CategoriesTips & Tricks By Shree Renuka Tours

Best Things To Do In Kashmir You Don’t Want to Miss

Every year millions of tourists visit the Kashmir valley to enjoy their summer vacations, winter vacations, honeymoon trips and so many type of vacation could be! But most of worried what to do during Kashmir trip?

Our blog is all about top attractions and things to do in Kashmir valley. Here we give answers to most of your questions about what are the things I should do, activities to undertake and what are the most fun things which should not be missed during your trip to Kashmir.

Shikara Ride

Shikara ride is one of the most recommended activity for any tourist to Kashmir Valley and unarguably count as one of the best things to do in Srinagar. Shikaras are gondola- type light rowing boat dotting the surface of the Dal lake.

They are used for getting back and forth from the houseboats or for longer tours. During Shikara Ride in Srinagar, Kashmir you can hear chirping of birds, snow-capped peak in the background creates a cherished memory for lifetime. You can also shop from floating shops and buy eatables during your ride.

Stay in Houseboat

Apart from luxury hotels and resorts of Kashmir Valley you can enjoy stay in Kashmiri houseboats. These houseboats are designed in pleasant Kashmiri architecture generally having luxury bedrooms, separate dining and lounge rooms, as well as a balcony facing the lake with snow covered mountains in the horizon.

Many houseboats have rooftops that are accessible for leisurely evenings. Some even have floating gardens. Guests are treated to some of the most beautiful views and lavish amenities. These houseboats are exquisite. Unlike Kerala, these houseboats are moored on the lake and do not travel.

Explore Magnificent Gardens

The ‘Heaven on Earth’ Kashmir is blessed with picturesque beauty. The verdant gardens in the valley are proof to its beauty. Visiting Mughal gardens built in charbagh style of architecture by various Mughal princes and courtiers definitely count as one of best places to visit in Kashmir Valley.

Gulmarg Gondola

Gulmarg is nestled at 2650 m above sea level at the base of Mount Apharwat. The gondola (cable car) extends almost to the peak of Apharwat, which is at an elevation of 3980 meters above sea level.

The cable car provides access to 1330 vertical meters of vast snow covered slopes. With the setting-up of Gulmarg Gondola Cable Car Lift from Gulmarg to Apharwat top, Gulmarg has become the second highest lift-served ski resort in the world. The total aerial distance covered by Gulmarg Gondola is 5 kilometers and when you viewed from the cable car it becomes a sight not forgotten easily.

Pony Ride in Kashmir

Scenic landscapes enchant all visitors but sometime your feet might not carry you through the dizzying heights and long distances, in such case ponies take you to theses magical locations.

You can find horse (ponies) in popular holiday resorts especially on those places where some roads are not motor able in highlands. Tourists hire ponies to carry out trekking activity in the highlands of the valley. At pocket friendly costs you can hire the beasts. Make sure to carry food and water along with you on your rides.

Rafting in Kashmir

River rafting has been introduced quite recently in the Kashmir Valley. The challenge of the rafting the turbulent rivers fresh from glacial origins is exhilarating. The icy summits of the Himalayas are the birthplace of some of India’s mighty rivers. these waterways fed by innumerable streams race along meandering boulder strewn river beds, cutting deep gorges and dividing into silvery white rapids.

The sport of white water river rafting calls for a triumph over the swift swirling river as it gushes past. River rafting is mainly popular in the upper reaches of Kashmir where the water is wild and white as it froths and foams, crashing against narrow gorges, rocky outcrops and falls at deep gradients.

River rafting too has been classified and graded in terms of degrees of difficulty. Go for guided tours as these can be threatening for the first timers.

Camping in Kashmir

If you want to enjoy fresh air of the mountains with breathtaking views! No place will be batter from Kashmir! Actually Campers can enjoy the paradisaical beauty in the valley. Go for camping, trekking at places by the rivers on the top of mountains and wherever you heart wants. Savor the natural bliss so abundant here.

The days spent away from chaos of cities, breathing in pure air of mountains, sleeping under the unpolluted skies opening up to inspiring views of the Milky Way is simply unforgettable.

CategoriesTips & Tricks By Shree Renuka Tours

Exploring Chikhaldara Maharashtras Hill Station

Chikhaldara, Maharashtra, India.

In this blog post, we’ll take you on a journey through Chikhaldara—its history, top attractions, travel tips, and even a comparison with other popular hill stations in Maharashtra. We’ll also delve into the dynamics of traveling with friends (a conversation starter that might even make you wonder, “what do friends with benefits mean” in the context of travel?), and provide you with a detailed itinerary to help you plan your next escape.

