A Week in Kashmir: Family-Friendly Itinerary

Thursday, November 2: Arrival in Srinagar

Welcome to Srinagar, the capital city of Jammu and Kashmir! Spend your morning exploring the beautiful Mughal Gardens, such as Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh. In the afternoon, take a relaxing shikara boat ride on Dal Lake and visit the floating vegetable market. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kashmiri dinner on a houseboat.

• Mughal Gardens: Estimated cost - INR 200 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Dal Lake Shikara Ride: Estimated cost - INR 500 per hour, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Houseboat Dinner: Estimated cost - INR 1000 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Friday, November 3: Gulmarg

Embark on a day trip to Gulmarg, a picturesque hill station known for its snow-capped peaks and skiing opportunities. Spend the morning skiing or snowboarding on Apharwat Peak. In the afternoon, take a gondola ride to Kongdori and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Wrap up the day with a family-friendly snowball fight and hot chocolate.

• Skiing/Snowboarding: Estimated cost - INR 1500 per person, Estimated time spent - 4-5 hours
• Gondola Ride: Estimated cost - INR 1500 per person, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Snowball Fight and Hot Chocolate: Estimated cost - INR 200 per person, Estimated time spent - 1 hour

Saturday, November 4: Pahalgam

Head to Pahalgam, a scenic town surrounded by pine forests. Explore the beautiful Betaab Valley in the morning, known for its lush green meadows and crystal-clear streams. In the afternoon, take a pony ride to the enchanting Chandanwari and admire the stunning views of snow-capped mountains. Spend the evening strolling along the Lidder River and enjoying a bonfire.

• Betaab Valley: Estimated cost - INR 300 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Pony Ride to Chandanwari: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Estimated time spent - 3-4 hours
• Lidder River Stroll and Bonfire: Estimated cost - INR 200 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Sunday, November 5: Sonamarg

Visit Sonamarg, also known as the "Meadow of Gold," and enjoy its breathtaking landscapes. Start your day with a leisurely hike in the Thajiwas Glacier area, surrounded by snow-covered peaks. In the afternoon, experience the thrill of river rafting on the Indus River. End the day with a family picnic near the picturesque Vishansar Lake.

• Hike in Thajiwas Glacier: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Estimated time spent - 3-4 hours
• River Rafting: Estimated cost - INR 1000 per person, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Picnic at Vishansar Lake: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Monday, November 6: Srinagar City Tour

Explore the vibrant city of Srinagar today. Begin your day with a visit to the historic Shankaracharya Temple, located on a hilltop offering panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, explore the bustling markets of Old Srinagar, such as Lal Chowk and Residency Road, and indulge in some local shopping. End the day with a relaxing shikara boat ride at sunset.

• Shankaracharya Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Shopping in Old Srinagar: Estimated cost - Varies, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Sunset Shikara Boat Ride: Estimated cost - INR 800 per hour, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours

Tuesday, November 7: Dachigam National Park

Head to Dachigam National Park, a wildlife sanctuary known for its population of endangered Kashmiri stag (hangul) and other fauna. Take a morning jeep safari through the park to spot various species of deer, birds, and maybe even a leopard. In the afternoon, enjoy a peaceful picnic surrounded by nature. Wrap up the day with a visit to the ancient Martand Sun Temple.

• Jeep Safari in Dachigam National Park: Estimated cost - INR 1000 per person, Estimated time spent - 4-5 hours
• Picnic in Dachigam National Park: Estimated cost - INR 300 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Martand Sun Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours

Wednesday, November 8: Departure from Srinagar

On your last day in Kashmir, take some time to leisurely explore the beautiful Hazratbal Mosque, known for its stunning architecture and serene surroundings. Enjoy a delicious Kashmiri cuisine lunch at a local restaurant. Bid farewell to the mesmerizing beauty of Kashmir and take your onward flight back home.

• Hazratbal Mosque: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Kashmiri Cuisine Lunch: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Kashmir, don't miss the opportunity to visit the off the beaten path attractions such as the floating vegetable market on Dal Lake. Locals love spending time at Manasbal Lake, a serene lake surrounded by lush greenery and offering boating opportunities. Another hidden gem is the Doodhpathri Valley, known as the "Valley of Milk," offering stunning meadows and a peaceful ambiance for picnics.

For a unique experience, consider visiting the Kheer Bhawani Temple, a sacred Hindu shrine dedicated to Goddess Ragnya Devi, located in the Ganderbal district. It attracts devotees from all over and offers a glimpse into the religious diversity of the region.

Remember to check kayak.com for the best hotel and flight prices for your trip to Kashmir.