Coined “A Paradise on Earth” by one of the early Mughal emperors and a favourite summer escape for the British Raj, Kashmir still captures the hearts of modern day travellers with its magnificent Himalayan peaks, tranquil lakes, untouched wilderness and friendly open people.

To coincide with the height of India’s summer, specialist Tour Operator to India, Indus Tours have introduced two new escorted group tours up into Kashmir to enjoy its wonderfully clement weather, serene waterways and lush green foothills.

Commencing in the ancient lakeside town of Srinagar, with its colourful mosques and temples, formal Mughal gardens and intriguing old city, guests get to experience the beauty of the city’s waterways firsthand staying in the beautifully ornate houseboats (which were built to house British‘Days of the Raj’ holidaymakers) and cruising the sights by shikara (Kashmiri row boat). Both tours then head further afield to experience village life and the beauty of the surrounding countryside.

The first of the two tours, ‘Escape in Kashmir’ takes place from 4 – 15 June 2008 and will be escorted by Royal Geographic Society fellow, Joan Pollock. This trip includes a fascinating water safari along the backwaters of the Jhelum River to a majestic Pir Panjal mountain backdrop, two nights camping at a picturesque spot on Lake Mansabal with its myriad of birds and two nights in the peaceful foothill village of Gulmarg which just happens to sport the highest golf course in the World!

Accompanied by Kashmiri-philes Ian and Penny Fleming, ‘The Vale of Kashmir – A Secret Paradise’ tour then takes place from 14 to 23 June 2008. Also covering Srinagar in detail, it gives travellers the option of going to Gulmarg or to the caravan road town of Kargil to see the famous Mulbeck statue with its avid followers of devotees.

source:http://www.easier.com/view/Travel/Holidays/article-166335.html