A Week in Kashmir: A Family-Friendly Itinerary

Wednesday, December 20: Arrival in Srinagar

Welcome to the beautiful city of Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir! Spend the morning exploring the famous Dal Lake, known for its scenic beauty. Take a shikara ride and marvel at the floating gardens and charming houseboats. In the afternoon, visit the Mughal Gardens, including Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh, which offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kashmiri dinner.

• Dal Lake: Entrance fee - INR 100 per person, Shikara ride - INR 500 per hour (approx.), Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Mughal Gardens: Entrance fee - INR 20 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Traditional Kashmiri Dinner: Cost varies, Time spent - 2 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Cafe Coffee Day located near Dal Lake. This cozy cafe offers a wide range of breakfast options including sandwiches, pastries, and hot beverages. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
• If you're looking for a place to have lunch, visit Ahdoos Restaurant in Raj Bagh. This popular eatery specializes in Kashmiri cuisine and serves delicious dishes like Rogan josh and Kashmiri pulao. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
• In the evening, treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Mughal Darbar Restaurant. Situated in Lal Chowk, this restaurant offers a variety of Mughlai and Kashmiri dishes. Don't miss their mouthwatering chicken tikka and Kashmiri dum aloo. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.

Thursday, December 21: Gulmarg

Embark on a day trip to Gulmarg, a picturesque hill station located about 50 kilometers from Srinagar. Enjoy the snow-covered landscapes and indulge in exciting winter activities like skiing, snowboarding, and sledging. Take a cable car ride to the Apharwat Peak for breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains. In the evening, return to Srinagar and explore the local markets.

• Gulmarg Day Trip: Transportation cost - INR 1500-2000 (approx.), Cable car ride - INR 700-1500 (approx.), Activity costs vary, Time spent - Full day
• Local Market Exploration: Cost varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Friday, December 22: Pahalgam

Visit the scenic town of Pahalgam, known as the "Valley of Shepherds." Take a leisurely walk along the Lidder River and enjoy the serene surroundings. Explore the Betaab Valley, a popular filming location for Bollywood movies. Visit the ancient Mamleshwar Temple and soak in the tranquility of nature. In the evening, return to Srinagar and relax by the Dal Lake.

• Pahalgam Day Trip: Transportation cost - INR 2500-3000 (approx.), Entrance fees - INR 20 per person, Time spent - Full day
• Dal Lake Relaxation: Cost varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Saturday, December 23: Sonamarg

Explore Sonamarg, a mesmerizing hill station located about 80 kilometers from Srinagar. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the snow-clad mountains and pristine meadows. Take a pony ride to the Thajiwas Glacier, where you can enjoy snow activities. Marvel at the sparkling Sindh River and indulge in a picnic amidst the picturesque landscape. Return to Srinagar in the evening.

• Sonamarg Day Trip: Transportation cost - INR 3000-3500 (approx.), Pony ride to Thajiwas Glacier - INR 400-600 (approx.), Time spent - Full day
• Picnic at Sindh River: Cost varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Sunday, December 24: Srinagar City Tour

Discover the cultural and historical attractions of Srinagar. Visit the magnificent Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India. Explore the ancient Shankaracharya Temple, perched on a hilltop and offering panoramic views of the city. Take a stroll through the bustling streets of the Old City and browse the local handicraft shops for souvenirs. In the evening, enjoy a serene Shikara ride on Dal Lake.

• Jama Masjid: Entrance free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Shankaracharya Temple: Entrance fee - INR 25 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Old City Shopping: Cost varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Shikara Ride on Dal Lake: INR 500 per hour (approx.), Time spent - 1-2 hours

Monday, December 25: Dachigam National Park

Explore the beautiful Dachigam National Park, located on the outskirts of Srinagar. Embark on a wildlife safari and spot endangered species like the Kashmir stag and Himalayan black bear. Enjoy a picnic amidst the scenic surroundings. Learn about the park's conservation efforts at the Dachigam National Park Visitor Center. In the evening, return to Srinagar and savor a delicious Kashmiri meal.

• Dachigam National Park Visit: Entrance fee - INR 100 per person, Safari cost - INR 500-800 (approx.), Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Picnic at Dachigam National Park: Cost varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Kashmiri Dinner: Cost varies, Time spent - 2 hours

Tuesday, December 26: Departure from Srinagar

On your last day in Kashmir, take some time to relax and reflect on the wonderful experiences you've had. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before checking out of your hotel. If time permits, visit a local market for some last-minute shopping. Bid farewell to the beautiful valley of Kashmir and depart from Srinagar with unforgettable memories.

• Last-Minute Shopping: Cost varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a truly unique experience, consider visiting the floating vegetable market on Dal Lake early in the morning. Witness the local vendors selling fresh produce from their shikaras, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Another off the beaten path attraction is the Doodhpathri meadows, located about 42 kilometers from Srinagar. This serene and lesser-known destination offers breathtaking views and is perfect for a family picnic. Don't forget to try the traditional Kashmiri cuisine, such as Rogan Josh and Kashmiri Pulao, at local restaurants for an authentic taste of the region.

For hotel and flight bookings, you can check the prices at Kayak.