7-Day Family-friendly Itinerary for Kashmir

Thursday September 28: Arrival in Srinagar

Start your trip by arriving in Srinagar, the capital city of Kashmir. In the morning, visit the beautiful Shalimar Bagh, a Mughal garden that offers stunning views of Dal Lake. In the afternoon, take a relaxing Shikara ride on Dal Lake and explore the floating vegetable market. In the evening, stroll along the Boulevard Road and enjoy the local street food.

• Shalimar Bagh: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Shikara ride on Dal Lake: Estimated cost - INR 500 per hour, Time spent - 2 hours
• Boulevard Road: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours

Friday September 29: Gulmarg

Head to Gulmarg, a picturesque hill station known for its scenic beauty. In the morning, take the Gondola ride to the Apharwat Peak and enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas. In the afternoon, indulge in winter sports like skiing or enjoy a leisurely walk amidst the beautiful meadows. In the evening, explore the local market and try traditional Kashmiri cuisine.

• Gondola ride: Estimated cost - INR 750 per person, Time spent - 4 hours
• Winter sports or leisurely walks: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 3 hours
• Local market: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2 hours

Saturday September 30: Sonamarg

Visit Sonamarg, also known as the "Meadow of Gold." In the morning, explore the Thajiwas Glacier and enjoy activities like sledging and horse riding. In the afternoon, take a picnic by the picturesque Sindh River and soak in the natural beauty. In the evening, relax in your hotel and enjoy the serene surroundings.

• Thajiwas Glacier: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Time spent - 4 hours
• Picnic by Sindh River: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3 hours
• Hotel relaxation: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - Rest of the evening

Sunday October 1: Pahalgam

Head to Pahalgam, a scenic town nestled in the Himalayas. In the morning, visit the picturesque Betaab Valley and enjoy the stunning views. In the afternoon, go for a leisurely walk along the Lidder River or indulge in adventurous activities like river rafting. In the evening, explore the local market and try traditional Kashmiri handicrafts.

• Betaab Valley: Estimated cost - INR 200 per person, Time spent - 3 hours
• Leisurely walk or river rafting: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 3 hours
• Local market: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2 hours

Monday October 2: Srinagar Old City

Explore the enchanting Old City of Srinagar. In the morning, visit the historic Jama Masjid and marvel at its architecture. In the afternoon, take a walk through the bustling markets of Lal Chowk and indulge in shopping for traditional Kashmiri crafts. In the evening, enjoy a peaceful Shikara ride on the Nigeen Lake.

• Jama Masjid: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Shopping at Lal Chowk: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 3 hours
• Shikara ride on Nigeen Lake: Estimated cost - INR 500 per hour, Time spent - 2 hours

Tuesday October 3: Dachigam National Park

Visit Dachigam National Park, a wildlife sanctuary and home to the endangered Hangul deer. In the morning, go for a safari in the park and spot various species of flora and fauna. In the afternoon, enjoy a picnic amidst the serene surroundings. In the evening, return to Srinagar and explore the vibrant markets of Residency Road.

• Dachigam National Park: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Time spent - 5 hours
• Picnic in the park: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Exploring markets at Residency Road: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2 hours

Wednesday October 4: Departure

Say goodbye to the beautiful Kashmir and depart from Srinagar. In the morning, visit the famous Hazratbal Shrine and seek blessings. In the afternoon, explore the Mughal Gardens of Nishat and Shalimar one last time. In the evening, catch your flight back home with unforgettable memories of your Kashmir trip.

• Hazratbal Shrine: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Nishat and Shalimar Gardens: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3 hours
• Flight back home: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - Rest of the day

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

Explore the off the beaten path attractions and places loved by locals. Visit the enchanting Nigeen Lake, a quieter alternative to Dal Lake, and enjoy peaceful surroundings. Take a day trip to Achabal, known for its beautiful Mughal Gardens and ancient ruins. Don't miss the opportunity to try traditional Kashmiri Wazwan, a multi-course meal that showcases the region's culinary heritage.

For more information about hotels and flights, check here.