Offbeat Experiences: "Exploring the Beauty of Autumn Kashmir"

The Autumn Kashmir Tour invites adventurers to delve into the captivating splendor of India's crown jewel, the Kashmir Valley, during its most magical season. As the warmth of summer yields to the crisp autumn air, the valley transforms into a stunning mosaic of vibrant hues. Participants will have the chance to witness the striking contrast of fiery red Chinar trees set against the majestic Himalayan peaks. From the tranquil shores of Dal Lake to the charming villages nestled among orchards, every corner of Kashmir provides a perfect backdrop for capturing the essence of autumn. Guided by knowledgeable experts, this tour not only grants access to some of Kashmir's most iconic landscapes but also offers insights into the region's rich culture and heritage. It's a journey that promises to inspire creativity and leave adventurers with indelible memories of Kashmir's unmatched beauty.

Key Features of our Trip

• The group size will range from a minimum of 8 participants to a maximum of 10 participants, all mentored by Jennifer, based on a first-come, first-served basis.

• Embark on a meticulously planned 6-night/7 -day journey to explore the corners of Kashmir thoroughly, ensuring that every opportunity to experience its beauty is seized without rushing through.

• The trip departs from Srinagar, with participants transferred in comfortable Tempo Traveller throughout the tour and the drop will be at Srinagar airport. Srinagar airport is well-connected by flights and roads, and airport pick-up and drop-off services are provided.

• Accommodation in Srinagar will be provided in a cozy hotel on a twin sharing basis.

• Accommodation in different parts of Kashmir will be provided in Guest Houses/Hotels on a Twin sharing basis.

• All meals, including breakfast, lunch, tea, and dinner, will be provided from lunch on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 7 in Srinagar.

• An experienced professional tour leader will accompany the group throughout the journey.

• Visiting local homes will enable the group to gain insights into the local culture and sample some traditional dishes.

• All necessary permits for travel on the route will be arranged.

• First aid kits will be available for any emergencies.

• Strict adherence to COVID protocols will be ensured, following the guidelines of the UT of Kashmir at the time of the tour.

Detailed Itinerary Day Wise

• 8th November- Day -1 (Saturday) - Participants reach Srinagar by taking the morning flights from their respective locations. Participants are expected to reach max by 11AM to 12 Noon. We will have one tempo traveler leaving the Airport by 12 Noon. Participants are expected to reach before that time. After lunch, we visit some points of Srinagar for the autumn colors. Overnight in Srinagar Hotel.

• 9th November - Day -2 (Sunday) - Early morning Shikara ride for an hour. Then we start after breakfast and leave for Gurez. Reach Dawar town in Gurez Valley after crossing Razdan Pass by late afternoon. Overnight in Dawar Hotel.

• 10th November - Day -3 (Monday) - On this day, we travel from Dawar town of Gurez to Tulail Valley. Explore around and then overnight in Dawar.

• 11th November - Day -4 (Tuesday) - We make our way back to Srinagar on this day via Ganderbal and Manasbal. We stay at Manasbal till the falling light fades away. Overnight in Srinagar Hotel.

• 12th November - Day -5 (Wednesday) - On this day, we first visit areas around Dal Lake for Autumn colors early in the morning. Then after breakfast visit one of the gardens of Srinagar. Then drive our way to Kokernag. Enroute we visit Bijbehara, Martand, Verinag and Achabal. Overnight in Kokernag Hotel or Government Guest House.

• 13th November - Day -6 (Thursday) - This day after our early morning visit to Kokernag garden, we start after breakfast and drive to Aharbal. Drive back to Srinagar. Overnight in Houseboat.

• 14th November - Day -7 (Friday)- After having breakfast at Hotel, the tempo traveler drop us at Srinagar airport at 9AM and we fly out to our respective destinations with beautiful memories of this beautiful Autumn Kashmir Tour.

Note: November is the ideal month for experiencing Autumn colors in Kashmir, and the tour date is scheduled based on the parent company thEscape's four years of experience in organising Landscape Photography tours to Autumn Kashmir. However, the autumn colors are entirely dependent on the local weather conditions. Participants should be aware of these possibilities before signing up and approach the trip with flexibility. Refunds and negative comments will not be accepted during or after the tour. The aim is to overcome challenges to capture unique images of the area within the safe and favourable conditions provided by nature.

Package Cost

Rs. 45,000 per person

(Ex-Airports Twin sharing in Hotels)

Prices quoted above are exclusive of GST of 5%.

Single Supplement - 30% Extra

What is included

• All accommodations at Srinagar on twin sharing basis in a deluxe property.

• All accommodations in Kashmir in Guest Houses/Hotels in Twin Sharing Basis

• All transfers will be in one Tempo Traveler.

