7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Kashmir

Friday, September 1: Arrival in Srinagar

Welcome to Kashmir! Begin your trip by arriving in Srinagar, the capital city. In the morning, take a relaxing Shikara ride on the famous Dal Lake and explore its floating markets. Afterward, visit the beautiful Mughal Gardens, including Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh, known for their stunning terraced gardens and breathtaking views. In the evening, enjoy a delicious Kashmiri dinner at a local restaurant.

• Dal Lake and Shikara Ride: Estimated Cost - INR 500 ($7), Time Spent - 2 hours
• Mughal Gardens: Estimated Cost - INR 250 ($3.50), Time Spent - 2 hours
• Local Kashmiri Restaurant: Estimated Cost - INR 800 ($11), Time Spent - 2 hours

Saturday, September 2: Pahalgam Day Trip

Embark on a scenic day trip to Pahalgam, a charming hill station located about 95 kilometers from Srinagar. In the morning, visit Betaab Valley, known for its lush greenery and serene surroundings. Afterward, explore the iconic Aru Valley and enjoy pony rides with your family. In the evening, return to Srinagar and relax at your hotel.

• Betaab Valley: Estimated Cost - INR 100 ($1.40), Time Spent - 3 hours
• Aru Valley: Estimated Cost - INR 200 ($2.80), Time Spent - 2 hours
• Transportation: Estimated Cost (Round Trip) - INR 2000 ($28), Time Spent - 4 hours

Sunday, September 3: Sonamarg Exploration

On this day, head to Sonamarg, a picturesque town nestled in the Himalayas. In the morning, visit the Thajiwas Glacier and indulge in activities like horse riding and snow sledging. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the banks of the Sindh River and enjoy a picnic with your family amidst the stunning natural surroundings. Return to Srinagar in the evening.

• Thajiwas Glacier: Estimated Cost - INR 500 ($7), Time Spent - 4 hours
• Picnic at Sindh River: Estimated Cost - INR 300 ($4), Time Spent - 2 hours
• Transportation: Estimated Cost (Round Trip) - INR 3000 ($42), Time Spent - 8 hours

Monday, September 4: Gulmarg Adventure

Embark on an exciting day trip to Gulmarg, a popular skiing destination. In the morning, take the Gulmarg Gondola cable car ride to Kongdoori Mountain and enjoy panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks. Engage in fun activities like skiing, snowboarding, or snow tubing. In the afternoon, explore the picturesque Alpather Lake. Return to Srinagar in the evening.

• Gulmarg Gondola Ride: Estimated Cost - INR 1500 ($21), Time Spent - 4 hours
• Skiing/Snowboarding/Snow Tubing: Estimated Cost - INR 2000 ($28), Time Spent - 3 hours
• Alpather Lake: Estimated Cost - INR 500 ($7), Time Spent - 2 hours
• Transportation: Estimated Cost (Round Trip) - INR 4000 ($56), Time Spent - 8 hours

Tuesday, September 5: Srinagar City Tour

Explore the highlights of Srinagar today. In the morning, visit the fascinating Shankaracharya Temple, located on the top of a hill, offering panoramic views of the city. Afterward, explore the historic Hazratbal Shrine, an important Muslim pilgrimage site. In the afternoon, take a walk through the bustling Old City and browse the local markets for souvenirs. End the day with a relaxing Shikara ride on Dal Lake.

• Shankaracharya Temple: Estimated Cost - INR 100 ($1.40), Time Spent - 2 hours
• Hazratbal Shrine: Free Entry, Time Spent - 1 hour
• Old City Markets: Estimated Cost - Variable, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Shikara Ride on Dal Lake: Estimated Cost - INR 500 ($7), Time Spent - 2 hours

Wednesday, September 6: Dachigam National Park

Embark on a wildlife adventure at Dachigam National Park, located just outside Srinagar. In the morning, go on a guided jungle safari and spot various species, including the endangered Kashmir stag (hangul). Enjoy a picnic amidst the scenic surroundings. In the afternoon, visit the picturesque Marsar Lake, known for its natural beauty. Return to Srinagar in the evening.

• Dachigam National Park: Estimated Cost - INR 500 ($7), Time Spent - 6 hours
• Picnic at Dachigam National Park: Estimated Cost - INR 300 ($4), Time Spent - 2 hours
• Marsar Lake: Estimated Cost - INR 200 ($2.80), Time Spent - 2 hours
• Transportation: Estimated Cost (Round Trip) - INR 1000 ($14), Time Spent - 8 hours

Thursday, September 7: Departure from Srinagar

On your last day in Kashmir, take the morning to relax and pack. If time permits, visit the floating vegetable market on Dal Lake for a unique experience. Bid farewell to the mesmerizing land of Kashmir and head to the airport for your departure.

• Floating Vegetable Market: Estimated Cost - INR 200 ($2.80), Time Spent - 2 hours
• Transportation to Airport: Estimated Cost - INR 1000 ($14), Time Spent - 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While in Kashmir, don't miss out on the opportunity to visit the beautiful Tulip Garden in Srinagar, especially if you're traveling during the spring season. This garden showcases a stunning display of thousands of colorful tulips, making it a delightful sight for the whole family to enjoy. Additionally, consider visiting the charming town of Kokernag, famous for its natural springs and lush gardens. It's an ideal spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll amidst the enchanting scenery.

For more information on hotels and flight prices in Kashmir, check out KAYAK.