Embark on the Kashmir Textile & Sufi Trails, a journey through the timeless artistry and spiritual heritage of the valley. Discover exquisite Pashmina weaving, intricate Kashmiri embroidery, and the soulful Sufi traditions that shape the region’s rich cultural tapestry. A voyage of beauty, craft, and devotion awaits.
Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar – Shalimar Bagh, Shah-i-Hamdan Mosque & Sufi Music Evening
● Morning: Arrival & Welcome
○ Arrive at Srinagar Airport; meet your guide for a warm welcome.
○ Transfer to Karan Mahal and settle into your rooms with a traditional Kashmiri welcome drink.
● Late Morning to Early Afternoon: Shalimar Bagh & Shah-i-Hamdan Mosque
○ Shalimar Bagh (“Garden of Love”): Built in 1619 by Mughal Emperor Jahangir for his wife Noor Ja-han, this terraced garden is known for its fountains, pavilions, and lush lawns.
○ Shah-i-Hamdan Mosque: Marvel at the 14th-century wooden interiors, ornate papier-mâché dec-orations, and immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere that highlights Kashmir’s Sufi heritage.
● Afternoon Tea at Chaijai ○ Visit Chaijai, a boutique tea lounge celebrating Kashmiri culture through handcrafted décor, textile displays, and art. Enjoy an array of local snacks, including Sheermal (sweet bread) and small plates of regional delicacies, perfectly paired with their signature teas. [ payment as per actuals, on direct basis]
● Evening: Sufi Musical Performance & Dinner at Karan Mahal ○ Experience an authentic Kashmiri Sufi music program in the lawns of Karan Mahal (weather per-mitting). Let the mystical melodies of santoor, rabab, and traditional percussions transport you into Kashmir’s spiritual essence. ○ Afterwards, indulge in a relaxed dinner at Karan Mahal, soaking up the royal ambiance of this herit-age property. Overnight: Karan Mahal, Srinagar or similar
Day 2: Markets of Zaina Kadal & Maharaj Gunj, Hazratbal Shrine & Shikara Ride
● Morning: Zaina Kadal & Maharaj Gunj ○ After breakfast, visit the historic spice and textile markets. Browse colorful displays of handwoven fabrics, Pashmina shawls, and Sozni-embroidered pieces. Interact with artisans in their shops, of-fering you insight into centuries-old weaving and embroidery traditions.
● Afternoon: Hazratbal Shrine ○ Continue to the Hazratbal Shrine, a revered Sufi site located on the banks of Dal Lake. Learn about its significance to the local community, while admiring the shrine’s tranquil setting.
● Early Evening: Shikara Ride on Dal Lake ○ Embark on a Shikara ride to experience the iconic Dal Lake scenery at dusk. Sip on steaming Kash-mir Kehwa and nibble on Sheermal as you soak in the lake’s gentle serenity and listen to stories of local life.
● Evening: Wazwan Dinner at Karan Mahal ○ Savor an authentic Wazwan feast at Karan Mahal. Prepared by a skilled Waza (head cook), each course showcases unique cuts of lamb and traditional Kashmiri spices—an immersive way to taste the region’s celebrated culinary heritage. Overnight: Karan Mahal, Srinagar or similar
Day 3: Nishat Bagh & Leisure Day
● Morning: Nishat Bagh (“Garden of Pleasure”) ○ Constructed in 1633 by Asif Khan (brother of Noor Jahan), Nishat Bagh is a splendid terraced gar-den on the eastern bank of Dal Lake. Enjoy a peaceful stroll among the symmetrical flowerbeds, fountains, and majestic Chinar trees.
● Afternoon: Free for Shopping & Leisure ○ Spend the remainder of the day exploring Srinagar at your own pace. You may revisit local markets, shop for Pashmina shawls, or relax within the tranquil environs of Karan Mahal. ○ Should you wish to add any additional activities (such as a Papier-Mâché workshop or another craft visit), we’d be happy to arrange that upon request.
● Evening: Dinner at Karan Mahal ○ Gather for a comfortable evening meal at Karan Mahal, recapping the day’s highlights with your fellow travelers. Overnight: Karan Mahal, Srinagar or similar
Day 4: Departure
● Morning: Farewell to Kashmir
○ After breakfast, bid adieu to the enchanting valley.
○ Transfer to Srinagar Airport for your onward journey, carrying cherished memories of Kashmir’s timeless gardens, vibrant markets, and soulful Sufi traditions.
Included:
1. Accommodation: Karan Mahal or similar on MAPAI Basis – (breakfast & dinner included)
2. Transportation (4 Days) on AC Toyota Innova Crysta
3. Optional Supplements a) Sufi Music Evening (Karan Mahal Lawns) b) Traditional Wazwan Dinner at Karan Mahal c) Accompanying Local Guide d) Entrance Fee (Mughal Gardens, etc.) e) Shikara Ride on Dal Lake (1 Hour) f) Kehwa & Sheermal during Shikara Ride
Excluded:
Flights: • International and domestic airfare.
Taxes and Fees: • GST or any other applicable government taxes on the total tour cost. • Monument camera/video fees (if applicable).
Personal Expenses: • Laundry, minibar charges, and incidental expenses at the hotels.
• Spa treatments and wellness services not included in the itinerary.
Gratuities: • Tips for guides, chauffeurs, and hotel staff. Insurance:
• Travel and medical insurance. Additional Meals and Activities:
• Any additional meals, beverages, or activities not explicitly mentioned in the itinerary.
Other: • Any services or inclusions not specified under the "Inclusions" header.
Lufthansa City Center