Kashmir 8-Day Itinerary: Srinagar, Gulmarg & Pahalgam — Mar 30 to Apr 6, 2026 (Arrive 4 PM / Depart 3 PM)

Srinagar · Monday, March 30, 2026

Arrival in Srinagar — Evening check-in and relaxation

7:30 AM:

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at Chinar Bagh Restaurant in your houseboat or hotel, sampling kahwa and fresh local breads while taking in views of Dal Lake.

8:30 AM:

Take a gentle stroll along the Dal Lake promenade to stretch after travel, watching shikaras glide by and spotting floating gardens.

9:15 AM:

Visit the nearby Shankaracharya Temple viewpoint for panoramic views over Srinagar and a short, scenic walk up the hill.

10:30 AM:

Stop at Cafe Walnut or Lala's Kulcha for a mid-morning chai and light snack while enjoying garden or lake-front seating.

11:15 AM:

Head to Nishat Bagh (Mughal Garden) for a leisurely wander through terraced gardens and reflective pools - perfect for photos and calm exploration.

12:30 PM:

Check in to your houseboat or hotel and settle into your room; arrange a light lunch on board or at Krishna Vaishno Dhaba to try simple local curries and steamed rice.

1:30 PM:

Take a relaxed shikara cruise on Dal Lake to see floating gardens and villages - ask the boatman to stop for photos of the lakeside houseboats and the skyline views.

2:30 PM:

Return to shore and visit Badamwari Garden for a quiet walk among almond trees (season permitting) and to enjoy the cultivated lawns and floral displays.

3:30 PM:

Drive to Hazratbal Shrine to observe the serene waterfront setting and learn about its history; spend a short while exploring the surrounding precincts.

4:30 PM:

Stop at Chai Jaai or Ahdoos for an early evening kahwa and house-special samosas, soaking in views of the lake or the old city bustle.

5:30 PM:

Return to your accommodation to freshen up; take time to relax on the houseboat terrace or balcony and watch the sunset over Dal Lake.

6:30 PM:

Stroll along the Gondola Road or nearby market streets to browse shawls and handicrafts, then decide on dinner plans at The Chinar or a recommended local restaurant.

8:00 PM:

Enjoy a leisurely dinner featuring Kashmiri specialties like rogan josh or dum aloo at Mughal Darbar or your hotel's dining room, followed by a relaxed evening aboard the houseboat.

9:00 PM:

Enjoy a nightcap on your houseboat terrace with steaming kahwa and light kebabs from Mughal Darbar, listening to the gentle lapping of water against the hull.

9:45 PM:

If you feel like a short walk, take a moonlit stroll to Boulevard Road to soak in calm lakeside views and the twinkling lights of nearby houseboats.

10:15 PM:

Settle in for a quiet cultural session aboard or in the hotel lounge - ask the staff at The Chinar or your host for a short demonstration of Kashmiri music or a storytelling snippet about the valley.

11:00 PM:

Wind down with a light dessert like phirni or local walnut halwa delivered from Ahdoos, then prepare for a restful night's sleep to wake refreshed for tomorrow's explorations.

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Srinagar · Tuesday, March 31, 2026

Shikara ride, Mughal gardens and Old City exploration

7:00 AM:

Begin with breakfast at Mughal Darbar or your houseboat - try kahwa, sheermal and local omelettes while enjoying early light over Dal Lake.

8:00 AM:

Board a private shikara from the houseboat jetty for a tranquil morning cruise around Dal Lake, visiting floating gardens and photographing the city reflected in glassy water.

9:00 AM:

Ask the boatman to pause near Nagin Lake for a quiet shoreline walk and short exploration of waterside cottages and willow-lined banks.

9:45 AM:

Return to shore and stroll through Shah-e-Hamadan Park for a brief walk among manicured lawns before heading toward the Mughal gardens.

10:15 AM:

Visit Shalimar Bagh to wander its terraces, fountains and pavilions; soak up the Mughal-era landscaping and capture photos from the central axial pools.

11:15 AM:

Walk or drive a short distance to Chashme Shahi to enjoy the smaller, intimate gardens and the spring-fed water features; sample local street kahwa nearby from a vendor.

11:45 AM:

Head toward the Old City gate area and stop at Ahdoos for a midday samosa or light snack and to prepare for the afternoon exploration of bazaars and temples.

