Welcome to Srinagar, the capital city of Kashmir. Begin your trip by exploring the beautiful Dal Lake in the morning. Take a shikara boat ride and marvel at the floating gardens and colorful houseboats. In the afternoon, visit the Mughal Gardens, including Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh, known for their stunning landscapes. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kashmiri dinner at a local restaurant.
For breakfast, head to Cafe Zaiqa located near Dal Lake. This charming cafe offers a variety of delicious Kashmiri and continental breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, visit Ahdoos Restaurant in Srinagar. Known for its authentic Kashmiri cuisine, this restaurant offers a wide range of dishes including Rogan Josh and Yakhni. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
For dinner, dine at Mughal Darbar Restaurant in Srinagar. This popular restaurant serves mouth-watering Kashmiri specialties like Wazwan and Kashmiri Dum Aloo. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Saturday December 16: Gulmarg
Embark on a day trip to Gulmarg, around 56 kilometers from Srinagar. Enjoy a scenic drive through snow-capped mountains and reach one of the best skiing destinations in India. In the morning, indulge in various winter activities like skiing, snowboarding, and sledding. After a thrilling day on the slopes, explore the picturesque town and visit the Gulmarg Gondola, the world's second-highest cable car ride.
Winter Activities: Cost Varies, 4-6 hours
Gulmarg Gondola: Cost Varies, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Ahdoos Restaurant, known for its delicious Kashmiri cuisine and wide variety of traditional breakfast dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
For lunch, try Mughal Darbar, a popular restaurant serving authentic Kashmiri cuisine. Enjoy delectable kebabs, biryani, and the famous Kashmiri Rogan Josh. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
For dinner, visit Shamyana Restaurant, a fine dining establishment offering a range of Indian, Continental, and Kashmiri dishes. Indulge in their flavorsome Dum Pukht biryani or try the succulent Tandoori chicken. Average cost for a meal is about 1000 INR per person.
Sunday December 17: Pahalgam
Take a scenic drive to Pahalgam, approximately 95 kilometers from Srinagar. In the morning, visit the Betaab Valley, known for its lush green meadows and crystal-clear streams. Enjoy a picnic amidst nature's beauty. Afterward, explore the enchanting Aru Valley, offering stunning views of snow-capped mountains. In the evening, return to Srinagar and relax by the Dal Lake.
Betaab Valley: Cost Varies, 3-4 hours
Aru Valley: Cost Varies, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day at Cafe Log Inn for a scrumptious breakfast. This cozy cafe offers a variety of breakfast options including omelettes, pancakes, and local Kashmiri dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Dana Pani restaurant where you can enjoy a delicious Indian buffet. They offer a wide range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes including biryani, curry, and kebabs. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
End your day with a delightful dinner at Nathus Rasoi. This popular restaurant serves authentic Kashmiri cuisine such as Rogan Josh, Yakhni, and Kahwa. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Monday December 18: Sonamarg
Embark on a day trip to Sonamarg, also known as the "Meadow of Gold." Enjoy the scenic drive through picturesque landscapes and reach Sonamarg, located around 80 kilometers from Srinagar. In the morning, explore the Thajiwas Glacier and indulge in activities like horse riding and snowball fights. Afterward, take a leisurely walk by the Sindh River and soak in the serene surroundings. In the evening, return to Srinagar.
Thajiwas Glacier: Cost Varies, 3-4 hours
Sindh River Walk: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Shamyana Restaurant is a popular breakfast spot in Sonamarg, offering a variety of delicious Indian and Kashmiri breakfast dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Snow Peak Restaurant is a great choice for lunch in Sonamarg, serving a range of Indian, Kashmiri, and Chinese dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Dawat Restaurant is a fantastic dinner option in Sonamarg, known for its delectable Kashmiri cuisine and cozy atmosphere. Average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
Tuesday December 19: Srinagar City Tour
Discover the rich cultural heritage of Srinagar in a full-day city tour. Begin your morning by visiting the iconic Shankaracharya Temple, perched on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the city. Explore the old city area and its bustling markets, including the famous Lal Chowk. In the afternoon, visit the intriguing Pari Mahal, an ancient observatory, and enjoy a relaxing Shikara ride on the Dal Lake. End your day with a visit to the Hazratbal Shrine, an important religious site.
Shankaracharya Temple: Free, 2-3 hours
Pari Mahal: Entrance Fee - INR 10 per person, 1-2 hours
Shikara Ride: Cost Varies, 1-2 hours
Hazratbal Shrine: Free, 1-2 hours
Wednesday December 20: Dachigam National Park
Explore the stunning Dachigam National Park, located approximately 22 kilometers from Srinagar. In the morning, embark on a wildlife safari and spot various species, including the endangered Hangul (Kashmiri deer). Enjoy the tranquility of nature and have a picnic amidst the beautiful surroundings. Afterward, visit the ancient Hari Parbat Fort and soak in its historical significance. In the evening, return to Srinagar and savor a delicious Kashmiri cuisine.
On your last day, bid farewell to the beautiful Kashmir Valley. Take some time to explore the local markets and buy souvenirs. In the afternoon, visit the floating vegetable market on Dal Lake and witness the unique way of shopping. Afterward, head to the airport for your departure with everlasting memories of your family-friendly Kashmir adventure.
Local Markets: Cost Varies, 2-3 hours
Floating Vegetable Market: Free, 1-2 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For off-the-beaten-path attractions, consider visiting the Doodhpathri meadows, located around 42 kilometers from Srinagar. These untouched meadows offer stunning views, tranquility, and the opportunity for a relaxing picnic. Another local favorite is the Manasbal Lake, known as the "supreme gem of all Kashmir Lakes." The serene surroundings and the option to go boating make it a perfect family-friendly spot.