4-day Family Friendly Itinerary for Kashmir

  1. Day 1: Srinagar
    Estimated time and distance from arrival point: 25 minutes (12 km) from Srinagar International Airport

    Start your trip by visiting the famous Shalimar Bagh -a breathtaking Mughal garden that is famous for its manicured lawns, terraced landscape, and fountains. Later on, visit the famous Hazratbal Shrine that houses the revered Moi-e-Muqqadas (the Hair of the Prophet Mohammad). During the evening, enjoy a Shikara Ride on the Dal Lake- the serene and pristine waters of Dal lake engulfing the city gives you a chance to take in the beauty of Kashmir.

  2. Day 2: Pahalgam
    Estimated time and distance from last location: 2 hours 30 minutes (95 km)

    Plan a full-day outing to Pahalgam- a quaint and serene town located in South Kashmir. Visit the Betaab Valley that is famous for its picturesque landscape and the fascinating camping options. Take a pony ride to Baisran, a beautiful valley of Pahalgam, that offers breathtaking views of the town. If you’re feeling adventurous, trek 4 km to Kolahoi Glacier, which is definitely worth the effort.

  3. Day 3: Gulmarg
    Estimated time and distance from last location: 2 hours and 40 minutes (135 km)

    Make a full-day trip to Gulmarg- a massive and popular ski resort located just an hour away from Srinagar. Take a gondola ride, the world’s second-highest cable car ride, to Kongdoori Mountain top that offers an astounding view of the snow-capped peaks. Add to your comfort by packing a picnic lunch and snacks to enjoy amidst nature’s glorifying beauty at the Highland resort. Hit the slopes when covered with snow or indulge yourself in adventurous sports such as snowmobiling, ATV Rides, and Climbing.

  4. Day 4: Sonmarg
    Estimated time and distance from the last location: 2 hours (83 km)

    Drive down to Sonmarg valley - ‘Meadow of Gold’- located in the Sind River.Spend a relaxing day appreciating the scenery and having a picnic at the grassy meadows of Thajiwas Glacier. Evenings, Roam through the streets of this small town to get a sense of its peaceful lifestyle and visit the beautiful Nilagrad river that is believed to have healing powers.

Time and Cost estimates

  • Shalimar Bagh (1 hour, ₹50)
  • Hazratbal Shrine (1 hour, Free entry)
  • Shikara Ride (2 hours, ₹1000)
  • Betaab Valley (2 hours, Free entry)
  • Pony Ride to Baisran (3 hours, ₹1000)
  • Kolahoi Glacier Trek (6 hours, ₹2000 for a guide)
  • Gondola Ride (3 hours, ₹750 per person)
  • Highland Park (2 hours, Free entry)
  • Thajiwas Glacier (3 hours, ₹1500 for a guide)
  • Nilagrad River (1 hour, Free entry)
  • Total Estimated Costs: ₹6250

Useful tips:

If you have more time, take a side trip to Kokernag, a place known for its unspoiled flora and picturesque landscape. You can also add a day to try your luck at trout fishing at the Lidder river. For those who have limited time, reduce the amount of places you want to cover and focus on visiting the iconic landmarks that Kashmir has to offer.

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