Welcome to Srinagar, the capital city of Jammu and Kashmir! Start your trip by visiting the beautiful Dal Lake in the morning. Take a shikara boat ride and explore the floating gardens and houseboats. In the afternoon, visit the enchanting Mughal Gardens, including Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh. As the evening sets in, head to the bustling Lal Chowk market to experience the local culture and shop for souvenirs.
Dal Lake: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Mughal Gardens: Estimated Cost - INR 50 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Cafe Mocha is a cozy breakfast spot near Dal Lake, offering a variety of delicious sandwiches and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Khyber Restaurant is a popular place for lunch, serving mouthwatering Kashmiri cuisine such as Rogan Josh and Yakhni Pulao. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Kashmiri Wazwan at Ahdoos is a must-try dinner option, famous for its authentic Kashmiri dishes like Gushtaba and Tabak Maaz. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Sunday, September 24: Gulmarg
Embark on a scenic drive to Gulmarg, a popular hill station known for its stunning landscapes and adventure activities. Start your day by taking the Gulmarg Gondola cable car ride, offering breathtaking views of the snow-covered peaks. In the afternoon, indulge in activities like horse riding or golfing in the beautiful meadows. Enjoy the serene surroundings and savor a delicious Kashmiri meal at a local restaurant.
Gulmarg Gondola: Estimated Cost - INR 600 per person (Phase 1), INR 800 per person (Phase 2), Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Local Restaurant: Estimated Cost - INR 500 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa where you can enjoy a delightful spread of traditional Kashmiri dishes. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 500 per person.
For lunch, try Shamyana Restaurant located near Gulmarg Gondola. They offer a variety of cuisines including Indian, Chinese, and Kashmiri. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 300 per person.
For dinner, visit Nedous Dining Hall, a popular restaurant known for its authentic Kashmiri cuisine. Enjoy their delectable Wazwan dishes and the average cost for a meal is about Rs. 800 per person.
Monday, September 25: Pahalgam
Make your way to Pahalgam, a picturesque town surrounded by lush greenery and rivers. In the morning, explore the enchanting Betaab Valley and admire its breathtaking landscapes. Afterward, visit the iconic Sheshnag Lake and enjoy a peaceful picnic by its banks. As the evening approaches, take a leisurely stroll around the town and try some local street food.
Betaab Valley: Estimated Cost - INR 100 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Local Street Food: Estimated Cost - INR 200 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Pahalgam is Café Log Inn, known for its delicious omelettes and Kashmiri tea. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
If you're looking for a place to enjoy a hearty lunch in Pahalgam, head to Dana Pani Restaurant. They serve a variety of dishes ranging from Indian to continental cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at Troutbeat Restaurant, which offers a cozy ambiance and specializes in serving lip-smacking Kashmiri cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Tuesday, September 26: Sonamarg
Head to Sonamarg, also known as the "Meadow of Gold," surrounded by stunning glaciers and meadows. Start your morning by visiting the Thajiwas Glacier and enjoy activities like sledging and snowboarding. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk along the picturesque Sindh River and soak in the natural beauty. End the day by savoring a traditional Kashmiri dinner at a local restaurant.
Thajiwas Glacier: Estimated Cost - INR 300 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Sindh River Walk: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Local Restaurant: Estimated Cost - INR 500 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Sonamarg is Cafe Glacier View, where you can enjoy freshly brewed coffee and a variety of delicious pastries. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, try the Himalayan Kitchen, a cozy restaurant known for its authentic Kashmiri cuisine. Don't miss their famous Rogan Josh and Dum Aloo. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
To experience a memorable dinner, head to Paradise Restaurant, which offers a wide range of Kashmiri dishes served in a beautiful garden setting. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Wednesday, September 27: Dachigam National Park
Explore the wildlife at Dachigam National Park, home to endangered species like the Kashmir stag. Start your day with a guided safari through the park, spotting various flora and fauna. In the afternoon, enjoy a picnic amidst the scenic surroundings. In the evening, visit the nearby Harwan Garden and relax in its tranquil atmosphere.
Dachigam National Park: Estimated Cost - INR 200 per person, Time Spent - 4-5 hours
Breakfast: Chai Jaai - Enjoy a delicious and authentic Kashmiri breakfast at Chai Jaai. Indulge in their flavorful Kahwa tea and mouthwatering Kashmiri breads. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
Lunch: Stream Valley Cafe - Head to Stream Valley Cafe for a delightful lunch. Savor their freshly prepared sandwiches and salads while enjoying the scenic views of the nearby stream. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Dinner: Shamyana Restaurant - For a memorable dinner experience, visit Shamyana Restaurant. Delight in their aromatic Kashmiri cuisine, including the famous Rogan Josh and Gushtaba. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Thursday, September 28: Srinagar Old City
Explore the rich history and culture of Srinagar's Old City. Start your morning with a visit to the iconic Jama Masjid, one of the oldest mosques in the city. Explore the narrow lanes of the old market, where you can shop for traditional Kashmiri handicrafts and spices. In the afternoon, visit the grandeur of the Hazratbal Shrine and enjoy a boat ride on the Jhelum River.
A popular breakfast spot in Srinagar's Old City is Café Mughal, known for its delicious local Kashmiri breakfast dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a traditional Kashmiri lunch experience, head to Ahdoos Restaurant, where you can indulge in mouthwatering wazwan, a multi-course meal. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
For a memorable dinner, visit Shamyana Restaurant, located near the Jhelum River. This rooftop restaurant offers stunning views of the city along with a diverse menu of Indian and international cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Friday, September 29: Departure from Srinagar
On your last day, bid farewell to the beautiful city of Srinagar. Take a relaxing shikara boat ride on Dal Lake in the morning, soaking in the serene surroundings one last time. Afterward, visit the Shankaracharya Temple, located on a hilltop, and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Depart with cherished memories of your family-friendly trip to Kashmir.
Shikara Boat Ride: Estimated Cost - INR 500 per hour, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
While exploring Kashmir, don't miss the opportunity to visit Manasbal Lake, known for its tranquility and bird-watching. Take a boat ride and enjoy the serene beauty of the lake. Another hidden gem is the Doodhpathri Meadow, a lesser-known valley with lush meadows and gushing streams. It's a perfect spot for a family picnic. Locals also love visiting the Hari Parbat Fort, offering panoramic views of Srinagar. Explore its ancient architecture and learn about its historical significance.
For hotel and flight bookings, you can check prices on Kayak.com.