7-Day Family Friendly Kashmir Itinerary

Friday, December 22: Arrival in Srinagar

Start your trip in Srinagar, the capital city of Kashmir. In the morning, visit the beautiful Dal Lake and take a relaxing Shikara boat ride. Explore the Mughal Gardens in the afternoon, including Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kashmiri dinner at a local restaurant.

• Dal Lake: Cost estimate - INR 300 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
• Mughal Gardens: Cost estimate - INR 100 per person, Time spent - 3 hours
• Local Restaurant: Cost estimate - INR 500 per person, Time spent - 2 hours

Saturday, December 23: Gulmarg

Embark on a day trip to Gulmarg, known for its picturesque landscapes and winter sports activities. Spend the morning skiing or snowboarding on the slopes of Apharwat Peak. After lunch, take a scenic cable car ride to Kongdoori Mountain and enjoy panoramic views. Return to Srinagar in the evening.

• Apharwat Peak: Cost estimate - INR 2,000 per person, Time spent - 4 hours
• Kongdoori Mountain: Cost estimate - INR 1,500 per person, Time spent - 2 hours

Sunday, December 24: Pahalgam

Travel to Pahalgam, a quaint town surrounded by lush green valleys and snow-capped mountains. Spend the morning exploring Betaab Valley and Chandanwari. After lunch, visit the iconic Aru Valley and take a leisurely horse ride. Enjoy a peaceful evening by the Lidder River.

• Betaab Valley: Cost estimate - INR 200 per person, Time spent - 3 hours
• Chandanwari: Cost estimate - INR 100 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
• Aru Valley: Cost estimate - INR 300 per person, Time spent - 2 hours

Monday, December 25: Sonmarg

Visit the enchanting Sonmarg, also known as the "Meadow of Gold." Start the day with a thrilling trek to Thajiwas Glacier and enjoy the breathtaking views. After lunch, go for a pony ride to the serene Krishnasar Lake. Spend the evening exploring the local markets and indulge in some shopping.

• Thajiwas Glacier: Cost estimate - INR 500 per person, Time spent - 4 hours
• Krishnasar Lake: Cost estimate - INR 300 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
• Local Markets: Cost estimate - Varies, Time spent - 2 hours

Tuesday, December 26: Srinagar City Tour

Explore the historic and cultural attractions of Srinagar. Start the day with a visit to the grandeur of the Mughal-era Jama Masjid. Afterward, explore the fascinating architecture of the Shankaracharya Temple. In the afternoon, take a serene walk through the vibrant old city, experiencing the local markets and trying delicious Kashmiri cuisine.

• Jama Masjid: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
• Shankaracharya Temple: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
• Local Markets: Cost estimate - Varies, Time spent - 2 hours

Wednesday, December 27: Dachigam National Park

Discover the rich biodiversity of Dachigam National Park, located on the outskirts of Srinagar. Start the day with a wildlife safari, spotting endangered species like the Kashmir stag. After the safari, enjoy a picnic by the picturesque Marsar Lake. Spend the evening relaxing amidst nature's beauty.

• Wildlife Safari: Cost estimate - INR 500 per person, Time spent - 4 hours
• Marsar Lake: Cost estimate - INR 200 per person, Time spent - 2 hours

Thursday, December 28: Departure

Say goodbye to Kashmir with a heart full of memories. Depart from Srinagar with the option to extend your trip or catch your flight back home.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, visit the floating vegetable market on Dal Lake early in the morning. You can also explore the narrow alleyways of old Srinagar and discover the rich handicrafts and traditional Kashmiri products. Don't miss trying the famous Kashmiri kebabs and saffron-infused delicacies.