Welcome to Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir! Begin your trip by immersing yourself in the beauty of Dal Lake. In the morning, take a serene Shikara ride on the lake, marveling at the floating gardens and intricate houseboats. In the afternoon, visit the Mughal Gardens, including Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh, known for their stunning terraced lawns and vibrant flowers. As the evening sets in, explore the local markets, where you can find traditional Kashmiri handicrafts and souvenirs.
Dal Lake: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
Mughal Gardens: Cost Estimate - INR 50 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Local Markets: Cost Estimate - Variable, Time Spent - 2 hours
Restaurants
Savor a delicious Kashmiri breakfast at Cafe de Lake, located near Dal Lake. Indulge in traditional delicacies like Kashmiri Nun Chai and Rogan Josh. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For a scrumptious lunch, head to Mughal Darbar. This iconic restaurant offers a wide range of authentic Kashmiri dishes such as Kashmiri Pulao and Yakhni. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
End your day with a delightful dinner at Ahdoos Restaurant, known for its exquisite Indian and Kashmiri cuisines. Try their signature dishes like Rista and Gushtaba. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Friday, August 25: Gulmarg
Embark on a day trip to Gulmarg, a picturesque hill station known for its scenic beauty and adventure activities. In the morning, take a scenic drive to Gulmarg, enjoying the breathtaking views of the snow-covered mountains. Once there, head to the Gulmarg Gondola, the highest cable car in the world, and experience stunning panoramic vistas. In the afternoon, indulge in skiing, snowboarding, or simply enjoy a leisurely walk in the meadows. As the evening approaches, return to Srinagar.
Gulmarg Gondola: Cost Estimate - INR 700-1,500 per person, Time Spent - 4-5 hours
Skiing/Snowboarding: Cost Estimate - INR 2,000-3,000 per person, Time Spent - Flexible
Restaurants
A popular breakfast restaurant in Gulmarg is Cafe Highlands, which offers a wide range of breakfast options including omelettes, pancakes, and traditional Kashmiri cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Nedous Dining Room, a charming restaurant known for its delicious Kashmiri dishes like Rogan Josh and Yakhni Pulao. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at Nedous Dining Room, a well-known restaurant in Gulmarg that offers a variety of cuisines, including Indian, Chinese, and Continental. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Saturday, August 26: Pahalgam
Explore the scenic town of Pahalgam, known as the "Valley of Shepherds." Start your day with a visit to Betaab Valley, where the iconic Bollywood film 'Betaab' was shot. Enjoy the lush green meadows and gushing streams. In the afternoon, hike to the stunning Kolahoi Glacier, surrounded by majestic peaks. As the evening unfolds, take a leisurely stroll along the Lidder River and immerse yourself in the serene ambiance of Pahalgam.
Betaab Valley: Cost Estimate - INR 20 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Kolahoi Glacier: Cost Estimate - INR 500 per person (guide charges), Time Spent - 4-5 hours
Lidder River: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - Flexible
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe Log Inn which offers a delightful menu of Continental and Kashmiri cuisine. Enjoy their fluffy pancakes and aromatic Kashmiri Kahwa tea. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For lunch, visit Dana Pani Restaurant where you can feast on authentic Kashmiri cuisine, including Rogan Josh and Yakhni Pulao. The warm and cozy ambiance adds to the dining experience. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at Paradise Restaurant which specializes in Kashmiri Wazwan, a traditional multi-course meal. Savour their delectable Rista and Gushtaba. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Sunday, August 27: Sonamarg
Embark on a day trip to Sonamarg, also known as the "Meadow of Gold." Begin your day with a visit to Thajiwas Glacier, a majestic glacier surrounded by snow-covered peaks. In the afternoon, indulge in a thrilling horse ride, exploring the scenic trails of Sonamarg. As the evening approaches, enjoy a picnic amidst the beautiful meadows and savor the tranquility of nature.
Thajiwas Glacier: Cost Estimate - INR 150 per person (pony charges), Time Spent - 3-4 hours
Horse Ride: Cost Estimate - INR 500-1,000 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Picnic in Meadows: Cost Estimate - Variable, Time Spent - Flexible
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Sonamarg is Café Mountain View, known for its delicious pancakes and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The average cost for a meal here is about Rs. 300 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Shahi Dastarkhwan, a local restaurant that serves traditional Kashmiri cuisine. Don't miss out on their famous Rogan Josh and Kashmiri Pulao. The average cost for a meal here is about Rs. 500 per person.
