Begin with breakfast at Ahdoos Restaurant, enjoying traditional Kashmiri kahwa and a hearty plate of sheermal or omelette while planning the day's light activities.
Take a gentle stroll along the banks of Dal Lake, soaking in the morning light and watching local vendors set up their stalls; perfect for photos and a relaxed introduction to Srinagar.
Visit Shankaracharya Temple for panoramic views over the city; the short climb and temple grounds provide a peaceful cultural start to your trip.
Head to Nagin Lake for a quieter waterside walk and a cup of tea at The Vintage Café, sampling local pastries and Kashmiri teas.
Stop by Lal Chowk area to browse nearby shops and pick up a few souvenirs like pashmina scarves or saffron at a trusted shop such as Kashmir Looms.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Ahdoos Restaurant (if not already visited) or try the house specialties at Shams-ud-Din Café, savoring a plate of rogan josh or a light tamatar chutney dish while watching the city rhythm.
Return to your hotel or houseboat to check in and freshen up; use this time to settle luggage, ask the host about local tips, and relax before afternoon exploring.
Take a classic Shikara ride on Dal Lake-a gentle one-hour circuit visiting floating gardens and seeing the lakeside lifestyle while your boatman points out landmarks.
Stroll through the historic lanes near Kashmir Houseboats and browse artisan stalls; stop at Jafferjees or a local pashmina shop to feel fine wool and compare patterns.
Visit Hazratbal Shrine for a peaceful waterfront walk and to observe local worshippers; the shrine's white marble façade offers calm views across the water.
Pause for an early evening tea at Chai Jaai or The Vintage Café (if you prefer another cup), sampling Kashmiri kahwa and pilfering a piece of walnut cake while the light softens.
Wander through Lal Chowk and the nearby bazaars to catch sunset colors on the buildings; pick up a few small souvenirs like saffron or locally-made spices from a reputable shop such as Kashmir Looms.
Dine at Lhasa Restaurant or Dum Pukht Rooftop for a relaxed Kashmir-style dinner-order yakhni or gushtaba and enjoy warm hospitality before heading back to rest.
Enjoy a relaxed post-dinner walk along the waterfront by Dal Lake to soak in the evening lights and gentle lake breeze; stop for a photo near the lit houseboats for classic Srinagar views.
Head to Your Houseboat or hotel lounge for a cup of warm kahwa served by your host while listening to soft local music - a calm way to wind down after travel.
If you're up for a short cultural experience, ask your host about an informal evening of storytelling or Kashmiri folk songs often arranged at select houseboats or local cafés.
Settle in for the night with a light dessert such as phirni or local walnut halwa, either served at Ahdoos Restaurant (if open late) or prepared by your guesthouse, and plan tomorrow's early start.
Prepare luggage and confirm tomorrow's transport arrangements with your host or travel desk; a brief checklist ensures a smooth departure for the next day's sightseeing.
Turn in for the night; enjoy the quiet of Srinagar and the gentle sounds around the lake so you wake refreshed for the first full day exploring Srinagar.
Begin with breakfast at Ahdoos Restaurant or your houseboat, enjoying warm kahwa and sheermal while watching the early light over Dal Lake.
Board a traditional shikara for a morning ride on Dal Lake, drifting past floating gardens and photographing the soft sunrise reflections.
Disembark and walk to Shalimar Bagh to explore the Mughal terraced gardens, fountains, and shaded paths - perfect for leisurely photos and history-rich atmosphere.
Stroll to nearby Chashme Shahi to see its royal spring and manicured gardens; pause for tea at the garden kiosk and enjoy the fragrant mountain air.
Head to Baba Demb area and visit a local shop like Kashmir Looms to learn about pashmina weaving; sample shawl textures and ask about natural dyeing techniques.
Walk through the lanes toward Nawakadal and stop at Chai Jaai for a mid-morning cup of Kashmiri tea and a light snack while watching local life unfold.
Browse the adjacent markets around Lal Chowk for spices, saffron, and papier-mâché crafts; pick a reliable vendor such as Kashmir Looms or certified spice shops for purchases.
