Begin your romantic honeymoon in Kashmir by arriving in Srinagar, the capital city. In the morning, take a relaxing Shikara boat ride on Dal Lake, surrounded by majestic mountains and floating gardens. Enjoy a peaceful afternoon exploring the Mughal Gardens, including Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh, known for their stunning terraced landscapes and vibrant flowers. As the evening rolls in, experience the enchanting charm of the old city with a visit to the bustling markets and indulge in delicious local cuisine.
Dal Lake Shikara Ride: Cost varies, Time spent: 2 hours
Mughal Gardens: Cost: Entrance fee, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Explore Old City: Cost varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Café de Lake, located near the picturesque Dal Lake. This cozy café offers a variety of delicious options including omelettes, pancakes, and traditional Kashmiri tea. The average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
If you're looking for a delightful lunch, visit Shamyana Restaurant situated in the heart of Srinagar. This restaurant serves mouthwatering Kashmiri cuisine such as Rogan Josh and Yakhni Pulao. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
For a romantic dinner, Zaffron Dining Lounge is the perfect choice. Located in a charming setting with panoramic views of the city, this restaurant offers a blend of Indian and international cuisines. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Tuesday January 23: Gulmarg
Embark on a day trip to Gulmarg, a picturesque hill station renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and winter sports. Start your morning with a scenic gondola ride offering panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayas. Spend the afternoon skiing, snowboarding, or simply playing in the snow at Gulmarg's ski resort. In the evening, take a romantic stroll through the charming town, enjoying the serene ambiance and savoring a cozy dinner at one of the local restaurants.
Gondola Ride: Cost varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Skiing/Snowboarding: Cost varies, Time spent: 4-5 hours
Exploring Gulmarg: Cost varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to The Pine View Cafe, a cozy restaurant with stunning views of the pine forests. Their menu offers a variety of delicious Kashmiri delicacies and international breakfast options. A meal for two here costs around 400 INR.
For lunch, visit The Highland Hut, a rustic restaurant located amidst the pristine mountains. They serve traditional Kashmiri cuisine, including the famous Rogan Josh and Kashmiri Pulao. A meal for two here costs around 800 INR.
For dinner, dine at The Shalimar Garden Restaurant, an elegant eatery known for its authentic Kashmiri flavors and beautiful garden setting. Indulge in signature dishes like Gushtaba and Yakhni while enjoying a romantic atmosphere. A meal for two here costs around 1200 INR.
Wednesday January 24: Pahalgam
Set off for Pahalgam, a picturesque town nestled amidst lush green meadows and scenic valleys. Start your day with a visit to Betaab Valley, known for its ethereal beauty and serene surroundings. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon picnic by the Lidder River, surrounded by towering pine trees. Later, take a horseback ride to explore the enchanting Aru Valley. In the evening, unwind and relax in the tranquility of your cozy accommodation.
Betaab Valley: Cost varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Picnic by Lidder River: Cost of picnic supplies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Horseback ride in Aru Valley: Cost varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Cafe Kashmir: Enjoy a traditional Kashmiri breakfast at Cafe Kashmir with authentic dishes such as Sheer Chai (Kashmiri Pink Tea) and Kashmiri Bread. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
Pineview Restaurant: Indulge in a delightful lunch at Pineview Restaurant, offering a variety of Kashmiri and Indian cuisine. Try their famous Rogan Josh with Naan Bread. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Streamside Restaurant: For a romantic dinner by the river, head to Streamside Restaurant. Delight in fresh seafood and North Indian delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Thursday January 25: Sonamarg
Venture to Sonamarg, also known as the "Meadow of Gold." Begin your day by exploring the Thajiwas Glacier, a stunning natural wonder surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Enjoy a thrilling sledge ride on the snow or take a leisurely walk amidst the breathtaking beauty. In the afternoon, embark on a thrilling river rafting experience on the Indus River. As the day winds down, savor a cozy candlelit dinner in the lap of nature.
Thajiwas Glacier: Cost varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Sledge Ride/Walk: Cost varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
River Rafting: Cost varies, Time spent: 3-4 hours
Restaurants
Indulge in a scrumptious breakfast at Café Coffee Day, a cozy café located near Sonamarg. Enjoy a variety of breakfast options such as sandwiches, muffins, and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal is about INR 300 per person.
Savor a delicious lunch at Troutbeat Restaurant, a charming eatery nestled in the scenic surroundings of Sonamarg. Treat yourself to their specialty - freshly caught trout prepared in a variety of mouthwatering ways. The average cost for a meal is about INR 800 per person.
For a romantic dinner experience, head to The Highland Park, a fine dining restaurant known for its elegant ambiance and delectable Kashmiri cuisine. Feast on traditional dishes like Rogan Josh and Yakhni Pulao while enjoying panoramic views of the valley. The average cost for a meal is about INR 1500 per person.
Friday January 26: Srinagar City Tour
Explore the rich cultural heritage of Srinagar with a full-day city tour. Begin your morning with a visit to the iconic Jama Masjid, one of the oldest mosques in Kashmir. Immerse yourself in the history and architecture of the stunning Mughal Gardens, including Chashme Shahi and Pari Mahal. In the afternoon, visit the fascinating Shankaracharya Temple, perched atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the city. End your day with a traditional Kashmiri Wazwan dinner, savoring the flavors of the region.
Jama Masjid: Cost varies, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Mughal Gardens: Cost: Entrance fee, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Shankaracharya Temple: Cost varies, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Mughal Darbar: Enjoy a delicious traditional Kashmiri breakfast at Mughal Darbar. They offer a variety of local specialties like Kashmiri Wazwan, Rogan Josh, and Yakhni. The average cost for a meal is about INR 300 per person.
Sara City Restaurant: For a satisfying lunch, head to Sara City Restaurant. They serve a mix of Indian and Kashmiri cuisine, including biryani, kebabs, and dum aloo. The average cost for a meal is about INR 400 per person.
Dastegeer Restaurant: Indulge in a delectable Kashmiri dinner at Dastegeer Restaurant. They serve authentic Kashmiri dishes like Gushtaba, Rista, and Tabak Maaz. The average cost for a meal is about INR 500 per person.
Saturday January 27: Departure
It's time to bid farewell to the enchanting land of Kashmir. Spend your morning relishing a final Shikara boat ride on the peaceful Dal Lake, cherishing the memories of your honeymoon. Afterward, visit the vibrant local markets for some last-minute souvenir shopping. Depart from Srinagar with a heart filled with beautiful memories of your honeymoon in Kashmir.
Dal Lake Shikara Ride: Cost varies, Time spent: 2 hours
Market Shopping: Cost varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, consider visiting Doodhpathri, a secluded meadow known as "Valley of Milk." This hidden gem offers breathtaking landscapes, crystal-clear streams, and an untouched natural beauty that will leave you mesmerized. Another local favorite is the Aharbal Waterfall, located in the lush forests of Kulgam district. Explore the enchanting trails leading to the waterfall and enjoy a picnic in the midst of nature's tranquility.