12:30 PM:

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Ahdoos (if you skipped the snack) or try the lakeside The Chinar for a thali of local dishes and views of Dal Lake from the terrace.

1:30 PM:

Walk into the Old City bazaars to browse shawls, pashmina stalls and traditional copperware; stop at Lala's Kulcha for a short tea break and people-watching.

2:15 PM:

Visit Jamia Masjid in the heart of the Old City to admire its wooden architecture and quiet courtyard, then wander nearby lanes to spot local artisans at work.

3:00 PM:

Head to Kashmir Arts Emporium and small workshops along the boulevard to see papier-mâché, carved walnut and embroidery demonstrations; pick up a small handcrafted souvenir.

4:00 PM:

Stop for a late-afternoon kahwa and walnut cake at Chai Jaai or Cafe Ahdoos while watching the ebb and flow of market life and preparing for an evening on the lake.

5:00 PM:

Return toward Dal Lake for a short pre-sunset shikara glide from the jetty, allowing time for photography as the light softens and houseboats begin to glow.

6:00 PM:

Freshen up back at your houseboat or hotel, then take a short stroll along Boulevard Road to enjoy the lakeside ambiance before dinner.

6:30 PM:

Visit the waterfront terrace at The Chinar for an aperitif or kahwa while watching the sky change color over Dal Lake, then take a short photo walk along the jetty.

7:15 PM:

Dine at Mughal Darbar or try the houseboat's specialty dinner featuring Kashmiri wazwan-style dishes like rogan josh and dum aloo, served with fragrant rice and local breads.

8:30 PM:

Attend an intimate live-music or Sufi night if available at Ahdoos or your hotel lounge; enjoy traditional Kashmiri melodies and a relaxed cultural atmosphere.

9:30 PM:

Take a moonlit shikara ride (short, 20-30 minutes) from the houseboat jetty to experience the lake at night and see houseboat lights reflected on the water.

10:15 PM:

Stop for a late-night kahwa and walnut halwa at Chai Jaai or request a warm cup on the houseboat terrace while sharing stories of the day's sights.

11:00 PM:

Stroll along Boulevard Road for a gentle walk past illuminated gardens and cafes, then return to your accommodation to pack lightly for tomorrow's onward plans or rest.

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Gulmarg · Wednesday, April 1, 2026

Day trip to Gulmarg — Gondola and snow activities

6:30 AM:

Depart early from your Srinagar hotel and enjoy the scenic drive to Gulmarg, arriving as first light softens the snow-capped ridges; stop for tea and pakoras at Khan's Dhaba near the highway if you wish to stretch your legs.

8:00 AM:

Arrive in Gulmarg and stroll the village lanes to take in the alpine air; pick up any last-minute warm layers or gloves from a local shop near the Gulmarg cable car base.

8:30 AM:

Board the first stage of the Gulmarg Gondola (Phase 1) to Kongdoori for panoramic valley views; sip a hot beverage from the kiosk and photograph the ridgelines dusted with snow.

9:15 AM:

Continue on the Gondola to Apharwat Peak (Phase 2) if conditions permit, stepping out briefly to feel the high elevation breeze and capture sweeping Himalayan vistas.

10:00 AM:

Try short, supervised snow activities on the upper slopes - hire a local instructor for a beginner sled or guided snow-walk experience and warm up with cookies and kahwa from a slope-side vendor.

11:00 AM:

Return toward the village and enjoy an early lunch or warming thali at The Khyber Café & Restaurant or Hotel Highlands Park to taste local lamb preparations and hot soups before more afternoon adventures.

12:30 PM:

Stroll through the village and warm up with a hearty lunch at The Khyber Café & Restaurant or Hotel Highlands Park, enjoying a steaming bowl of mutton rogan josh or mountain vegetable soup.

1:30 PM:

Walk to the nearby meadow for a gentle horse ride (local ponies) offered by village handlers-an easy way to cover more of the slopes and take wide-angle photos of Apharwat Peak from below.

2:15 PM:

Join a guided snowshoe or short trekking loop with a local guide from Gulmarg Adventure Club, exploring quieter ridge lines and learning about alpine flora and the area's winter ecology.