If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and discover a hidden oasis in Maharashtra, then Chikhaldara should be at the top of your travel list. Tucked away in the Amravati district of the Vidarbha region, Chikhaldara is the only hill station in this part of Maharashtra. With its panoramic views of the Satpura ranges, lush green forests, and fascinating historical roots, it offers a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and tranquility.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, an adventure seeker, a history buff, or simply someone looking for a serene getaway, Chikhaldara has something for everyone. Let’s dive in!

A Glimpse into Chikhaldara: History and Geography

Chikhaldara’s charm lies not only in its breathtaking views but also in its rich history and unique geographical significance. Nestled at an altitude of approximately 1,120 meters, this hill station offers cooler climes and a refreshing break from the tropical heat that dominates much of India.

Historical Roots and Cultural Significance

Chikhaldara is steeped in history. It is believed that the region’s lush landscapes and favorable climate attracted the British during the colonial era, leading to the establishment of coffee plantations that still flourish today. The remnants of colonial architecture and local folklore add an intriguing layer to your visit. For those interested in deep dives into regional history, the local legends and historical sites around Chikhaldara provide ample material to explore. According to the Wikipedia page on Chikhaldara, the region also has links to ancient mythology and local traditions, which makes it a culturally enriching destination.

The Geography That Sets It Apart

What makes Chikhaldara truly unique is its geographical setting. Unlike other hill stations in Maharashtra such as Lonavala or Matheran, Chikhaldara is the sole representative of Vidarbha’s hill station offerings. Its dense forests, sprawling coffee plantations, and the gentle hum of nature make it an ideal retreat for anyone looking to reconnect with the outdoors. The surrounding hills and valleys not only offer a panoramic view but also create a natural amphitheater where the beauty of nature is on full display—be it during sunrise, sunset, or even under the canopy of stars on a clear night.

Getting There: How to Reach Chikhaldara

One of the first questions for any traveler is: “How do I get there?” Chikhaldara might be off the beaten path, but it’s well connected by various modes of transportation.

By Road

The most common way to reach Chikhaldara is by road. If you’re coming from major cities like Nagpur, Mumbai, or Pune, you’ll find that the journey is as much a part of the experience as the destination itself. The scenic drive along winding roads through dense forests and quaint villages is truly memorable. Renting a car or hiring a taxi gives you the flexibility to stop and admire the landscape along the way.

By Train and Bus

Although Chikhaldara does not have a direct railway station, nearby cities like Amravati serve as transit points. You can catch a train to Amravati and then continue your journey by road. Several state-run buses and private operators run regular services from Amravati to Chikhaldara. For detailed train timings and booking options, check out IRCTC or other trusted travel portals.

By Air

If you’re in a hurry or prefer a quicker option, consider flying to Nagpur. From Nagpur, you can hire a cab or take a bus to Chikhaldara—a journey that typically takes around 5 to 6 hours. Despite the longer transit time post-flight, the experience of flying over the vast Indian landscape and then transitioning to the cool, serene environment of Chikhaldara is both dramatic and rewarding.

Top Attractions in Chikhaldara

Scenic Viewpoints

Lush Green Coffee Plantations

Adventure and Nature Walks

Wildlife and Biodiversity

Local Culture and Cuisine

The Dynamics of Traveling: Friends, Family, or Solo?

Traveling to a serene destination like Chikhaldara brings out different facets of companionship. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or with friends, each experience offers a unique perspective.

CategoriesTips & Tricks By Shree Renuka Tours

How To Plan Your Rajasthan Trip?

One of the most visited destinations in India, Rajasthan is one state that represents India most exotically and colorfully. The state is dotted with majestic palaces, sparkling lakes, captivating forts, revered temples, and more that rightly makes it the most integral part of India.

Jaipur

Rajasthan’s capital and home to the crown of India: Hawa Mahal, Jaipur epicentre for any Rajasthan adventure.

For travellers who love history and a tint of modern lifestyle, Jaipur has become a melting pot of both.

A total of 2 days is enough to move in and around the city covering all the major tourist spots like Amer Fort, Jal Mahal, City Palace, Rusirani Village, and experiences like a Hot Air Balloon ride.

Udaipur

Udaipur is the utopia of romance, preferred by couples on their India Honeymoon. If you are visiting it otherwise, the city will surprise you with its plethora of artificial lakes, water palace turned resort, and bicycle rides around the city.

The numerous things to do in Udaipur can be wrapped up in a 2 to 3-day span. If you want to stay here and visit places around it, then, destinations like Kumbhalgarh, Ranakpur, and Chittorgarh will serve you well.

