Kashmir Family Friendly 7-Day Itinerary

Thursday, February 1: Exploring Srinagar

Start your trip by exploring the beautiful city of Srinagar. In the morning, visit the famous Dal Lake and enjoy a relaxing Shikara boat ride. Take a stroll through the mesmerizing Mughal Gardens in the afternoon, where you can admire the stunning terraced lawns and vibrant flowerbeds. In the evening, head to the bustling markets of Lal Chowk and indulge in some local shopping.

• Dal Lake: Estimated cost - ₹200 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Mughal Gardens: Estimated cost - ₹50 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Lal Chowk: Estimated cost - Varies, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Café Coffee Day located near Dal Lake. They offer a variety of hot and cold beverages along with delicious sandwiches and pastries. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
• For lunch, try Ahdoos Restaurant in Lal Chowk. They serve traditional Kashmiri cuisine including Rogan Josh and Wazwan. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
• For dinner, visit Mughal Darbar Restaurant near the Mughal Gardens. They specialize in authentic Kashmiri dishes such as Yakhni and Dum Aloo. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.

Friday, February 2: Pahalgam Adventure

Embark on an adventurous day trip to Pahalgam. Start your morning with a visit to Betaab Valley, a picturesque spot surrounded by lush greenery and snow-capped mountains. In the afternoon, explore the iconic Aru Valley, known for its scenic landscapes and adventurous activities like horse riding. End the day by visiting the enchanting Chandanwari and enjoying the serene beauty of the Lidder River.

• Betaab Valley: Estimated cost - ₹50 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Aru Valley: Estimated cost - ₹100 per person, Estimated time spent - 3 hours
• Chandanwari: Estimated cost - ₹50 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Saturday, February 3: Gulmarg Winter Wonderland

Experience the winter wonderland of Gulmarg on this exciting day. Begin your morning with a gondola ride to Kongdori, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the snow-covered peaks. Spend the afternoon skiing or snowboarding at the Gulmarg Ski Resort, known for its excellent slopes and facilities. In the evening, take a leisurely walk around the picturesque town and soak in the serene atmosphere.

• Gondola Ride: Estimated cost - ₹750 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Gulmarg Ski Resort: Estimated cost - ₹2000 per person (including equipment rental), Estimated time spent - 4 hours
• Exploring Gulmarg Town: Estimated cost - Varies, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Sunday, February 4: Sonamarg Nature Retreat

Escape to the natural beauty of Sonamarg for a peaceful day in nature. Start your morning with a visit to the Thajiwas Glacier, where you can enjoy snow activities like sledging and skiing. Afterward, take a scenic drive to the enchanting Zojila Pass and witness the breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks. In the afternoon, explore the stunning landscapes of the Gangabal Lake and enjoy a picnic by its serene shores.

• Thajiwas Glacier: Estimated cost - ₹1500 per person (including ponies), Estimated time spent - 3 hours
• Zojila Pass: Estimated cost - Varies, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
• Gangabal Lake: Estimated cost - ₹500 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Monday, February 5: Cultural Delights of Pampore

Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Pampore on this cultural day trip. Begin your morning with a visit to the saffron fields of Pampore and learn about the cultivation process. Explore the historical ruins of Avantipora in the afternoon and admire the stunning architecture. End the day with a visit to the traditional paper-making industry at the Makhdoom Sahib Shrine and witness the intricate craftsmanship.

• Saffron Fields: Estimated cost - Varies, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Avantipora Ruins: Estimated cost - ₹50 per person, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
• Makhdoom Sahib Shrine: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 1 hour

Tuesday, February 6: Dachigam Wildlife Safari

Embark on an exciting wildlife safari in Dachigam National Park. Start your morning with a jeep safari through the park, where you can spot a variety of wildlife including hangul deer, Himalayan black bear, and leopards. In the afternoon, visit the serene Marsar Lake and enjoy a picnic surrounded by nature. End the day by exploring the vibrant markets of Srinagar and picking up some local handicrafts.

• Dachigam National Park: Estimated cost - ₹500 per person, Estimated time spent - 4 hours
• Marsar Lake: Estimated cost - Varies, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Srinagar Markets: Estimated cost - Varies, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Wednesday, February 7: Shalimar Bagh and Shopping

On your last day, visit the beautiful Shalimar Bagh in the morning and admire the intricate Mughal architecture and stunning gardens. In the afternoon, indulge in some last-minute shopping at the local bazaars, where you can find traditional Kashmiri handicrafts, clothes, and spices. End your trip with a relaxing Shikara boat ride on Dal Lake, taking in the enchanting views of the sunset.

• Shalimar Bagh: Estimated cost - ₹50 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Local Bazaars: Estimated cost - Varies, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Shikara Boat Ride: Estimated cost - ₹500 per hour, Estimated time spent - 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a truly unique experience, head to the small village of Gurez located in the Himalayas. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush green meadows, Gurez offers a serene atmosphere away from the crowds. You can go trekking in the picturesque valleys, visit ancient temples, and interact with the warm and welcoming locals. Gurez is perfect for a peaceful family getaway amidst nature.

Check hotel and flight prices here.