3:15 PM:

Stop for a warming hot chocolate or kahwa at the slope-side kiosk near the gondola base, then browse local shops selling knitwear and pashmina scarves crafted by Kashmiri artisans.

4:00 PM:

If conditions allow, take a final gondola ride back up for late-afternoon light photos of the valley, or alternatively visit St. Mary's Church in the village for a peaceful, historic interlude.

5:00 PM:

Return to your vehicle and enjoy the scenic drive back toward Srinagar, stopping briefly at a roadside viewpoint to stretch legs and photograph the sunset over the Pir Panjal range.

5:30 PM:

Arrive back in Gulmarg village and warm up with a cup of kahwa or hot chocolate at The Khyber Café & Restaurant terrace while watching the slopes soften in the evening light.

6:00 PM:

Take a gentle walk through the village lanes toward St. Mary's Church for a peaceful respite and to admire its historic alpine architecture as the day cools.

6:30 PM:

Browse local stalls near the gondola base for last-minute knitwear and pashmina finds from Gulmarg handicraft shops, chatting with vendors about materials and care tips.

7:00 PM:

Enjoy an early dinner at Hotel Highlands Park or The Khyber Café & Restaurant-order a warming mutton stew or vegetable pulao and pair it with freshly baked breads.

8:00 PM:

If available, attend a short cultural performance or live-music session at your hotel lounge to hear local folk tunes and unwind after a day on the slopes.

8:45 PM:

Prepare for the drive back to Srinagar: gather warm layers and hand over any purchases to your driver; take a last photo of Apharwat Peak silhouetted against the twilight sky.

9:00 PM:

Depart Gulmarg for Srinagar; enjoy the calm, starlit drive down the mountain, stopping briefly at a roadside viewpoint if the sky is clear for night-time photography.

10:30 PM:

Arrive back in Srinagar and, if staying on a houseboat, request a late-night cup of kahwa and a light snack from the staff at The Chinar or your houseboat host to warm up before bed.

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Pahalgam · Thursday, April 2, 2026

Pahalgam scenic drive and valley walks

6:30 AM:

Begin with a hearty breakfast at Hotel Heevan Pahalgam or The Pine'n Peak, sampling kahwa and local breads while watching morning mist lift from the Lidder River.

7:15 AM:

Take a gentle riverside walk along the Lidder River from Baisaran Road, enjoying birdlife and the soft alpine light; pause for photos at a picturesque bend.

8:00 AM:

Drive a short distance to Aru Valley and stroll the valley floor to see shepherds and grazing horses; stop at a hill-side kiosk for hot tea and pakoras.

9:00 AM:

Return toward Pahalgam village and arrange a pony or local guide for a short ride up to the Betaab Valley approach, taking in pine-fringed trails and valley views.

9:45 AM:

Explore the lower meadows near Baisaran (Mini Switzerland) on foot for panoramic vistas and wildflower patches; grab a snack or warm drink from a teahouse run by local vendors.

10:30 AM:

Visit the small artisan stalls near the main market to watch wool shawl weaving demonstrations and pick up locally made knitwear at Pahalgam handicraft shops.

11:00 AM:

Stop at Dana Pani Restaurant or Hotel Glacier Heights for an early lunch or substantial snack-try simple local dals and vegetable preparations to refuel before afternoon walks.

12:30 PM:

Settle into a relaxed lunch at Lidder Waterfront Restaurant or Dana Pani Restaurant's terrace, enjoying river views and a hot bowl of local trout or vegetable curry to recharge for an active afternoon.

1:30 PM:

Take a guided walk upstream along the Lidder River toward Chandanwari-your guide will point out alpine flora and local grazing spots while you pause for photos on scenic riverbanks.

2:30 PM:

Visit the peaceful Mamaleshwar Temple in the village to observe local worship and traditional architecture, then browse nearby stalls selling saffron and Kashmiri spices.

3:15 PM:

Head to the Pahalgam market for a leisurely stroll: sample locally made kahwa at a roadside vendor and shop for pashmina shawls, carved walnut souvenirs, and dry fruits.

4:00 PM:

Drive or walk to the start of the trail for Aru Valley viewpoints and take a short uphill ramble to a lookout for sweeping views of the Lidder River meandering through the valley.

5:00 PM:

Return toward town and stop at Coffee House Pahalgam or The Pine'n Peak cafe for a warming cup of kahwa or hot chocolate and walnut cake while watching the golden light on the pines.