Except for the winter season, July-September is also a good time to visit this place.

Jaisalmer

Best known for its desert camps, Jaisalmer is the golden city of Rajasthan.

Everything existing in its vicinity is covered in sheer gold. With experiences like Camel Safari and village stay, a trip to Jaisalmer takes about a day and a half. And, that’s when you include all its top tourist places like Patwon ki Haveli, Jaisalmer Fort, and Gadisar Lake.

Jodhpur

Jodhpur is the blue city of Rajasthan that brims with cultural tokens. In fact, this city is one of the top places to consider on your trip plan for Rajasthan.

2 days are enough to get hold of the city’s vibe and if you still crave more, you can drive to the nearby Bishnoi Village for a day trip to redefine authenticity.

Ranthambore National Park

For every nature lover on an Indian wildlife adventure tour, Ranthambore National Park is a star.

Famous for its Great Bengal Tigers, Ranthambore provides a monochromatic background to the life of these striped beasts.

A morning tour and an evening tour are enough here to trace the pugmarks and sport a tiger. Furthermore, staying inside the national park amid nature’s ecstasy is also a possibility here.

Pushkar

Pushkar is a famous village best known for its Camel Fair that’s held annually every November. It’s the perfect foreground for dwelling deep into the cultural aspects of the region.

However, it’s not only the culture but the town’s religious relevance too, that makes it a big name in this game.

Bikaner

Bikaner has probably the best architectural places in this entire trip plan for Rajasthan.

Its ornate buildings are one of a kind and its museum display does take one back in time.

A trip to Bikaner can be concluded in a total of 2 days. In, you’ll be able to see the Junagarh Fort, Lalgarh Palace, and even the National Camel Research Institute.

Mount Abu

If you are visiting Rajasthan in summer, Mount Abu will be the only destination not scorching with heat. Set on a rocky plateau, this hill station is best known for its century-old Dilwara Temples. Come here for a day or more to relax and enjoy the breathtaking views.

CategoriesTips & Tricks By Shree Renuka Tours

How to Plan for Chardham Yatra

The Chardham Yatra, comprising four sacred sites nestled in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, India, is a spiritual pilgrimage of immense significance for Hindus. Embarking on this journey requires meticulous planning to ensure a smooth and fulfilling experience. In this guide, we will delve into the intricacies of planning for the Chardham Yatra, covering everything from itinerary preparation to essential tips for a memorable pilgrimage.

History of Chardham Yatra

The Chardham Yatra places, also known as the Char Dham Yatra, holds profound religious significance in Hinduism. It refers to the pilgrimage to the four sacred sites located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. These sites include Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, each associated with different deities in Hindu mythology.

The history of Chardham Yatra dates back centuries, with references found in ancient Hindu scriptures and epics. According to Hindu mythology, undertaking the Chardham Yatra is believed to cleanse one’s soul of sins and lead to spiritual enlightenment. The pilgrimage holds immense importance for devout Hindus, who believe that visiting these sacred sites fulfills their religious duties and earns them blessings from the deities.

Significance of Chardham Yatra

The Chardham Yatra is considered one of the most sacred pilgrimages in Hinduism, attracting millions of devotees from around the world every year. Each of the four sites holds its own significance.

  • Yamunotri: It is believed to be the source of the Yamuna River and is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna.
  • Gangotri: This site marks the origin of the Ganges River and is dedicated to Goddess Ganga.
  • Kedarnath: It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, representing the manifestation of Lord Shiva.
  • Badrinath: This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is one of the 108 Divya Desams, sacred shrines for Vaishnavites.

The Chardham Yatra is not only a religious journey but also a cultural and spiritual experience that brings devotees closer to their faith and heritage.

CategoriesTips & Tricks By Shree Renuka Tours

How to Plan A Perfect Tour of Leh Ladakh

How to Plan a trip to Leh Ladakh really is more of a general question that can be further broken down for a better explanation. In this article, I will divide this question into different categories and provide links to articles where I have detailed the information related to it.

I have been blogging about Ladakh for quite some time; since my first visit there to be honest actually. This website has a long list of articles covering different aspects of visiting Ladakh scattered over numerous pages.

So I thought to add this one front page and keep it sticky more from a navigation point of view. Please take a look at the post below it should answer all your questions about traveling to Ladakh.

How to Prepare for Ladakh Trip

Once you have decided when to go, next in line comes the question of how to prepare. Ladakh is not really a place where you can just pack your bags and go. You will have to seriously consider every aspect of the trip and pack accordingly.