In the evening, dine at The Himalayan Retreat, a cozy restaurant offering a variety of cuisines. With live music performances and a relaxed ambiance, it's the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploration. The average cost for a meal here is about Rs. 800 per person.
Monday, August 28: Srinagar - Local Culture
Dive into the rich culture and heritage of Srinagar. Start your day with a visit to the historic Jama Masjid, known for its beautiful architecture and spiritual significance. In the afternoon, explore the ancient Shankaracharya Temple, situated on the Shankaracharya Hill, offering panoramic views of the city. As the evening sets in, attend a traditional Kashmiri music and dance performance at the Tagore Hall, immersing yourself in the local art forms.
Kashmiri Music and Dance Performance: Cost Estimate - INR 200-500 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Khyen Chyen: Experience traditional Kashmiri cuisine for breakfast at Khyen Chyen. Indulge in the delicious Kashmiri tea, along with mouth-watering kebabs and local breads. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 300 per person.
Mughal Durbar: For a fulfilling lunch, head to Mughal Durbar. Known for its authentic Kashmiri Wazwan, this restaurant offers a wide range of traditional dishes like Rogan Josh and Yakhni. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 500 per person.
Shamyana Restaurant: For a delightful dinner, Shamyana Restaurant is a great choice. Enjoy a variety of Kashmiri and Indian dishes in a cozy atmosphere. Don't miss their signature dish - the Kashmiri Dum Aloo. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 800 per person.
Tuesday, August 29: Dachigam National Park
Embark on a wildlife adventure at Dachigam National Park, located just outside Srinagar. In the morning, embark on a guided trek through the park, home to endangered species like Hangul (Kashmiri Stag). Keep an eye out for other wildlife like Himalayan black bears and musk deer. In the afternoon, relax in the serene surroundings and enjoy a picnic amidst nature. As the evening unfolds, head back to Srinagar.
Guided Trek in Dachigam National Park: Cost Estimate - INR 500-1,000 per person (guide charges), Time Spent - 5-6 hours
Picnic in Dachigam National Park: Cost Estimate - Variable, Time Spent - Flexible
Restaurants
Breakfast: The Grand Diner - Enjoy a traditional Kashmiri breakfast at The Grand Diner, located near Dachigam National Park. Indulge in mouthwatering Rogan Josh, Kehwa tea, and flaky Sheermal bread. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Lunch: The Alpine Cafe - Recharge with a delicious lunch at The Alpine Cafe, known for its panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Savor a variety of dishes, including Kashmiri Pulao and Dum Aloo. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Dinner: Sakura Restaurant - Treat yourself to a memorable dinner at Sakura Restaurant, a cozy Japanese eatery in Srinagar. Delight in flavorsome sushi rolls, teriyaki chicken, and miso soup. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Wednesday, August 30: Departure
It's time to bid farewell to the mesmerizing beauty of Kashmir. Take your last moments to soak in the serenity one last time before heading home. Check out from your hotel and depart for the airport with unforgettable memories of your Kashmir trip.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Kashmir, don't miss the opportunity to visit the enchanting Aru Valley, located near Pahalgam. This lesser-known destination offers breathtaking landscapes, tranquil meadows, and the opportunity to connect with nature. Another hidden gem is the floating vegetable market on Dal Lake, where local vendors sell fresh produce directly from their boats. Take a Shikara ride early in the morning to experience this unique market and witness the vibrant colors and bustling activity.
For local favorites, indulge in traditional Kashmiri cuisine at iconic restaurants like Ahdoos or Mughal Darbar in Srinagar. Savor delicious Kashmiri Wazwan, a multi-course feast consisting of various meat dishes prepared with aromatic spices. To experience the true essence of Kashmiri culture, visit the Hazratbal Shrine, a revered Muslim shrine on the banks of Dal Lake, and witness the religious fervor and devotion of the locals.
To check hotel and flight prices for your Kashmir trip, visit KAYAK.