Kashmir
Freeride Tour
Duration
7 days
Start getting goosebumps, we're going to Kashmir!
Tons of fluffy snow, shaggy monkeys in fir trees, groomed slopes and pure powder freeriding through the forests - all this awaits us in the Himalayas, where we will soon be carving on skis and snowboards!
Kashmiri Fairytale: A Freeride Adventure
A Kashmiri Fairytale
Kashmir is a place where the line between fairytale and reality blurs. Here, the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas stand alongside ancient traditions that live on to this day: men wear pherans, warming themselves with baskets of smoldering coals underneath, and children slide on wooden sleds. And amidst this snowy wonderland, in the shady forests, you can encounter fluffy monkeys perched on fir branches.
We're heading to Gulmarg, one of the world's premier freeride destinations. 2,000 meters of vertical drop, altitudes up to 4,000 meters, views of the eight-thousander Nanga Parbat, and untouched snow. This is a unique opportunity not only to ride in the foothills of the Himalayas, but also to become part of a true Kashmiri fairytale.
We're heading to Gulmarg, one of the world's premier freeride destinations. 2,000 meters of vertical drop, altitudes up to 4,000 meters, views of the eight-thousander Nanga Parbat, and untouched snow. This is a unique opportunity not only to ride in the foothills of the Himalayas, but also to become part of a true Kashmiri fairytale.
Experience the magic of Kashmir: take a boat ride on Dal Lake, the "Venice of Kashmir," settle into a cozy houseboat with breathtaking views of the Himalayas, and immerse ourselves in the local culture by visiting a traditional textile workshop and observing the unhurried pace of Kashmiri life.
Discovering Kashmir
Freeriding in Gulmarg
We will conquer the snowy slopes of Gulmarg: ascend to a dizzying height of 4,000 meters and make unforgettable descents through soft, fluffy snow amidst breathtaking Himalayan landscapes. Before that, we will undergo avalanche safety training and select professional equipment to ensure our skiing is not only enjoyable but also safe.
Off-Road Adventures and Snow Runs
We will embark on a jeep tour through the picturesque surroundings of Gulmarg, try freeriding in forested areas, arrange photo walks through snow-covered cedar forests, and, if we're lucky, encounter fluffy monkeys.
Tour Program
Tour Organization
Tourist Comfort
Medium difficulty level
Transfer between locations
Official tour operator
Group up to 12 people
Ages 12 to 65
7 days
6 nights
Safety training
Ski pass included
Accommodation included
Ski and snowboard rental available
Breakfast and dinner included
Guiding service included
Daily Program
Our tour begins with accommodation on a houseboat on Dal Lake - the Venice of Kashmir - and then takes you to Gulmarg, one of the best freeride resorts in the world. The program includes skiing at altitudes up to 4,000 meters, jeep tours, an avalanche safety lecture, encounters with the region's culture, and walks through snowy forests where you might spot fluffy monkeys. Each day is filled with unique experiences that will allow you to feel the magic of Kashmir.
Kashmir: Freeride Tour with photosafari-travel
Day 1
Kashmiri Venice: First Impressions
- Arrival in Srinagar (via Delhi).
- Transfer to Dal Lake (Kashmiri Venice), check-in to a houseboat.
- Photo walk around the lake area, possibly catching a glimpse of the Himalayas reflected in the water.
Day 2
Road to Gulmarg: The Adventure Begins
- Transfer to Gulmarg.
- Along the way - a visit to a textile shop (opportunity to purchase a traditional Kashmiri pheran).
- Check-in to the hotel, equipment fitting, avalanche safety lecture.
- Photo walk in the forest, searching for fluffy monkeys.
- Free time.
Days 3-4
Conquering the Slopes of Gulmarg
- Breakfast at the hotel.
- Skiing on the slopes of Gulmarg (including ascents up to 4000 m).
- Lunch on the mountain, evening relaxation.
A resort with 1.3 hectares for skiing and the world's highest gondola, lifting to 3980 m. A chairlift and 3 surface lifts are also available. The slopes reach 8 km, with gradients from 10° to 70°, most around 38°.
Day 5
Off-road Tour and Forest Freeride
- Morning jeep tour of the surrounding area.
- Freeriding in the forest.
- Dinner and free time.
Day 6
Final Runs: Farewell to the Slopes
- Final day of skiing.
- Farewell dinner and relaxation.
Tour Organization
Tourist Comfort
Medium difficulty level
Transfer between locations
Official tour operator
Group up to 12 people
Ages 12 to 65
7 days
6 nights
Ski pass included
Safety training
Breakfast and dinner included
Guiding service included
Accommodation included
Ski and snowboard rental available
Day 7
Return to Srinagar
- Departure for Srinagar, a walk or photo session (if time permits).
- Departure for Delhi.
Upcoming Tours
Choose a suitable tour and apply to reserve a spot in the group.