5:45 PM:

If time and energy permit, join a short pony ride from the village edge to revisit a nearby meadow (book with a licensed handler) and capture late-afternoon portraits with Himalayan backdrops.

6:30 PM:

Freshen up at your hotel, then take a gentle sunset stroll along Baisaran Road to watch the valley colors deepen and photograph silhouetted peaks as evening approaches.

7:15 PM:

Dine at Hotel Glacier Heights or The Pine'n Peak restaurant-order local specialities like kahwa-spiced mutton or vegetable pulao and enjoy mountain-view seating if available.

8:30 PM:

Wind down with an informal cultural chat or short folk-music session if offered at your hotel, or relax by the hearth with a cup of kahwa and stories from local hosts about Pahalgam's traditions.

8:45 PM:

Step out for a short, gentle walk to Baisaran Meadow viewpoint from the village edge to catch the afterglow on the pines, pausing for photos as the air cools.

9:15 PM:

Enjoy a relaxed dinner alternative at Dana Pani Restaurant if you prefer a riverside table-try their trout or a hot vegetable stew to warm up after the walk.

10:00 PM:

Return to your hotel for a cozy dessert or warm cup of kahwa at Hotel Heevan Pahalgam's lounge while chatting with staff about local hiking tips for tomorrow.

10:30 PM:

If your accommodation hosts an informal folk session, join a short musical gathering in the hotel common room to hear Kashmiri folk songs and stories from local performers.

11:00 PM:

Take a final, quiet riverside stroll along the Lidder River near your hotel to listen to flowing water and reflect on the day's landscapes before turning in.

11:30 PM:

Wind down with a warm shower and set out clothes and gear for tomorrow's Aru or Chandanwari excursions; request a late-night cup of kahwa to sip in bed if desired.

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Pahalgam / nearby · Friday, April 3, 2026

Explore Betaab Valley and local markets

6:30 AM:

Begin the morning with a hearty breakfast at Hotel Glacier Heights or Dana Pani Restaurant, enjoying kahwa and freshly made local breads while planning the day's walks.

7:15 AM:

Take an early riverside stroll along the Lidder River toward the village edge, watching morning light on the pines and stopping for photos by a scenic bend.

8:00 AM:

Visit Betaab Valley entrance to start a gentle exploration of the meadow and riverbanks; hire a local guide or pony from a licensed handler near the gate if you prefer a mounted approach.

9:15 AM:

Follow the valley trail to quieter viewpoints inside Betaab Valley, pause for short nature photography sessions and sample fresh local apples or dry fruits from a nearby vendor.

10:15 AM:

Return toward Pahalgam village and stop at Pahalgam market to browse pashmina stalls and carved-walnut shops, chatting with artisans about weaving techniques and care tips.

11:00 AM:

Enjoy a light mid-morning snack and kahwa at Coffee House Pahalgam, watching market life and tasting local walnut cake before more shopping or an optional short walk.

11:45 AM:

If you have time before lunch, visit a local saffron or spice stall near the market to learn about Kashmiri saffron and pick up small packets as souvenirs from trusted vendors.

12:30 PM:

Enjoy a relaxed lunch at Lidder Waterfront Restaurant or Dana Pani Restaurant's terrace, savouring trout or a warming vegetable curry with riverside views to recharge for an active afternoon.

1:30 PM:

Take a short drive to Aru Valley and walk the easy trails near the meadow to photograph sweeping vistas; stop at a local teahouse for kahwa and biscuits while admiring grazing horses.

2:30 PM:

Return to Betaab Valley for a deeper stroll along quieter side-paths and riverbanks, sitting on smooth stones to enjoy the sound of the stream and capturing close-up nature shots.

3:15 PM:

Visit a nearby workshop to watch a live demonstration of shawl weaving at a Pahalgam handicraft shop, learning about pashmina grading and picking up care tips from the artisan.

4:00 PM:

Head back into Pahalgam market to continue browsing carved-walnut items and saffron stalls; stop at Coffee House Pahalgam for a mid-afternoon kahwa and a slice of walnut cake while you decide on souvenirs.

4:45 PM:

Take a short riverside photo walk along the Lidder River near the market, pausing at scenic bends and low wooden bridges for golden-hour compositions as the light softens.

