8-Day Itinerary for Kashmir

1. Day 1: Srinagar
   Estimated Time from Last Stop: 20 minutes (11.3 km)

   Visit the beautiful gardens of Mughal emperor Jahangir at Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh. Take a serene shikara ride on Dal Lake in the evening and watch the sunset.

2. Day 2: Gulmarg
   Estimated Time from Last Stop: 1 hour 45 minutes (54.8 km)

   Indulge in skiing and snowboarding at India's top ski resort. Check out the wildlife at Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve and take a gondola ride to the summit for stunning views.

3. Day 3: Sonamarg
   Estimated Time from Last Stop: 1 hour 45 minutes (80 km)

   Hike to the incredible Thajiwas Glacier and explore the countryside with a horse or pony ride. Catch a trout in the local rivers and enjoy a picnic in the meadows.

4. Day 4: Srinagar
   Estimated Time from Last Stop: 2 hours 15 minutes (67.5 km)

   Visit the historic Hazratbal Shrine and the ancient Shankaracharya Temple. Shop for souvenirs at the bustling Lal Chowk market and try some traditional Kashmiri cuisine at Mughal Darbar.

5. Day 5: Pahalgam
   Estimated Time from Last Stop: 2 hours 40 minutes (88.4 km)

   Relax in the scenic Betaab Valley and explore the Aru Valley and Chandanwari. Go on a thrilling white-water rafting trip down the Lidder River.

6. Day 6: Yusmarg
   Estimated Time from Last Stop: 3 hours (111 km)

   Hike to the famous Nilnag Lake and soak in the breathtaking views of the Pir Panjal Mountains. Enjoy a picnic lunch and take a horse ride through the lush meadows.

7. Day 7: Kokernag
   Estimated Time from Last Stop: 1 hour 45 minutes (55.3 km)

   Relax in the stunning botanical gardens of Verinag and soak in the therapeutic waters of the natural springs. Trek through the dense forests and visit the Koker Nag temple.

8. Day 8: Srinagar
   Estimated Time from Last Stop: 1 hour 15 minutes (18.4 km)

   Visit the Hari Parbat Fort and marvel at the panoramic views from the top. Explore the colorful and aromatic spice markets and visit the historic Jama Masjid.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Shikara Ride on Dal Lake (2 hours, INR 700)
• Gulmarg Gondola Ride (1 hour 45 minutes, INR 800)
• Pony Ride in Sonamarg (2 hours, INR 500)
• White-water Rafting in Pahalgam (2 hours, INR 1200)
• Nature Walk in Yusmarg (4 hours, INR 300)
• Verinag Springs Entry (1 hour, INR 20)
• Hari Parbat Fort Entry (2 hours, INR 50)
Total Estimated Costs (Per Person): INR 3590

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the Dachigam National Park and the remote village of Gurez. If you have less time, consider skipping Kokernag and spending an extra day in Gulmarg or Srinagar. Keep warm clothes and comfortable footwear handy, as the temperature can get quite low, especially in winter months.