A 6-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary to Explore the Best of Kashmir

  1. Day 1: Dal Lake
    30 minutes (12.5 km) from Srinagar Airport

    Dal Lake is a must-visit attraction in Kashmir where you can take a leisurely boat ride and enjoy the stunning views of mountains and floating gardens. Visit the Char Chinar island, where you can get a glimpse of the Shikara architecture, relax at the Hazratbal Shrine's picturesque location.

  2. Day 2: Gulmarg Ski Resort
    50 minutes (54 km) from Dal Lake

    Gulmarg Ski Resort offers fantastic activities for all the family, from skiing lessons to snowboarding. The scenery surrounding the ski resort is breathtaking, and the experience is worth every penny. You can also take a cable car ride to Apharwat peak to view the Kashmir Valley's panoramic beauty.

  3. Day 3: Srinagar Mughal Gardens
    20 minutes (8 km) from Dal Lake

    Srinagar Mughal Gardens have some beautiful sights, including Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, Chashme Shahi, and Pari Mahal. Chashme Shahi Bagh is the smallest but has the most stunning scenic spots and is known for its floral excellence. Nishat Bagh will give you mesmerizing views of the Dal Lake, and the Shalimar Bagh will impress you with its fountains and chinar trees.

  4. Day 4: Sonamarg
    3 hours 10 minutes (80.9 km) from Srinagar Mughal Gardens

    Head to Sonamarg for lovely trekking trails and captivating views of the Himalayan range. You can also ride horses around the Thajiwas Glacier or explore its gushing stream. This place is also famous for trout fishing, so, after a long day, delve into the local restaurants for fresh fish.

  5. Day 5: Pahalgam
    2 hours 20 minutes (89.5 km) from Sonamarg

    Pahalgam is the perfect day trip to experience the countryside. You can trek along the Lidder River or explore the vast fields dotted with shepherds. This region is also known for its religious significance; the Amarnath Yatra is the most important pilgrimage, traveled by millions of devoted Hindus.

  6. Day 6: Betaab Valley
    1 hour 50 minutes (85.4 km) from Pahalgam

    Betaab Valley is a picturesque valley, nestled amongst the Himalayan Ranges. It is most known as one of the locations where Betaab Film was shot on this valley's scenic backdrop. It has a beautiful waterfall in its serene environment, making it the perfect place for a picnic with the family.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Dal Lake Boat Ride (2-3 hours, INR 700-1000)
  • Gulmarg Ski Resort (3-4 hours, INR 1500-2500)
  • Cable Car Ride to Apharwat Peak (2-3 hours, INR 1500-2000)
  • Trekking Trail at Sonamarg (4-5 hours, INR 1000-2000)
  • Amarnath Yatra at Pahalgam (7-8 hours, INR 500-1000)
  • Betaab Valley (2-3 hours, INR 200-500)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 5000-8000 per person.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, add a day trip to Doodhpathri, a place for the most picturesque viewpoints and scenic beauty. If you have less time, eliminate the Pahalgam visit, and focus on other attractions. Always carry warm clothes as even in summers; it can get chilly in the evenings. Dress modestly and carry sunscreen and sunglasses to protect against UV rays. Plan your travel before actual travel to avoid peak periods and enjoy the attractions comfortably.

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