Welcome to Srinagar, the capital city of Kashmir. Start your trip by exploring the iconic Dal Lake in the morning. Take a shikara boat ride and witness the floating gardens and intricate houseboats. In the afternoon, visit the Mughal Gardens, including Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh, known for their stunning terraced lawns and beautiful fountains. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kashmiri dinner at a local restaurant.
Dal Lake: Entrance fee - Rs 100 per person, Shikara boat ride - Rs 500 per hour, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Mughal Gardens: Entrance fee - Rs 50 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Traditional Kashmiri Dinner: Cost - Rs 800 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Café Arabica located near Dal Lake. Here you can enjoy delicious Kashmiri chai and traditional Kashmiri breads. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, visit Ahdoos Restaurant located in the heart of Srinagar. They offer a wide variety of Kashmiri dishes including Rogan Josh and Dum Aloo. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
For dinner, try the famous Mughal Darbar restaurant in Srinagar. They are known for their authentic Mughlai cuisine such as Biryani and Kebabs. Average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
Tuesday, September 5: Gulmarg
Embark on a day trip to Gulmarg, known as the "Meadow of Flowers." Enjoy the scenic drive through picturesque valleys. In the morning, explore Gulmarg's famous Gondola ride, offering breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks. Afterward, indulge in some family-friendly activities like horseback riding, golfing, or simply strolling in the meadows. In the evening, return to Srinagar and relax at your hotel.
Gondola Ride: Cost - Rs 700 per person (Phase 1), Rs 900 per person (Phase 2), Time spent - 2-3 hours
Horseback Riding: Cost - Rs 500 per hour, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Golfing: Cost - Rs 1000 per person (equipment and fees), Time spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Nagin Lake View Restaurant: Start your day with a delicious and hearty breakfast at Nagin Lake View Restaurant, located right by the beautiful Nagin Lake. This family-friendly eatery offers a variety of breakfast options, including traditional Kashmiri dishes and continental favorites. The average cost for a meal here is about INR 300 per person.
Shamyana Restaurant: For lunch, head to Shamyana Restaurant, situated in the heart of Gulmarg. This cozy restaurant serves a range of Indian and international cuisine, making it perfect for families with different tastes. The average cost for a meal here is about INR 500 per person.
Mughal Darbar: Treat yourself to a delectable dinner at Mughal Darbar, a renowned restaurant in Srinagar known for its authentic Kashmiri cuisine. From aromatic kebabs to mouthwatering curries, this place offers a diverse menu that will satisfy your taste buds. The average cost for a meal here is about INR 800 per person.
Wednesday, September 6: Pahalgam
Take a scenic drive to Pahalgam, a quaint town nestled in the Himalayas. In the morning, visit Betaab Valley, known for its lush green meadows and crystal-clear streams. Enjoy a picnic amidst nature's beauty. Afterward, explore the iconic Aru Valley, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. In the evening, return to Srinagar and savor some delicious Kashmiri cuisine.
Betaab Valley: Entrance fee - Rs 50 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Aru Valley: Entrance fee - Rs 25 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Kashmiri Cuisine: Cost - Rs 700 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Troutbeat Restaurant in Pahalgam. This charming eatery serves delicious Kashmiri-style omelettes and freshly-baked breads. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For lunch, visit Dana Pani Restaurant in Pahalgam. Known for its panoramic views of the mountains, this restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
For dinner, try Ahdoos Restaurant in Srinagar. This iconic restaurant specializes in traditional Kashmiri cuisine, including mouth-watering dishes like Rogan Josh and Kashmiri Pulao. The average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Thursday, September 7: Sonamarg
Embark on a day trip to Sonamarg, also known as the "Meadow of Gold." In the morning, explore the Thajiwas Glacier, offering breathtaking views of snow-covered peaks and gushing streams. Enjoy a thrilling sledging experience on the glacier. In the afternoon, take a pony ride to explore the beautiful meadows and visit the nearby lakes. In the evening, return to Srinagar and relax at your hotel.
Thajiwas Glacier: Entrance fee - Rs 25 per person, Sledging - Rs 500 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Pony Ride: Cost - Rs 800 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Café Coffee Day located in Srinagar. They offer a variety of breakfast options including sandwiches and pancakes. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 200 per person.
For lunch, try Ahdoos Restaurant located in Srinagar. They serve traditional Kashmiri cuisine including dishes like Rogan Josh and Kashmiri Pulao. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 500 per person.
For dinner, visit Shamyana Restaurant situated in Srinagar. They specialize in Indian and continental cuisines, offering dishes like butter chicken and pasta. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 600 per person.
Friday, September 8: Shikara Ride and Shopping in Srinagar
Start your day with a peaceful Shikara ride on Dal Lake, witnessing the local life and floating markets. In the morning, explore the vibrant markets of Srinagar, including Lal Chowk and Residency Road, for traditional Kashmiri handicrafts and souvenirs. Enjoy delicious street food for lunch. In the afternoon, visit the famous Hazratbal Shrine, known for its stunning architecture and serene surroundings. In the evening, indulge in a relaxing spa session.
Shikara Ride: Cost - Rs 500 per hour, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Shopping: Cost varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Hazratbal Shrine: Free entry, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Spa Session: Cost - Rs 2000 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: Green Leaf Cafe - Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Green Leaf Cafe, known for its fresh and healthy options. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Lunch: Mughal Darbar - Savor the flavors of Kashmiri cuisine at Mughal Darbar, offering a wide variety of delectable dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Dinner: Ahdoos - Experience the richness of traditional Kashmiri cuisine at Ahdoos, a renowned restaurant known for its authentic flavors. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Saturday, September 9: Dachigam National Park
Embark on a wildlife adventure at Dachigam National Park. In the morning, take a guided safari in search of Kashmiri Stags, Himalayan Black Bears, and other exotic wildlife. Learn about the park's conservation efforts. Enjoy a picnic amidst nature. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Harwan Garden, known for its beautiful landscapes and panoramic views. In the evening, return to Srinagar and enjoy a traditional Kashmiri music and dance performance.
Dachigam National Park: Entrance fee - Rs 200 per person, Safari - Rs 500 per person, Time spent - 4-5 hours
Harwan Garden: Entrance fee - Rs 20 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Kashmiri Music and Dance Performance: Cost - Rs 1000 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Sunday, September 10: Departure
On your last day, bid farewell to the beautiful land of Kashmir. If time permits, visit the famous Shankaracharya Temple, located on a hilltop offering panoramic views of Srinagar. Afterward, proceed to Srinagar Airport for your departure.
Shankaracharya Temple: Free entry, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
In addition to the popular attractions, Kashmir offers some hidden gems and local favorites. Visit the Dachigam Wildlife Sanctuary, located adjacent to Dachigam National Park, for a more intimate wildlife encounter. Explore the floating vegetable market on Dal Lake, where locals sell fresh produce from their shikaras. Don't miss the opportunity to try traditional Kashmiri cuisine, such as Rogan Josh and Kashmiri Pulao, at local eateries in downtown Srinagar.