Enjoy a relaxed lunch at Ahdoos Restaurant or try Kashmiri thali specialties at Shams-ud-Din Café, sampling rogan josh or a lighter vegetable pulao while soaking in local flavors.
Take a short drive to Nigeen Lake and walk the lakeside promenade; stop for coffee and a slice of walnut cake at The Vintage Café overlooking the water.
Visit a traditional pashmina workshop (arrange through Kashmir Looms or a recommended shop) to watch weaving demonstrations and learn about the full-making process.
Head to the waterfront near Hazratbal Shrine for gentle people-watching and to photograph the shoreline views; grab a cup of kahwa from a nearby stall.
Return to Dal Lake for an extended shikara cruise that includes a stop at floating vegetable gardens and a chance to meet local vendors selling flowers and produce.
Disembark and stroll through the artisan lanes by Nawakadal, browsing papier-mâché shops and spice vendors; pick up saffron from a certified seller if you missed it earlier.
Stop for an early evening tea or kahwa at Chai Jaai while watching the sun lower over the houseboats and listening to local conversations drift across the water.
Dine at Lhasa Restaurant or choose a rooftop spot like Dum Pukht Rooftop to sample Kashmiri specialties such as yakhni or gushtaba, enjoying warm hospitality and views of the city.
If you prefer a quieter end to the afternoon, return to your houseboat for a slow evening with kahwa and optional live Kashmiri folk music arranged by your host.
Take a short walk to Nawakadal and stop at Mughal Darbar Café for a late-evening cup of kahwa and a light snack while watching the lamps come on along the waterfront.
Enjoy a relaxed dinner at Dum Pukht Rooftop if you didn't earlier, sampling slow-cooked Kashmiri dishes like yakhni or a fragrant pulao while enjoying night views of the city.
Return to your houseboat for a calm lakeside moment; request warm kahwa from your host and savor a piece of phirni or walnut halwa while listening to the gentle water sounds.
If available, attend a short live performance of Kashmiri folk music at selected houseboats or Chai Jaai (check with your host) for an intimate cultural evening before turning in.
Prepare for tomorrow by confirming your pickup and plans for the Gulmarg day trip with your hotel or local operator, then wind down with a final stroll along the softly lit edge of Dal Lake.
Depart Srinagar early with your driver/guide and enjoy the scenic drive toward Gulmarg, stopping briefly for breakfast at Brooklyn Coffee or a local dhaba for hot parathas and tea before the climb.
Arrive in Gulmarg and take a short walk through the town to the Gondola ticket office; buy tickets for Phase I (and Phase II if weather permits) while enjoying mountain views.
Board the Gondola (Phase I) for a gentle ascent offering panoramic vistas; photograph the snowy slopes and spot skiers as you ride toward the higher station.
If conditions allow, continue on the Gondola Phase II to Kongdoori or Apharwat; spend time at the top taking in alpine views and short snow walks near the station led by your guide.
Try light snow activities near the upper station-rent sledges or hire a local instructor for a quick ski/toboggan introduction-and warm up with a hot cup of masala tea from the kiosk.
Return on the Gondola toward Gulmarg town and stroll to The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa or a local café for a relaxing mid-morning snack and hot cocoa while you watch the slopes.
Explore nearby trails around Gulmarg Golf Course (weather permitting) for easy vistas and photo stops, or visit a local shop selling woollens and Kashmiri handicrafts to pick up a warm souvenir.
Enjoy a warm lunch at The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa or the nearby Hotel Highlands Park café, sampling comforting soups, momos, or a hearty pulao while you rest after morning slope time.
Take a gentle walk across the scenic fairways of Gulmarg Golf Course (weather permitting) for panoramic mountain views and delightful photo stops among the snow-dusted greens.
Visit a local shop such as Gulmarg Handloom Centre to browse woollens, Kashmiri caps, and handmade scarves-ask about locally spun pashmina and look for items stamped with origin details.