5:30 PM:

Join a local guide for a brief evening birdwatching stroll or short nature talk focusing on alpine flora and birds found around Baisaran Road, ending with a warming cup of tea from a street vendor.

6:15 PM:

Return to your hotel to freshen up; if staying at Hotel Glacier Heights or The Pine'n Peak, enjoy views from the terrace while staff prepare recommendations for dinner.

7:00 PM:

Dine at Hotel Glacier Heights or Dana Pani Restaurant, sampling Kashmiri specialties like kahwa-spiced mutton or a local vegetable pulao and ending with a sweet like phirni or walnut halwa.

8:15 PM:

If available, attend an informal folk-music session or storytelling circle at your hotel; otherwise, take a quiet post-dinner stroll along Baisaran Road to enjoy the cool mountain air and evening views.

8:45 PM:

Step outside for a gentle twilight walk along Baisaran Road, pausing at riverside viewpoints to watch the valley deepen into dusk and to photograph the soft evening light.

9:15 PM:

Warm up with a cup of kahwa and a slice of walnut cake at Coffee House Pahalgam, enjoying a relaxed chat with locals or other travellers while the market winds down.

9:45 PM:

If your hotel offers it, join a short informal folk-music or storytelling session in the lounge at Hotel Glacier Heights or The Pine'n Peak to hear local songs and mountain tales.

10:30 PM:

Return to your room to pack any purchases and prepare for the next day; request a late-night cup of kahwa or warm milk from hotel staff at Dana Pani Restaurant if you prefer to sip something before bed.

11:00 PM:

Enjoy a quiet rooftop or terrace moment at your accommodation-listen to the flow of the Lidder River and stargaze if skies are clear, reflecting on the day's valley walks.

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Srinagar · Saturday, April 4, 2026

Return to Srinagar — Dal Lake leisure and crafts

7:00 AM:

Enjoy breakfast at The Chinar or on your houseboat-savour kahwa, sheermal and fresh local breads while taking in the morning light over Dal Lake.

8:00 AM:

Take a short guided walk from the houseboat along Boulevard Road, stopping at a lakeside vendor for kahwa and photographing early fishermen and shikaras on the water.

8:45 AM:

Visit the nearby Kashmir Arts Emporium to browse papier-mâché, carved walnut and pashmina displays and watch a short demonstration by an artisan if available.

9:30 AM:

Board a private shikara for a gentle cruise toward Nagin Lake, asking the boatman to pause for close-up photos of floating gardens and houseboat architecture.

10:15 AM:

Disembark and stroll to Nawab Bagh or a nearby cafe such as Cafe Walnut for a mid-morning kahwa and walnut cake while enjoying garden or lake views.

11:00 AM:

Visit a small local workshop along the boulevard to see a live demonstration of pashmina embroidery or papier-mâché painting and pick up a carefully chosen souvenir.

11:45 AM:

Return to your houseboat or hotel to relax on the terrace before lunch; order a light sampler of Kashmiri snacks from houseboat staff or Ahdoos for a final taste of local flavours.

12:30 PM:

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at The Chinar's terrace or the houseboat dining room, sampling a Kashmiri thali with rogan josh and steamed rice while taking in lake views.

1:30 PM:

Walk to Hazratbal Shrine for a peaceful riverside visit and stroll the surrounding promenade to appreciate the waterfront setting and local atmosphere.

2:15 PM:

Visit Shankaracharya Temple approach for a short, scenic climb (or drive to the viewpoint) to capture elevated panoramas of Dal Lake and the city below.

3:00 PM:

Stop at Ahdoos or Cafe Walnut for a mid-afternoon kahwa and walnut cake while watching local life along the boulevard and planning an evening craft visit.

3:45 PM:

Head to Kangan Cottage Handicrafts or a nearby workshop to see live demonstrations of papier-mâché and pick out a handcrafted keepsake with guidance from the artisan.

4:30 PM:

Take a short shikara back onto Dal Lake for a calm late-afternoon glide, asking the boatman to drift near floating gardens for close-up photos of lotus beds and watercraft.

5:15 PM:

Disembark and browse the Lal Chowk/boulevard craft stalls for pashmina shawls and carved-walnut items, speaking with vendors about origins and care tips for textiles.

