An Adventurous 2-Day Itinerary in Kashmir

Monday, October 23: Srinagar

Start your adventure in Srinagar, the capital city of Kashmir. In the morning, visit the stunning Dal Lake and take a shikara boat ride to explore its floating gardens and intricate houseboats. Immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of the lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains. In the afternoon, head to the Dachigam National Park, known for its diverse wildlife, including the endangered Kashmir stag. Take a guided trek through the park's picturesque trails to spot various bird species and admire the natural landscapes. As the evening approaches, visit the Hazratbal Shrine, a revered Islamic shrine located on the banks of Dal Lake, and witness the peaceful atmosphere and stunning architecture.

• Dal Lake: Cost estimate - INR 500 for shikara boat ride; Time spent - 2 hours
• Dachigam National Park: Cost estimate - INR 200 for entry fee; Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Hazratbal Shrine: Cost estimate - Free; Time spent - 1 hour

Tuesday, October 24: Gulmarg

On the second day, venture to Gulmarg, a picturesque hill station known for its adventure activities and breathtaking landscapes. Start your morning by experiencing the thrill of skiing or snowboarding in the snowy slopes of Gulmarg. The town offers excellent skiing facilities and stunning panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks. In the afternoon, embark on an exhilarating Gondola ride, one of the highest cable car rides in the world, which takes you to Kongdori Mountain. Enjoy bird's eye views of the surrounding valleys and indulge in hiking or horse riding. As the evening unfolds, explore the local markets to shop for traditional Kashmiri handicrafts and souvenirs.

• Skiing in Gulmarg: Cost estimate - INR 2,000 for equipment rental; Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Gondola Ride: Cost estimate - INR 1,500 for round trip; Time spent - 2 hours
• Shopping in Gulmarg: Cost estimate - Varies; Time spent - 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Café Chai Nawaz, a cozy cafe known for its scrumptious Kashmiri cuisine. Indulge in mouthwatering traditional Kashmiri breakfast items like rogan josh and Kashmiri tea. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
• For lunch, visit Highland Park Restaurant, a popular eatery offering a variety of Indian, Continental, and Kashmiri dishes. Enjoy their delicious biryanis and kebabs while taking in the beautiful panoramic views of the mountains. Average cost for a meal is about 700 INR per person.
• For dinner, dine at Shamyana Restaurant, a must-visit place in Gulmarg known for its authentic Kashmiri cuisine. Try their signature dish, the Kashmiri Wazwan, a multi-course meal consisting of various meat and vegetable dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 1000 INR per person.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For adventure enthusiasts, Sonamarg is a hidden gem in Kashmir. Located around 80 kilometers from Srinagar, Sonamarg is known as the "Meadow of Gold." It offers thrilling opportunities for trekking, camping, and river rafting. The pristine beauty of the Thajiwas Glacier and the serene charm of the Gangabal Lake make Sonamarg a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

If you're looking for an offbeat adventure, head to Yusmarg, a secluded meadow surrounded by dense forests and snow-covered mountains. This untouched destination offers hiking trails, horse riding, and trout fishing in the local streams. Enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty of Yusmarg away from the crowds.

Don't forget to check KAYAK for the best deals on hotels and flights to make your adventure in Kashmir even more enjoyable.