Srinagar Shoestring Budget 7-Day Itinerary in July 2023

1. Day 1: Shalimar Bagh
   30 minutes (14.8 km) from Srinagar International Airport

   Start your day with a visit to one of the Mughal Gardens, Shalimar Bagh. This beautiful garden has fountains, pools, and a canal, making it the perfect spot for a morning photo shoot. Afternoon, head to the nearby Durga Nag Temple for some spiritual experience. In the evening, take a leisurely boat ride on Dal Lake and soak in the sunset view.

2. Day 2: Hazratbal Shrine and Jama Masjid Mosque
   20 minutes (8.1 km) from Shalimar Bagh

   Begin your day with a visit to Hazratbal Shrine, one of the most important shrines in Srinagar for Muslims. Afternoon, head to the historic Jama Masjid Mosque, which dates back to the 14th century. In the evening, explore the local markets for souvenirs, spices, and tea.

3. Day 3: Shankaracharya Hill and Pari Mahal
   30 minutes (10.5 km) from Jama Masjid Mosque

   Start your day with a hike up to Shankaracharya Hill, where you can visit the ancient Shankaracharya Temple. Afterward, head to Pari Mahal, a beautiful garden that offers stunning views of the city. In the evening, relax at the Nishat Bagh, which is known for its intricate design and beautiful flowers.

4. Day 4: Dal Lake and Floating Markets
   15 minutes (4.4 km) from Nishat Bagh

   Take a full-day tour of Dal Lake, where you can visit the floating markets and experience the unique way of life of the locals. Enjoy the scenic views of the mountains while riding a shikara, the traditional boat of Kashmir. In the evening, enjoy some street food at the Hazratbal Market.

5. Day 5: Yusmarg and Doodhpathri
   2 hours (47 km) from Dal Lake

   Take a day trip to Yusmarg, a scenic meadow surrounded by mountains and forests. Enjoy a picnic lunch and some horseback riding. Afterward, head to Doodhpathri, another picturesque meadow with clear water streams. In the evening, return to Srinagar for some rest and relaxation.

6. Day 6: Wular Lake and Manasbal Lake
   2.5 hours (65 km) from Doodhpathri

   Take a scenic drive to Wular Lake, the largest freshwater lake in India. Enjoy a boat ride and some bird watching. Afterward, head to Manasbal Lake, which is known for its lotus flowers. In the evening, return to Srinagar for some local cuisine at Mughal Darbar.

7. Day 7: Hari Parbat and Pather Masjid
   30 minutes (7.5 km) from Mughal Darbar

   Start your day with a visit to Hari Parbat, a hill that is home to several temples and shrines. Afterward, head to Pather Masjid, a beautiful mosque that is also known as the "the jewel in the crown of Kashmiri architecture." In the evening, head to Shankar Market for some last-minute souvenir shopping.

Recommendations

Consider taking a side trip to Gulmarg, which is known for its ski resort and scenic views. You can also try some local Kashmiri cuisine, such as Rogan Josh, Yakhni, and Dum Aloo. To maximize your fun, consider taking a hot air balloon ride or a paragliding adventure.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Shalimar Bagh (2 hours, free)
• Durga Nag Temple (1 hour, free)
• Dal Lake Boat Ride (3 hours, INR 500)
• Hazratbal Shrine (1 hour, free)
• Jama Masjid Mosque (1 hour, free)
• Local Market Shopping (2 hours, INR 1000)
• Shankaracharya Hill (2 hours, free)
• Pari Mahal (1 hour, INR 50)
• Nishat Bagh (2 hours, free)
• Dal Lake Tour (6 hours, INR 1000)
• Yusmarg (6 hours, INR 2000)
• Doodhpathri (4 hours, INR 1500)
• Wular Lake (4 hours, INR 1000)
• Manasbal Lake (2 hours, INR 500)
• Hari Parbat (2 hours, free)
• Pather Masjid (1 hour, free)
• Local Market Shopping (2 hours, INR 1000)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 10,550