6:00 PM:

Return to your houseboat or hotel to freshen up; enjoy a short terrace pause with kahwa and watch the golden light fall across Dal Lake as preparations for dinner begin.

6:45 PM:

Visit Boulevard Road cafes to catch the early evening buzz, or arrange a quick drop-in at Kashmir Arts Emporium if you missed any artisan demonstrations earlier in the day.

7:30 PM:

Dine at Mughal Darbar or request a traditional wazwan-style meal on your houseboat, savoring slow-cooked Kashmiri specialities and seasonal desserts.

8:15 PM:

Attend a short live-music or Sufi performance if available at The Chinar or your houseboat lounge, enjoying local melodies while sipping kahwa.

9:00 PM:

Take a moonlit shikara ride from the houseboat jetty for a tranquil 20-30 minute glide, watching houseboat lights reflect on Dal Lake and listening to the water.

9:45 PM:

Stop by Chai Jaai or request a late-night cup from your houseboat for warming kahwa and walnut halwa while sharing stories of the day's craft visits.

10:30 PM:

If your accommodation offers it, join a brief cultural chat or storytelling session in the lounge at The Chinar to learn more about Kashmiri crafts and traditions.

11:15 PM:

Take a short lakeside stroll along Boulevard Road to enjoy the calm night air and photograph softly lit houseboats and the silhouetted skyline before returning to your room.

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Srinagar · Sunday, April 5, 2026

Day for optional excursions or relaxation

6:30 AM:

Begin with a peaceful breakfast on your houseboat terrace enjoying kahwa and sheermal while watching morning light dance on Dal Lake; order a warm plate from the houseboat kitchen or The Chinar's breakfast service.

7:30 AM:

Take a gentle guided birdwatching stroll along Boulevard Road toward the jetty, spotting waterfowl and listening for local morning calls while your guide points out seasonal species.

8:15 AM:

Board a short private shikara cruise to the quieter canals of Nagin Lake for reflective photography and to see floating gardens up close; ask the boatman to pause for close-up shots.

9:00 AM:

Disembark and visit Kashmir Arts Emporium for a relaxed browse of papier-mâché, carved walnut and pashmina displays, and speak briefly with an artisan about craft techniques.

9:45 AM:

Stop at Cafe Walnut or Chai Jaai for a mid-morning kahwa and walnut cake while planning the rest of the day or arranging an optional afternoon excursion with your hotel concierge.

10:15 AM:

Walk through the nearby lanes of the Old City to view wooden architecture and small bazaars at a relaxed pace, pausing for photos of local life without committing to a long market shopping session.

11:00 AM:

Return to your accommodation to freshen up; if you prefer a light activity, request a short pashmina or papier-mâché demonstration at Kangan Cottage Handicrafts arranged by your host.

11:45 AM:

Enjoy an early lakeside brunch at The Chinar or the houseboat dining room-choose from a Kashmiri omelette or a warming thali-then relax on the terrace before your afternoon plans.

12:30 PM:

Enjoy a relaxed lakeside lunch at The Chinar's terrace or on your houseboat, sampling a light Kashmiri thali or trout while soaking in views of Dal Lake and passing shikaras.

1:30 PM:

Visit Hazratbal Shrine for a peaceful waterfront stroll and brief exploration of the shrine precinct, then linger on the promenade to photograph reflections on the water.

2:15 PM:

Take a short guided craft tour to Kangan Cottage Handicrafts to watch a demonstration of papier-mâché painting or pashmina embroidery and pick up a thoughtfully curated souvenir.

3:00 PM:

Head to Shankaracharya Temple viewpoint (drive or short climb) for elevated panoramas of the city and Dal Lake, spending time at the top for wide-angle photos and quiet contemplation.

3:45 PM:

Return toward the boulevard and stop at Chai Jaai for a late-afternoon kahwa and walnut cake while absorbing market rhythms and planning an easy evening.

4:30 PM:

Take a gentle shikara glide from the houseboat jetty to drift through quieter canals near Nagin Lake, asking the boatman to pause for close-up shots of floating gardens and waterside cottages.

5:15 PM:

Browse the nearby craft stalls along Boulevard Road for pashmina shawls and carved-walnut items, speaking briefly with artisans about origins and care before choosing a keepsake.

