Welcome to Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir! Start your trip by checking into a comfortable hotel. To fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Srinagar, head to Dal Lake in the morning. Enjoy a serene Shikara boat ride and marvel at the floating gardens and picturesque surroundings. In the afternoon, visit the famous Mughal Gardens, such as Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh, known for their stunning terraced lawns and beautiful flower beds. In the evening, explore the local markets, where you can shop for traditional Kashmiri handicrafts and savour local delicacies.
Dal Lake: Boat ride - £10 per person, 2 hours
Mughal Gardens: Entrance fee - £5 per person, 2 hours
Local Markets: Shopping and dining - Cost varies, 2 hours
Restaurants
Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Café Arabica, a cozy coffee shop known for its freshly brewed coffee and mouthwatering pastries. Average cost for a meal is about ₹250 per person.
For lunch, head to Ahdoos Restaurant, a popular spot for traditional Kashmiri cuisine. Try their signature dish, Rogan Josh, and enjoy the warm hospitality. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
Treat yourself to an unforgettable dinner experience at Mughal Darbar, renowned for its delectable Kashmiri kebabs and aromatic biryanis. With its elegant ambiance and attentive service, it's the perfect place to indulge. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Café Coffee Day located near Shankaracharya Temple. They offer a variety of fresh bakery items and delicious hot beverages. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, try the famous Ahdoos Restaurant known for its authentic Kashmiri cuisine. They serve flavorful dishes like Rogan Josh and Kashmiri Pulao. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
For dinner, visit the Mughal Darbar Restaurant, a popular choice for its delectable kebabs and biryanis. The ambiance is cozy and the service is excellent. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Café Arabica. This cozy cafe offers a wide range of breakfast options, from freshly brewed coffee to delicious pancakes. The average cost for a meal is about INR 300 per person.
If you're looking for a place to have lunch, Nigeen Restaurant is a great choice. They serve mouthwatering Kashmiri cuisine, including delectable Rogan Josh and aromatic Biryani. The average cost for a meal is about INR 500 per person.
For dinner with a view, try Ahdoos Restaurant. Situated by the Dal Lake, this restaurant offers a delightful dining experience with a variety of Indian and Kashmiri dishes. The average cost for a meal is about INR 800 per person.
Saturday, September 2: Exploring Srinagar
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Shankaracharya Temple, located on top of a hill. From there, enjoy panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains. In the afternoon, take a trip to Pari Mahal, a beautiful terraced garden overlooking the city and offering breathtaking vistas. Spend the evening at Hazratbal Shrine, a revered Muslim shrine known for its stunning architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
Shankaracharya Temple: Entrance fee - £3 per person, 1 hour
Pari Mahal: Entrance fee - £2 per person, 1 hour
Hazratbal Shrine: Free entry, 1 hour
Sunday, September 3: Journey to Pahalgam
Today, embark on a scenic drive to Pahalgam, a picturesque hill station nestled in the Lidder Valley. On the way, make a stop at the enchanting Avantipur Ruins, ancient Hindu temples dating back to the 9th century. Upon reaching Pahalgam, explore the serene Betaab Valley, famous for its lush meadows, crystal-clear streams, and snow-capped mountains. Spend the evening strolling along the banks of the Lidder River and enjoying the peaceful ambiance of this beautiful town.
Avantipur Ruins: Free entry, 1 hour
Betaab Valley: Entrance fee - £4 per person, 2 hours
Lidder River: Free entry, 1 hour
Monday, September 4: Adventure in Pahalgam
Start your day with an exhilarating pony ride to Chandanwari, a scenic spot located at an altitude of 2,895 meters. Chandanwari serves as the starting point of the famous Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage. In the afternoon, visit the picturesque Aru Valley, known for its charming meadows and stunning landscapes. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy a scenic picnic amidst nature. In the evening, relax and soak in the peaceful surroundings of Pahalgam.
Pony Ride to Chandanwari: £20 per person, 4 hours
Aru Valley: Entrance fee - £3 per person, 2 hours
Scenic Picnic: Cost varies, 2 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Srinagar, make sure to visit the lesser-known Dachigam National Park, situated just outside the city. This park is home to various species of wildlife, including the endangered Hangul deer. Take a safari through this natural reserve and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings. Additionally, spend some time at the Indira Gandhi Tulip Garden, the largest tulip garden in Asia, which bursts into a riot of colors during the spring season. These hidden gems offer unique experiences and are perfect for a family-friendly adventure.