Start your adventure at the iconic Gateway of India, an emblematic arch overlooking the Arabian Sea. Take a ferry to Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on a 1-hour boat ride. Spanning two hills, this labyrinth of cave temples houses ancient, rock-cut sculptures dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, dating back from 6th to 8th century AD. Have lunch at Cafe Mondegar, a 1950s-style art deco cafe, famous for its jukebox. Visit Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST), a Victorian-gothic railway station that was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2004. Have dinner and rest for the night.
Fly to Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, and proceed to Dal Lake, the jewel of Srinagar. Spend the day exploring the lake on a tranquil Shikara ride, similar to a Gondola ride in Venice. Watch lotus gardens, floating markets, houseboats, and people go by. Head to the Hazratbal Shrine, a revered Islamic shrine that hosts a hair of Prophet Mohammed, enshrined in a glass case. Have lunch at Shamyana Restaurant, known for its Mughlai cuisine. Visit Pari Mahal, known as the palace of fairies, a Persian garden built for Prince Dara Shikoh in the 17th century. Have dinner and rest for the night.
Embark on a scenic drive to Gulmarg, known as the meadow of flowers. Take the Gondola cable car ride to the peak of the Apharwat Mountains for a panoramic view of the snow-capped Himalayas. Take time to ski, sled and snowboard on the white powdery snow slopes or a guided snowshoe trek through the pine forests. Have lunch at Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa, known for its "Wazwan" cuisine. Visit Maharani Temple, a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and have the most spectacular views of the valley. Return to Srinagar for dinner and rest for the night.
For a more relaxing trip, cut out Pari Mahal. For a more adventurous trip, cut out Gateway of India and Elephanta Caves. Add more time to skiing at Gulmarg or add a day trip to the winter wonderland that is Sonamarg.