7-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in Kashmir

Monday, August 21: Arrival in Srinagar

Welcome to Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir! Begin your trip by exploring the beautiful Dal Lake in the morning. Take a shikara ride and visit the floating markets and gardens. In the afternoon, visit the Mughal Gardens, such as Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh, known for their stunning terraced landscapes and vibrant flowers. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kashmiri dinner.

• Dal Lake: Entry fee - INR 200 per person, Shikara ride - INR 500 per hour (estimated time spent: 2 hours)
• Mughal Gardens: Entry fee - INR 20 per person (estimated time spent: 3 hours)

Tuesday, August 22: Gulmarg

Embark on a day trip to Gulmarg, a popular hill station known for its scenic beauty and adventure activities. In the morning, take a gondola ride to Kongdori and Apharwat Peak for breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains. Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, or simply relax amidst the stunning landscapes. In the evening, return to Srinagar.

• Gondola ride: Phase 1 - INR 700 per person, Phase 2 - INR 900 per person (estimated time spent: 6 hours)
• Skiing/snowboarding: Equipment rental - INR 500 per person (estimated cost)

Wednesday, August 23: Pahalgam

Head to Pahalgam, a picturesque town located on the banks of the Lidder River. In the morning, visit Betaab Valley, a serene spot surrounded by lush greenery and snow-capped mountains. Take a leisurely walk and enjoy a picnic amidst nature. In the afternoon, explore the Aru Valley, known for its scenic beauty and adventure activities. Return to Srinagar in the evening.

• Betaab Valley: Entry fee - INR 20 per person (estimated time spent: 4 hours)
• Aru Valley: Entry fee - INR 25 per person (estimated time spent: 3 hours)

Thursday, August 24: Sonamarg

Embark on a day trip to Sonamarg, also known as the "Meadow of Gold." In the morning, visit the Thajiwas Glacier and enjoy activities like snowboarding and sledging. Take a pony ride to explore the meadows and enjoy the stunning views. In the afternoon, go on a river rafting expedition in the Indus River. Return to Srinagar in the evening.

• Thajiwas Glacier: Entry fee - INR 25 per person, Pony ride - INR 500 per person (estimated time spent: 5 hours)
• River rafting: INR 2000 per person (estimated cost, includes guide) (estimated time spent: 3 hours)

Friday, August 25: Srinagar City Tour

Explore the rich cultural heritage of Srinagar in the morning by visiting the iconic Shankaracharya Temple, which offers panoramic views of the city. Then, visit the Hazratbal Shrine, a revered Muslim shrine located on the banks of Dal Lake. In the afternoon, indulge in a shopping spree at the bustling markets of Lal Chowk and Residency Road. In the evening, enjoy a relaxing Shikara ride on Dal Lake.

• Shankaracharya Temple: No entry fee (estimated time spent: 2 hours)
• Hazratbal Shrine: No entry fee (estimated time spent: 1 hour)
• Shopping: Cost varies depending on purchases (estimated time spent: 3 hours)
• Shikara ride: INR 500 per hour (estimated time spent: 2 hours)

Saturday, August 26: Dachigam National Park

Embark on a wildlife adventure by visiting Dachigam National Park in the morning. Explore the diverse flora and fauna, including the endangered Kashmir stag (hangul). Enjoy a guided trek through the beautiful forest trails. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Harwan Garden and relax amidst the serene surroundings. Return to Srinagar in the evening.

• Dachigam National Park: Entry fee - INR 150 per person, Guide fee - INR 500 (estimated time spent: 5 hours)
• Harwan Garden: Entry fee - INR 20 per person (estimated time spent: 2 hours)

Sunday, August 27: Departure from Srinagar

It's time to say goodbye to Kashmir. Before leaving, visit the iconic Jamia Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India, and seek blessings. Take a stroll in the nearby markets to pick up some souvenirs. Depart from Srinagar with beautiful memories of your family-friendly trip to Kashmir.

• Jamia Masjid: No entry fee (estimated time spent: 1 hour)
• Shopping: Cost varies depending on purchases (estimated time spent: 2 hours)

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Srinagar, don't miss out on the floating vegetable market on Dal Lake. Experience the unique sight of vendors trading fresh produce from their shikaras. Visit the Pari Mahal, a beautiful garden and historical monument that offers panoramic views of the city. For an offbeat experience, take a serene walk along the Naseem Bagh, a lesser-known garden with beautiful flower beds.

To check hotel and flight prices for your trip to Kashmir, click here.