7-Day Itinerary for Kashmir in December 2023

1. Day 1: Srinagar
   30 minutes (12 miles) from Srinagar International Airport

   In the morning, visit the stunning Shalimar Bagh Mughal Garden. In the afternoon, explore the historic Shankaracharya Temple. For the evening, take a sunset shikara ride on Dal Lake.

2. Day 2: Sonamarg
   2 hours and 30 minutes (49 miles) from Srinagar

   In the morning, trek through the beautiful Thajiwas Glacier. In the afternoon, enjoy a pony ride to the scenic Vishansar Lake. For the evening, relax and enjoy the local cuisine at one of the many restaurants in Sonamarg.

3. Day 3: Gulmarg
   2 hours and 40 minutes (34.2 miles) from Sonamarg

   In the morning, ski or snowboard down the 13,780-foot-high summit of Mount Apharwat. In the afternoon, visit the Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve and see the endangered musk deer. For the evening, take a gondola ride to Kongdoori Mountain and enjoy the stunning views.

4. Day 4: Pahalgam
   3 hours and 45 minutes (91.5 miles) from Gulmarg

   In the morning, hike through the beautiful Aru Valley. In the afternoon, visit the Betaab Valley and take a dip in the crystal-clear waters. For the evening, take a stroll through Pahalgam's local market and enjoy the shops and cafes.

5. Day 5: Dachigam National Park
   1 hour and 10 minutes (22.7 miles) from Pahalgam

   In the morning, visit the Dachigam National Park and see the beautiful Himalayan black bear. In the afternoon, hike through the beautiful forests and see the various bird species. For the evening, relax and unwind at your hotel.

6. Day 6: Yusmarg
   1 hour and 30 minutes (28.4 miles) from Dachigam National Park

   In the morning, visit the beautiful Nilnag Lake and enjoy a picnic breakfast. In the afternoon, go on a horse ride through the meadows and see the stunning Charar-i-Sharief Shrine. For the evening, enjoy a bonfire and barbecue at your hotel.

7. Day 7: Srinagar
   1 hour and 30 minutes (46.3 miles) from Yusmarg

   In the morning, visit the historic Hari Parbat Fort and take in the panoramic view of Srinagar. In the afternoon, take a tour of the Pari Mahal and see the stunning architecture. For the evening, go shopping in Srinagar's many markets and buy souvenirs for your friends and family back home.

Recommendations

Consider visiting the Martand Sun Temple in Anantnag or taking a day trip to the stunning Lolab Valley. To maximize your fun, be sure to try some of the local street food and take in the vibrant culture. Don't forget to bring warm clothing and snow gear, as well as a camera to capture the beautiful scenery!

Time and Costs Estimates

• Shalimar Bagh Mughal Garden (1-2 hours, ₹50)
• Shankaracharya Temple (1-2 hours, ₹200)
• Dal Lake Shikara Ride (2-3 hours, ₹500-1000)
• Thajiwas Glacier Trek (3-4 hours, ₹500-1000)
• Vishansar Lake Pony Ride (2-3 hours, ₹1000-1500)
• Mount Apharwat Skiing/Snowboarding (4-5 hours, ₹1500-2000)
• Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve (1-2 hours, ₹50)
• Kongdoori Mountain Gondola Ride (1-2 hours, ₹700-900)
• Aru Valley Hike (3-4 hours, ₹500-1000)
• Betaab Valley Swimming (2-3 hours, ₹300-500)
• Dachigam National Park Visit (2-3 hours, ₹100)
• Yusmarg Horse Ride (2-3 hours, ₹500-1000)
• Hari Parbat Fort Tour (1-2 hours, ₹100)
• Pari Mahal Tour (1-2 hours, ₹150)
• Shopping (2-3 hours, variable)
• Total Estimated Costs: ₹7250-12100

Click here to check hotel and flight prices for your trip to Kashmir in December 2023!