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Post-Trip Extension: Valley of KashmirOctober 20 – 24, 2009  An emerald jewel surrounded by soaring snow-capped mountains, glacier-fed rivers, and pine forests, Kashmir has been a chosen place of retreat and recreation from the Mughal emperors to the Raj. We hope you will join us after your journey through the cultural tapestry of the Western Himalayas for three days in this natural and spiritual paradise as we discover the wonders surrounding Srinagar and magical Lake Dal.
In the late 16th century, Mughal princes descended into this gentle valley from their winter palaces in the foothills and created exquisite gardens. When the British first arrived the regional maharajah denied them the right to land ownership, so they creatively established themselves in high Victorian style—in clusters of lavish houseboats on the tranquil waters of Lake Dal, with all the urban conveniences of Srinagar accessible along the shores.
This tradition of accommodation continues today and a highlight of our journey is our stay in deluxe houseboats, our base for daily explorations. We travel the lake by hand-rowed wooden boats—shikara—which have long been a cultural symbol of the Kashmir, visiting the photogenic floating markets where vendors softly paddle their over-laden boats, offering both necessities and luxuries: fresh fruit, leather goods, woolens, decorated boxes, silks, teas, and flowers. We also visit the fabled Mughal Gardens set against breathtaking panoramas of mountain ranges and the lake. Here terraced lawns meet the shores of Lake Dal, some cut by flowing canals lined with polished stones, others shaded by leafy trees, and all of them a showcase of bright flowerbeds.
Tuesday, October 20 Delhi to SrinagarFly from Delhi to Srinagar; transfer to your houseboat on Lake Dal; afternoon shikara ride. October 21–22 Mughal gardensVisit to Mughal gardens and floating markets. Friday, October 23 DelhiFly to Delhi; transfer to Radisson Hotel for overnight. Saturday, October 24 Flight to USAIndependent flight to USA and homeward. Rates: $2,980 per person, double occupancy; $3,560 per person, single occupancy
Note: For terms and conditions, air fare, and cancellation policies, please refer to the main expedition.
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