6:00 PM:

Freshen up at your accommodation and enjoy a short terrace pause with kahwa; if you like, arrange a sunset photo walk with your guide along the lake edge to capture golden-hour light.

6:45 PM:

Visit The Chinar or Mughal Darbar for pre-dinner drinks or an appetizer, sampling local small plates while watching the sunset over Dal Lake from a waterside table.

7:30 PM:

Enjoy a relaxed al fresco dinner at Mughal Darbar or the houseboat dining room, sampling Kashmiri favourites like rogan josh while watching the evening settle over Dal Lake.

8:30 PM:

Attend a short live-music or Sufi performance if available at The Chinar or your hotel lounge to soak in local melodies and unwind after dinner.

9:15 PM:

Take a moonlit shikara ride (20-30 minutes) from the houseboat jetty to see houseboat lights reflected on the water and enjoy the tranquil night atmosphere.

10:00 PM:

Stop for a late-night kahwa and walnut halwa at Chai Jaai or request a warm cup from your houseboat staff while sharing highlights of the day with your travel companions.

10:45 PM:

Stroll along Boulevard Road for a gentle post-ride walk, taking in softly lit gardens and the calm lakeside ambiance before returning to your accommodation.

11:15 PM:

Join an informal storytelling or craft chat in the hotel lounge (ask at reception) to learn a little more about Kashmiri traditions and crafts over a final cup of kahwa.

11:45 PM:

Wind down on your houseboat terrace with a light dessert from Ahdoos or a warm cup of milk, setting out clothes and gear for departure tomorrow and preparing for a restful night.

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Srinagar · Monday, April 6, 2026

Departure day — last-minute shopping and transfer

6:30 AM:

Enjoy a final lakeside breakfast on your houseboat or at The Chinar, sipping kahwa and sampling sheermal while taking in a last peaceful view of Dal Lake.

7:15 AM:

Take a short stroll along Boulevard Road to browse any remaining craft stalls and pick up small souvenirs like papier-mâché trinkets or carved-walnut items from vendors you may have missed.

8:00 AM:

Visit Kashmir Arts Emporium for a quick final look at pashminas and handicrafts; speak to staff about care for textiles and pack delicate purchases with provided wrapping if needed.

8:45 AM:

Stop at Cafe Walnut or Chai Jaai for a mid-morning kahwa and walnut cake while reviewing travel documents and confirming your airport transfer with the hotel or houseboat host.

9:30 AM:

Head to Lal Chowk for a brief shopping sprint - pick up any last-minute saffron, Kashmiri spices, or small pashmina accessories from trusted shops before returning to your accommodation to pack.

10:15 AM:

Return to your houseboat or hotel to settle bills, double-check luggage, and ask staff at The Chinar or reception to arrange porter assistance for loading your bags for the transfer.

11:00 AM:

Enjoy a light, comforting snack (phirni or walnut halwa) and a final cup of kahwa served by your host or at Ahdoos, giving you a gentle moment to savor the valley before you depart.

11:30 AM:

Meet your driver in the hotel lobby for the transfer to Srinagar Airport; load luggage, confirm flight details, and take a last photo of the Dal Lake shoreline as you leave the houseboat precinct.

12:00 PM:

Arrange a quick luggage check with reception and request vacuum-packing for any bulky pashmina purchases; enjoy a final cup of kahwa on the houseboat terrace while staff prepare your bags.

12:30 PM:

If you have a little extra time, take a short visit to Hazratbal Shrine promenade for a peaceful waterfront walk and one last view of Dal Lake from a different angle.

1:00 PM:

Enjoy a light farewell lunch at The Chinar or the houseboat dining room-order a simple trout or vegetable pulao and a small portion of phirni to round off Kashmiri flavours before departure.

1:45 PM:

Return to your room to collect carry-ons and confirm final transfer details with the concierge; settle any outstanding bills and make sure delicate items from Kashmir Arts Emporium are well packed.

2:15 PM:

Meet your driver in the lobby; load luggage and take a last photo of the Dal Lake shoreline and houseboats as you prepare to depart for Srinagar Airport.

2:30 PM:

Begin the transfer to Srinagar Airport, allowing time for traffic; if time permits en route, stop briefly at a trusted spice shop for a final saffron purchase or packaged tea from a recommended vendor.

