Start your romantic journey in Srinagar, the capital city of Kashmir. In the morning, take a shikara ride on the famous Dal Lake, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Enjoy the peace and tranquility as you float across the shimmering waters. In the afternoon, visit the beautiful Mughal Gardens, such as Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh, known for their stunning landscapes and colorful flowers. As the evening sets in, indulge in a traditional Kashmiri Wazwan dinner, savoring the rich flavors of local cuisine.
Dal Lake Shikara Ride: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
Mughal Gardens: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
Kashmiri Wazwan Dinner: Cost varies, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Ahdoos. This popular restaurant offers a range of Kashmiri and Indian breakfast dishes, such as Kashmiri tea, kehwa with saffron, and traditional Kashmiri bread. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Mughal Darbar. Known for its authentic Kashmiri cuisine, this restaurant serves mouth-watering dishes like Rogan Josh, Yakhni, and Dum Aloo. Enjoy a flavorful lunch here with an average cost of around 500 INR per person.
End your day with a romantic dinner at Shamyana Restaurant. Located on the banks of Dal Lake, this restaurant offers stunning views and a cozy ambiance. Indulge in a variety of dishes, including traditional Wazwan delicacies, with an average cost of about 800 INR per person.
Thursday January 4: Gulmarg
Embark on a day trip to Gulmarg, a picturesque hill station renowned for its scenic beauty. In the morning, take a gondola ride to the top of the Apharwat Peak, experiencing breathtaking panoramic views of the snow-covered Himalayas. In the afternoon, indulge in some adventure activities like skiing or snowboarding, depending on weather conditions. As the evening sets in, cozy up in a mountain lodge and enjoy a romantic candlelit dinner.
Gondola Ride: Cost varies, 4-5 hours
Adventure Activities: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
Candlelit Dinner: Cost varies, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Café Rehbab in Gulmarg which offers a variety of delicious Kashmiri delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Enjoy a delightful lunch at Highland Park Restaurant, known for its scenic views and mouthwatering Kashmiri cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
Indulge in a romantic dinner at Nedous Dining Room, a charming restaurant that offers a range of international and Kashmiri dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Friday January 5: Pahalgam
Head to Pahalgam, a charming hill station nestled in the Lidder Valley. In the morning, take a leisurely walk along the Lidder River, admiring the scenic views and lush greenery. In the afternoon, visit the picturesque Betaab Valley, known for its idyllic surroundings and Bollywood film shootings. As the evening sets in, relax in a traditional Kashmiri houseboat on the Dal Lake, enjoying the serenity of your surroundings.
For breakfast, head to Cafe Log Inn which offers a cozy ambience and a variety of delicious breakfast options. The average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For lunch, try Troutbeat Restaurant located near the Lidder River, where you can enjoy freshly cooked trout dishes along with breathtaking views. The average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
For dinner, indulge in a romantic meal at Pahalgam Restaurant and enjoy traditional Kashmiri cuisine like Rogan Josh and Dum Aloo. The average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Saturday January 6: Sonamarg
Explore the magnificent beauty of Sonamarg, also known as the "Meadow of Gold." In the morning, embark on a horse ride to the Thajiwas Glacier, surrounded by breathtaking snow-capped mountains. In the afternoon, enjoy a picnic amidst the meadows, surrounded by vibrant flowers. As the evening sets in, visit the local market to shop for Kashmiri handicrafts and souvenirs.
Horse Ride to Thajiwas Glacier: Cost varies, 3-4 hours
Picnic in the Meadows: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
Shopping at the Local Market: Cost varies, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Sonamarg is Café Sonamarg, offering a variety of local and international breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For lunch, try the delicious Kashmiri cuisine at Krishna Vaishno Dhaba, known for its traditional flavors and generous portions. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, visit the elegant Khyber Restaurant, offering a range of delectable dishes in a cozy atmosphere. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Sunday January 7: Srinagar
Return to Srinagar and spend the day exploring the city's cultural and historical attractions. In the morning, visit the historic Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India, and admire its intricate architecture. In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll through the enchanting Old City, with its narrow lanes and bustling markets. As the evening sets in, enjoy a romantic shikara ride on the Nigeen Lake, taking in the beauty of the sunset.
Jama Masjid: Cost varies, 1-2 hours
Exploring the Old City: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
Shikara Ride on Nigeen Lake: Cost varies, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Café Munchkins is a popular breakfast spot known for its delectable pastries and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, head to Shamyana Restaurant, which offers a wide range of traditional Kashmiri dishes along with stunning views of the city. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Indulge in a romantic candlelit dinner at Ahdoos, a renowned restaurant known for its authentic Kashmiri cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about ₹1000 per person.
Monday January 8: Yusmarg
Venture to Yusmarg, a hidden gem in Kashmir known for its pristine beauty. In the morning, embark on a trek to the Nilnag Lake, surrounded by lush green meadows and pine forests. In the afternoon, enjoy a picnic by the Doodh Ganga River, known for its crystal clear waters. As the evening sets in, savor a delicious barbecue dinner under the starlit sky.
Trek to Nilnag Lake: Cost varies, 4-5 hours
Picnic by Doodh Ganga River: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
Barbecue Dinner: Cost varies, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A charming café nestled in the heart of Yusmarg, serving freshly baked pastries and flavorful coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
A rustic restaurant offering a variety of Kashmiri cuisine, including mouthwatering Rogan Josh and fragrant Pulao. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
A rooftop restaurant with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, serving delectable grilled specialties and sumptuous vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
Tuesday January 9: Departure
On your last day, bid farewell to the enchanting land of Kashmir. Take a morning stroll along the picturesque banks of the Jhelum River, reflecting on the memories created during your honeymoon. As you depart, carry a piece of Kashmir with you in the form of exquisite handcrafted souvenirs.
Stroll along Jhelum River: Cost varies, 1-2 hours
Shopping for Souvenirs: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Café Coffee Day, a popular chain that offers a variety of hot and cold beverages along with delicious breakfast options such as sandwiches and pastries. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 200 per person.
When it's time for lunch, visit Shamyana Restaurant, known for its authentic Kashmiri cuisine. Indulge in mouthwatering dishes like Rogan Josh and Yakhni Pulao. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 500 per person.
In the evening, dine at Ahdoos Restaurant, a renowned eatery with a charming ambiance. Try their specialty Kashmiri dishes like Tabak Maaz and Gushtaba, and end your day on a gourmet note. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 800 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, consider visiting the magical village of Doodhpathri. Surrounded by meadows, streams, and dense forests, it offers a serene escape from the tourist crowds. Another gem is the Lolab Valley, located in the Kupwara district. This untouched valley is known for its stunning landscapes and offers opportunities for hiking and camping. Locals also love exploring the charming village of Aru, located near Pahalgam, which serves as a base for treks to the Kolahoi Glacier.