Morning: Arrive at Srinagar Airport and transfer to a traditional houseboat on Dal Lake. Settle in, enjoy a light Kashmiri breakfast while the mist rolls over the water.
Afternoon: Take a Shikara ride to explore the floating gardens and the historic Shankaracharya Temple perched on the hilltop, offering panoramic views of the lake.
Evening: Dine on fresh trout and Kashmiri cuisine aboard the houseboat, then unwind under a starlit sky with gentle lute music.
Book a HotelMorning: Visit the splendid Shalimar Bagh, strolling through terraced lawns, fountains and fragrant roses that date back to Emperor Jahangir.
Afternoon: Continue to Nishat Bagh, known as the “Garden of Delight,” and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby café with lake views.
Evening: Explore the historic Chashma‑Shahi Garden before shopping for pashmina shawls at the local market.
Book a HotelMorning: Drive to Gulmarg and board the world‑renowned Gulmarg Gondola (Phase 1) for a scenic ascent to Kongdoori Station.
Afternoon: Continue on Phase 2 to the highest cable‑car station in India, then trek to Khilanmarg for breathtaking alpine meadows and optional pony rides.
Evening: Return to the resort for a warm cup of Kahwa and a traditional Kashmiri dinner.
Book a HotelMorning: Depart Gulmarg and stop at Patnitop for panoramic views of the Pir Panjal range and a short nature walk.
Afternoon: Continue to Pahalgam, checking into a riverside lodge, then explore the iconic Betaab Valley made famous by Bollywood.
Evening: Enjoy a relaxed evening by the Lidder River, with a campfire and local folklore storytelling.
Book a HotelMorning: Drive to Aru Valley, where pine forests and crystal‑clear streams invite gentle trekking and horse riding.
Afternoon: Ascend to Baisaran (Mini Switzerland) via a short trek or pony ride, offering sweeping vistas of the surrounding peaks.
Evening: Return to Pahalgam for a dinner featuring Rogan Josh, followed by a leisurely stroll through the town’s bazaar.
Book a HotelMorning: Travel to Sonamarg and embark on a guided hike to the dazzling Thajiwas Glacier, with optional pony assistance.
Afternoon: Picnic by the glacier’s melt‑water lake, then explore the surrounding meadows and enjoy photo opportunities with the towering peaks.
Evening: Head back to Srinagar, checking into a boutique hotel for a restful night before departure.
Book a HotelMorning: Visit the historic Old City to admire the wooden mosques and shop for handicrafts, including papier‑mâché and walnut wood carvings.
Afternoon: Relax at a local café with a cup of saffron‑infused tea, then pack and prepare for the journey home.
Evening: Transfer to the airport for your flight, carrying memories of Kashmir’s breathtaking beauty.
Book a HotelIf you have extra days, consider adding a side trip to the remote Yusmarg meadow for peaceful trekking, or extend your stay in Gulmarg for full‑day skiing. To shorten the itinerary, you can combine Day 4 and Day 5 by skipping Patnitop and focusing solely on Pahalgam’s valleys, which reduces travel time while still capturing the region’s highlights.