh's family, it became the perfect introduction to the valley.

The Mughal Gardens, including Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh, showcased Kashmir's royal history and timeless beauty. Walking through perfectly maintained gardens with mountain views in the background felt like stepping into a different era. Stops at Chashme Shahi, Pari Mahal, and the Shankaracharya Temple added even more variety to the experience.

By the time they explored the bustling streets of Lal Chowk in the evening, the family had already seen how Kashmir is full of natural beauty, culture and history.

Every Day Felt Like a New Destination

One of the most memorable parts of the journey was how the scenery unfolded from one day to the next.

Pahalgam welcomed the family with rivers, valleys, and towering mountains. The sound of the Lidder River flowing through the valley became a constant companion as they explored the region. Places like Aru Valley and Betaab Valley felt peaceful and refreshing, offering the kind of scenery that encourages travellers to slow down and simply enjoy the surroundings.

The next chapter of the trip unfolded in Gulmarg.

Known for its rolling slopes and mountain views, Gulmarg offered a completely different atmosphere. The gondola ride quickly became one of the highlights of the day. As the cable car climbed higher, the valley below began to unfold spectacularly. The further they ascended, the more dramatic the views became.

Then came Sonmarg.

It was surrounded by glaciers, snow-covered peaks, and vast open landscapes! The family felt unlike any of the destinations they had visited earlier in the trip. The journey through Sonmarg's meadows and mountain scenery gave the family yet another reason to fall in love with Kashmir.

And just when they thought they had seen every version of the valley, Doodhpathri offered something completely different once again. Known as the "Valley of Milk", Doodhpathri felt calm, open, and untouched. Wide meadows stretched endlessly across the landscape while streams cut through the greenery. 

The Place They Wish They Had Explored Longer

Every trip leaves travellers with one thought:

"We should have spent more time there."

For Santosh and his family, that place was Pahalgam.

Among all the destinations they visited, Pahalgam stood out for its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful surroundings. The family particularly enjoyed exploring Aru Valley, Betaab Valley, and the areas around the Lidder River. Like many mountain destinations, however, travel conditions can sometimes change unexpectedly. Due to local restrictions at the time, the family was unable to visit Chandanwari as originally planned.

While they understood that such decisions are made by local authorities, it left them wishing they had an extra day in Pahalgam to explore even more of the region.

Looking back, Santosh believes that two nights there would have made the experience even better. Sometimes the best compliment a destination can receive is leaving travellers wanting more.

Why Santosh Would Recommend Thrillophilia

While Kashmir provided the scenery, smooth planning helped the family enjoy it without unnecessary stress.

The trip was coordinated by Vaibhav Barjatya and supported by Guest Experience Officer Aman Yadav, who helped ensure that the arrangements remained seamless throughout the journey.

Reflecting on the experience, Santosh shared:

"We enjoyed our Kashmir trip in late June 2024. The Thrillophilia team helped plan my itinerary for the trip, though we wish we could have stayed for two nights in Pahalgam to cover all the points. Unfortunately, we could not visit Chandanwari due to local restrictions from the authorities, but overall, this family trip was fun, relaxing, and we enjoyed it a lot. Thanks to the Thrillophilia team!"

For Santosh, his wife, and their son, the trip became much more than a sightseeing holiday.

It became a week of shared family memories, changing landscapes, peaceful moments on Dal Lake, mountain adventures, and countless conversations inspired by the beauty of Kashmir.

And long after returning home, those memories remain their favourite souvenir from the valley.

Also Checkout: Mohammed Shahrooz's Relaxing Kashmir Trip with Thrillophilia