Start your trip in Srinagar, the capital city of Kashmir. In the morning, explore the famous Dal Lake by taking a Shikara ride, enjoying the serene beauty and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. In the afternoon, visit the Mughal Gardens, including Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh, which showcase stunning terraced gardens and beautiful flower beds. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely walk along the Boulevard Road, lined with local shops and eateries.
Dal Lake Shikara Ride: Cost depends on negotiation, 2-3 hours
Mughal Gardens: Entrance fee around INR 20-30 per person, 1-2 hours
Boulevard Road: Free, spend as much time as you like
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Srinagar is Café Coffee Day, located near Dal Lake. They offer a variety of breakfast options including sandwiches, omelettes, and fresh coffee. The average cost for a meal here is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head over to Shamyana Restaurant situated in the heart of the city. Known for its delectable Kashmiri cuisine, you can try their signature dishes like Rogan Josh and Kashmiri Pulao. The average cost for a meal here is about 400 INR per person.
If you're looking for a cozy ambiance and a great dinner experience, Alka Salka is a must-visit. This restaurant specializes in traditional Kashmiri dishes like Wazwan and Dum Aloo. The average cost for a meal here is about 600 INR per person.
Saturday, September 23: Gulmarg
Embark on a day trip to Gulmarg, a picturesque hill station located 56 kilometers from Srinagar. In the morning, indulge in adventure activities like skiing or take a gondola ride to Apharwat Peak for breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains. In the afternoon, explore the Golf Course and enjoy a leisurely picnic amidst nature. As the evening approaches, take a stroll through the local market, where you can find souvenirs and traditional Kashmiri handicrafts.
Gondola Ride: Cost varies from INR 600-950, 2-3 hours
Gulmarg Golf Course: Entrance fee around INR 200-300, 1-2 hours
Local Market: Free, spend as much time as you like
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Gulmarg is Café Pine N Peak, offering a range of breakfast options including omelettes, pancakes, and Kashmiri tea. The average cost for a meal here is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Bakshi Restaurant, known for its delicious Kashmiri cuisine. Try their Rogan Josh or Yakhni Pulao. The average cost for a meal here is about 400 INR per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, visit Cloves Restaurant. They serve a variety of Indian and international dishes, with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available. The average cost for a meal here is about 800 INR per person.
Sunday, September 24: Pahalgam
Visit Pahalgam, a scenic town nestled amidst the Himalayan ranges. In the morning, take a leisurely walk along the Lidder River and enjoy the tranquil beauty of the surroundings. In the afternoon, visit Betaab Valley, famous for its lush green meadows and crystal-clear streams. As the evening sets in, explore the local market and savor delicious Kashmiri cuisine at one of the traditional eateries.
Lidder River Walk: Free, 1-2 hours
Betaab Valley: Entrance fee around INR 50-100 per person, 2-3 hours
Local Market: Free, spend as much time as you like
Restaurants
For breakfast in Pahalgam, head to Café Log Inn. This quaint café offers a variety of breakfast options including omelettes, pancakes, and sandwiches. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, try Ahdoos Restaurant, known for its authentic Kashmiri cuisine. Enjoy dishes like Rogan Josh and Kashmiri Pulao while surrounded by a cozy ambiance. The average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
For dinner, visit Dana Pani Restaurant. This popular eatery offers a range of Indian and Continental dishes. Enjoy a fine dining experience with beautiful views of the surroundings. The average cost for a meal is about ₹600 per person.
Monday, September 25: Sonamarg
Head to Sonamarg, also known as the "Meadow of Gold." In the morning, embark on a thrilling trek to the Thajiwas Glacier, surrounded by magnificent snow-capped peaks. In the afternoon, enjoy a pony ride amidst the stunning landscapes of Sonamarg. As the evening approaches, unwind by the banks of the Nallah Sindh and witness the breathtaking sunset.
Thajiwas Glacier Trek: Cost depends on negotiation, 4-5 hours
Pony Ride: Cost depends on negotiation, 2-3 hours
Nallah Sindh: Free, spend as much time as you like
Tuesday, September 26: Srinagar City Tour
Explore more of Srinagar's attractions. In the morning, visit the historic Shankaracharya Temple, perched on top of a hill, offering panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, wander through the bustling streets of the Old City, exploring the vibrant markets and sampling local street food. As the evening sets in, visit the Hazratbal Shrine, a significant religious site for Muslims, and enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the Jhelum River.
Shankaracharya Temple: Entrance fee around INR 25-50 per person, 1-2 hours
Old City Markets: Free, spend as much time as you like
Hazratbal Shrine: Free, 1-2 hours
Wednesday, September 27: Yusmarg
Visit Yusmarg, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Kashmir. In the morning, explore the meadows of Doodhpathri, known for its breathtaking landscapes and pristine natural beauty. In the afternoon, go for a leisurely walk around Nilnag Lake, surrounded by lush greenery. As the evening approaches, have a picnic by the picturesque Charari Sharief village, known for its peaceful ambiance.
Doodhpathri: Entrance fee around INR 250-500 per person, 4-5 hours
Nilnag Lake: Free, 2-3 hours
Charari Sharief Village: Free, spend as much time as you like
Thursday, September 28: Departure
On your last day, bid farewell to Kashmir and depart from Srinagar. Take some time to stroll through the local markets to buy souvenirs and cherish the memories of your amazing trip.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting Aru Valley, a serene and less crowded destination with mesmerizing landscapes. Explore the beautiful meadows, trek to Tarsar Lake, and enjoy the tranquility of nature. Locals also recommend visiting the Martand Sun Temple, an ancient architectural masterpiece showcasing the rich heritage of Kashmir. Both these attractions provide an authentic experience without breaking the bank.
For affordable accommodations and flight prices, you can check the options available on Kayak.