Return to the base area and warm up with hot chocolate or kahwa at Cafe Tulip (or the Gondola cafeteria), watching skiers glide by and soaking in the alpine atmosphere before the drive back.
If you still have energy, take a short guided nature walk toward Tangmarg outskirts with your driver/guide to see local shepherding scenes and small villages framed by mountain vistas.
Begin the scenic drive back to Srinagar, stopping for photos at a lookout point or a roadside stall to pick up fresh local apples or Kashmiri saffron products from a trusted vendor.
Arrive back in Srinagar and check into your houseboat or hotel; take a short rest, change into comfortable clothes, and freshen up before evening plans.
For dinner, head to Lhasa Restaurant or Dum Pukht Rooftop to savor warming Kashmiri dishes like yakhni or rogan josh and recount the day's mountain highlights.
Finish the evening with a quiet lakeside walk by Dal Lake or a cup of kahwa in your houseboat lounge, enjoying reflections of the city lights and a relaxed end to an alpine day.
Freshen up at your houseboat or hotel and take a short walk to Nawakadal for gentle lakeside photos as the light softens; pause at a roadside stall for a steaming cup of kahwa.
Dine at Lhasa Restaurant or choose the rooftop ambiance of Dum Pukht Rooftop to warm up with Kashmiri favorites-order a bowl of yakhni or rogan josh and savor the local spices.
Take a peaceful after-dinner stroll along the illuminated edge of Dal Lake, stopping for reflections and night photography of the lit houseboats and surrounding hills from the lakeside promenade.
Return to your houseboat for a relaxed wind-down with warm kahwa and a sweet like phirni, and chat with your host about tomorrow's pickup time for the Pahalgam transfer.
Pack and prepare for the next day's journey-confirm luggage, review the meeting point with your driver/guide, and store any souvenirs safely in your room or houseboat locker.
Settle into bed and enjoy the calm sounds by Dal Lake, letting the day's mountain memories and the gentle lapping of water carry you into a restful sleep.
Begin with breakfast at Hotel Heevan Retreat or a local café like Banim Park Café, enjoying hot parathas, Kashmiri kahwa, and mountain air while planning a gentle morning in the valley.
Take a leisurely riverside walk along the Lidder River, stopping for photos at pebble banks and watching local anglers and shepherds as the valley wakes up.
Visit the nearby Betaab Valley entrance for a short stroll among meadows and birch trees; soak in sweeping valley views and capture morning light on the snow-dusted peaks.
Head to Aru Village by a scenic short drive (or arranged jeep) and explore easy trails near the meadow; pause at a tea stall to try piping hot kahwa and homemade biscuits with village views.
Return toward Pahalgam town and stop at Local Handicraft Stalls near the market to browse woollens, handcrafted baskets, and locally made shawls; speak with artisans about traditional techniques.
Enjoy a mid-morning snack at Hilltop Restaurant or Wazwaan Café, sampling light momos or a warming bowl of soup while watching the valley activity and preparing for an easy afternoon.
Have a relaxed lunch at Hotel Heevan Retreat's restaurant or try local flavors at Shamyana Restaurant, sampling a warming bowl of Kashmiri pulao or freshly made momos while enjoying river views.
Take a short drive to the scenic Chandanwari viewpoint for panoramic valley vistas and a gentle walk; breathe in crisp mountain air and photograph the winding Lidder River below.
Return toward Pahalgam and visit the Pahalgam Market to browse local walnut, saffron products, and handcrafted woollens; stop at Cafe Pine for a cup of kahwa and a slice of walnut cake.
Join a guided pony trek or short horseback ride along the riverbanks (arranged through a reputable stable in town) for a gentle, scenic experience among meadows and birch groves.
Relax at Hilltop Restaurant's outdoor seating or a riverside bench, reading or people-watching while enjoying a hot cup of kehwa and light local snacks like tsot (Kashmiri tea biscuits).
Take a short nature walk toward the quieter stretch of Aru Meadow perimeter to catch late-afternoon light on the valley and spot grazing sheep and local shepherd life.
