Relaxing 5-Day Itinerary for Srinagar, Dal Lake, Gulmarg, Sonamarg, and Pahalgam

1. Day 1: Srinagar
   From the airport to hotel in Srinagar takes 30 minute (14 km) approx.

   Upon arrival, take a stroll around the beautiful Dal Lake, the iconic landmark of Srinagar. Take a shikara ride, visit the Nishat Garden and Shalimar Bagh. End your day with some delicious Kashmiri cuisine at the Ahdoos restaurant.

2. Day 2: Pahalgam
   From Srinagar to Pahalgam takes 2 hours(90 km) approx.

   Spend the day relaxing and explore the scenic Betaab valley, Aru valley and Chandanwari. Take a horse ride or simply indulge in nature's beauty.

3. Day 3: Gulmarg
   From Pahalgam to Gulmarg takes 7 hours (250 km approx).

   Visit the mesmerizing scenery of the Strawberry Valley, sit and relax in the pine forest of Khilanmarg, ride the Gondola Cable Car, and enjoy a beautiful sunset on your journey back to the hotel.

4. Day 4: Sonamarg
   From Gulmarg to Sonamarg takes 3 hours (120 km approx).

   Spend the day exploring the beautiful glaciers Thajiwas Glacier and the Krishnasar Lake. Take a scenic drive on the Srinagar-Leh highway, also known as the 'Gateway to Ladakh'.

5. Day 5: Srinagar
   From Sonamarg to Srinagar takes 2 hours 30 minutes (80 km approx).

   Visit the beautiful Jama Masjid, pay a visit to the Hazratbal Shrine and the historical Shankaracharya Temple. Make a visit to Gulshan Books Kashmir before you wrap up your day.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Nishat Garden (1 hour, free)
• Shalimar Bagh (1 hour, free)
• Ahdoos Restaurant (1 hour, £7-£20)
• Betaab valley (2-3 hours, £10-£30)
• Aru valley (1-2 hours, free)
• Chandanwari (1-2 hours, free)
• Strawberry Valley (2-3 hours, free)
• Khilanmarg forest (2-3 hours, free)
• Gondola Cable Car (2-3 hours, £10-£30)
• Thajiwas Glacier (2-3 hours, £10-£30)
• Krishnasar Lake (1-2 hours, free)
• Jama Masjid (<1 hour, free)
• Hazratbal Shrine (1-2 hour, free)
• Shankaracharya Temple (1-2 hour, free)
• Gulshan Books Kashmir (<1 hour, prices vary)
Total Estimated Costs (£37-£140)

Useful Tips

If you have extra time, consider adding a visit to the Tulip Garden in Srinagar. If you have less time, consider dropping Gulmarg from your itinerary and arrange a visit to Doodhpathri Valley or Sinthen Top instead.