Start your honeymoon by arriving in Srinagar, the capital city of Kashmir. In the morning, take a romantic shikara ride on Dal Lake, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery and floating gardens. Admire the intricate architecture of the Mughal Gardens, such as Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh, in the afternoon. As the evening sets in, visit the Hazratbal Shrine, a beautiful white marble mosque located on the banks of Dal Lake, and witness the mesmerizing reflection of its golden dome in the water.
Dal Lake Shikara Ride: Estimated Cost - INR 500 per hour, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
Mughal Gardens: Estimated Cost - INR 100 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
For breakfast, head to The Chinar café, a charming restaurant located near Dal Lake. Indulge in their delicious Kashmiri chai and traditional Kashmiri breads. The average cost for a meal here is about Rs. 300 per person.
Savor a delightful lunch at Mughal Darbar, a popular restaurant known for its authentic Kashmiri cuisine. Try their mouth-watering Rogan Josh or Yakhni Pulao. The average cost for a meal here is about Rs. 700 per person.
For a romantic dinner, visit Ahdoos Restaurant, a renowned eatery in Srinagar. Enjoy their signature Kashmiri Wazwan dishes, like Rista and Gushtaba, in a cozy ambiance. The average cost for a meal here is about Rs. 1000 per person.
Friday, August 11: Explore Gulmarg
Embark on a day trip to Gulmarg, a picturesque hill station known for its scenic beauty. In the morning, take the Gulmarg Gondola, one of the highest cable cars in the world, to reach Kongdori Mountain. Enjoy panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks and lush meadows. Indulge in adventure activities like skiing or horse riding in the afternoon. As the evening approaches, take a romantic stroll through the picturesque town, exploring local shops and savoring traditional Kashmiri cuisine.
Gulmarg Gondola: Estimated Cost - INR 750 per person for Phase 1, Estimated Time Spent - 3 hours
For breakfast, head to Café Mocha, a cozy café located in Gulmarg. They offer a delicious spread of freshly baked pastries, sandwiches, and hot beverages. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For lunch, try the Lhasa Restaurant, a popular Tibetan eatery in Gulmarg. They serve authentic Tibetan dishes like momos, thukpa, and butter tea. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
For dinner, visit Highland Park Restaurant, a fine dining establishment known for its stunning views of the surrounding mountains. They specialize in Kashmiri cuisine, offering dishes like rogan josh and dum aloo. The average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Saturday, August 12: Visit Pahalgam
On your last day in Kashmir, head to Pahalgam, a charming town nestled in the Lidder Valley. Start the day with a visit to the Betab Valley, named after the Bollywood movie "Betaab" shot here. Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the valley, surrounded by pine forests and snow-capped mountains. Take a leisurely walk along the Lidder River in the afternoon and enjoy a picnic amidst nature. As the evening sets in, explore the local markets and bazaars, and shop for traditional handicrafts as souvenirs of your honeymoon.
Betab Valley: Estimated Cost - INR 50 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
Lidder River Walk: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours
For a unique experience, consider visiting the Aru Valley near Pahalgam, a lesser-known gem with stunning landscapes and peaceful surroundings. Another off the beaten path attraction is the Dachigam National Park, located near Srinagar, known for its biodiversity and wildlife, including the endangered Hangul deer. Locals also recommend trying Kashmiri Wazwan, a traditional multi-course meal, at a local restaurant for an authentic culinary experience.