Exploring Kashmir: A Family-Friendly 7-Day Itinerary

Wednesday, December 20: Arrival in Srinagar

Welcome to Srinagar, the capital of Kashmir! Begin your trip by checking into your hotel and taking some time to relax and adjust to the beautiful surroundings. In the afternoon, head to Dal Lake and enjoy a peaceful Shikara boat ride, taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. In the evening, visit the Hazratbal Shrine, a popular religious site with a serene atmosphere.

• Dal Lake Shikara Ride: Estimated cost - INR 500 ($7) per hour, Time spent - 2 hours
• Hazratbal Shrine: Free entry, Time spent - 1 hour

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Ahdoos in Srinagar, known for its traditional Kashmiri cuisine. Enjoy their famous Kashmiri chai and kehwa along with delicious paneer tikka. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
• If you're looking for a satisfying lunch, try Shamyana Restaurant located near Dal Lake. They offer a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, including their popular mutton rogan josh and Kashmiri pulao. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
• For dinner, visit Mughal Darbar in Srinagar, a renowned restaurant specializing in Mughlai cuisine. Indulge in their flavorful biryanis and kebabs, and don't forget to try their delectable phirni for dessert. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.

Thursday, December 21: Gulmarg

Embark on a day trip to Gulmarg, a stunning hill station known for its picturesque landscapes and adventure activities. Start your morning with a cable car ride on the Gulmarg Gondola, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks. Spend the afternoon skiing, snowboarding, or simply enjoying the snow. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through the scenic meadows and visit the Maharani Temple.

• Gulmarg Gondola: Estimated cost - INR 750 ($10) for Phase 1, Time spent - 2 hours
• Adventure activities: Estimated cost - Varies depending on the activity, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Maharani Temple: Free entry, Time spent - 1 hour

Restaurants

• For a delicious breakfast, head to Café Chinar located near the Gulmarg Gondola. They offer a wide range of breakfast options including local Kashmiri dishes such as Rogan Josh and Yakhni, as well as continental breakfast items. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
• If you're looking for a lunch spot, try Greenz Restaurant which is known for its tasty Indian and Chinese cuisine. They have a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, and their chicken biryani is a must-try. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
• For a memorable dinner experience, visit Shaw Café and Bakers located in the heart of Gulmarg. This cozy restaurant offers a range of Kashmiri specialties like Kashmiri Pulao and Dum Aloo, as well as a selection of pizzas and pastas. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.

Friday, December 22: Pahalgam

Explore the charming town of Pahalgam, known for its natural beauty and scenic hiking trails. Start your day with a visit to Betaab Valley, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk amidst lush greenery and serene surroundings. In the afternoon, visit the breathtaking Aru Valley and indulge in horseback riding or a picnic by the river. End your day with a visit to the beautiful Chandanwari and experience the tranquil beauty of the Lidder River.

• Betaab Valley: Estimated cost - INR 100 ($1.40) per person, Time spent - 2 hours
• Aru Valley: Estimated cost - INR 500 ($7) per person for horseback riding, Time spent - 3 hours
• Chandanwari: Estimated cost - INR 100 ($1.40) per person, Time spent - 1 hour

Restaurants

• A popular breakfast spot in Pahalgam is Café Log Inn, known for its delicious Kashmiri Kahwa and freshly baked pastries. The average cost for a meal here is about INR 300 per person.
• For a hearty lunch, visit Dana Pani Restaurant and try their authentic Kashmiri cuisine, such as Rogan Josh and Wazwan. The average cost for a meal here is about INR 500 per person.
• In the evening, head to Troutbeat Restaurant for a delightful dinner experience by the banks of the Lidder River. Enjoy their signature trout dishes and other mouthwatering delicacies. The average cost for a meal here is about INR 800 per person.

Saturday, December 23: Sonamarg

Head to Sonamarg, also known as the "Meadow of Gold," and immerse yourself in its stunning landscapes. Start your morning with a visit to the Thajiwas Glacier, where you can enjoy snow activities like sledging and snowboarding. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk along the Sindh River and enjoy a picnic surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. End your day with a visit to the beautiful Nilagrad River, known for its reddish waters.

• Thajiwas Glacier: Estimated cost - INR 400 ($5.50) per person for sledging, Time spent - 2 hours
• Sindh River: Free entry, Time spent - 2 hours
• Nilagrad River: Free entry, Time spent - 1 hour

Sunday, December 24: Srinagar City Tour

Explore the wonders of Srinagar today. Begin your morning with a visit to the iconic Mughal Gardens, where you can admire the beautiful terraced lawns, fountains, and vibrant flowers. In the afternoon, explore the fascinating old city area, known as the Zaina Kadal, and immerse yourself in its rich history and culture. End your day with a traditional Kashmiri dinner while enjoying a Shikara boat ride on the serene Nigeen Lake.

• Mughal Gardens: Estimated cost - INR 100 ($1.40) per person, Time spent - 2 hours
• Zaina Kadal: Free entry, Time spent - 2 hours
• Shikara boat ride on Nigeen Lake: Estimated cost - INR 500 ($7) per hour, Time spent - 2 hours

Monday, December 25: Dachigam National Park

Embark on a wildlife adventure at Dachigam National Park, located just outside Srinagar. Start your morning with a guided safari through the park, where you can spot various species of wildlife, including the endangered Kashmiri stag. In the afternoon, enjoy a picnic amidst the serene surroundings or take a leisurely hike along the trails. End your day by visiting the historic Hari Parbat Fort and enjoying panoramic views of the city.

• Dachigam National Park: Estimated cost - INR 100 ($1.40) per person for entry, Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Hari Parbat Fort: Free entry, Time spent - 1 hour

Tuesday, December 26: Departure from Srinagar

On your last day, take some time to explore the local markets and indulge in some souvenir shopping. Visit the bustling Lal Chowk area, known for its vibrant atmosphere and traditional crafts. In the afternoon, bid farewell to the beautiful land of Kashmir and depart from Srinagar with unforgettable memories.

• Lal Chowk: Cost varies depending on purchases, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, consider visiting the Pari Mahal, a historic monument with stunning views of Srinagar. You can also explore the enchanting floating vegetable market on Dal Lake, where local farmers sell their produce from traditional boats. Additionally, don't miss the opportunity to try traditional Kashmiri cuisine at local restaurants, such as Rogan Josh and Kashmiri Pulao.

To check hotel and flight prices for your Kashmir trip, click here.