• Airport transfers to and from Srinagar Airport is included.

• All meals will be provided, including breakfast, lunch, evening tea, and dinner from lunch on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 7.

• An experienced tour leader will accompany the group for the entire tour.

• A first aid kit will be available.

• All Entry tickets of Gardens.

• Permits for the entire tour are included.

Exclusions

• Travel to Srinagar and return journey from Srinagar to your destination.

• Accommodation and meals during transit from your destination to and from Srinagar.

• Breakfast on Day 1, and Lunch and Dinner on Day 7.

• Any additional meal expenses incurred during the tour, such as delayed meals due to photography or travel requirements, where participants opt to purchase food from an external source.

• Personal expenses like tips, laundry, or similar.

• Costs of any food or beverages purchased by participants during travel between locations.

• Mineral water bottles. (We recommend participants to avoid plastic bottles and carry their own refillable insulated bottles).

• Additional expenses for extra food or beverages, excluding hard drinks at high altitudes, which are not encouraged for participants.

• Any medical emergency costs for participants.

• Any additional costs incurred due to unforeseen circumstances like civil unrest, weather disruptions, or other events beyond our control that result in an increased duration of the tour.

FAQ's

1. What are the terms of Payment and Booking Procedure?

Booking Amount - Rs. 15,000 +5% GST(Rs. 750) = Rs. 15,750 at the Time of Confirmation.

Final Payment - Rs. 35,000 +5% GST(Rs. 1750) = Rs. 36,750 45 days before the Departure Day, i.e. by 24th September, 2025.

The prices mentioned above include a 5% GST and may be adjusted in case of any change in the GST rate due to a government directive. An invoice will be issued for every payment made by the participants.

If you wish to make a booking using the Razorpay Payment Gateway, kindly contact us to receive a payment link. Please note that gateway charges of 2% of the transaction fee plus 18% GST on that 2% amount will apply.

2. What is the Cancellation and Refund Policy?

• If a cancellation is made 60 days before the Departure date, specifically on or before September 8th, 2025, a 50% refund of the Advance Amount will be provided.

• Cancellations made between 60 days before the departure date and 45 days before the Departure date, meaning between September 8th, 2025 and September 24th, 2025, will result in No Refund of the Advance Amount.

• If a cancellation is made between 45 days before the departure date and the Departure Date, i.e., between September 24th, 2025 and November 8th, 2025, there will be No Refund of the Full Amount of the Trip (assuming the final payment was made by September 24th, 2025).

• Participants who do not make the final payment by September 24th, 2025, and cancel their participation between September 24th, 2025, and November 8th, 2025, will receive No Refund of the Advance Amount.

• In the event of a trip cancellation by the organizer due to a surge in Covid cases, a lockdown, or a participant testing positive in RTPCR, a Full Refund of the Advance Amount or Full Payment will be issued. The organizer will not withhold any amount, although participants may choose to keep the amount as a deposit for a future trip with One Outdoor Human.

• If there are less than 6 participants enrolled, there will be an Increased cost per participant or a Full Refund of the tour amount if the cancellation is due to insufficient enrolments by the organisers.

• In the case of a cancellation by the organizer for ANY reason (including insufficient participants, reasons beyond control, or others), there will be No Refund of the flight charges booked by the participants. Participants are advised to book flights with zero cancellation policies. Those uncertain about the tour status can contact One Outdoor Human up to 30 days before the tour starts.

• If a participant fails to deposit the full tour amount by the specified date, their seat will be opened for others to enroll. The deposited advance will be forfeited and not refunded. However, if the participant finds a replacement, the amount will be adjusted accordingly.

• The GST component of any payments made will not be refunded in any scenario mentioned above.

• Any potential refunds from the organiser will be processed one month after the tour ends, by December 14th, 2025.

  
  

3. Tipping

Given the considerable effort the support staff invests in ensuring our comfort and well-being, we encourage each participant to show their appreciation through a tip at the end of the trek or the tour. While it's not mandatory, this gesture greatly acknowledges their hard work and dedication. Thank you for considering it.

4. What are the precautions to be kept in mind as it is a high altitude tour and photography during the same becomes difficult? How much Cold is it going to be in November?

Firstly, a Tour at high altitudes, especially for exploring, is designed for participants who are both mentally and physically robust. We prefer participants with previous high-altitude experience, but we also welcome newcomers since this tour involves vehicle travel and no trekking. Additionally, the tour won't exceed altitudes of 2500 meters for a stay, making it relatively easy. However, participants must meet the physical fitness requirement. With the excellent hospitality from my travel partners during this tour, I'm confident participants will enjoy the experience. As the saying goes, "If there is a WILL, there is a WAY." Therefore, mental strength and physical fitness are essential for this unique experiential tour.