This will include packing the right kind of clothes, getting your vehicle ready, and carrying every essential item that you will need for the trip. Below is a link to articles where I have provided this information in detail.

Family Trip to Ladakh

Not before long, Ladakh was considered a destination only for the adventurous type or motorcycle enthusiasts. It was awarded the nickname of ‘Bikers Paradise’ because it was one of those areas where nobody went.

A trip to Ladakh in many ways was considered a completely off-roading experience. These were the times when Ladakh was just a name that people read in the books, a name that was not even remotely related to vacations.

The horizon of tourism in Ladakh has much changed in the last few years. The number of people visiting here increases with each passing year and the place is slowly getting developed as a tourist destination.

CategoriesCreative By Shree Renuka Tours

Historical sites in Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Every day felt the same. Work, home, sleep, repeat. I was tired of this routine and needed a break. I had hoped to visit the Andaman and Nicobar Islands for many years. I had seen beautiful pictures and heard amazing stories about these islands. They looked like paradise with their clean beaches and blue waters. I kept telling myself that someday, I would visit that place. Then, finally, it happened. So, when I got my leave approved, I did not think twice. I booked my trip to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands right away. I was so excited! This was my chance to see a beautiful part of India I had always desired to explore. I got my bags ready for this much-awaited trip. I did not know it then, but this trip would be more than just a holiday. It would be a journey I would never forget.

Arrival in Port Blair

After a late-night flight from Ahmedabad with a brief stopover of around 3 hours in Chennai, we landed at Veer Savarkar Airport in Port Blair early in the morning. I had pre-booked an arrival transfer from the airport to the Da Bay Inn hotel in Port Blair. The moment I stepped out of the airport – the fresh and unspoiled vibe of these islands bowled me over. Availing an early check-in and good brunch – we crashed onto the bed for some much-needed rest, especially since we had been awake the entire night.

Port Blair to Swaraj Dweep Island

we started quite early in the morning to catch a ferry to Swaraj Dweep Island. We had booked Makruzz Ferry, which departs Port Blair at 6 am and reaches Havelock Island at around 730 am. Before heading out oh yes, we asked the hotel to pack our breakfast so we could have the energy we needed for the day ahead. The two-hour trip was amazing for the senses—the salty sea air, the vast Bay of Bengal, and the excitement of what was coming next.

Scuba Diving – An Underwater Adventure

The dive took around 20 minutes, but it felt like I was discovering a brand-new world! Before entering, we learned some basic hand signals to communicate underwater. It was like learning a secret language! Once we were under the water with the instructor, it was amazing. Brightly coloured fish were swimming all around us. The coral reefs were like underwater gardens, full of life and colour. I even saw an octopus lazing around! The weightless feeling was incredible. It was like floating in space but surrounded by beautiful sea life instead of stars. When we came back up, we were constantly chatting about all the things we saw. Even though it was just 20 minutes, the memory of that dive will stay with me forever.

Exploring Elephant Beach

We took an early morning speed boat ride to the quiet Elephant Beach —just a 20-minute ride from Havelock Island. As we got closer, the white sand and clear waters welcomed us. But the real beauty was underwater—a colourful world of marine life ready to be explored. What makes this beach special is its coral reef. It starts in very shallow water, making it easy to see the colourful underwater world even from the surface. Enjoy a range of water sports like parasailing, snorkelling, jet skiing, glass bottom boat rides, and undersea walking. The beach offers more than just water sports. We enjoyed walking along the shore, collecting unique shells, and simply relaxing under the sun. The lush green forests behind the beach create a beautiful backdrop, making it feel like a true tropical paradise.

CategoriesTips & Tricks By Shree Renuka Tours

Most Picked 7 Days Itinerary For Your Kashmir Trip

A week-long trip to the Kashmir Valley is sufficient to cover the major hill stations and tourist attractions. Curating a well-planned itinerary is all you need to have a fun and satisfying trip. But it is the most confusing thing due to sometimes lack of proper knowledge, and the fear of missing places. While doing this, keep in mind that it is according to your preferences, interest, activities you would like to do etc. Kashmir has many valleys starting from Aru to Betaab, many hill stations such as Pahalgam, Sonmarg etc. You can not choose between these places hence having a schedule that caters to your plans is essential. You can also take help of these well designed Kashmir tour packages to plan your own itinerary as per your choice.

Here, we have created a 7 day itinerary for you that is also one of the most picked ones for a Kashmir Trip.

