Welcome to Srinagar, the capital city of Jammu and Kashmir! Start your trip by exploring the famous Dal Lake in the morning. Take a shikara ride to enjoy the serene surroundings and visit the beautiful floating gardens. In the afternoon, visit the Mughal Gardens, including Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh, known for their stunning terraced lawns and charming flowerbeds. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely walk along the Boulevard Road and enjoy the scenic view of the Dal Lake.
Dal Lake: Entrance fee - INR 100 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
Mughal Gardens: Entrance fee - INR 20 per person, Time spent - 3 hours
Boulevard Road: Free, Time spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
Gulshan Restaurant: Enjoy a delicious traditional Kashmiri breakfast at Gulshan Restaurant. Indulge in dishes like Kashmiri pulao and kehwa. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
Mughal Darbar: For lunch, head to Mughal Darbar and savor some delectable Kashmiri cuisine. Try their famous Rogan Josh and seekh kebabs. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Mama's Restaurant: Experience the local flavors of Kashmiri cuisine for dinner at Mama's Restaurant. Don't miss their mouthwatering Kashmiri dum aloo and gushtaba. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
Sunday, October 8: Gulmarg
Embark on a day trip to Gulmarg, a picturesque hill station located approximately 52 kilometers from Srinagar. In the morning, take a gondola ride to the top of Apharwat Peak and enjoy panoramic views of the snow-capped mountains. Spend the afternoon exploring the Alpather Lake, known for its crystal-clear waters and scenic beauty. Before heading back to Srinagar, visit the Gulmarg Golf Course, one of the highest golf courses in the world.
Gulmarg Golf Course: Entrance fee - INR 500 per person, Time spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Café Burzkitchen, a cozy café known for its delicious Kashmiri cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 200 per person.
For lunch, try Highland Park Restaurant, located near the Gulmarg Golf Course. They offer a variety of Indian and Continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 400 per person.
For dinner, visit Nedous Dining Room, a restaurant known for its elegant ambiance and mouthwatering Kashmiri dishes. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 800 per person.
Monday, October 9: Pahalgam
Today, head to Pahalgam, a scenic town located approximately 95 kilometers from Srinagar. In the morning, visit the Betaab Valley, named after the Bollywood movie "Betaab" which was shot here. Enjoy the lush green meadows, snow-capped mountains, and the picturesque Lidder River. In the afternoon, trek to the stunning Kolahoi Glacier and immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural beauty. End the day by exploring the local market and trying traditional Kashmiri cuisine.
Betaab Valley: Entrance fee - INR 10 per person, Time spent - 3 hours
For breakfast, head to Café Log Inn where you can enjoy delicious Kashmiri breads and traditional tea. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, try Ahdoos Restaurant, known for its authentic Kashmiri cuisine. Don't miss their signature dish, Rogan Josh. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
For dinner, visit Shamyana Restaurant, a popular spot offering a variety of Indian and international dishes. You can feast on Mughlai delicacies and enjoy the cozy ambiance. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Tuesday, October 10: Sonmarg
Today, visit Sonmarg, a scenic town known as the "Meadow of Gold," approximately 80 kilometers from Srinagar. In the morning, take a pony ride to the Thajiwas Glacier and marvel at the snow-covered peaks. Spend the afternoon exploring the picturesque Sindh Valley and enjoying a picnic by the Sindh River. Before heading back to Srinagar, visit the nearby Zojila Pass for stunning views of the Himalayan mountains.
