Kashmir Heritage Tour

Srinagar is the summer capital of the state of Jammu and Kashmir and is the ‘Jewel in the Crown’ of the beautiful valley of Kashmir. Bounded by dramatic mountains soaring majestically skyward, the valley is softened by the shimmering waters of the Dal Lakes where generations have come to find peace and relax in the beauty of the sounding countryside. Here you find the timeless gardens of the Mughal Emperors built for sheer beauty and love. The historic city also boasts many ancient shrines and mosques. The most important being the Habba Kadal and Fateh Kadal. Shah-i-Hamdan, who came from Persia in the 13th century, spread the Word of Islam in Kashmir. Khanqah-i-Mualla, on the banks of the Jhelum, where he used to offer prayers, is now a shrine to his memory and is ornately decorated with papier-mâché. Makhdoom Sahib, Patthar Masjid, Jama Masjid and Pir Dastagir are also significant mosques and shrines in the old city.

 

A Heritage Walk

The Old Srinagar City
4 days/3 nights

Highlights: Come with us on a journey of exploration – a journey of discovery – a journey of hidden corners and magnificent vistas. This tour is a delightful extension to any holiday to taste the real Kashmir – the real Srinagar - and to explore a heritage rich and diverse in culture

• Day 1 To Srinagar.
  Morning depart Delhi Domestic Airport for Srinagar. Upon arrival transfer to deluxe Houseboat or Hotel for three nights stay. (Please state preference on the booking form) After lunch relaxing ride on a traditional ‘Shikara’. Visit the floating gardens and glimpse the unique lifestyle of the Lake people.
   

• Day 2 Srinagar
  Delightful morning visit to the famous Mughal Gardens including the ‘Shalimar’ built by Shah Jehangir for his Empress Nur Jahan. After lunch visit a carpet factory to see the ancient craft. Evening special Wazwan dinner – a mouth-watering Kashmiri cuisine .
   

• Day 3 Srinagar
  Morning walking tour of the old city visiting the many mosques and shrines of this ancient capital. Places to visit include the shrine of Shah-i-Hamdan, Budshah Tomb , Patthar Masjid, and the Jama Masjid.
   

• Day 4 To Delhi
  After breakfast transfer to the airport for return flight to Delhi.
  
  

The essence of Old Srinagar lies in its Medieval heritage – a timeless scene still lingers – the city is dissected by a labyrinth of roads lined with burnt brick coloured buildings - their russet hues mellow in the evening light. Bustling bazaars line the way – many dedicated to traditional arts and crafts. Local people, dressed in their traditional garb scurry about their daily life – perhaps lingering to talk to a friend, shop or go to the Mosque for prayer. The old city has many moods – and all are a photographer’s delight! The River Jhelum is spanned by nine bridges and was the catalyst that brought the city to greatness. It was the thoroughfare for commerce and linked the myriad of waterways that brought the lifeblood of trade to all.

This tour will take you to see the highlights of Srinagar and will include the following:
 

The old city also boasts of Kashmir’s many ancient shrines and mosques of which the shrine of Shah-i-Hamdan is the most important. Shah-i-Hamdan, who came from Persia in the 13th C. was responsible for the spread of Islam in Kashmir. Khanqah-i-Mualla, on the banks of the Jhelum, was the very spot where Shah-i-Hamdan used to offer prayers. Upon his death, a shrine, ornately decorated with papier-mache on the walls and ceiling, was built in his memory. Makhdoom Sahib, Patthar Masjid, Jama Masjid and Pir Dastagir are the major mosques and shrines in the old city The view from any of the old city's bridges is wholly and unmistakably Kashmiri. Old brick buildings line the banks and in the muddy water of the River Jhelum ancient doongas are moored along its banks. These boats, with their shingled roofs, are the prototype of Srinagar’s houseboat.

In a lane off Nowhatta Chowk, there are several copper shops – copper tableware is a necessity for every Kashmiri household. Some pieces are simple and plain whilst others are quite exotic with intricate bas-relief and engraving on them. Well appointed shops sell the famous tapestries, shawls and rugs that are famous throughout the world. Kashmiri colours are subtle, almost earthy and reflecting the mellow brickwork and the magnificent colours of the valley in autumn when leaves turn to reds, gold and oranges in a blaze of natures glory.