Stop at Wazwaan Café for an early evening chai and local conversation; use this time to buy any last-minute handicrafts from trusted vendors in the nearby stalls.
Return to your hotel to freshen up and enjoy a brief rest on the balcony or terrace, watching the sunset tint the peaks and listening to the flowing Lidder River.
Dine at Hotel Heevan Retreat or opt for a homestyle meal at a local guesthouse to try traditional dishes such as ghabra or a simple, comforting stew prepared with local produce.
After dinner, take a gentle evening stroll along the river path near Pahalgam Town, pausing for star-gazing and quiet moments in the clear mountain air before returning to your room.
Settle into the cozy lounge at Hotel Heevan Retreat with a steaming cup of kahwa while enjoying quiet valley views and planning tomorrow's gentle departure.
If your hotel offers it, join an informal evening of Kashmiri storytelling or folk songs in the common room to savor local culture; ask the staff at Hotel Heevan Retreat to arrange the session.
For a homely experience, arrange a simple after-dinner visit to a nearby guesthouse (ask reception) to sample homemade phirni or walnut halwa and chat with hosts about valley life.
Take a short moonlit walk along the quieter stretch of the Lidder River near Pahalgam town to enjoy crisp air and the sound of flowing water before returning to your room.
Return to your room to pack light items for tomorrow's onward journey, confirm your pickup time with hotel reception, and request a wake-up call if you have an early transfer.
Wind down with a final cup of herbal tea or kahwa in bed while reading or reflecting on the day's valley walks, then turn in for a restful night's sleep surrounded by mountain hush.
Begin with breakfast at Hotel Heevan Retreat or Banim Park Café, enjoying hot parathas and Kashmiri kahwa while watching morning light sweep across the valley.
Take a gentle riverside walk along the Lidder River, stopping at pebbled banks to photograph the reflections and watch local anglers preparing for the day.
Drive to Betaab Valley entrance and enter the meadow for a relaxed stroll among birch and pine, capturing expansive views and enjoying fresh alpine air.
Pause at the Betaab Valley cafeterias for a mid-morning cup of tea and light snacks while soaking in the sweeping vistas and mountain ambiance.
Head toward Aru Village by a short scenic drive; on arrival, explore easy meadow trails and stop at a local tea stall to sample homemade kahwa and biscuits.
Visit a nearby shepherding spot in Aru to observe grazing flocks and traditional shepherd life, with ample photo opportunities of village scenes and mountain backdrops.
Return to Pahalgam Market area and browse local handicraft stalls for walnuts, saffron products, and woven scarves; pause at Cafe Pine for a slice of walnut cake and coffee.
Enjoy a relaxed lunch at Hilltop Restaurant or Shamyana Restaurant, sampling local momos or a warming Kashmiri pulao while overlooking the river and valley.
Join a guided pony trek from Pahalgam town along the Lidder River for an easy, scenic ride through meadows and birch groves, led by a reputable local stable.
Take a short drive to Chandanwari for panoramic viewpoints and a gentle walk; pause at a roadside stall for a cup of hot kahwa and photos of the winding valley below.
Return to Aru Village for a nature walk around the meadow edges, visiting a village tea stall to sample homemade snacks and chat with locals about shepherding life.
Stop at Cafe Pine or a riverside bench in Pahalgam Market for walnut cake and tea, using this calm hour to browse nearby stalls for saffron, walnuts, and woven goods.
Relax by the Lidder River on a shaded bank or at Hilltop Restaurant's outdoor seating, watching late-afternoon light on the peaks and photographing grazing flocks.
Return to your hotel (such as Hotel Heevan Retreat) to freshen up; request a balcony spot for sunset views and a warm cup of kahwa from hotel staff.
Dine at Hotel Heevan Retreat or a nearby guesthouse to try homestyle dishes like ghabra or a comforting stew, enjoying a relaxed meal with valley ambiance.
Take a short walk to the riverside and enjoy sunset reflections on the Lidder River, pausing for photos and quiet moments on a bench near Hilltop Restaurant.
