Welcome to Kashmir! Start your trip by arriving in Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir. In the morning, enjoy a relaxing Shikara ride on the iconic Dal Lake, surrounded by majestic mountains and beautiful Mughal gardens. Explore the charming floating vegetable market and visit the famous Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh gardens in the afternoon. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the Boulevard Road, lined with shops and cafes offering local delicacies.
Dal Lake Shikara Ride: Cost varies, 1-2 hours
Nishat Bagh: Entrance fee is INR 20 per person, 1-2 hours
Shalimar Bagh: Entrance fee is INR 20 per person, 1-2 hours
Boulevard Road: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Cafe Coffee Day: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Coffee Day, offering a wide range of continental and Indian breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Shamyana Restaurant: For lunch, head to Shamyana Restaurant, known for its authentic Kashmiri cuisine. Indulge in delicious dishes like Rogan Josh and Kashmiri Pulao. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Mughal Darbar: End your day with a delightful dinner at Mughal Darbar, a popular restaurant serving delectable Mughlai and Kashmiri dishes. Don't miss their signature dish, Wazwan. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Saturday, October 21: Gulmarg
Embark on a day trip to Gulmarg, a picturesque hill station renowned for its scenic beauty and adventure activities. In the morning, take a gondola ride to the Kongdori Mountain for breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks. Enjoy a picnic amidst the beautiful meadows and indulge in horse riding or a game of golf. In the afternoon, visit the Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve, home to diverse flora and fauna. Spend the evening exploring the local markets for handicrafts and souvenirs.
Gondola Ride: Cost starts at INR 600 per person, 3-4 hours
Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve: Entrance fee is INR 150 per person, 2-3 hours
Local Markets: Cost varies, 1-2 hours
Sunday, October 22: Sonamarg
On the third day, head to Sonamarg, also known as the "Meadow of Gold." In the morning, embark on a thrilling trek to the Thajiwas Glacier, surrounded by stunning snow-capped peaks. Enjoy a picnic in the serene surroundings and take in the breathtaking views. In the afternoon, visit the Nilagrad River, believed to have healing properties, and soak your feet in its icy cold waters. In the evening, take a leisurely walk in the town, exploring the local shops and savoring local delicacies.
Thajiwas Glacier Trek: Cost varies, 4-5 hours
Nilagrad River: Free, 1-2 hours
Exploring Sonamarg Town: Cost varies, 1-2 hours
Monday, October 23: Pahalgam
On the fourth day, visit the scenic town of Pahalgam, also known as the "Valley of Shepherds." In the morning, embark on a leisurely walk along the Lidder River, surrounded by lush greenery and pine forests. Explore the famous Betaab Valley and Chandanwari, known for their stunning natural beauty and film shooting locations. In the afternoon, enjoy a horse ride to the picturesque Aru Valley and indulge in adventurous activities like river rafting. In the evening, relax by the river and soak in the peaceful ambiance.
Lidder River Walk: Free, 1-2 hours
Betaab Valley: Entrance fee is INR 10 per person, 2-3 hours
Aru Valley Horse Ride: Cost starts at INR 600 per person, 2-3 hours
Relaxing by the River: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Baktani's Café: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Baktani's Café, which is known for its wide variety of freshly baked goods and hearty breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
Pine N Chill: For lunch, head to Pine N Chill, a charming restaurant offering a mix of Kashmiri and international cuisine. Enjoy their mouthwatering kebabs and biryanis while taking in the scenic views. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Mughal Darbar: Indulge in a sumptuous dinner at Mughal Darbar, renowned for its delectable Kashmiri dishes like Rogan Josh and Wazwan. The restaurant's elegant ambiance adds to the dining experience. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Tuesday, October 24: Explore Srinagar
On the final day, explore the city of Srinagar in more detail. In the morning, visit the historic Mughal Gardens, including the Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, and Chashme Shahi, known for their stunning architecture and breathtaking views. Take a relaxing Shikara ride on the Nigeen Lake and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings. In the afternoon, explore the ancient Hazratbal Shrine, a sacred Muslim shrine and a popular tourist attraction. End your trip by shopping for traditional Kashmiri handicrafts and souvenirs at the bustling Lal Chowk market.
Mughal Gardens: Entrance fee is INR 20 per person, 2-3 hours
Nigeen Lake Shikara Ride: Cost varies, 1-2 hours
Hazratbal Shrine: Free, 1-2 hours
Lal Chowk Shopping: Cost varies, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: The Quaint Café is a charming breakfast spot located in the heart of Srinagar. Enjoy a variety of freshly baked pastries, delicious omelettes, and aromatic Kashmiri chai. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Lunch: Experience authentic Kashmiri cuisine at the famous Ahdoos Restaurant. Indulge in mouthwatering Wazwan dishes like Rogan Josh and Kashmiri Pulao. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Dinner: For a delightful dinner, head to Mughal Darbar Restaurant. Savor delectable kebabs, biryanis, and other Mughlai specialties in a cozy setting adorned with traditional Kashmiri art. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For off the beaten path attractions and places loved by locals, consider visiting the Dachigam National Park, located just outside Srinagar. This wildlife sanctuary is home to endangered species like the Kashmir stag and Himalayan black bear. Enjoy a peaceful nature walk and spot unique flora and fauna. Another hidden gem is the Martand Sun Temple, an ancient temple dedicated to the Sun God. Marvel at the intricate architecture and learn about the rich history of Kashmir. Both these attractions offer a unique and family-friendly experience away from the usual tourist crowds.