Day 1: Arrive in Srinagar

The most convenient way to reach Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu & Kashmir would be by a flight. They are quite affordable and would save some time. After landing at the airport, take cab or taxi service to reach the hotel. Most of the tour operators in Kashmir include these services in their packages, if you opt for them. After that, take some time to relax and rest, clearing all the jet lag.
Have a local Kashmiri dish in your lunch and relish it. Visit Dal Lake the major tourist place of Srinagar and enjoy Shikara ride there. Spend the evening exploring the nearby markets. You can stay there in a houseboat and enjoy the beautiful sunset view. Tasting kashmiri cuisine is something you can do everyday. Have an authentic Kashmiri dinner at night and call it a day.

Day 2: Sonmarg

Wake up to the beautiful view from your stay in a houseboat at Dal Lake. After having your breakfast, head out to Sonmarg, the beautiful hill station and a small town of Kashmir. The distance between Srinagar to Sonmarg is 80 kilometres and it would take 2.5 hours to cover it. Once you are there, you will see why it is loosely translated as “meadows of gold”. The place will mesmerise you to your core. It is breathtaking with its scenic beauty and adventurous activities that are available.
Some of the places to visit in Sonmarg are Thajiwas Glacier where you can have a pony ride up to there. A picnic with your family is a perfect choice near Krishnasar lake. A small trek to the lake is thrilling. A shopping spree in Sonmarg Market or Main Road Market, Thajiwas Park Market can be enjoyed. Stay in sonmarg in a hotel or guesthouse that night. Relax and rejuvenate for the next day.

Day 3: Gulmarg

Spend day three of your trip in Gulmarg. Gulmarg is 125 kilometres away from Sonmarg. Start the road trip a little early in the morning as it would take about 3.5 hours to reach there. Regular buses run on scheduled time. In Gulmarg, you can do skiing, snowboarding, skating etc. The hill station is famous as a skiing destination globally. Gulmarg Gondola, the largest cable car ride is a must-have experience. It is done in 3 stages. Click stunning pictures here. Some of the places that you visit when you are in Gulmarg are Apharwat Peak, Outer Circle Walk, Alpather Lake, etc.
After enjoying a gorgeous sunset in the evening, head out to your hotel and relax for the night. Sleeping for a long enough amount of time is not optional as everyday involves long distance walking.

Day 4: Pahalgam

Your next place on the list is Pahalgam, the valley of shepherds. Covering a distance of 172 kilometres from Sonmarg, you have to start early to reach there in about 5 hours. You can not miss this stunning town of Kashmir. The place is full of lush meadows, streams with sparkling and crystal clear water and peaks in the background. River rafting in Lidder river is the perfect activity for every thrill-seeker.
You have slow walks along the edges of it. The place is known for sightseeing. Celebrated as a famous Golfing destination, you can play golf here and take golfing lessons too. Mamaleshwar temple is a Hindu temple where you can go to add a religious aspect to the trip. After having dinner, stay in Pahalgam to explore the nearby places the next day.

Day 5: Betaab valley & Nearby Places

Starting the day in Pahalgam, you can visit nearby places. First tourist place would be Betaab Valley, renamed after the hit movie ‘Betaab’ starring Sunny Deol and Amrita Singh.
Located at just 15 kilometres from Pahalgam, the place is a base camp for many treks.
After soaking in the beauty of Betaab, visit another beautiful valley called as Aru Valley.
Where you can enjoy fishing in Aru river, river rafting, sightseeing, photography, horse rides etc. Tarsar Marsar trek starts from here. You can set up picnics and pitch camps to enjoy the surroundings. Chandanwadi is unmissable which is the starting point of the religiously famous Amarnath Yatra. Come back to your hotel in Pahalgam to relax for the night.

Day 6: Back to Srinagar

Spend the morning enjoying the scenic views of the place and you can visit Tulian Lake where you can meditate and do light yoga. Return to Srinagar in the evening and you will make it there by night. It would take about 2.5 hours to cover the distance of 90 kilometres between Pahalgam to Srinagar.

Day 7: Explore Srinagar

Dal Lake is not the only thing to explore in Srinagar. After relaxing for the whole night, you can spend the last day of your trip visiting other attractions of Srinagar. It is famous for its Mughal Gardens which were constructed by Shah Jahan. Visit Nishant Garden, Pari Mahal Garden, Shalimar Gardens. You can give a chance to Indira Gandhi Tulip Garden and it is worth it. By evening, you can scroll around in the markets to buy things that are Kashmir-specific such as saffron, Pashmina shawls and other souvenirs to take back home as a memory.
After having a fun and peaceful trip in kashmir, you are ready to go home with memories of a lifetime. Book a cab to the Srinagar Airport and Say goodbye to this piece of heaven on Earth.