Head inside Hotel Heevan Retreat's dining room or a nearby guesthouse for a warming cup of kahwa and sample a small plate of local snacks while listening to soft valley sounds.
If your hotel arranges it, attend an informal evening of Kashmiri folk music or storytelling in the common room-ask reception at Hotel Heevan Retreat for tonight's schedule.
Stroll through the quieter lanes of Pahalgam Market to browse late stalls for walnuts or saffron, selecting a small packet from a trusted vendor before shops close.
Return to your room or balcony to enjoy a light dessert such as phirni or walnut halwa provided by Hotel Heevan Retreat, paired with a final cup of herbal tea.
Prepare for the next day by packing any souvenirs and confirming transport details at reception; leave a small tip for guides or stable hands if you joined the pony trek earlier.
Wind down with a short, peaceful walk to a nearby viewpoint to stargaze briefly if skies are clear, then return to bed for a restful night's sleep surrounded by mountain hush.
Enjoy a lakeside breakfast on your houseboat with warm kahwa and fresh sheermal served by the host while watching the morning light shimmer on Dal Lake.
Take a gentle early-morning shikara ride that glides through quieter channels of Dal Lake, observing floating gardens and listening to your boatman share local stories.
Disembark for a short walk to Nigeen Lake's promenade and stop at The Vintage Café for a second cup of tea and a slice of walnut cake with waterfront views.
Visit a nearby pashmina boutique such as Kashmir Looms for a brief introduction to local weaving and to feel different pashmina grades-ask about natural-dye pieces for authentic souvenirs.
Stroll toward Shankaracharya Temple's lower approach for photos of the hill and city; if you prefer, relax instead at a shaded bench near the temple base and enjoy panoramic views.
Head to Chai Jaai for a mid-morning snack of street-style pakoras and another cup of kahwa while watching local life along the waterfront lanes.
Browse the artisan stalls around Nawakadal for papier-mâché boxes or saffron from a recommended seller, taking time to compare prices and quality before purchasing.
Return to your houseboat or hotel to freshen up, pack any small purchases securely, and prepare for the afternoon's relaxed schedule by the lake.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Lhasa Restaurant or opt for the waterfront atmosphere at Dum Pukht Rooftop, savoring Kashmiri specialties like yakhni while you watch boats on the lake.
Take a slow walk to Hazratbal Shrine for peaceful waterside views and a quiet moment of reflection; pause nearby at a tea stall for a warm cup of kahwa.
Visit the nearby Botanical Garden (Chashme Shahi area) for a short, shady stroll among seasonal blooms and fountains-an easy way to enjoy fresh air and photos without straying far from the lake.
Return to your houseboat to relax on the deck with a book or brief nap; ask your host for a plate of local snacks like tsot or a small serving of phirni to accompany your tea.
Head out for a relaxed craft-hunting walk toward Nawakadal lanes to browse papier-mâché shops and select authentic saffron from a trusted vendor, comparing quality and asking about local makers.
Stop at Chai Jaai for an afternoon cup of kahwa and pakoras while listening to local conversations and watching the sunlight shift across the houseboats.
Take an extended shikara ride focusing on the quieter back channels of Dal Lake, visiting floating vegetable gardens and getting closer views of lakeside life while your boatman points out landmarks.
Disembark and stroll along the lakeside promenade toward Nigeen Lake for golden-hour photos; linger on a bench to enjoy the gentle breeze and reflections on the water.
Dine at Dum Pukht Rooftop or Lhasa Restaurant if you prefer a second option for dinner, ordering warming dishes like rogan josh and savoring views of the softly lit lake.
End the afternoon with a calm post-dinner walk by Dal Lake to take night photographs of lit houseboats, then return to your houseboat for a final cup of kahwa before bed.
Visit Sikanderpora Market for a casual browse of local snacks, dried fruits, and spice stalls; pick up a small packet of saffron from a reputable vendor to compare with earlier finds.
Stop at Nagin Bakery for freshly baked buns or Kashmiri walnut biscuits and enjoy them with a cup of kahwa on a bench overlooking Nigeen Lake as the light softens.
