4-Day Kashmir Adventure

Day 1: Arrival & Srinagar Exploration

Morning: Arrive at Srinagar International Airport and transfer to your houseboat on Dal Lake. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast aboard while soaking in the serene mountain backdrop.

Afternoon: Take a shikara ride across Dal Lake to visit the iconic floating gardens and the historic Shankaracharya Temple perched on a hilltop.

Evening: Stroll through the lush Mughal Gardens—Shalimar, Nishat, and Chashma—admiring their terraced fountains before dinner at a local Kashmiri restaurant.

Day 2: Gulmarg – Snow‑Capped Peaks

Morning: Drive to the alpine resort town of Gulmarg. Ride the world‑renowned Gondola (Kashmir’s highest cable car) up to the Phabru Peak for panoramic views.

Afternoon: Explore the pristine snowfields of Apharwat Peak, with optional activities such as sledding or a gentle hike among alpine flora.

Evening: Return to Srinagar, enjoy a traditional Kashmiri Wazwan dinner, and unwind on your houseboat under the starry sky.

Day 3: Pahalgam – Valleys & Meadows

Morning: Travel to Pahalgam, stopping at the scenic Betaab Valley for photo opportunities among its emerald meadows.

Afternoon: Visit the tranquil Aru Valley, where you can trek to a shepherd’s hut or simply relax by the river.

Evening: Ascend to the “Mini Switzerland” of Baisaran meadow for sunset vistas before heading back to your lodge for dinner.

Day 4: Sonamarg – Glacier Adventure & Departure

Morning: Depart for Sonamarg, the “Meadow of Gold”, and embark on a guided trek to the breathtaking Thajiwas Glacier.

Afternoon: Enjoy a pony ride or leisurely walk around the glacier lake, then return to Srinagar for last‑minute souvenir shopping at the local bazaar.

Evening: Transfer to the airport for your departure, carrying memories of Kashmir’s stunning landscapes.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Dal Lake – Estimated time: 2 hours – Estimated cost: $30
• Shankaracharya Temple – Estimated time: 1 hour – Estimated cost: $5
• Mughal Gardens – Estimated time: 2 hours – Estimated cost: $10
• Gulmarg Gondola (Phase 1 & 2) – Estimated time: 3 hours – Estimated cost: $40
• Apharwat Peak – Estimated time: 2 hours – Estimated cost: $20
• Betaab Valley – Estimated time: 1.5 hours – Estimated cost: $10
• Aru Valley – Estimated time: 2 hours – Estimated cost: $15
• Baisaran Meadow – Estimated time: 1.5 hours – Estimated cost: $10
• Thajiwas Glacier – Estimated time: 3 hours – Estimated cost: $25
• Local Meals & Wazwan dinner – Estimated cost: $60
• Transportation (private car & driver) – Estimated cost: $180
Total estimated cost: $425

Tips

To extend your trip, consider adding a day in Gurez Valley for authentic village experiences or a sunrise visit to Yusmarg. If you need to shorten the itinerary, skip the afternoon trek in Sonamarg and spend extra time relaxing in Srinagar’s houseboat, allowing a more leisurely pace while still seeing the region’s highlights.