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A Week in Kashmir: Exploring the Paradise on Earth

Friday December 15: Arrival in Srinagar

Start your journey by arriving in Srinagar, the capital city of Kashmir. In the morning, head to Dal Lake and experience a shikara ride, gliding through the serene waters surrounded by majestic mountains. In the afternoon, visit the Mughal Gardens, including Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh, known for their stunning landscaping and beautiful flowerbeds. For the evening, explore the local markets in Lal Chowk and indulge in some traditional Kashmiri cuisine.

  • Dal Lake: Cost estimate - Depends on the type of shikara ride, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Mughal Gardens: Cost estimate - Entry fee is around INR 20 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Lal Chowk: Cost estimate - Depends on personal expenses, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Saturday December 16: Gulmarg

Embark on a day trip to Gulmarg, a world-famous skiing destination. In the morning, enjoy a cable car ride to Gulmarg Gondola, offering breathtaking views of the snow-covered peaks. Spend the afternoon skiing or snowboarding on the slopes, or simply take a leisurely walk amidst the stunning scenery. In the evening, relax at a cozy mountain lodge and savor a warm cup of Kashmiri Kahwa tea.

  • Gulmarg Gondola: Cost estimate - INR 750 for Phase 1, INR 950 for Phase 2, Time spent - Half-day
  • Skiing/Snowboarding: Cost estimate - Equipment rental starts at INR 500, Time spent - Half-day
  • Mountain Lodge: Cost estimate - Depends on accommodation choice, Time spent - Evening
Sunday December 17: Pahalgam

Visit the picturesque town of Pahalgam, known as the "Valley of Shepherds." In the morning, explore Betaab Valley, named after a Bollywood film, and enjoy the stunning vistas of snow-capped mountains, meadows, and crystal-clear streams. Afternoon is the perfect time to go horse riding or trekking to Baisaran, also called the "Mini Switzerland of India." In the evening, relax by the Lidder River and soak in the natural beauty.

  • Betaab Valley: Cost estimate - Entry fee is around INR 20 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Horse Riding/Trekking: Cost estimate - Depends on duration and route, Time spent - Half-day
  • Lidder River: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - Evening
Monday December 18: Sonamarg

Head to Sonamarg, the "Meadow of Gold," offering breathtaking views of glaciers and lakes. In the morning, visit the Thajiwas Glacier, where you can go snowboarding or take a leisurely walk amidst the snow. In the afternoon, explore the enchanting Gadsar Lake, known for its crystal-clear waters and surrounding meadows. As the evening sets in, enjoy a traditional Kashmiri meal while taking in the mesmerizing beauty of the Himalayas.

  • Thajiwas Glacier: Cost estimate - Depends on activities, Time spent - Half-day
  • Gadsar Lake: Cost estimate - Entry fee is around INR 20 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Traditional Kashmiri Meal: Cost estimate - Depends on restaurant choice, Time spent - Evening
Tuesday December 19: Yousmarg

Discover the hidden gem of Yousmarg, a pristine meadow surrounded by dense forests. In the morning, take a hike to Doodhpathri, known for its meadows and the milky-white river. Enjoy a picnic amidst the scenic beauty. In the afternoon, explore Charar-e-Sharief, a famous shrine and pilgrimage site. As the evening approaches, indulge in some local handicraft shopping and pick up souvenirs to cherish your Kashmiri experience.

  • Doodhpathri: Cost estimate - Depends on personal expenses, Time spent - Half-day
  • Charar-e-Sharief: Cost estimate - Depends on personal expenses, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Handicraft Shopping: Cost estimate - Depends on personal expenses, Time spent - Evening
Wednesday December 20: Srinagar City Tour

Explore the iconic attractions of Srinagar in the morning, starting with a visit to the historic Shankaracharya Temple, offering panoramic views of the city. Proceed to Hazratbal Shrine, a revered Muslim shrine on the banks of Dal Lake. In the afternoon, visit the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden, which comes alive in December with thousands of colorful tulips. For the evening, enjoy a relaxing Shikara ride on Dal Lake, witnessing the mesmerizing sunset.

  • Shankaracharya Temple: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Hazratbal Shrine: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Tulip Garden: Cost estimate - Entry fee is around INR 50 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Dal Lake Shikara Ride: Cost estimate - Depends on personal expenses, Time spent - Evening
Thursday December 21: Departure

End your memorable trip with a farewell to Kashmir. Spend the morning exploring the local markets for some last-minute shopping, including Kashmiri handicrafts, Pashmina shawls, and saffron. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Jamia Masjid, a historic mosque known for its architectural beauty. As you bid adieu to Kashmir, cherish the memories of the breathtaking landscapes and warm hospitality of the locals.

  • Local Market Shopping: Cost estimate - Depends on personal expenses, Time spent - Morning
  • Jamia Masjid: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Kashmir, don't miss the opportunity to visit the offbeat destinations like Aru Valley, known for its tranquility and scenic beauty. You can also explore the floating vegetable gardens of Dal Lake, where locals cultivate vegetables on floating islands. Additionally, indulge in the local cuisine, especially the traditional Wazwan feast, which includes a variety of mouth-watering Kashmiri dishes.

To check hotel and flight prices in Kashmir, click here.

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