Temperatures will begin to drop in November in the Kashmir region, and snow may start to fall. Participants must ensure they are properly dressed with appropriate layers of woollens, thermals, down jackets, gloves, and woollen socks to prevent any mishaps. Staying hydrated is also crucial. Furthermore, Kashmir's autumn is unpredictable due to weather and other factors, so we might adjust the itinerary or skip locations to prioritize participants' well-being. The tour leader's decision will be final, and the team must comply with it. No refunds will be issued in such cases. We will embark on this tour with determination and passion, and I'm confident the team will achieve great success and take back excellent memories of Autumn in Kashmir.

5. What can be anticipated regarding Logistic Support? How challenging will it be and are there any specific details in the itinerary?

Considering this as an Offbeat Experiential Tour, below are some key points to help you comprehend what to expect and the level of difficulty of the tour-

• As the focus will be on locations, participants will engage in day-long travels. Consequently, they are expected to rest during designated group times.

• Despite factors beyond our control, we strive to maintain consistent sleep and wake times to experience the optimal light for exploring a place. Participants are required to adhere to these timings.

• This is a group tour where sharing rooms with strangers, often meeting them for the first time, is common. Participants should approach this situation with a sporting attitude.

• Most stays in unique locations will be in Guest Houses with basic facilities. It is important for participants to value the location rather than focus on the accommodation. Keep in mind that the accommodations provided are the best available for that specific location during that season. Participants are expected to appreciate and respect this. However, participants have the option to bring their own linen or sleeping bags.

• In hotels/home stays situated in remote areas, heating may not be provided. Although the rooms are warm, guests are advised to dress in layers or use warmers to stay warm, as heaters might not be accessible.

• Food served in remote offbeat locations or based on seasonal availability will be basic. Mainly comprising simple vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes as per what's locally available. The menu decision lies with the travel partners who understand the terrain and can quickly serve suitable meals.

• While traveling in the Himalayas in any season, the itinerary may be altered due to circumstances such as road closures, snowfall, landslides, etc. It is important for participants to be aware of this possibility, as a place or two may be omitted or added beyond our control.

Participants are advised to set realistic expectations and comprehend the tour's level of difficulty as its an offbeat tour. Failure to adhere to the guidelines and rules of the tour, creating a negative atmosphere for others, the group leader, or the local support system, will result in a warning and expulsion from the tour without a refund. Approach this tour with a positive and open mindset, and excel in the experiences.

6. What are the rules and protocols to be followed during the tour?

• Participants must avoid conflicts during the tour. Any issues with other participants, whether related to anything, should be addressed to the tour organisers for resolution.

• For logistical concerns, participants are advised to follow the standard procedure of contacting the hotel helpdesk or the Travel Partner during the tour. If issues persist, participants can seek assistance from the organisers for resolution.

• Littering, such as leaving plastic bottles or wrappers, is strictly prohibited during the tour. Participants are expected to dispose of waste appropriately at designated locations.

• Participants are responsible for handling their personal belongings.

• Participants may consume alcohol during the evening sessions in moderation. Alcohol should be brought from the participants' respective airports, as it may not be readily available in Kashmir though we don't encourage its consumption in high altitude.

• Individuals choosing to venture away from the group do so at their own risk, and the tour organizers will not be liable for any mishaps.

• In the event of skipping any destinations due to factors beyond control, such as roadblocks or weather conditions, alternative arrangements will be provided. Any additional costs incurred will be the responsibility of the participants.

  
  

7. What are the minimum and maximum participant requirements, and what is the consequence if the minimum number of participants is not met for the tour?

We require a minimum of 4 participants for the tour. If the minimum number is not met, we will proceed with the tour but there will be an additional cost per participant.

8. What happens if a participant needs to leave the trip due to an emergency? Will the fee be refunded, and arrangements be made for their return to Srinagar and their destination?

If a participant needs to leave the trip unexpectedly, there will be no refund provided. Additionally, the participant will be responsible for covering the cost of arranging transportation back to Srinagar and their original destination.

9. What level of fitness is necessary for this trip? Does it involve Trekking or Long Walks?

Any individual planning to visit mountainous regions, particularly for exploration, should possess a basic level of fitness to engage in daily activities during the tour. While our trip primarily consists of driving tours and does not entail full-day hikes or treks, there may be instances where participants have to walk to reach specific vantage points for viewing a scene. Therefore, participants should be physically fit for such occasions. In addition to maintaining a minimum level of fitness, participants are advised to bring along any necessary medications and an ample supply to prevent any unforeseen circumstances. If experiencing any difficulties, individuals should take a break and proceed at a pace that suits their physical condition best. Participants are also required to carry their own medical and first aid kits. It is the participant's responsibility to inform the staff of any pre-existing medical conditions or disabilities that could impact their ability to participate in the trip.

