Meet at Srinagar airport and transfer to a traditional Dal Lake houseboat. Check-in is typically from 12:00pm — luggage can be stored and you can relax by the lake before formal check-in.
Enjoy Kashmiri specialties (rogan josh, gushtaba) at Ahdoos (popular, open 11:00am–11:00pm) or Mughal Darbar; both give a good introduction to Wazwan-style flavors.
A gentle 1-hour Shikara ride through floating gardens and the houseboat colonies is a must for first-time visitors; boats typically operate 8:00am–6:00pm depending on season.
Stroll Nishat and Shalimar Gardens (usually open ~9:00am–6:00pm) to see classic Mughal terraced gardens and views across Dal Lake; good late-afternoon light for photos.
Return to the houseboat for dinner or dine at a lakeside restaurant to try local kebabs and kahwa (Kashmiri tea). Houseboat dinners are atmospheric and typically available until late.
Take the world-famous two-stage Gondola (operations typically 9:00am–4:00pm; Phase 2 to Apharwat depends on weather). Superb mountain views and, in season, snow activities — book early for busy days.
Explore the Gulmarg meadows by foot or take a short pony ride across the green slopes and around the golf course — a peaceful way to enjoy alpine scenery.
Settle into your Gulmarg hotel; enjoy dinner at the hotel restaurant — many properties serve local and international dishes. Night in Gulmarg for stargazing if skies are clear.
After breakfast try a beginner skiing session (if in season) or a guided trek through nearby trails and forests; equipment rental and instructors are available locally.
Visit the Shankaracharya Temple for panoramic views of Srinagar (open roughly 8:00am–6:00pm); follow with a walk in the old lanes and artisan markets for pashmina and papier-mâché.
Early breakfast and scenic 2.5–3 hour drive to Pahalgam (southeast of Srinagar), the valley at the mouth of Lidder River — a popular base for nature walks and river views.
Short drive to Betaab Valley (open typically 8:00am–5:00pm) famous for meadows and film shoots — gentle walks among birch trees and streams are ideal for photos and relaxation.
After breakfast, drive back to Srinagar with an optional detour to Doodhpathri (a serene meadow ~1–1.5 hours from Srinagar) for a short walk amid rolling grasslands.
Explore Lal Chowk and Residency Road for pashmina shawls, saffron, papier-mâché and local crafts — bargaining is common, and most shops are open 10:00am–7:00pm.
Short hike or pony ride to the Thajiwas Glacier (pony/guide services available; seasonal access is weather dependent). The glacier and surrounding glacial streams offer dramatic scenery.
Quick stop at a trusted saffron/pashmina shop for souvenirs; most shops open around 10:00am and close by 7:00pm — allow time for purchases and packaging.
Transfer to Srinagar airport; arrive at least 90 minutes before domestic departures. Drive time is ~20–30 minutes from central Srinagar, longer from outskirts.