Welcome to Srinagar, the capital city of Jammu and Kashmir! Start your trip with a serene Shikara ride on Dal Lake in the morning, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and floating gardens. In the afternoon, visit the beautiful Mughal Gardens, such as Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh, known for their stunning terraced lawns, colorful flowerbeds, and intricate architecture. In the evening, explore the local markets to buy traditional Kashmiri handicrafts.
Dal Lake Shikara Ride: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
Mughal Gardens: Entrance fee around $2-3, 2-3 hours
Local Markets: Cost varies, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Café Coffee Day located near Dal Lake. This café offers a variety of breakfast options such as sandwiches, croissants, and pancakes. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, visit Ahdoos Restaurant in Raj Bagh. Known for its authentic Kashmiri cuisine, this restaurant serves delicious kebabs, biryanis, and traditional Wazwan dishes. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
For dinner, dine at Mughal Darbar in Lal Chowk. This restaurant offers a wide range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, including the famous Kashmiri Rogan Josh and Yakhni Pulao. The average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Sunday, December 17: Gulmarg
Embark on a day trip to Gulmarg, a beautiful hill station famed for its snow-covered slopes and gondola rides. In the morning, enjoy a scenic drive to Gulmarg and witness the mesmerizing views of the Himalayas. Spend the afternoon skiing or snowboarding on the slopes or take a thrilling gondola ride to Kongdori and enjoy panoramic views. In the evening, relax in a cozy mountain lodge and savor traditional Kashmiri cuisine.
Gondola Ride: Cost varies, 4-5 hours
Skiing/Snowboarding: Cost varies, 3-4 hours
Mountain Lodge: Cost varies, Overnight stay
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Shamyana Restaurant, located in Gulmarg. This charming restaurant offers a wide range of options including Kashmiri kehwa, parathas, and omelettes. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Highlands Restaurant situated in the heart of Gulmarg. This restaurant serves delectable Kashmiri Wazwan dishes like Rogan Josh, Yakhni, and Dum Aloo. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at Nedous Dining Room, a renowned fine-dining restaurant in Gulmarg. With an elegant ambiance and a menu featuring dishes like Gushtaba, Rista, and Tabakh Maaz, this restaurant offers a true taste of Kashmiri cuisine. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Monday, December 18: Pahalgam
Head to Pahalgam, a tranquil town nestled amidst lush greenery and snow-capped peaks. In the morning, explore the enchanting Betaab Valley, known for its picturesque landscapes and crystal-clear streams. Enjoy a leisurely picnic surrounded by nature. In the afternoon, visit the famous Aru Valley and take a scenic horse ride to explore the stunning meadows. Spend the evening relaxing by the Lidder River and witness a beautiful sunset.
Betaab Valley: Entrance fee around $2-3, 3-4 hours
Aru Valley: Horse ride cost varies, 2-3 hours
Lidder River: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A cozy breakfast spot in Pahalgam is Cafe Log Inn, offering a variety of delicious options from pancakes to omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Dana Pani Restaurant which serves traditional Kashmiri cuisine such as Rogan Josh and Dum Aloo. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
For a delightful dinner experience, visit Paradise Restaurant where you can enjoy mouth-watering Kashmiri Wazwan dishes like Kashmiri Pulao and Rista. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Tuesday, December 19: Srinagar
Return to Srinagar and immerse yourself in the city's rich cultural heritage. In the morning, visit the historical Jama Masjid, a grand mosque known for its beautiful architecture. Explore the bustling old city, where you can find traditional Kashmiri handicrafts and delicious street food. In the afternoon, take a relaxing Shikara ride to the floating vegetable market on Dal Lake. As the evening sets in, enjoy a traditional Kashmiri dinner on a houseboat.
Jama Masjid: Entrance fee by donation, 1-2 hours
Old City Markets: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
Dal Lake Shikara Ride to Floating Market: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe Coffee Day, located near the Jama Masjid. They offer a variety of hot and cold beverages along with a selection of freshly baked pastries. The average cost for a breakfast meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, try Ahdoos Restaurant, a popular eatery in the old city. They serve traditional Kashmiri cuisine such as Rogan Josh and Dum Aloo. The average cost for a lunch meal is about 500 INR per person.