10. What Age Group is Suitable for the Trip and Can Participants Bring Children?

Given that this is an offbeat tour, it is recommended to bring children only if they can keep up with the pace of the trip. Children under 15 years old will not be permitted on the tour due to its high altitude.

11. Will the organizers use the photos taken by the participants or of the participants for Promotional Purposes?

Yes, by signing up for the trip, participants also agree to allow One Outdoor Human to use certain images captured of or by them, as well as any artwork, with proper credit given to the artists, on their website and social media platforms.

12. Under what circumstances does the organizer have the right to cancel a member's participation during the trip?

If any participant engages in misbehaviour or misconduct during the trip, such as causing distress to fellow traveler's, damaging property, sexual harassment, or any form of misconduct, they will be removed from the trip without a refund and will be responsible for their own return costs. The Group Leader's decision is final in these cases to maintain the group's reputation. Participants are expected to be respectful to hotel staff, drivers, and support personnel. Disrespectful behavior towards them will result in a warning from the group leader, with repeated offenses leading to expulsion from the tour. We have a strict policy against misbehavior under the influence of alcohol. Participants should maintain discipline and avoid spreading negativity among fellow travelers. Violations will result in warnings and potential expulsion from the tour without a refund, with the participant covering their return expenses.

13. In the event that odd numbers result from the Male Female Ratio when assigning twin sharing to participants, what should be done?

If this situation arises, the organizer will provide the most suitable solution, ensuring that twin sharing is never allocated to individuals of the opposite sex.

14. Is there any Mobile connectivity in Kashmir?

Mobile connectivity in Kashmir is on and off in remote areas. Airtel and Jio postpaid services are available.

15. What is the total number of individuals accompanying the tour participants?

Jennifer will be the travel partner, in addition to the support staff.

16. Policy on the Use of Psychotropic Substances, Alcohol, and Smoking During the Tour

The use of psychotropic substances (drugs) is strictly prohibited during the tour. Anyone found in possession of or consuming these substances will be immediately dismissed from the tour. Smoking is permitted, but participants are asked to ensure that it does not disturb others. For those who have not opted for a Single Supplement, it is recommended that all participants discuss smoking with their roommates. Alcohol consumption is allowed, and it is advised to drink in moderation that suits one's tolerance levels without causing any issues.

17. Are there any other Terms and Conditions that need to be considered?

• It is essential for participants to understand that this is an offbeat tour, requiring a degree of flexibility. The daily itinerary serves as a general guide only, and we cannot be held liable for delays due to factors such as international or domestic flight issues, strikes, government regulations, weather conditions, or natural disasters. In such instances, we will offer suitable alternatives through mutual agreement, with any additional costs to be covered by the participants.

• If a participant fails to arrive in Srinagar by 1 PM on November 8th, 2025, it will be assumed that they have canceled the tour, resulting in a "No Show" status with no refund provided.

• We reserve the right to adjust pricing on our website due to external factors beyond our control. However, we strive to maintain the current rates. Minor increases in hotel prices or related expenses will not affect confirmed bookings made with a deposit.

• We strongly advise participants to obtain medical and unforeseen event insurance before embarking on this or any trip.

• The tour dates and itinerary are fixed, tailored for best of for Autumn Colors of Kashmir, with no alterations possible to accommodate individual preferences.

• Participants must adhere to photography restrictions in certain areas and present government-issued IDs at checkpoints. It is essential to keep documents readily available for inspection by authorities throughout the trip.

• Participants are required to comply with document checks by authorities and deposit a signed indemnity bond along with their Aadhar Cards before the trip commences.

• Participants acknowledge the potential risks of the journey, including accidents, illnesses in remote areas, political instability, and natural disasters, and agree to assume all associated risks to the fullest extent allowed by Indian law.

If you have any booking inquiries, please email us at oneoutdoorhuman@gmail.com or whatsapp or call on +971 505427157 to speak with Jennifer or +91 9717960028 to speak with Nilakkhya.

For transferring the advance booking amount and final payments, we will provide you with the necessary bank account details, contract, and trip acknowledgment. Alternatively, you can opt for Razorpay Payment Gateway for payment through Debit Cards, Credit Cards, UPI, Wallets, or EMI.

Let's make this trip unforgettable with plenty of memories and artwork. We look forward to hearing from you soon.

Disclaimer: The photographs featured here are of Nilakkhya Dutta.

By making a booking payment, you agree to the cancellation policy and the Terms and Conditions stated above.