Start your honeymoon in the picturesque city of Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir. In the morning, take a romantic shikara ride on Dal Lake, admiring the floating gardens and charming houseboats. In the afternoon, visit the stunning Mughal Gardens, such as Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh, known for their beautiful terraced lawns and vibrant flowerbeds. As the evening sets in, explore the local markets in Lal Chowk to shop for traditional Kashmiri handicrafts.
Dal Lake Shikara Ride: Cost estimate - INR 500 per hour, Time spent - 2 hours
Mughal Gardens: Cost estimate - INR 250 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
For breakfast, head to Café Coffee Day located near Dal Lake. Enjoy a cozy ambiance with a view of the beautiful lake while sipping on a hot cup of coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
For lunch, try Ahdoos Restaurant, a popular eatery in Srinagar known for its delightful Kashmiri cuisine. Indulge in traditional dishes like Rogan Josh and Yakhni Pulao. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
For dinner, visit Mughal Darbar in Lal Chowk, a famous restaurant offering a range of delectable Mughlai and Kashmiri delicacies. Don't miss the opportunity to try the mouthwatering Wazwan dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Sunday October 22: Gulmarg
Embark on a day trip to Gulmarg, a breathtaking hill station known as the "Meadow of Flowers". In the morning, indulge in an adventurous gondola ride, offering panoramic views of snow-capped peaks. In the afternoon, enjoy a romantic picnic amidst the lush green meadows and blooming flowers. As the evening approaches, take a leisurely stroll through the scenic landscapes and capture the magical sunset.
Gondola Ride: Cost estimate - INR 700 per person (phase 1), Time spent - 2-3 hours
Picnic in Gulmarg: Cost estimate - Variable, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Head to the charming town of Pahalgam, known for its pristine landscapes and serene ambiance. In the morning, visit the famous Betaab Valley, a scenic spot surrounded by snow-covered mountains and pine forests. In the afternoon, embark on a horse riding adventure to explore the picturesque Aru Valley. As the evening sets in, enjoy a romantic dinner by the Lidder River.
Betaab Valley: Cost estimate - INR 100 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Horse Riding in Aru Valley: Cost estimate - INR 500 per hour, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Romantic Dinner by Lidder River: Cost estimate - Variable, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Tuesday October 24: Sonamarg
Explore the enchanting beauty of Sonamarg, also known as the "Meadow of Gold". In the morning, embark on a thrilling trek to the stunning Thajiwas Glacier, surrounded by majestic snow-capped peaks. In the afternoon, enjoy a relaxing picnic by the sparkling Sindh River. As the evening approaches, savor a traditional Kashmiri meal at a local restaurant.
Trek to Thajiwas Glacier: Cost estimate - INR 500 per person, Time spent - 4-5 hours
Picnic by Sindh River: Cost estimate - Variable, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Traditional Kashmiri Meal: Cost estimate - INR 800 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A quaint cafe located near the center of Sonamarg, offering a delicious breakfast spread of fluffy omelettes, freshly baked croissants, and aromatic Kashmiri chai. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
A riverside restaurant specializing in traditional Kashmiri cuisine, serving mouthwatering dishes like Rogan Josh and Yakhni Pulao. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
A charming restaurant nestled amidst the picturesque mountains, offering a diverse menu of local and international dishes. Indulge in their delectable Kashmiri Wazwan or enjoy a wood-fired pizza with panoramic views. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Wednesday October 25: Yusmarg
Discover the hidden gem of Yusmarg, a serene meadow nestled in the lap of nature. In the morning, take a leisurely walk through the enchanting meadows and pine forests. In the afternoon, enjoy a romantic horse ride to the picturesque Nilnag Lake. As the evening sets in, admire the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains from Sunset Point.
Experience the wildlife and natural beauty of Dachigam National Park. In the morning, embark on a thrilling safari to spot the endangered Kashmiri stag, also known as Hangul. In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic hike to the stunning Marsar Lake. As the evening approaches, relax and unwind amidst the serene surroundings of the national park.
Hangul Safari: Cost estimate - INR 250 per person, Time spent - 3-4 hours
Hike to Marsar Lake: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 4-5 hours
Relaxation in Dachigam National Park: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Friday October 27: Srinagar
Conclude your honeymoon with a day of relaxation and exploration in Srinagar. In the morning, visit the ancient Shankaracharya Temple, located on a hilltop with panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, indulge in some last-minute shopping for traditional Kashmiri souvenirs and handicrafts at the bustling markets. As the evening sets in, enjoy a romantic sunset boat ride on Dal Lake.
Shankaracharya Temple: Cost estimate - INR 50 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Shopping for Souvenirs: Cost estimate - Variable, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Sunset Boat Ride on Dal Lake: Cost estimate - INR 500 per hour, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a truly off the beaten path experience, consider visiting the enchanting Lolab Valley, known for its pristine beauty and tranquil ambiance. Another hidden gem is the Aharbal Waterfalls, offering a breathtaking sight amidst lush greenery. Locals also love exploring the picturesque Gurez Valley, surrounded by snow-covered peaks and dotted with quaint villages.