A Week in Kashmir: A Family-Friendly Itinerary

Monday January 1: Arrival in Srinagar

Start your family-friendly adventure in the mesmerizing city of Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir. In the morning, visit the famous Dal Lake and take a Shikara boat ride, admiring the floating gardens and intricate houseboats. After a delicious traditional Kashmiri lunch, explore the beautiful Mughal Gardens including Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh. In the evening, indulge in some shopping at the bustling Lal Chowk market.

• Dal Lake and Shikara Ride: Estimated Cost - INR 500 per person, Estimated Time - 3 hours
• Mughal Gardens: Estimated Cost - INR 100 per person, Estimated Time - 2 hours
• Lal Chowk Market: Estimated Cost - Varies, Estimated Time - 2 hours

Tuesday January 2: Gulmarg

Embark on a day trip to Gulmarg, approximately 50 kilometers from Srinagar. Enjoy the scenic drive through the snow-covered landscapes. In the morning, experience the thrill of snow activities like skiing, snowboarding, and tubing at Kongdori or Apharwat Peak. After a delicious local lunch, take a peaceful gondola ride to enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas. End the day with a leisurely walk around the picturesque Alpather Lake.

• Snow Activities at Gulmarg: Estimated Cost - INR 2,000 per person, Estimated Time - 4 hours
• Gondola Ride: Estimated Cost - INR 700 per person, Estimated Time - 2 hours
• Alpather Lake: Estimated Cost - INR 50 per person, Estimated Time - 1 hour

Wednesday January 3: Pahalgam

Visit the enchanting town of Pahalgam, located around 95 kilometers from Srinagar. In the morning, explore the lush Betaab Valley, known for its beautiful meadows and the crystal-clear Lidder River. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the scenic surroundings. In the afternoon, take a leisurely horse ride to the picturesque Chandanwari and marvel at the stunning views of glaciers. End the day with a visit to the famous Tulian Lake.

• Betaab Valley: Estimated Cost - INR 50 per person, Estimated Time - 2 hours
• Horse Ride to Chandanwari: Estimated Cost - INR 500 per person, Estimated Time - 3 hours
• Tulian Lake: Estimated Cost - INR 100 per person, Estimated Time - 1 hour

Thursday January 4: Sonamarg

Discover the captivating beauty of Sonamarg, around 80 kilometers from Srinagar. Begin the day with a thrilling trek to the Thajiwas Glacier, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature's tranquility. In the afternoon, experience the adrenaline rush with a river rafting adventure on the Sindh River. Take a leisurely stroll around the town and soak in the serene atmosphere.

• Thajiwas Glacier Trek: Estimated Cost - INR 500 per person, Estimated Time - 4 hours
• River Rafting: Estimated Cost - INR 1,500 per person, Estimated Time - 2 hours
• Exploring Sonamarg: Estimated Cost - Varies, Estimated Time - 2 hours

Friday January 5: Srinagar Sightseeing

Take a day to explore more of Srinagar's attractions. Begin by visiting the historic Shankaracharya Temple, located on top of Shankaracharya Hill, offering panoramic views of the city. Afterward, visit the enchanting Hazratbal Mosque, known for its stunning architecture and serene surroundings. Enjoy a traditional Kashmiri lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the fascinating Indira Gandhi Tulip Garden, home to a vast variety of tulips blooming in vibrant colors.

• Shankaracharya Temple: Estimated Cost - INR 100 per person, Estimated Time - 2 hours
• Hazratbal Mosque: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time - 1 hour
• Indira Gandhi Tulip Garden: Estimated Cost - INR 100 per person, Estimated Time - 2 hours

Saturday January 6: Dachigam National Park

Embark on an adventurous wildlife experience at Dachigam National Park, located approximately 22 kilometers from Srinagar. In the morning, explore the park's diverse flora and fauna, including the endangered Hangul deer. Enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature's tranquility. Afterward, visit the scenic Harwan Garden and take a leisurely walk along the picturesque Dachigam Reservoir. End the day with a visit to the ancient ruins of Pandrethan Temple.

• Dachigam National Park: Estimated Cost - INR 100 per person, Estimated Time - 4 hours
• Harwan Garden: Estimated Cost - INR 50 per person, Estimated Time - 1 hour
• Pandrethan Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time - 1 hour

Sunday January 7: Departure from Srinagar

As your family-friendly journey comes to an end, take some time to shop for souvenirs and local handicrafts in Srinagar's renowned markets. Bid farewell to the breathtaking beauty of Kashmir and depart from Srinagar with cherished memories.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For an off-the-beaten-path experience, venture to the charming village of Aru Valley, located near Pahalgam. Explore the pristine meadows, take a pony ride, and enjoy a picnic amidst the serene surroundings. Another local favorite is the Kokernag Botanical Garden, known for its enchanting gardens and natural springs. Don't miss the opportunity to savor the local cuisine, especially the mouthwatering Kashmiri Wazwan, a traditional multi-course meal.

Check out hotel and flight prices in Kashmir here.