Attend a short evening devotional or quiet moment at Hazratbal Shrine if open to visitors, then take a slow walk along the adjacent waterfront for tranquil lake views.
Dine at Shams-ud-Din Café or choose The Chinar at Lalit Grand Palace for an elevated meal-order Kashmiri specialties like gushtaba while enjoying polished lake-adjacent ambiance.
Enjoy a post-dinner walk to the waterfront and board a short private shikara for a moonlit cruise on Dal Lake, listening to soft local tunes and watching houseboat lights ripple on the water.
Return to your houseboat and request a final cup of warm kahwa and a small serving of phirni from the host while you reflect on the day's relaxed rhythms.
If you prefer a quieter close to the evening, head to Chai Jaai for a late cup of kahwa and a short conversation with locals or staff about hidden spots to revisit before departure.
Prepare for tomorrow: confirm your transfer details with the front desk or host, pack any last-minute souvenirs like pashmina swatches, and set out essentials for the next day's plans.
Start the morning with warming kahwa and fresh sheermal at Chai Jaai, then take a short riverside stroll to watch the city slowly wake and absorb the peaceful pre-market atmosphere.
Head into the lanes of the Old City for an early visit to the bustling spice stalls-sample and smell saffron and Kashmiri spice blends at a trusted vendor like Kashmir Looms' market stall while vendors set up.
Visit the traditional papier-mâché workshops clustered near Nawakadal to watch artisans at work and pick up a handcrafted box or trinket directly from makers for an authentic souvenir.
Stop for a mid-morning snack at The Vintage Café by Nigeen Lake, enjoying coffee or kahwa and a slice of walnut cake while planning the rest of your craft-focused morning.
Drop into a pashmina boutique (arranged visit recommended) such as Kashmir Looms to observe weaving samples and learn about grading and natural dyes from a shopkeeper or in-house demonstrator.
Walk toward the older bazaar lanes to browse woodcarving and copperware shops; stop at a family-run workshop to watch artisans carve decorative chinars or emboss copper trays and ask about traditional techniques.
Take a short break at Ahdoos Restaurant's tea corner for a second cup of kahwa or mild tea and a light snack while enjoying the atmosphere before continuing craft-hunting in nearby alleys.
Visit a certified saffron seller in the market to compare grades and purchase a small, well-packaged sample; use this time to ask about recipes and how locals use saffron in kahwa and desserts.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Ahdoos Restaurant, sampling a Kashmiri thali or rogan josh while watching the flow of Old City life from a shaded table.
Visit the family-run Bota Bazaar workshops to see traditional woodcarving and take a short demonstration on chinar-motif carving techniques from local artisans.
Drop by Lala Market to browse copperware and brassware shops; ask a craftsman at Kashmir Copperworks about hammering patterns and inspect finished trays up close.
Head to Jamia Masjid in the Old City for a quiet cultural pause, observe the mosque's wooden architecture, and soak in the courtyard atmosphere as local life continues around you.
Walk to Nowhatta lanes to hunt for vintage Kashmiri jewellery at small family shops; compare a few pieces and learn from sellers about traditional designs and materials.
Stop at Chai Jaai for an afternoon cup of kahwa and a plate of local biscuits while you rest and review any purchases with your guide or shopkeepers for authenticity tips.
Take a short boat trip on Nigeen Lake (private shikara) for golden-hour reflections and a peaceful vantage point to admire the lakeside houseboats and distant city rooftops.
Visit Sannat Nagar's small textiles lane to compare pashmina samples you saw earlier and, if interested, arrange a quick fitting or custom hemming at a reputed tailor like Kashmir Looms' workshop.
Enjoy an early evening snack at The Vintage Café with walnut cake or samosas and a coffee while planning an evening itinerary for dinner or a cultural performance.
Attend a short live performance or cultural evening (if available) at Chai Jaai or a nearby houseboat to enjoy Kashmiri folk songs and intimate storytelling while sipping warm kahwa.
