7-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary to Kashmir

Tuesday, October 10: Arrive in Srinagar

Welcome to Srinagar, the capital city of Jammu and Kashmir! Start your trip with a visit to the beautiful Dal Lake. In the morning, take a shikara ride on the calm waters, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. In the afternoon, explore the Mughal Gardens, including Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh, known for their stunning terraced gardens and vibrant flowers. As the evening sets in, enjoy a traditional Kashmiri dinner at a local restaurant.

• Dal Lake: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Mughal Gardens: Estimated Cost - INR 50 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Local Kashmiri Restaurant: Estimated Cost - INR 500 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Wednesday, October 11: Gulmarg

Embark on a day trip to Gulmarg, a picturesque hill station located about 50 kilometers from Srinagar. In the morning, take a scenic drive through the beautiful Kashmir Valley to reach Gulmarg. Once there, enjoy various activities such as horse riding, cable car rides, and golfing. In the afternoon, explore the meadows and indulge in a picnic surrounded by stunning landscapes. Return to Srinagar in the evening.

• Gulmarg Cable Car: Estimated Cost - INR 700 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Horse Riding: Estimated Cost - INR 500 per hour, Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Picnic in Meadows: Estimated Cost - INR 500, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Thursday, October 12: Pahalgam

Explore the enchanting town of Pahalgam today. In the morning, visit the Betaab Valley, known for its serene beauty and lush green landscapes. Take a leisurely walk and immerse yourself in the stunning surroundings. In the afternoon, visit the Aru Valley, a picturesque valley surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Enjoy pony rides and explore the nearby streams with your family. Return to Srinagar in the evening.

• Betaab Valley: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Aru Valley: Estimated Cost - INR 300 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Friday, October 13: Sonamarg

On this day, embark on a trip to Sonamarg, the "Meadow of Gold." In the morning, enjoy a scenic drive through the Sindh Valley, admiring the breathtaking views of glaciers and snow-covered peaks. Once in Sonamarg, visit the Thajiwas Glacier and indulge in snow activities like sledging and snowboarding. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk along the Nallah Sindh River and enjoy a picnic amidst nature. Return to Srinagar in the evening.

• Thajiwas Glacier: Estimated Cost - INR 200 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Snow Activities: Estimated Cost - Varies, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Saturday, October 14: Srinagar City Tour

Explore the rich cultural heritage of Srinagar today. In the morning, visit the historic Jama Masjid, a beautiful mosque known for its intricate architecture. Then, explore the enchanting old city, wandering through its narrow lanes and experiencing the local life. In the afternoon, visit the Shankaracharya Temple, situated on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of Srinagar. End your day with a relaxing Shikara ride on the Dal Lake, enjoying the sunset.

• Jama Masjid: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Old City Exploration: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Shankaracharya Temple: Estimated Cost - INR 25 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Shikara Ride: Estimated Cost - INR 500 per hour, Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Sunday, October 15: Dachigam National Park

Spend a day amidst the natural beauty of Dachigam National Park. In the morning, embark on a wildlife safari, spotting various species including the endangered Hangul deer. Enjoy bird watching and take in the peaceful surroundings. In the afternoon, have a picnic amidst the scenic landscapes. Return to Srinagar in the evening.

• Wildlife Safari: Estimated Cost - INR 500 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 3-4 hours
• Bird Watching: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Picnic in the Park: Estimated Cost - INR 500, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Monday, October 16: Departure

It's time to say goodbye to the beautiful Kashmir Valley. Depart from Srinagar with cherished memories of your family-friendly trip to Kashmir.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Srinagar, be sure to visit the Hazratbal Shrine, a sacred Islamic shrine known for its serene ambiance and stunning views of the Dal Lake. Another off the beaten path attraction is the Pari Mahal, a mesmerizing historic monument with Persian-style gardens offering panoramic views of the city. Locals also love to visit the floating markets on the Dal Lake, where you can shop for Kashmiri handicrafts, jewelry, and traditional spices.

For more information on hotels and flights, you can check here.