Tour Conditions and Cost
7 Days
Tour Conditions
Kashmiri Fairytale: A Freeride Adventure
Accommodation in Gulmarg
January 16-22, 2025
Applications accepted until January 9, 2025
We will be staying at the Rosewood Hotel in Gulmarg, located at an altitude of 2739 meters in the Himalayas. This hotel is renowned for its exquisite room design, featuring balconies with panoramic views of the Apharwat mountain range and Gulmarg's golf course. Guests can enjoy modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, minibars, and central heating.
The hotel boasts a restaurant serving Kashmiri and international cuisine, as well as a spa and fitness center for relaxation. Its proximity to attractions such as the Gulmarg Gondola, golf course, and ski resort makes it an ideal choice for an active holiday in any season.
The hotel boasts a restaurant serving Kashmiri and international cuisine, as well as a spa and fitness center for relaxation. Its proximity to attractions such as the Gulmarg Gondola, golf course, and ski resort makes it an ideal choice for an active holiday in any season.
What’s included in the tour price
Not included in the tour price
- All tour transfers
- Accommodation in a houseboat on Dal Lake
- Hotel accommodation based on double occupancy
- Breakfasts/dinners at the hotel
- Equipment rental
- Guiding and skiing with a guide
- Ski pass
- Avalanche safety training
- Indian visa
- Travel insurance
- Lunches and snacks
- Flights to Delhi and Srinagar
- Single occupancy supplement (+490$)
- Personal expenses on the road or at the locations
Important Information
- Before your trip: obtain a visa; arrange travel insurance; exchange currency for Indian rupees (INR).
- Consult your doctor about vaccinations and disease prevention; bring a first-aid kit with necessary medications.
- Check out the frequently asked questions and the list of necessary items for the tour at the bottom of the page, in the "Frequently Asked Questions" section.
Price per person
Per person
Over 12 years old
$ 1 250
The Photosafari-travel team
We, the Photosafari team, are a family of road trip enthusiasts and true adventurers, lovers of untrodden paths and new discoveries. Each of our journeys is imbued with a spirit of adventure and an expeditionary atmosphere.
Over 16 years of traveling through unexplored Kazakhstan and dusty corners of the planet, we have shot tons of unique material, including videos that have made Kazakhstan famous worldwide.
Over 16 years of traveling through unexplored Kazakhstan and dusty corners of the planet, we have shot tons of unique material, including videos that have made Kazakhstan famous worldwide.
Booking and Payment Procedure
To reserve your spot on the tour and embark on an exciting adventure in Gulmarg, submit your application and make a 30% prepayment.
Once you confirm your participation, we will issue an invoice for the prepayment and sign a contract. We value our reputation and always fulfill our obligations.
In the event of tour cancellation on our initiative (for example, due to insufficient participants, force majeure, or natural disasters), we guarantee a full refund of the tour cost.
Booking
Contract
Guarantees
Kashmiri Fairytale: A Freeride Adventure
Why Choose Us
A Unique Approach to Comfort and Emotions
We Take Care of Everything
Safety and Health of Tourists
We care about the safety and health of our guests at every stage of the journey, including excursions and accommodation.
Forget boring and harsh tours: only we offer unique photo journeys with well-thought-out itineraries, maximum comfort, and attention to your emotions.
We organize transfers, meals, accommodation, drinking water, showers, internet access, and much more to ensure every participant's comfort.
Unconventional Tour Programs
Convenient Payment and Refund Guarantees
Full Immersion
You will experience not just a trip, but a true immersion in the atmosphere of freedom, beauty, and harmony that reigns in Kashmir.
Konstantin Kikvidze
Co-founder of photosafari.kz
Ekaterina Koshko
Co-founder of photosafari.kz
Unique programs that other companies won't offer. As true adventure lovers, we are happy to share our experience and emotions with our guests.
Choose a convenient payment method for your Kashmir tour. We guarantee a refund in case of unforeseen circumstances.
Tour Cost
Astana
Delhi
Moscow
Frequently Asked Questions
Almaty
How to Get to Delhi
Our journey begins in Delhi, India. Please note that flight tickets are not included in the tour price and must be purchased separately. Our administrators will provide information on suitable dates and flight times.
You can get from Almaty to Delhi by plane, most often with a transfer, but direct charter flights sometimes appear during the season. Flight options:
Cost from 100,000 tenge one way.
The price depends on the airline, time of year, departure date, and booking time.
- Almaty - Astana - Delhi (Air Astana): a convenient option with a short connection in Astana.
- Almaty - Dubai - Delhi (FlyDubai): a popular route with a comfortable transfer in Dubai.
- Almaty - Tashkent - Delhi (Uzbekistan Airways): an option with a transfer in Tashkent.
Cost from 100,000 tenge one way.
The price depends on the airline, time of year, departure date, and booking time.
