Explore the Beauty of Srinagar, Pahalgam, and Gulmarg
Monday, February 12: Arrival in Srinagar
Start your journey by arriving in Srinagar, the capital city of Jammu and Kashmir. In the morning, take a relaxing Shikara ride on Dal Lake, surrounded by breathtaking snow-capped mountains. Afternoon calls for a visit to the Mughal Gardens, such as Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh, known for their stunning terraced gardens and intricate architecture. In the evening, explore the bustling markets of Lal Chowk and indulge in some shopping for traditional Kashmiri handicrafts.
Shikara Ride on Dal Lake: Cost: Approximately INR 500 per hour, Time spent: 2 hours
Mughal Gardens (Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh): Cost: INR 100 per person, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Lal Chowk: No entry fee, Time spent: 2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to The Mughal Bakers located in Srinagar. They offer a variety of freshly baked goods such as breads, pastries, and cakes. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 200 per person.
If you're looking for a place for lunch, try Ahdoos Restaurant in Srinagar. Known for its authentic Kashmiri cuisine, they serve delicious dishes like Rogan Josh and Kashmiri Dum Aloo. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 500 per person.
In the evening, treat yourself to a dinner at Mughal Darbar in Srinagar. This renowned restaurant is famous for its aromatic Kashmiri Wazwan and special kebabs. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 800 per person.
Tuesday, February 13: Pahalgam Exploration
Embark on a scenic drive to Pahalgam, a picturesque hill station situated on the banks of the Lidder River. Start your day by visiting the iconic Betaab Valley, known for its lush green meadows and panoramic views. In the afternoon, explore the mesmerizing Aru Valley, a haven for nature lovers, and enjoy activities like horse riding. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely walk along the Lidder River and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the surroundings.
Betaab Valley: Cost: INR 100 per person, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Aru Valley: Cost: INR 100 per person, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Lidder River Walk: No entry fee, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day off with a delicious breakfast at Café Coffee Day, located in Pahalgam. This cozy café offers a range of breakfast options from hot sandwiches to freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Dana Pani restaurant in Pahalgam. They serve a variety of Indian and Kashmiri dishes, including kebabs, biryanis, and local specialties. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner experience at Stream Restaurant, situated on the banks of the Lidder River in Pahalgam. Enjoy a wide selection of Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisines while admiring the scenic views. The average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Wednesday, February 14: Gulmarg Adventure
Head towards Gulmarg, a paradise for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. Start your day with a thrilling Gondola ride, offering breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks. In the afternoon, indulge in skiing or snowboarding on the slopes of Gulmarg, known as the "Meadow of Flowers." As the evening approaches, take a leisurely stroll through the Gulmarg market and savor some local delicacies.
Gondola Ride: Cost: INR 700-900 per person, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Skiing/Snowboarding: Cost: Varies depending on equipment rental and lessons, Time spent: 3-4 hours
Gulmarg Market: No entry fee, Time spent: 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Coffee Day. This cozy cafe offers a variety of hot and cold beverages, along with a range of breakfast options such as sandwiches, omelettes, and pancakes. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a delightful lunch, head to Gulistan restaurant. Known for its authentic Kashmiri cuisine, this restaurant serves delectable dishes like Rogan Josh, Yakhni Pulao, and Kashmiri Kebabs. The average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at Shamyana Restaurant. This charming restaurant offers a fine dining experience with a menu featuring a variety of Indian and international dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Thursday, February 15: Srinagar City Tour
Return to Srinagar for a day of exploring the city's rich cultural heritage. Begin your morning with a visit to the iconic Shankaracharya Temple, located atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, explore the historic Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India, known for its beautiful architecture. As the evening sets in, experience the magical floating market at the Dal Lake and enjoy a traditional Kashmiri dinner on a houseboat.
Shankaracharya Temple: No entry fee, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Jama Masjid: No entry fee, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Floating Market at Dal Lake: Cost: Varies depending on shopping, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Alka Salka Restaurant, a popular local eatery known for its delicious Kashmiri tea and traditional breakfast dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
If you're looking for a great lunch spot, try Lhasa Restaurant, which offers a variety of Tibetan and Indian dishes. Don't miss their momos and thukpa! Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
For dinner, visit Shamyana Restaurant, a charming rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the city. Indulge in their delectable Kashmiri cuisine, with average cost for a meal being about $20 per person.
Friday, February 16: Departure from Srinagar
On your last day, bid farewell to the enchanting land of Srinagar and depart for your onward journey. Take a moment to soak in the serene beauty of the Mughal Gardens one last time before heading to the Srinagar International Airport.
Mughal Gardens (Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh): Cost: INR 100 per person, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Srinagar, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Dachigam National Park, a wildlife reserve known for its population of endangered Hangul deer. Another hidden gem is the Kheer Bhawani Temple, a sacred Hindu shrine situated in a picturesque setting near Srinagar. Locals also recommend taking a leisurely walk along the Nigeen Lake, away from the crowds, to experience a tranquil atmosphere in the lap of nature.
For checking hotel and flight prices, you can visit KAYAK.com.