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A Week in Kashmir: Exploring the Paradise on Earth

Wednesday April 17: Arrival in Srinagar

Welcome to Srinagar, the capital city of Jammu and Kashmir. Begin your journey by visiting the beautiful Dal Lake in the morning. Take a shikara ride, a traditional Kashmiri boat, and enjoy the serene surroundings. In the afternoon, explore the Mughal Gardens, including Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh, known for their stunning architecture and vibrant flower beds. End the day with a visit to the iconic Hazratbal Shrine, a revered Muslim shrine located on the banks of Dal Lake.

  • Dal Lake: Entrance fee: INR 200 ($2.67), Shikara ride: INR 500 ($6.68), Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Mughal Gardens: Entrance fee: INR 50 ($0.67), Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Hazratbal Shrine: Free entry, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Coffee Day, located near Dal Lake. Enjoy a variety of sandwiches, pastries, and hot beverages. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
  • For lunch, head to Shamyana Restaurant, known for its authentic Kashmiri cuisine. Indulge in mouthwatering kebabs, biryanis, and traditional Kashmiri breads. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
  • End your day with a delightful dinner at Ahdoos Restaurant, a popular choice for Kashmiri and Indian dishes. Try their signature Rogan Josh or Kashmiri Pulao for a truly authentic experience. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Thursday April 18: Gulmarg

Embark on a day trip to Gulmarg, a picturesque hill station known for its snow-capped mountains and stunning meadows. Start your morning by taking the Gondola ride, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. In the afternoon, indulge in adventure activities like skiing, snowboarding, or simply enjoy a leisurely walk amidst the lush greenery. Wrap up the day by exploring the local market and savoring some authentic Kashmiri cuisine.

  • Gondola ride: Phase 1 - INR 700 ($9.35), Phase 2 - INR 900 ($12), Time spent: 4-5 hours
  • Adventure activities: Prices vary, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Local market: Cost as per personal preferences, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
  • For a hearty breakfast, head to Café Chrar-e-Sharief which offers a wide range of Kashmiri delicacies such as traditional Kashmiri chai and saffron-infused pulao. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
  • For a satisfying lunch, visit Alka Salka Family Restaurant where you can enjoy authentic Kashmiri Wazwan dishes like Rogan Josh and Gushtaba. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
  • To experience a delightful dinner, dine at Stream Restaurant and enjoy a variety of grilled kebabs and traditional Kashmiri dum aloo. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Friday April 19: Pahalgam

Enjoy a scenic drive to Pahalgam, a quaint town surrounded by breathtaking valleys and mountains. Start your day by visiting the beautiful Betaab Valley, named after the Bollywood film "Betaab" which was shot here. Take a leisurely walk amidst the lush green meadows and enchanting landscapes. In the afternoon, explore the picturesque Aru Valley and indulge in activities like horse riding or hiking. End the day with a visit to the iconic Lidder Amusement Park.

  • Betaab Valley: Entrance fee: INR 100 ($1.34), Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Aru Valley: Entrance fee: INR 50 ($0.67), Activities cost: Varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Lidder Amusement Park: Entrance fee: INR 50 ($0.67), Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
  • For breakfast, head to Cafe Log Inn in Pahalgam. This cozy cafe offers a variety of freshly baked goods and delicious Kashmiri tea. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
  • For lunch, try Nathu's Rasoi, a popular restaurant known for its authentic Kashmiri cuisine. Indulge in mouthwatering dishes like Rogan Josh and Kashmiri Pulao. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
  • For dinner, visit Troutbeat Restaurant in Pahalgam. This riverside eatery serves delectable trout dishes and offers a stunning view of the Lidder River. Average cost for a meal is about ₹600 per person.
Saturday April 20: Sonamarg

Embark on a scenic drive to Sonamarg, also known as the "Meadow of Gold." Start your day by exploring the Thajiwas Glacier, a sparkling wonderland of snow-clad mountains and gushing streams. Take a pony ride or go trekking to enjoy the scenic beauty up close. In the afternoon, visit the serene Gangabal Lake and indulge in some trout fishing. Wrap up the day by admiring the breathtaking views from the Zojila Pass.

  • Thajiwas Glacier: Entrance fee: INR 100 ($1.34), Pony ride: INR 500 ($6.68), Time spent: 3-4 hours
  • Gangabal Lake: Entrance fee: Free, Fishing permit: INR 200 ($2.67), Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Zojila Pass: Free access, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Sunday April 21: Srinagar - Local Experience

Immerse yourself in the local culture and explore the hidden gems of Srinagar. Start your morning by visiting the enchanting Shankaracharya Temple, located on top of a hill, offering panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, explore the bustling markets of Srinagar, like Lal Chowk and Residency Road, where you can shop for authentic Kashmiri handicrafts and spices. End the day with a traditional Kashmiri Wazwan dinner, a multi-course feast renowned for its flavors.

  • Shankaracharya Temple: Free entry, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Shopping in Srinagar: Cost as per personal preferences, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Kashmiri Wazwan Dinner: Cost varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Monday April 22: Yusmarg

Embark on a day trip to Yusmarg, a pristine meadow adorned with lush greenery and snow-capped mountains. Start your morning with a peaceful walk through Charar-e-Sharief, a historical town known for its shrines and religious significance. In the afternoon, explore Yusmarg, known for its beautiful meadows and clear streams. Enjoy horse riding, picnic by the Doodh Ganga river, or simply soak in the tranquil surroundings. End the day with a visit to the Nilnag Lake, nestled amidst dense forests.

  • Charar-e-Sharief: Free entry, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Yusmarg: Entrance fee: INR 50 ($0.67), Horse riding: INR 300-500 ($4-6.68), Time spent: 4-5 hours
  • Nilnag Lake: Entrance fee: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Tuesday April 23: Dachigam National Park

Explore the stunning wildlife and natural beauty of Dachigam National Park, located near Srinagar. Start your day by embarking on a wildlife safari to spot the endangered Kashmir stag, also known as Hangul. Marvel at the diverse flora and fauna as you explore the park. In the afternoon, enjoy a picnic amidst the scenic surroundings or take a leisurely walk through the picturesque trails. End the day with a visit to the ancient Hari Parbat Fort, offering panoramic views of the city.

  • Dachigam National Park: Entrance fee: INR 200 ($2.67), Safari cost: INR 500-1000 ($6.68-13.36), Time spent: 4-5 hours
  • Picnic in the park: Cost as per personal preferences, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Hari Parbat Fort: Entrance fee: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Kashmir, don't miss out on the off the beaten path attractions and local favorites. Visit the enchanting Achabal Gardens, located in the Anantnag district, known for its beautiful fountains and manicured lawns. Explore the Martand Sun Temple, a historical site dedicated to the Sun God, offering glimpses into the rich architectural heritage of the region. For a unique experience, indulge in a traditional Kashmiri tea tasting session and savor the flavors of Kahwah, a special blend of tea with saffron and spices.

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