You can get from Astana to Delhi by plane, most often with a transfer, but direct charter flights sometimes appear during the season. Flight options:
Cost from 90,000 tenge one way.
The price depends on the airline, time of year, departure date, and booking time.
- Almaty - Astana - Delhi (Air Astana): a convenient option with a short connection in Astana. (This seems to be a typo and should likely be Astana - Delhi or similar)
- Almaty - Dubai - Delhi (FlyDubai): a popular route with a comfortable transfer in Dubai.
- Almaty - Tashkent - Delhi (Uzbekistan Airways): an option with a transfer in Tashkent.
Cost from 90,000 tenge one way.
The price depends on the airline, time of year, departure date, and booking time.
Flying from Moscow to Delhi is easy! It's one of the most popular routes, and there are direct flights.
Cost:
Cost:
- Direct flights: from 30,000 rubles one way.
- Flights with a transfer: from 25,000 rubles one way.
We will meet you in Delhi and begin our journey.
Don't worry! "Medium difficulty" means that the tour is suitable for people over 12 years old with average physical fitness and no experience in extreme travel. The main thing is a positive attitude, a willingness to embrace new experiences, and the ability to work in a team. What to expect:
- Several hours of freeriding per day, lunch, and more freeriding. Of course, you can and should ride as much as you want or as your physical condition allows.
- Kashmir is mountainous, so it's important to be prepared for altitude changes and acclimatization. It's best to prepare in advance and acclimatize in our Almaty mountains.
- Freeride experience is desirable, but of course, you can start learning to freeride during our trip.
- Prepare for the tour in advance: running, swimming, and cycling will help you get the most out of the trip!
The number of places on the tour is limited - only 12 participants. To guarantee your spot on this exciting adventure, we recommend submitting your application and making a prepayment now.
For a comfortable and safe vacation in Kashmir, it's important to prepare everything you need in advance. Considering the mountain climate and the specifics of freeriding, we recommend bringing the following:
- Warm and waterproof clothing (jacket, pants, gloves).
- Thermal underwear and fleece clothing for layering.
- Ski or snowboard boots.
- Helmet, goggles, and protective gear for riding.
- Optional freeride equipment (skis or snowboard, avalanche backpack, probe, shovel, and transceiver). Basic equipment (boots, skis, snowboard, poles) is included in the tour price.
- Comfortable warm shoes for walking and warm socks.
- Personal hygiene items.
- Sunglasses and sunscreen (even in winter, the sun is strong in the mountains).
- A first-aid kit with personal medications.
- Passport, visa, insurance policy, tickets, and cash.
For a smooth trip that leaves only pleasant memories, it's important to be aware of some specific features:
Culture and Traditions:
Practical Information:
Additional Tips:
Culture and Traditions:
- Religion: India is a multi-confessional country. Respect the religious feelings of local residents: remove your shoes before entering temples and dress modestly.
- Cows: Considered sacred animals. Do not harm or disturb cows.
- Left hand: Considered "unclean." Try not to touch people or food with your left hand.
- Bargaining is appropriate: Bargain in markets and souvenir shops, but do it with a smile and respect.
Practical Information:
- Visa: Citizens of most countries require a visa to enter India.
- Money: Exchange currency at banks or authorized exchange offices.
- Food and water: Drink only bottled water. Be careful with street food, especially in the first few days.
- Safety: Be mindful of your belongings in crowded places.
- Language: Many languages are spoken in India. English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Additional Tips:
- Vaccinations: Consult a doctor about necessary vaccinations before your trip.
- Insurance: Get medical insurance that covers treatment costs in India.
- Internet: Mobile internet is available almost everywhere, but the speed can vary.
- Listen to your guide: Your guides are professionals who have visited these places before. Follow their recommendations, especially regarding safety.
- Monitor your well-being: If you feel unwell or experience signs of dehydration (headache, nausea, weakness), take care of yourself and inform your guides.
- Maintain order: Clean up after yourself, take care of nature. Leave no trace wherever you go.
- The route schedule may change due to weather conditions. This is done for our safety and at the discretion of the instructor.
The price of the freeride tour in Kashmir includes:
- All tour transfers
- Accommodation in a houseboat on Dal Lake
- Hotel accommodation in double occupancy rooms
- Breakfasts/dinners at the hotel
- Equipment rental
- Guiding and riding with a guide
- Ski pass
- Avalanche safety training
The price of the freeride tour in Kashmir does *not* include:
- Visa to India
- Sports insurance
- Lunches and snacks
- Airfare to Delhi and Srinagar
- Single occupancy accommodation (+ $490)
- Personal expenses on the road or at attractions
The safety of our guests is a priority. Guides undergo appropriate training and familiarize participants with safety rules. It is recommended to always follow the guide's instructions. Accident insurance is not included in the tour price. You can purchase travel insurance yourself.
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