Welcome to Srinagar, the capital city of Jammu and Kashmir! Start your trip by exploring the stunning Dal Lake in the morning. Take a Shikara boat ride and immerse yourself in the natural beauty surrounding the lake. In the afternoon, visit the Mughal Gardens and witness the exquisite terraced gardens and historic architecture. As the evening sets in, experience a traditional Kashmiri dinner on a houseboat.
Dal Lake: INR 500 for Shikara boat ride, 2 hours
Mughal Gardens: INR 100 entrance fee, 2 hours
Houseboat dinner: INR 1000 per person, 2 hours
Restaurants
Enjoy a traditional Kashmiri breakfast at Cafe De Lake, located by the Dal Lake. Indulge in warm and freshly-made Kashmiri breads like sheermal and baqerkhani. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For a delicious lunch, head to Ahdoos Restaurant in the heart of Srinagar. Try their signature dishes like Rogan Josh and Kashmiri Pulao. Average cost for a meal is about ₹600 per person.
Savor an authentic Kashmiri dinner at Shamyana Restaurant, known for its cozy ambiance and delectable Wazwan cuisine. Don't miss the Rogan Josh and Gushtaba. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Friday, September 8: Pahalgam
Embark on a scenic drive to Pahalgam in the morning. Explore the picturesque Betaab Valley and enjoy a leisurely picnic amidst the lush green meadows. In the afternoon, visit the stunning Aru Valley and take a short trek to the nearby Lidderwat Valley. As the evening approaches, indulge in local cuisine and relax by the bonfire.
Betaab Valley: INR 50 entrance fee, 3 hours
Aru Valley: INR 100 entrance fee, 2 hours
Trek to Lidderwat Valley: INR 500 for guide, 4 hours
Restaurants
Prince Restaurant: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Prince Restaurant, known for its wide variety of local Kashmiri delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Troutbeat Restaurant: For lunch, head to Troutbeat Restaurant where you can savor delicious fresh trout dishes, prepared in local Kashmiri style. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Pahalgam Delight: Indulge in a sumptuous dinner at Pahalgam Delight, offering a range of Indian and Continental cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about 700 INR per person.
Saturday, September 9: Gulmarg
Head to Gulmarg, the "Meadow of Flowers," in the morning. Enjoy a thrilling Gondola ride to Kongdori and witness the breathtaking panoramic views of the snow-capped mountains. In the afternoon, go on a horseback ride in the enchanting Strawberry Valley. As the evening sets in, explore the local markets and savor some authentic Kashmiri tea.
Gondola ride: INR 750 for Phase 1, 2 hours
Horseback ride in Strawberry Valley: INR 500, 3 hours
Shopping in local markets: Cost varies, 2 hours
Sunday, September 10: Sonamarg
Travel to Sonamarg, the "Meadow of Gold," in the morning. Explore the Thajiwas Glacier and indulge in adventurous activities like sledging and skiing. In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic trek to Krishnasar Lake and experience the tranquility of the mountains. As the evening approaches, try local delicacies at a traditional Kashmiri restaurant.
Thajiwas Glacier: INR 500 for sledging, 3 hours
Trek to Krishnasar Lake: INR 1000 for guide, 5 hours
Dinner at a Kashmiri restaurant: Cost varies, 2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, try Cafe La Belle in Sonamarg. This cozy cafe offers a variety of freshly baked pastries and delicious Kashmiri tea. The average cost for a breakfast meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Glacier View Restaurant, which is known for its stunning panoramic views of the glaciers. They serve a range of Kashmiri and Indian dishes, including vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. The average cost for a lunch meal is about 500 INR per person.
For dinner, dine at Paradise Restaurant, a popular choice among locals and tourists alike. This restaurant offers a wide selection of authentic Kashmiri dishes, including Rogan Josh and Dum Aloo. The average cost for a dinner meal is about 800 INR per person.
Monday, September 11: Dachigam National Park
Embark on a wildlife adventure in Dachigam National Park in the morning. Take a guided safari to spot the rare Kashmir stag (Hangul) and other indigenous species. In the afternoon, enjoy a peaceful picnic near the Marsar Lake. As the evening sets in, witness a traditional folk dance performance by local artists.
Dachigam National Park: INR 100 entrance fee, 4 hours
Picnic near Marsar Lake: Cost varies, 3 hours
Folk dance performance: INR 500, 2 hours
Tuesday, September 12: Yusmarg
Visit the serene hill station of Yusmarg in the morning. Explore the enchanting Doodh Ganga River and go on a leisurely nature walk in the surrounding forests. In the afternoon, enjoy a horseback ride to Nilnag Lake and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the surroundings. As the evening approaches, have a picnic amidst the beautiful meadows.
Doodh Ganga River: Free, 2 hours
Horseback ride to Nilnag Lake: INR 500, 3 hours
Picnic in the meadows: Cost varies, 2 hours
Wednesday, September 13: Departure from Srinagar
On your last day, take a leisurely morning stroll along the Nigeen Lake and soak in the natural beauty. In the afternoon, visit the floating vegetable market and witness the unique way of trade. Bid farewell to Kashmir with a boat ride on the Jhelum River. Safe travels!
Nigeen Lake: Free, 2 hours
Floating vegetable market: Free, 1 hour
Boat ride on Jhelum River: INR 500, 2 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For nature enthusiasts, a visit to the enchanting Lolab Valley is highly recommended. This hidden gem offers breathtaking landscapes and is perfect for hiking and camping. Another local favorite is the Aharbal Waterfall, known as the Niagara Falls of Kashmir. Explore these off-the-beaten-path attractions to truly experience the natural wonders of Kashmir.
For hotel and flight bookings, you can check prices and availability on Kayak.