Dine at Lhasa Restaurant or choose the rooftop ambiance of Dum Pukht Rooftop to sample comforting Kashmiri dishes like yakhni or gushtaba, lingering over flavors and conversation.
Take a relaxed post-dinner walk along the waterfront by Dal Lake to photograph lit houseboats and soak in the evening reflections; pause for a moment on a quiet bench to enjoy the lake breeze.
Board a short private shikara for a moonlit cruise on Dal Lake, listening to soft local tunes and watching the lights ripple across the water for a calm, memorable close to the day.
Return to your houseboat or hotel for a final cup of warm kahwa and a small sweet like phirni served by your host while you review purchases and tomorrow's plans.
Prepare for bed: confirm tomorrow's pickup time with reception, secure any newly bought crafts in your luggage, and wind down with quiet reading or soft music in your houseboat room.
Wake to a final cup of warm kahwa on your houseboat deck, breathing in the crisp morning air and taking a last look over Dal Lake as staff bring a light breakfast tray.
Take a short, peaceful shikara circuit (30-40 minutes) to enjoy morning reflections and photograph houseboats and the lakeside skyline one last time with your boatman.
Return to the houseboat to freshen up, pack carry-on items, and check room for any left-behind souvenirs; request bill and transfer confirmation from the host.
Walk to Chai Jaai or The Vintage Café for a light breakfast-order a plate of sheermal or paratha with kahwa-and mentally review travel documents and flight transfer details.
If time permits, make a brief stop at Hazratbal Shrine's waterfront (short walk or quick drive) for a calm final moment by the water and to photograph the shrine from the lakeside.
Return to your accommodation to collect luggage, settle any outstanding payments, and receive your airport transfer; confirm estimated drive time to Srinagar Airport with your driver.
Have a final savoury snack or cup of kahwa served by your host while the driver loads luggage, using this relaxed minute to double-check passports, tickets, and contact numbers.
Depart your houseboat or hotel for the transfer to Srinagar Airport; enjoy a scenic drive with one last view of the city and surrounding hills as you head to the terminal.
If your flight schedule allows a slightly later check-in, enjoy a relaxed al fresco lunch at Dum Pukht Rooftop, savouring a light Kashmiri pulao or kebab while confirming final transfer times with hotel staff.
Return to your accommodation to collect any remaining items, double-check luggage, and ask your host for help with last-minute packing or a printed copy of your boarding pass at the reception desk.
Take a short stroll along the nearby lakeside promenade for final photos of Dal Lake and the houseboats, stopping briefly at Chai Jaai to buy packaged saffron or a small box of walnut biscuits as gifts.
Finish any payments, tip the houseboat staff, and ensure all travel documents are ready; request the driver to be ready at the agreed pickup point so you leave with time buffer for airport formalities.
Begin the drive to Srinagar Airport with your luggage loaded; enjoy the last glimpses of the valley and city as you head toward check-in for your departing flight at Srinagar Airport.
If your flight is delayed or you have extra time, enjoy an early evening tea at The Vintage Café by Nigeen Lake, savoring walnut cake while soaking up a final lakeside atmosphere.
Take a short walk through the nearby lanes toward Nawakadal to purchase any last-minute papier-mâché trinkets or saffron from a reputable stall; ask the vendor for secure gift packaging.
Have a light, comforting dinner at Dum Pukht Rooftop or Lhasa Restaurant, choosing easy-to-digest dishes like pulao or kebabs to avoid travel discomfort before your flight.
Return to your accommodation for a final check of luggage and documents; request a warm cup of kahwa from the host and gather any items kept aside for transfer.
If airport timing allows and you prefer a calm send-off, board a private short shikara for a moonlit 20-30 minute ride on Dal Lake, listening to local tunes and enjoying the reflected lights.
Finish packing carry-on essentials, settle any remaining bills, and tip the houseboat or hotel staff for their service; confirm your transfer pickup time and contact number with the reception.
Step outside for a final breath of cool lake air at the agreed pickup point; keep passports and boarding passes handy while your driver loads the luggage into the vehicle.
