Trip to Kashmir from Kolkata (September 2023)

1. Day 1: Arrive at Srinagar Airport
   30 minutes (9 miles) from Dal Lake

   Upon arrival, head to Dal Lake and take a Shikara ride during the morning. Visit Shalimar Bagh in the afternoon and end the day with a sunset view at the Shankaracharya Hill.

2. Day 2: Gulmarg
   50 minutes (31 miles) from Dal Lake

   Start early to reach Gulmarg and enjoy the scenic Gondola ride. In the afternoon, go for a nature walk or visit the Golf Course. End the day with a cup of Kahwa and local cuisine at a nearby restaurant.

3. Day 3: Sonamarg
   2 hours 20 minutes (80 miles) from Gulmarg

   Take a trip to Sonamarg to witness the Thajiwas Glacier and the picturesque Sindh River. Enjoy a pony ride during the day and try local street food. Spend the evening relaxing and enjoying the scenic beauty of the place.

4. Day 4: Srinagar City
   1 hour (12 miles) from Dal Lake

   Visit the Mughal Gardens - Nishat Bagh and Chashme Shahi in the morning. Buy souvenirs at the local markets in the afternoon. End the day with a Shikara ride during the night.

5. Day 5: Pahalgam
   2 hours 30 minutes (93 miles) from Srinagar

   Take a trip to Pahalgam and enjoy the scenic Lidder River and Betaab Valley. Go for a nature walk during the day and visit the local markets for authentic Kashmiri handicrafts. Taste the local cuisine at a nearby restaurant in the evening.

6. Day 6: Yusmarg
   1 hour 50 minutes (32 miles) from Pahalgam

   Visit Yusmarg and enjoy the serene beauty of the place. Go for a pony ride during the day and enjoy local cuisine. Spend the evening at a nearby hotel or resort.

7. Day 7: Departure
   30 minutes (9 miles) from Srinagar Airport

   Check out from the hotel and head to the airport for the return journey to Kolkata.

Recommendations

Consider visiting the Hazratbal Shrine or the Dachigam National Park. Take a day trip to the picturesque town of Kokernag and enjoy local cuisine at a nearby restaurant. To maximize your fun, try a hot balloon ride or trekking at one of the scenic places.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Dal Lake Shikara ride (2 hours, INR 500)
• Gulmarg Gondola ride (3 hours, INR 750)
• Thajiwas Glacier pony ride (2 hours, INR 500)
• Mughal Gardens entry fee (1 hour, INR 50)
• Local markets shopping (2 hours, INR 1000)
• Betaab Valley nature walk (3 hours, INR 500)
• Yusmarg pony ride (2 hours, INR 400)
• Total Estimated Costs (for activities listed above): INR 3750

Check out https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo for hotel and flight prices.