Welcome to Srinagar, the capital city of Jammu and Kashmir! Start your trip by checking into one of the charming houseboats on Dal Lake. In the morning, take a serene shikara boat ride on the lake, surrounded by stunning mountain vistas. In the afternoon, visit the beautiful Mughal Gardens, such as Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh, known for their terraced lawns, blooming flowers, and fountains. As the evening sets in, explore the bustling local market and try some traditional Kashmiri cuisine.
Dal Lake Houseboat: Prices vary, 1-2 nights
Mughal Gardens: Entrance fee around 100 INR, 2-3 hours
Local Market: Prices vary, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Ahdoos restaurant, offering a wide variety of traditional Kashmiri dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Mughal Darbar, known for its delectable Wazwan cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner at Shamyana Restaurant, offering a captivating ambiance and a diverse menu of Indian and Continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Thursday, September 28: Gulmarg
Embark on a day trip to Gulmarg, a picturesque hill station known for its breathtaking landscapes and adventure activities. In the morning, take a gondola ride to the Apharwat Peak and enjoy panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayas. In the afternoon, try your hand at skiing or snowboarding in the Gulmarg Ski Resort. As the evening approaches, take a leisurely stroll through the meadows and enjoy the tranquility of this idyllic town.
Gondola Ride: Prices vary, 3-4 hours
Gulmarg Ski Resort: Equipment rental and lessons available, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Affordable and delightful, Café Laziz is a popular breakfast spot offering a variety of local Kashmiri dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Open View Restaurant, known for its panoramic views of the surrounding mountains as well as delicious Indian and continental cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
End your day with a delicious dinner at The Clove, a high-end restaurant that offers a fusion of Kashmiri and international cuisine in a cozy setting. Average cost for a meal is about 1000 INR per person.
Friday, September 29: Sonmarg
Visit Sonmarg, also known as the "Meadow of Gold," located in the mesmerizing Kashmir Valley. In the morning, explore the Thajiwas Glacier, where you can enjoy snow activities like sledging. In the afternoon, take a pony ride to the picturesque Vishansar Lake and enjoy a picnic amidst nature. As the evening sets in, soak in the beauty of the surrounding mountains and relax in the serene ambiance of Sonmarg.
Thajiwas Glacier: Entrance fee around 100 INR, 2-3 hours
Pony Ride to Vishansar Lake: Prices vary, 3-4 hours
Restaurants
Katra Vaishno Bhavan: Start your day with a traditional Indian breakfast at Katra Vaishno Bhavan. This restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian options such as dosas, idlis, and puris. The average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
Baisaran Café: For a delightful lunch experience, head to Baisaran Café. Located amidst the lush green meadows of Sonmarg, this café offers a range of local Kashmiri dishes including Rogan Josh and Kashmiri Pulao. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Sindh Valley Restaurant: Indulge in a memorable dinner at Sindh Valley Restaurant. Known for their authentic Kashmiri cuisine, this restaurant serves dishes like Gushtaba and Yakhni. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Saturday, September 30: Pahalgam
Explore the charming town of Pahalgam, nestled in the Lidder Valley. In the morning, go on a leisurely hike in the picturesque Betaab Valley, known for its lush green meadows and crystal-clear streams. In the afternoon, visit the breathtaking Aru Valley and enjoy horse riding amidst the stunning landscapes. As the evening approaches, take a relaxing walk along the Lidder River and savor the tranquility of this scenic town.
Betaab Valley: Entrance fee around 100 INR, 2-3 hours
Aru Valley: Prices vary, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Log Inn, known for its cozy and rustic ambiance. Enjoy a variety of breakfast options, including sandwiches, omelettes, and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For lunch, head to Pahalgam Café and try their mouthwatering Kashmiri cuisine. Indulge in traditional dishes like Rogan Josh and Kashmiri Pulao, made with aromatic spices and flavors. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
In the evening, dine at Troutbeat Restaurant, a charming riverside eatery offering a serene atmosphere and delectable seafood. Savor their signature trout dishes, cooked to perfection. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Sunday, October 1: Srinagar (Local Experience)
Spend the day exploring more of Srinagar's local attractions. In the morning, visit the picturesque Hazratbal Shrine, a revered Muslim shrine located on the banks of Dal Lake. In the afternoon, take a relaxing shikara ride to the enchanting floating gardens of the Dal Lake and witness the local way of life. As the evening sets in, enjoy a traditional Kashmiri music and dance performance at the captivating Shalimar Bagh.
Hazratbal Shrine: Free entry, 1-2 hours
Floating Gardens: Prices vary, 2-3 hours
Kashmiri Music and Dance Performance: Prices vary, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Café Papillon, a cozy cafe with a charming ambiance. They offer a variety of delicious breakfast options, including freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee. On average, a meal at Café Papillon costs about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, visit Ahdoo's, a famous restaurant in Srinagar known for its authentic Kashmiri cuisine. Indulge in their mouthwatering specialties like Rogan Josh and Kashmiri Pulao. The average cost for a meal at Ahdoo's is approximately 500 INR per person.
For dinner, dine at Mughal Darbar, an upscale restaurant that serves delectable Mughlai and Kashmiri delicacies. Enjoy their flavorful kebabs and biryanis. The average cost for a meal at Mughal Darbar is around 800 INR per person.
Monday, October 2: Yusmarg
Visit the hidden gem of Yusmarg, a pristine meadow located amidst the Pir Panjal Range. In the morning, embark on a scenic hike to Nilnag Lake, surrounded by lush greenery and snow-capped peaks. In the afternoon, enjoy a picnic amidst the beautiful Doodh Ganga River. As the evening approaches, take a leisurely walk in the serene meadows of Yusmarg, capturing the essence of this untouched paradise.
Hike to Nilnag Lake: 3-4 hours
Picnic at Doodh Ganga River: Personal expense, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café de Yusmarg, known for its freshly brewed coffee and assortment of pastries. Average cost for breakfast is about $8 per person.
For lunch, head to Mezbaan Restaurant and indulge in traditional Kashmiri cuisine, including aromatic biryanis and flavorful kebabs. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
For a memorable dinner, visit Pine-n-Dine Restaurant, offering a cozy ambiance and a diverse menu of Indian and continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Tuesday, October 3: Departure
As your adventure comes to an end, bid farewell to the enchanting land of Kashmir. Take a last stroll along the shores of Dal Lake, capturing the memories of this magical trip. Depart from Srinagar with a heart full of beautiful experiences and a desire to return.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For families seeking off the beaten path experiences, consider visiting the beautiful Lolab Valley, known for its pristine landscapes and charming villages. Take a leisurely walk amidst the apple orchards and enjoy the warm hospitality of the locals. Another hidden gem is the picturesque Aharbal Waterfall, perfect for a day picnic and adventure activities like trekking and fishing. These lesser-known attractions offer a peaceful and family-friendly environment away from the crowds.