For dinner, make a reservation at Mughal Darbar, a renowned restaurant on a houseboat. Enjoy authentic Kashmiri dishes like Wazwan and Rista in a delightful setting on Dal Lake. The average cost for a dinner meal is about 800 INR per person.
Wednesday, December 20: Sonamarg
Embark on a day trip to Sonamarg, known as the "Meadow of Gold." In the morning, drive through breathtaking landscapes and reach the Thajiwas Glacier. Enjoy a fun-filled snow experience, like sledding or building snowmen. In the afternoon, take a leisurely horse ride to explore the scenic meadows and valleys. As the sun sets, return to Srinagar and relax in a traditional Kashmiri spa for a rejuvenating massage.
Thajiwas Glacier: Entrance fee around $2-3, 3-4 hours
Horse Ride in Sonamarg: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
Traditional Kashmiri Spa: Cost varies, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Café de Corps located in the heart of Sonamarg. They offer a delicious and filling breakfast menu with options like fluffy omelettes, piping hot parathas, and freshly brewed Kashmiri chai. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
When it's time for lunch, visit Paradise Dhaba nestled amidst the picturesque mountains in Sonamarg. Indulge in their mouthwatering Kashmiri cuisine, including delectable Rogan Josh and flavorful Kashmiri Pulao. The average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
In the evening, treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Lhasa Restaurant, a popular Tibetan restaurant in Sonamarg. Enjoy their authentic Tibetan dishes like momos and Thukpa while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding hills. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Thursday, December 21: Dachigam National Park
Explore the wildlife of Kashmir by visiting Dachigam National Park. In the morning, embark on a thrilling safari to spot majestic Kashmiri Stags and other rare wildlife species. Enjoy a peaceful picnic surrounded by nature. In the afternoon, hike to the picturesque Marsar Lake and soak in the tranquility of the surroundings. Return to Srinagar in the evening and enjoy a traditional Kashmiri music and dance performance.
Dachigam National Park: Entrance fee around $5-6, 4-5 hours
Marsar Lake Hike: Free, 3-4 hours
Kashmiri Music and Dance Performance: Cost varies, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious and hearty Kashmiri breakfast at Shamyana Restaurant. Indulge in mouthwatering Kashmiri specialties such as Kashmiri chai, kehwa, and traditional breads. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Ahdoos Restaurant and experience the true flavors of Kashmiri cuisine. Enjoy a variety of delectable dishes like Rogan Josh, Yakhni, and Kashmiri Pulao. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at Mughal Darbar. Delight in the rich and aromatic offerings of Mughlai cuisine, including delectable kebabs and biryanis. Average cost for a meal is about 1200 INR per person.
Friday, December 22: Yusmarg
End your trip by visiting the hidden gem of Yusmarg. In the morning, take a scenic drive to this peaceful meadow surrounded by dense forests. Explore the beautiful Nilnag Lake and enjoy a leisurely picnic. In the afternoon, go for a horse ride to the Charari Sharief Shrine and experience the spiritual ambiance. Spend the evening strolling around the meadows and soaking in the serene atmosphere.
Nilnag Lake: Free, 2-3 hours
Horse Ride to Charari Sharief Shrine: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
Exploring Yusmarg: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Café Chocolatiere, a cozy café known for its delectable pastries and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
For lunch, visit the Kashmiri Kitchen, where you can indulge in authentic Kashmiri cuisine. Try their signature Rogan Josh and enjoy the warm hospitality. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
For dinner, check out Daawat Restaurant, a popular spot serving a variety of Indian and international dishes. The elegant ambiance and excellent service make it a perfect choice for a memorable dinner. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a truly off the beaten path experience, visit the enchanting Aharbal Waterfall, located in the south of Kashmir. This hidden gem offers breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere. Take a leisurely hike to explore the surrounding forests and enjoy a picnic by the cascading waterfall. Locals also love visiting the serene Tarsar Lake, located in the Tarsar-Marsar Trek. This pristine lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and offers a perfect spot for camping and fishing.
Check out Kayak for hotel and flight prices in Kashmir.