Depart for Srinagar Airport if your flight requires evening arrival; relax on the scenic drive, double-check boarding details, and enjoy a last look at the valley lights as you head to the terminal.
| Place / Activity | Cost |
|---|---|
| Ahdoos Restaurant (meal) | ₹700 |
| Dal Lake (stroll) | Free |
| Shankaracharya Temple (visit) | Free |
| Nagin Lake (walk) | Free |
| The Vintage Café (drink/snack) | ₹300 |
| Lal Chowk (shopping area stroll) | Free |
| Kashmir Looms (pashmina shopping - sample purchase) | ₹2500 |
| Shams-ud-Din Café (meal) | ₹600 |
| Houseboat (overnight stay per night - indicative) | ₹4500 |
| Shikara ride on Dal Lake (1 hour, private/shared typical) | ₹600 |
| Kashmir Houseboats (browsing area) | Free |
| Jafferjees (store visit) | Free |
| Hazratbal Shrine (visit) | Free |
| Chai Jaai (tea/snack) | ₹150 |
| Lhasa Restaurant (meal) | ₹700 |
| Dum Pukht Rooftop (meal) | ₹900 |
| Ahdoos Restaurant (second meal) | ₹700 |
| Shalimar Bagh (entry / garden visit) | ₹30 |
| Chashme Shahi (garden entry) | ₹20 |
| Baba Demb / local pashmina demo (workshop visit) | ₹200 |
| Nawakadal markets (shopping stroll) | Free |
| Pashmina workshop visit (demonstration) | ₹300 |
| Extended Dal Lake shikara cruise (floating gardens) | ₹1000 |
| Gulmarg Gondola Phase I (ticket) | ₹700 |
| Gondola Phase II (ticket, if open) | ₹1000 |
| Sledging / light snow activity (rental) | ₹300 |
| Cafe / resort snack in Gulmarg (The Khyber / similar) | ₹500 |
| Gulmarg Golf Course (walk / photos) | Free |
| Gulmarg Handloom Centre (shopping) | Free |
| Tangmarg short guided walk (local guide) | ₹400 |
| Driver/roundtrip transfer Srinagar-Gulmarg (per person, shared cost estimate) | ₹800 |
| Pahalgam activities: Betaab Valley entry/parking | ₹50 |
| Aru Village short transfer / jeep (per person, shared) | ₹300 |
| Local Handicraft Stalls (shopping) | Free |
| Hilltop Restaurant / Wazwaan Café (snack / meal) | ₹400 |
| Chandanwari viewpoint (visit) | Free |
| Guided pony trek / short horseback ride (per person) | ₹800 |
| Cafe Pine (tea/snack) | ₹200 |
| Hotel Heevan Retreat (meal) | ₹700 |
| Pahalgam stable / pony stable tip (suggested) | ₹100 |
| Nigeen Lake vintage café snack (The Vintage Café duplicate) | ₹300 |
| Botanical Garden / Chashme Shahi area (short stroll) | Free |
| Sikanderpora Market (shopping stroll / small purchase sample saffron) | ₹250 |
| Nagin Bakery (buns / biscuits) | ₹100 |
| Shankaracharya Temple (lower approach/photos) duplicate | Free |
| Papier-mâché workshop visit (demonstration / small purchase) | ₹200 |
| Jamia Masjid (visit) | Free |
| Nowhatta lanes / vintage jewellery browsing | Free |
| Bota Bazaar woodcarving demo | Free |
| Lala Market copperware browsing | Free |
| Private Nigeen Lake shikara (short ride) | ₹600 |
| Sannat Nagar textiles lane (tailor / hemming small service) | ₹300 |
| Chai Jaai (multiple visits aggregate) | ₹300 |
| Private moonlit shikara (20-30 min) | ₹800 |
| Final transfer to Srinagar Airport (per person, shared taxi estimate) | ₹600 |
| Dum Pukht / The Chinar at Lalit (elevated meal) | ₹1200 |
| The Vintage Café (official / café info) | ₹300 |
| Estimated Total (per person) | ₹26000 |