Patna to Kashmir Family-Friendly 7-Day Itinerary

Tuesday, September 26: Patna

Start your trip in Patna, the capital city of Bihar. In the morning, visit the iconic Golghar, a grain storage structure with a panoramic view of the city. Afterward, explore the Patna Museum, which houses a vast collection of artifacts and artworks. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the Ganges River and witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at the Mahatma Gandhi Setu. Finish off the day with a visit to the Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park, home to various wildlife species.

• Golghar: Estimated cost - INR 50, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
• Patna Museum: Estimated cost - INR 100, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Ganges River boat ride and Ganga Aarti: Estimated cost - INR 500, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park: Estimated cost - INR 100, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Wednesday, September 27: Varanasi

Head to Varanasi, one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world. Start your morning with a serene boat ride along the holy Ganges River, witnessing the morning rituals and ceremonies. Afterward, explore the narrow alleys of the Old City, known as the chaotic yet charming Varanasi streets. In the evening, experience the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at the Dashashwamedh Ghat.

• Ganges River boat ride: Estimated cost - INR 500, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Exploring Old City: No cost, Estimated time spent - 3 hours
• Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat: No cost, Estimated time spent - 1 hour

Thursday, September 28: Srinagar

Fly to Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir. Morning at leisure to enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Dal Lake. In the afternoon, take a Shikara ride on Dal Lake and explore the stunning Mughal Gardens, including Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh. End the day with a visit to the vibrant local markets for some souvenir shopping.

• Shikara ride on Dal Lake: Estimated cost - INR 500, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Exploring Mughal Gardens: Estimated cost - INR 100, Estimated time spent - 3 hours
• Shopping in local markets: Variable cost, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Friday, September 29: Gulmarg

Embark on a day trip to Gulmarg, a picturesque hill station known for its stunning meadows and snow-capped mountains. Spend the morning enjoying various outdoor activities such as skiing, snowboarding, or taking a cable car ride to the Apharwat Peak. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful landscapes and indulge in a picnic amidst nature. Return to Srinagar in the evening.

• Outdoor activities in Gulmarg: Estimated cost - INR 2000, Estimated time spent - 6 hours
• Picnic in Gulmarg: Estimated cost - INR 500, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Saturday, September 30: Pahalgam

Take a scenic drive to Pahalgam, a popular hill station nestled in the Kashmir Valley. Spend the morning exploring the picturesque Betaab Valley and Chandanwari. Enjoy a leisurely horse ride or take a nature walk amidst the breathtaking landscapes. In the afternoon, visit the serene Aru Valley and indulge in some local cuisine. Return to Srinagar in the evening.

• Exploring Betaab Valley and Chandanwari: Estimated cost - INR 200, Estimated time spent - 4 hours
• Horse ride or nature walk: Estimated cost - INR 500, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Visiting Aru Valley: Estimated cost - INR 100, Estimated time spent - 3 hours

Sunday, October 1: Sonamarg

Embark on a scenic drive to Sonamarg, known as the "Meadow of Gold." Start your day by exploring the stunning Thajiwas Glacier, where you can enjoy activities like sledging and snowboarding. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along the gushing Sindh River and enjoy a picnic amidst the beautiful landscapes. Return to Srinagar in the evening.

• Exploring Thajiwas Glacier: Estimated cost - INR 300, Estimated time spent - 4 hours
• Stroll along Sindh River and picnic: No cost, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Monday, October 2: Srinagar

Spend your last day in Srinagar exploring the magnificent Shankaracharya Temple, perched on a hilltop and offering panoramic views of the city. Afterward, visit the famous Hazratbal Shrine, a revered Muslim shrine located on the banks of Dal Lake. In the afternoon, take a peaceful Shikara ride on Dal Lake and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings. End your trip by shopping for exquisite Kashmiri handicrafts.

• Shankaracharya Temple: Estimated cost - INR 50, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Hazratbal Shrine: No cost, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
• Shikara ride on Dal Lake: Estimated cost - INR 500, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Shopping for Kashmiri handicrafts: Variable cost, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

One hidden gem worth exploring is the Nigeen Lake, often less crowded than Dal Lake, offering a serene and picturesque environment. Another local favorite is the Wular Lake, the largest freshwater lake in India, perfect for boating and birdwatching. Families can also enjoy a visit to the Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Botanical Gardens, home to a variety of flora and fauna.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.