7-Day Kashmir Itinerary in October 2023

1. Day 1: Srinagar
   10 minutes (3.2 km) from Srinagar Airport

   Begin your Kashmir journey with a serene Shikara ride on Dal Lake in the morning followed by a visit to the stunning Mughal Garden in the afternoon. In the evening, explore the local markets and try some Kashmiri cuisine.

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

   Experience the natural beauty of Kashmir by visiting Betaab Valley and Aru Valley in the morning. In the afternoon, take a horse ride to Baisaran and explore the scenic meadow. End your day with a relaxing stroll around the Lidder River.

3. Day 3: Gulmarg
   2 hours 30 minutes (53 km) from Pahalgam

   Begin your day by experiencing the thrill of a Gondola ride in Gulmarg and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Himalayas. In the afternoon, go skiing or snowboarding if the season permits or take a scenic walk around the meadow. End your day with a warm cup of Kahwa tea.

4. Day 4: Sonamarg
   3 hours 30 minutes (127 km) from Gulmarg

   Start your day by visiting the beautiful Thajiwas Glacier in Sonamarg and enjoy the snow activities if the weather permits. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Zoji La Pass and get a glimpse of the local nomadic lifestyle. End your day with a bonfire under the stars.

5. Day 5: Doodhpathri
   2 hours 30 minutes (57 km) from Sonamarg

   Experience the untouched beauty of Doodhpathri by taking a stroll around the meadows in the morning. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Tangnar Wildlife Sanctuary and spot some local birds and animals. End your day with a traditional Kashmiri Wazwan feast.

6. Day 6: Yusmarg
   2 hours 15 minutes (47 km) from Doodhpathri

   Begin your day with a trek to the Nilnag Lake and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Yusmarg valley. In the afternoon, visit the Charar-i-Sharif shrine and learn about its historical significance. End your day by stargazing at the Yusmarg meadow.

7. Day 7: Srinagar
   1 hour 20 minutes (43 km) from Yusmarg

   End your Kashmir journey by visiting the historic Shankaracharya Temple in the morning. In the afternoon, take a walk around the picturesque Nishat Bagh. End your day by shopping for some local souvenirs and trying some more Kashmiri delicacies.

Recommendations

Make sure to check out the local festivals happening during your visit, such as the Autumn Festival in Srinagar or the Winter Sports Festival in Gulmarg. A day trip to the nearby town of Kokernag is also highly recommended to witness the beautiful Botanical Garden and the Koker Nag Spring.

Maximize your fun by trying out adventure sports such as river rafting, paragliding, or hot air ballooning or by taking a helicopter ride to explore the hidden gems of Kashmir.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Shikara ride on Dal Lake (2 hours, INR 500)
• Mughal Garden (1 hour, INR 30)
• Betaab Valley (2 hours, INR 100)
• Aru Valley (1 hour, INR 50)
• Baisaran (2 hours, INR 100)
• Gondola ride in Gulmarg (2 hours, INR 700)
• Thajiwas Glacier (2 hours, INR 200)
• Zoji La Pass (1 hour, INR 50)
• Doodhpathri meadows (2 hours, INR 50)
• Tangnar Wildlife Sanctuary (1 hour, INR 50)
• Charar-i-Sharif shrine (1 hour, Free)
• Shankaracharya Temple (1 hour, Free)
• Nishat Bagh (1 hour, INR 25)
• Shopping and food expenses (INR 500)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 2,430 per person