A Week in Kashmir: A Family-Friendly Itinerary

Friday, October 20: Arrival in Srinagar

Welcome to the enchanting land of Srinagar! Begin your trip with a serene Shikara ride on Dal Lake in the morning, admiring the picturesque surroundings. In the afternoon, visit the Mughal Gardens, including Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh, known for their stunning terraced lawns and vibrant flower beds. End the day with a visit to the floating vegetable market.

• Dal Lake Shikara Ride: Price varies, approximately 2 hours
• Mughal Gardens: Entrance fee of INR 20 per person, approximately 3-4 hours
• Floating Vegetable Market: Free, approximately 1 hour

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Café Coffee Day, a popular chain known for its delicious coffee and quick bites. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 200 per person.
• For lunch, try Mughal Darbar, a renowned restaurant serving authentic Kashmiri cuisine. Don't miss their delectable Rogan Josh and Yakhni Pulao. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 500 per person.
• For dinner, visit Ahdoos, a family-friendly restaurant offering a wide range of traditional Kashmiri dishes like Gushtaba and Dum Aloo. The cozy ambiance and warm hospitality make it a perfect dining spot. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 800 per person.

Saturday, October 21: Pahalgam

Embark on a scenic drive to Pahalgam, a beautiful hill station nestled in the Himalayas. Spend the morning exploring Betaab Valley, known for its lush greenery and crystal-clear streams. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Lidder Amusement Park, offering various fun-filled activities for the whole family. Enjoy a relaxing evening stroll along the Lidder River.

• Betaab Valley: Entrance fee of INR 100 per person, approximately 2-3 hours
• Lidder Amusement Park: Entry fee of INR 50 per person, additional charges for activities, approximately 2-3 hours
• Lidder River: Free, approximately 1 hour

Sunday, October 22: Gulmarg

Indulge in the beauty of Gulmarg, a popular tourist destination. Start your day with a thrilling Gondola ride, offering panoramic views of the surrounding snow-covered peaks. In the afternoon, enjoy a horse ride through the scenic meadows of the Valley of Flowers. Wrap up the day with a visit to the picturesque Alpathar Lake.

• Gondola Ride: Price varies depending on the phase, approximately 2-3 hours
• Horse Ride in Valley of Flowers: Price varies, approximately 2-3 hours
• Alpathar Lake: Free, approximately 1 hour

Monday, October 23: Sonmarg

Discover the mesmerizing beauty of Sonmarg, also known as the "Meadow of Gold." Spend the morning exploring the Thajiwas Glacier, offering breathtaking vistas of snow-capped mountains. In the afternoon, embark on a thrilling white water rafting adventure in the Sind River. End the day with a visit to the peaceful Nilagrad River.

• Thajiwas Glacier: Entrance fee of INR 100 per person, approximately 3-4 hours
• White Water Rafting: Price varies, approximately 2-3 hours
• Nilagrad River: Free, approximately 1 hour

Tuesday, October 24: Srinagar

Return to Srinagar and explore the city's cultural and historical gems. Start the day with a visit to the iconic Shankaracharya Temple, offering panoramic views of Srinagar. In the afternoon, indulge in some retail therapy at the bustling Lal Chowk market, known for its traditional Kashmiri handicrafts. Wrap up the day with a peaceful shikara ride on the serene Nagin Lake.

• Shankaracharya Temple: Free, approximately 1-2 hours
• Lal Chowk Market: Price varies, approximately 2-3 hours
• Nagin Lake Shikara Ride: Price varies, approximately 2 hours

Wednesday, October 25: Yusmarg

Experience the untouched beauty of Yusmarg, a hidden gem in Kashmir. Spend the morning exploring the enchanting Doodhpathri Valley, known for its lush meadows and sparkling streams. In the afternoon, embark on a thrilling trek to Nilnag Lake, surrounded by magnificent snow-clad mountains. Enjoy a peaceful picnic amidst the natural beauty.

• Doodhpathri Valley: Entrance fee of INR 50 per person, approximately 3-4 hours
• Nilnag Lake Trek: Free, approximately 4-5 hours
• Picnic at Yusmarg: Cost of food and supplies, approximately 1-2 hours

Thursday, October 26: Departure from Srinagar

Say farewell to the breathtaking landscapes of Kashmir. After breakfast, check-out from your hotel and head to Srinagar International Airport for your onward journey. Cherish the memories of your family-friendly adventure in this paradise on earth.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For an off the beaten path experience, venture to the charming village of Dachigam, located on the outskirts of Srinagar. Explore the Dachigam National Park, home to diverse wildlife, including the endangered Hangul deer. Enjoy a peaceful nature walk amidst the picturesque surroundings, away from the tourist crowds.

Hotel and flight bookings can be checked here.