Pony Ride to Thajiwas Glacier: INR 800 (approx.), Time spent - 4 hours
Sindh Valley: Free, Time spent - 3 hours
Zojila Pass: Free, Time spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
Baker's Den: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Baker's Den, a cozy bakery offering freshly baked pastries and a variety of breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
Lunchbox Delights: Enjoy a satisfying lunch at Lunchbox Delights, a popular restaurant known for its mouthwatering Kashmiri cuisine. Try their signature Rogan Josh or Yakhni Pulao. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Shalimar Garden Restaurant: For dinner, head to Shalimar Garden Restaurant and indulge in a delightful dining experience amidst beautiful surroundings. Sample their delectable traditional Kashmiri dishes like Dum Aloo or Gushtaba. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Wednesday, October 11: Yusmarg
Today, take a day trip to Yusmarg, a hidden gem nestled in the mountains, approximately 47 kilometers from Srinagar. In the morning, trek to Charar-i-Sharief, a renowned shrine dedicated to the Sufi saint Sheikh Noor-ud-Din Noorani. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and panoramic views from the shrine. In the afternoon, explore Doodhpathri, a picturesque meadow known for its lush green fields and gushing streams. Don't miss tasting the famous local specialty, Gushtaba, a Kashmiri meatball dish.
Charar-i-Sharief: Free, Time spent - 3 hours (including trek)
Doodhpathri: Entrance fee - INR 10 per person, Time spent - 4 hours
Local Cuisine: Cost varies, Time spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe Coffee Day in Srinagar, offering a variety of coffee and breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about INR 200 per person.
For lunch, visit Ahdoos Restaurant, a popular choice in Srinagar known for its authentic Kashmiri cuisine. Don't miss their signature Rogan Josh. Average cost for a meal is about INR 500 per person.
For dinner, try Mughal Darbar in Srinagar, known for its delicious kebabs and Mughlai cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about INR 700 per person.
Thursday, October 12: Aru Valley
Embark on a day trip to Aru Valley, a scenic destination located approximately 112 kilometers from Srinagar. In the morning, indulge in adventurous activities such as hiking and horse riding in the beautiful valley. Explore the picturesque meadows and enjoy a picnic by the Lidder River. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Tarsar and Marsar Lakes, known for their pristine beauty and stunning landscapes. Don't forget your camera to capture the breathtaking views!
Hiking and Horse Riding: Charges vary, Time spent - 4 hours
Tarsar and Marsar Lakes: Free, Time spent - 3 hours
Picnic by Lidder River: Cost varies, Time spent - 2 hours
Restaurants
A pleasant breakfast spot near Aru Valley is The Hilltop Cafe, offering a wide selection of delicious breakfast options with an average cost of about 250 INR per person.
Lunch at The Meadowview Restaurant is a must-try, where you can savor traditional Kashmiri cuisine while enjoying the stunning views of the valley. The average cost for a meal here is around 500 INR per person.
For a delightful dinner experience, head to The Riverside Grillhouse. This restaurant offers a cozy ambiance and an array of mouthwatering grilled dishes. The average cost for a meal here is about 800 INR per person.
Friday, October 13: Dachigam National Park
On your last day, visit the Dachigam National Park, approximately 22 kilometers from Srinagar. In the morning, embark on a wildlife safari and spot unique species such as the Kashmir stag and the Himalayan black bear. Explore the park on foot, enjoying the serene atmosphere and breathtaking views. In the afternoon, visit the historic Hari Parbat Fort, located within the park, and learn about its rich history and architectural significance.
Wildlife Safari: INR 100 per person, Time spent - 4 hours
Hari Parbat Fort: Entrance fee - INR 10 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
Exploring on Foot: Free, Time spent - 3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Shamyana Cafe, a cozy and popular spot known for their delicious Kashmiri tea and freshly baked pastries. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, try Ahdoos Restaurant, a local favorite known for their authentic Kashmiri cuisine, including mouthwatering dishes like Rogan Josh and Kashmiri Pulao. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
For dinner, visit Mughal Darbar, a renowned restaurant offering a wide range of flavorful Mughlai and Kashmiri delicacies, such as Dum Aloo and Yakhni Pulao. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For nature enthusiasts seeking off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting Aharbal Waterfall, located approximately 75 kilometers from Srinagar. This majestic waterfall offers a serene and untamed beauty, surrounded by lush green forests. Another local favorite is the Tosa Maidan meadow, located about 58 kilometers from Srinagar. This vast meadow offers picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and is perfect for a leisurely picnic.
For hotel and flight prices in Kashmir, you can check here.