Welcome to Srinagar, the capital city of Kashmir! After arriving at the Srinagar International Airport, make your way to the Dal Lake area, where you can find budget accommodation options. Spend the morning exploring the beautiful floating gardens of Nigeen Lake and take a peaceful shikara ride on Dal Lake in the afternoon. In the evening, visit the famous Mughal Gardens and enjoy a stroll amidst the lush greenery.
For a hearty breakfast, head to Cafe Coffee Day near Dal Lake. They offer a variety of delicious breakfast options and the average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
If you're looking for a budget-friendly lunch spot, check out Shamyana Restaurant in Nigeen Lake area. They serve tasty Kashmiri cuisine at an average cost of about ₹300 per person.
For dinner, visit Ahdoos Restaurant in Rajbagh. Known for their authentic Kashmiri cuisine, a meal here costs around ₹500 per person.
Wednesday, August 30: Gulmarg
Embark on a day trip to Gulmarg, a picturesque hill station located around 50 kilometers from Srinagar. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the meadows and snow-capped peaks. In the morning, take the Gondola cable car ride to reach Kongdoori Mountain and indulge in activities like horse riding or skiing. Afterward, explore the Gulmarg Golf Course, one of the highest golf courses in the world. Wrap up the day with a leisurely walk through the beautiful Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve.
Gondola Ride: Cost estimate - INR 700 ($10) for round trip, Time spent - 3 hours
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Chingu Cafe, located in Gulmarg. Enjoy a variety of breakfast options like omelettes, pancakes, and local Kashmiri tea. The average cost for a meal is about ₹250 per person.
For lunch, head to Greenz Restaurant and Cafe. This restaurant serves a range of Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes. Don't miss their famous Kashmiri Wazwan cuisine. The average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner experience at Highland Park Restaurant. This restaurant offers a cozy ambiance and serves a variety of Indian and Kashmiri dishes. Enjoy their signature Rogan Josh and Dum Aloo. The average cost for a meal is about ₹600 per person.
Thursday, August 31: Pahalgam
Head to Pahalgam, a charming town nestled amidst the pristine Himalayan mountains. Start your day with a visit to the picturesque Betaab Valley, surrounded by lush greenery and snow-capped peaks. In the afternoon, explore the serene Lidder River and take a leisurely stroll along its banks. Make sure to visit the beautiful Mamleshwar Temple and enjoy a cup of tea at a local café in the evening.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Café Log Inn, known for their delicious omelettes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Dana Pani restaurant where you can indulge in a variety of Kashmiri dishes including Rogan Josh and Kashmiri Pulao. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, visit Vishal's Royal Café which offers a range of Indian and Continental dishes. Don't miss their mouthwatering Kashmiri Wazwan platter. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Friday, September 1: Sonamarg
Today, explore the breathtaking beauty of Sonamarg, also known as the "Meadow of Gold." Start your day with a visit to the Thajiwas Glacier, where you can enjoy snow activities like sledging and skiing (costs may vary). In the afternoon, take a pony ride to explore the enchanting meadows and visit the serene Krishnasar Lake. End the day with a relaxing picnic near the Sindh River.
Thajiwas Glacier: Cost estimate - INR 500 ($7) for pony ride, Time spent - 3 hours
Picnic near Sindh River: Cost estimate - INR 200 ($3), Time spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
For a hearty breakfast, head to Café Chai Khou for delicious Kashmiri cuisine. Indulge in their popular rogan josh and kehwa tea. The average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
For a fulfilling lunch, visit Ahdoos Restaurant, known for its wide variety of Kashmiri dishes. Don't miss their signature dish, the wazwan. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
For a delightful dinner, try Shamyana Restaurant, famous for its authentic Kashmiri cuisine. Feast on their mouthwatering dum aloo and phirni dessert. The average cost for a meal is about 700 INR per person.
Saturday, September 2: Dachigam National Park
Explore the wildlife at Dachigam National Park, located just 22 kilometers from Srinagar. Begin your day with a jeep safari in the park to spot various species of animals and birds, including the endangered Hangul deer. In the afternoon, take a hike to the picturesque Marsar Lake and immerse yourself in the serene surroundings. End the day with a visit to the ancient Sharika Devi Temple.
Dachigam National Park: Cost estimate - INR 200 ($3) entry fee, Time spent - 4 hours
Start your day with a delicious Kashmiri breakfast at Shamyana Restaurant. This restaurant offers a wide range of traditional breakfast dishes such as Kashmiri pulao and Noon Chai. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Mughal Darbar Restaurant where you can indulge in mouthwatering Kashmiri cuisine. Try their famous Rogan Josh or Yakhni Pulao. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at Ahdoos restaurant, known for its authentic Kashmiri flavors. Don't miss their signature dishes like Rista and Tabakh Maaz. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Sunday, September 3: Srinagar Old City
Explore the vibrant and historic streets of Srinagar's Old City today. Start your morning by visiting the famous Jama Masjid and marvel at its architectural beauty. In the afternoon, wander through the bustling markets of Lal Chowk and Residency Road, where you can find local handicrafts, spices, and traditional Kashmiri attire. End the day with a boat ride on the Jhelum River, enjoying the scenic views of the city.
Lal Chowk and Residency Road: Cost estimate - Variable (depends on shopping), Time spent - 3 hours
Boat ride on Jhelum River: Cost estimate - INR 300 ($4), Time spent - 2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Srinagar's Old City is Café Mughal. They offer a variety of traditional Kashmiri breakfast dishes such as Kashmiri tea and kahwa, along with delicious baked goods. The average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Shamyana Restaurant located near Lal Chowk. This restaurant serves a wide range of Kashmiri and Indian cuisine, including mouthwatering kebabs and biryanis. The average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at Ahdoos, a renowned restaurant known for its authentic Kashmiri dishes. From rogan josh to doon chetin, their menu offers a delightful array of traditional Kashmiri flavors. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Monday, September 4: Shankaracharya Temple and Shalimar Bagh
Visit the Shankaracharya Temple, an ancient Hindu temple located on the Shankaracharya Hill. Begin your day with a climb to the temple, enjoying panoramic views of Srinagar along the way. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Shalimar Bagh, a Mughal garden known for its stunning architecture and scenic landscapes. End your trip with a visit to the Nishat Bagh, another enchanting garden in Srinagar.
For breakfast, head to Ahdoos Restaurant, a popular local eatery known for its Kashmiri cuisine and delicious kebabs. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 300 per person.
Savour a traditional Kashmiri Wazwan for lunch at Mughal Darbar, an iconic restaurant offering a wide range of authentic Kashmiri delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 500 per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at Shamyana Restaurant, renowned for its panoramic views of Dal Lake and mouthwatering Kashmiri cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 800 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
When in Kashmir, don't miss the opportunity to explore the lesser-known attractions. Visit the offbeat village of Aru Valley, known for its scenic landscapes and adventure activities like trekking and camping. Explore the enchanting Aharbal Waterfall, located in the south of Kashmir, and enjoy a peaceful picnic amidst nature. For a unique cultural experience, attend a traditional Kashmiri music and dance performance at the Tagore Hall in Srinagar.