3:30 PM:

If your flight is delayed or you have extra time, enjoy a calm stroll to Boulevard Road for one last look at lakeside life and to photograph houseboats from a different angle before heading to the airport.

4:15 PM:

Stop for a light refreshment and final kahwa at Cafe Walnut, sitting on the terrace to savor the valley air and tuck away any small souvenirs you picked up earlier.

5:00 PM:

If luggage permits, pop into Lal Chowk for a quick browse of packaged saffron or spice sets from a trusted shop, choosing securely packaged items for carry-on convenience.

5:45 PM:

Return to your accommodation to collect any remaining personal items, request porter help from reception, and double-check that fragile purchases from Kashmir Arts Emporium are well wrapped for travel.

6:15 PM:

Enjoy a simple early-evening plate at the houseboat dining room or The Chinar-order a small portion of vegetable pulao or grilled trout and a cup of kahwa to steady you before transfer.

7:00 PM:

Meet your driver in the lobby; take a final group photo by the Dal Lake shoreline or houseboat jetty to mark the end of your trip and load luggage for the drive to the airport.

7:30 PM:

If traffic allows and your flight time is later, request a short scenic detour en route for twilight photos of the Dal Lake panorama from a recommended viewpoint suggested by your driver.

8:00 PM:

Arrive at Srinagar Airport for check-in and security; if time remains, pick up boxed kahwa mix or packaged Kashmiri sweets from the airport shop as edible souvenirs for home.

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Estimated Costs (per person)

Place / ActivityCost
Chinar Bagh Restaurant (breakfast on houseboat/hotel)₹300
Dal Lake promenade (stroll)Free
Shankaracharya Temple (viewpoint visit)Free
Cafe Walnut (chai & snack)₹250
Lala's Kulcha (tea/snack)₹150
Nishat Bagh (Mughal Garden) entry₹30
Houseboat/hotel check-in (light lunch on board)₹500
Shikara cruise on Dal Lake (private, 1 hour approximate)₹800
Badamwari Garden (visit)Free
Hazratbal Shrine (visit)Free
Chai Jaai (kahwa & snack)₹200
Ahdoos (meal / dessert)₹400
Gondola Road / local markets (browsing)Free
The Chinar (dinner / restaurant)₹600
Mughal Darbar (dinner - typical meal)₹500
Shah-e-Hamadan Park (walk)Free
Shalimar Bagh (entry)₹30
Chashme Shahi (entry)₹30
Jamia Masjid (visit)Free
Kashmir Arts Emporium (craft browsing / small purchase)Free
Gulmarg Gondola Phase 1 (ticket approx.)₹700
Gulmarg Gondola Phase 2 (ticket approx.)₹1000
Slope snow activities (beginner sled / instructor, short session)₹1200
Khyber Café & Restaurant (lunch in Gulmarg)₹500
Hotel Highlands Park (meal alternative)₹500
Horse/pony ride in Gulmarg (short)₹600
Gulmarg Adventure Club guided snowshoe / short trek₹1500
St. Mary's Church (visit)Free
Hotel Heevan Pahalgam (breakfast)₹300
The Pine'n Peak (breakfast / cafe)₹300
Lidder River riverside walk (free)Free
Aru Valley visit (transport/entry free)Free
Pony/pony handler for Betaab/Baisaran (short ride)₹700
Baisaran (Mini Switzerland) walkFree
Dana Pani Restaurant (lunch)₹400
Lidder Waterfront Restaurant (lunch)₹450
Chandanwari guided walk (local guide fee)₹800
Mamaleshwar Temple (visit)Free
Pahalgam market (shopping / saffron stalls)Free
Coffee House Pahalgam (kahwa & cake)₹200
Betaab Valley (entrance/parking)₹50
Pahalgam handicraft shop (weaving demo / small purchase)Free
Kashmir Arts Emporium (Srinagar visit)Free
Kangan Cottage Handicrafts (workshop / demo)Free
Private shikara (short night ride 20-30 min)₹400
Kashmir Arts Emporium (additional link/search)Free
Airport transfer (hotel to Srinagar Airport, per person share of private car)₹400
Misc roadside snacks / vendors (kahwa, pakoras)₹150
Souvenirs (small pashmina / papier-mâché average per person)₹1200
Estimated Total (per person)₹15790
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