5-Day Itinerary for Kashmir in August 2023

1. Day 1: Srinagar
   From Srinagar International Airport to Dal Lake (30 minutes, 7.5 miles)

   Start your day at the famous Dal Lake. Enjoy a Shikara ride during the morning to take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains. After lunch, head over to the Shalimar Bagh Mughal Garden to see the beautiful terraced garden and fountains. End your day by exploring the bustling markets and enjoying a cup of Kashmiri Kahwa tea.

2. Day 2: Gulmarg
   From Srinagar to Gulmarg (2 hours, 34.8 miles)

   Start your day early and head over to Gulmarg. Enjoy a Gondola ride to the top of the Apharwat Peak for a panoramic view of the valley. After lunch, go for a hike in the Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve, home to many rare and endangered species. End your day by relaxing at the Gulmarg Golf Course, the highest golf course in the world.

3. Day 3: Pahalgam
   From Gulmarg to Pahalgam (4 hours, 87.8 miles)

   Embark on a scenic drive to Pahalgam, known as the Valley of Shepherds. Start your day by visiting the Betaab Valley and Chandanwari for a breathtaking view of the snow-capped mountains. After lunch, go for a horse ride in Aru Valley and explore the local village. End your day by enjoying a traditional Kashmiri Wazwan dinner at one of the local restaurants.

4. Day 4: Sonamarg
   From Pahalgam to Sonamarg (4 hours, 68.6 miles)

   Take a scenic drive to Sonamarg, also known as the Meadow of Gold. Start your day by visiting the Thajiwas Glacier and going for a trek in the surrounding area. After lunch, head over to the Zojila Pass for a stunning view of the valley. End your day by exploring the local bazaar and trying out some local street food.

5. Day 5: Srinagar
   From Sonamarg to Srinagar (2 hours, 51.4 miles)

   End your trip by exploring the many cultural and religious sites in Srinagar. Start your day by visiting the Hazratbal Shrine and the Shankaracharya Temple. After lunch, visit the Hari Parbat Fort and the Jama Masjid mosque. End your day by taking a relaxing walk at the Nishat Bagh Mughal Garden before heading to the airport for your flight home.

Recommendations

If you have extra time, consider visiting the Dachigam National Park, famous for its population of endangered Hangul Deer. You can also take a day trip to the beautiful Lolab Valley for a picnic and a hike. For maximum fun, make sure to try out local street food and shop for some Kashmiri Pashminas and handicrafts at the local bazaars.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Shikara Ride at Dal Lake (1 hour, INR 500)
• Gondola Ride at Gulmarg (2 hours, INR 1,500)
• Horse Ride at Aru Valley (2 hours, INR 1,200)
• Kashmiri Wazwan Dinner (2 hours, INR 2,500)
• Thajiwas Glacier Trek (3 hours, INR 1,000)
• Nishat Bagh Mughal Garden Walk (1 hour, INR 200)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 7,900

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