Begin your honeymoon in the enchanting city of Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir. In the morning, take a serene Shikara ride on Dal Lake, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and floating gardens. In the afternoon, visit the magnificent Mughal Gardens, including Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh, known for their stunning terraced lawns and beautiful flowers. As the evening approaches, explore the bustling local markets and indulge in traditional Kashmiri cuisine.
Dal Lake Shikara Ride: Cost depends on duration, approximately $10 - $30, 2-3 hours
Mughal Gardens: Entrance fee around $1 - $2, 2-3 hours
Local Markets: Cost depends on shopping, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe Coffee Day, a popular chain known for its fresh brews and delicious pastries. Average cost for a meal is about $5 per person.
For lunch, try Ahdoos, a renowned restaurant serving traditional Kashmiri cuisine. Try their signature dishes like Rogan Josh and Kashmiri Pulao. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
For dinner, visit Mughal Darbar, a well-known restaurant offering a wide range of Mughlai and Kashmiri delicacies. Don't miss their delectable Wazwan dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Sunday, December 10: Gulmarg
Embark on a day trip to Gulmarg, a picturesque hill station known for its meadows and snow-capped peaks. In the morning, enjoy a Gondola ride, the highest cable car in the world, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. In the afternoon, experience the thrill of snow activities like skiing or snowboarding. As the evening sets in, relax in a cozy mountain resort and savor the stunning views.
Gondola Ride: Cost depends on the phase, approximately $20 - $45, 4-5 hours
Snow Activities: Cost depends on the activity, approximately $20 - $50, 2-3 hours
Mountain Resort: Cost varies, depending on choice, Overnight stay
Restaurants
The Chinar Cabin is a charming breakfast spot located in Gulmarg offering a variety of freshly baked goods and delightful Kashmiri chai. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
The Pine Retreat is a scenic lunch spot nestled amidst beautiful pine trees, serving delicious local Kashmiri cuisine such as Rogan Josh and Yakhni Pulao. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Shamyana is a romantic dinner restaurant offering a range of options including Mutton Kebabs and Gushtaba, traditional Kashmiri delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Monday, December 11: Pahalgam
Travel to the picturesque town of Pahalgam, also known as the "Valley of Shepherds." In the morning, visit the iconic Betaab Valley, surrounded by lush green meadows and snow-capped mountains. Afterward, take a leisurely horse ride to explore the stunning Aru Valley and its pristine beauty. As the evening approaches, relax by the Lidder River and enjoy a romantic picnic amidst nature.
Betaab Valley: Entrance fee around $1 - $2, 2-3 hours
Horse Ride to Aru Valley: Cost depends on duration, approximately $10 - $20, 2-3 hours
Picnic by Lidder River: Cost depends on choice, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Cafe Mayur: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Cafe Mayur, offering a variety of continental and Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Pine-n-Dine: Indulge in a delicious lunch at Pine-n-Dine, known for its authentic Kashmiri cuisine and stunning views. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
The Chinar: For a romantic dinner experience, head to The Chinar and savor their delectable Indian and Chinese cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Tuesday, December 12: Sonmarg
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Sonmarg, also known as the "Meadow of Gold." In the morning, visit the Thajiwas Glacier, surrounded by snow-covered mountains and glistening streams. Enjoy a leisurely walk or hire a pony for an adventurous ride. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful meadows of Baltal and indulge in a picturesque picnic. As the evening sets in, witness the serene sunset views over the mountains.
Thajiwas Glacier: Cost depends on choice, approximately $10 - $20, 4-5 hours
Baltal Meadows: Cost depends on choice, 2-3 hours
Sunset Views: No additional cost, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Café Coffee Day, located near Sonmarg. Enjoy a variety of freshly brewed coffees, delicious sandwiches, and mouthwatering pastries. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Troutbeat Restaurant and try their famous trout dishes. This charming restaurant offers a serene ambiance with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Indulge in a romantic dinner at Ahdoos Restaurant, known for its authentic Kashmiri cuisine. Experience the rich flavors of traditional dishes such as Rogan Josh and Kashmiri Pulao. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Wednesday, December 13: Srinagar City Exploration
Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Srinagar. In the morning, visit the historic Jama Masjid, one of the oldest mosques in Kashmir. Explore the fascinating architecture of the Hari Parbat Fort and enjoy panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, take a relaxing walk through the beautiful Badamwari Garden, known for its almond blossoms. As the evening approaches, enjoy a romantic Shikara ride on Nagin Lake.
Jama Masjid: No entrance fee, 1-2 hours
Hari Parbat Fort: Entrance fee around $1 - $2, 1-2 hours
Badamwari Garden: No entrance fee, 1-2 hours
Shikara Ride on Nagin Lake: Cost depends on duration, approximately $10 - $30, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Café Mornings: Start your day at Café Mornings, a cozy breakfast spot known for its delicious pancakes and fresh fruit juices. The average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
Kashmiri Food Junction: For a traditional Kashmiri lunch experience, head to Kashmiri Food Junction. Indulge in mouthwatering kebabs and aromatic biryani. The average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Shamyana Restaurant: Enjoy a romantic dinner at Shamyana Restaurant, which offers a serene ambiance and a wide range of cuisines including Indian, Chinese, and Continental. The average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Thursday, December 14: Dachigam National Park
Indulge in the serene beauty of Dachigam National Park, a protected wildlife sanctuary. In the morning, take a jeep safari to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the park, including endangered species like the Kashmir stag. In the afternoon, enjoy a peaceful picnic amidst nature. As the evening sets in, embark on a guided trek to experience the tranquility of the forest.
Jeep Safari in Dachigam National Park: Cost depends on duration, approximately $20 - $40, 4-5 hours
Picnic in the Park: Cost depends on choice, 2-3 hours
Guided Trek: Cost depends on choice, approximately $10 - $20, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe Coffee Day, a popular chain serving a variety of hot and cold beverages along with delicious breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, visit Ahdoos, a renowned restaurant known for its authentic Kashmiri cuisine. Indulge in mouthwatering dishes like Rogan Josh and Kashmiri Pulao. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
For dinner, treat yourself to the ambiance and flavors of Shamyana Restaurant. They offer a wide range of Indian and continental dishes, along with beautiful views of the Dal Lake. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Friday, December 15: Departure
Bid farewell to the mesmerizing land of Kashmir. Take a final stroll through the beautiful streets of Srinagar, savoring the last moments of your honeymoon. In the afternoon, depart for the airport, carrying memories that will last a lifetime.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a truly off the beaten path experience, venture to the village of Doodhpathri, located about 42 kilometers from Srinagar. This hidden gem is known for its lush green meadows, pristine streams, and picturesque landscapes. Enjoy a peaceful picnic amidst nature and immerse yourself in the tranquility of this lesser-known destination. Locals also highly recommend exploring the Aharbal Waterfall, located about 75 kilometers from Srinagar. This breathtaking waterfall cascades down from the mountains, surrounded by dense forests, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.