New Delhi to Kashmir 7-Day Itinerary

Tuesday, September 26: Arrival in New Delhi

Start your journey by arriving in New Delhi, the capital city of India. In the morning, explore the architectural wonders of Old Delhi, including the iconic Red Fort and Jama Masjid. In the afternoon, visit the bustling Chandni Chowk market for a true taste of Delhi's vibrant street life. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely walk in the tranquil Lodhi Gardens.

• Red Fort: Admission fee: INR 35 (approx.), Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Jama Masjid: No entry fee, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Chandni Chowk: Estimated cost: Varies, Time spent: 2-4 hours
• Lodhi Gardens: No entry fee, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Wednesday, September 27: Agra and the Taj Mahal

Embark on a day trip to Agra, home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World - the magnificent Taj Mahal. In the morning, witness the beauty of the Taj Mahal at sunrise. Afterward, explore the grand Agra Fort and indulge in some local delicacies for lunch. In the afternoon, visit the enchanting Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb. Return to Delhi in the evening.

• Taj Mahal: Entry fee: INR 1,300 (approx.), Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Agra Fort: Entry fee: INR 750 (approx.), Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb: Entry fee: INR 210 (approx.), Time spent: 1-2 hours

Thursday, September 28: Exploring Delhi's Heritage

Discover more of Delhi's cultural heritage on this day. In the morning, visit the serene Humayun's Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Then, explore the majestic Qutub Minar and nearby Mehrauli Archaeological Park. Enjoy a traditional Indian lunch and spend the afternoon at the National Handicrafts and Handlooms Museum. Wrap up the day with a visit to the iconic India Gate in the evening.

• Humayun's Tomb: Entry fee: INR 35 (approx.), Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Qutub Minar: Entry fee: INR 40 (approx.), Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Mehrauli Archaeological Park: No entry fee, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• National Handicrafts and Handlooms Museum: Entry fee: INR 20 (approx.), Time spent: 2-3 hours
• India Gate: No entry fee, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Friday, September 29: Travel to Shimla

Take a scenic train journey from Delhi to Kalka, and then board the UNESCO-listed toy train to Shimla. Enjoy the picturesque landscapes and cool mountain breeze throughout the journey. After reaching Shimla, spend the afternoon exploring the Mall Road, Ridge, and Christ Church. Witness a magnificent sunset from Scandal Point.

• Train tickets to Kalka: Cost varies, Time spent: 4-5 hours
• Toy train to Shimla: Cost varies, Time spent: 5-6 hours
• Mall Road: Estimated cost: Varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Ridge and Christ Church: No entry fee, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Scandal Point: No entry fee, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Saturday, September 30: Exploring Shimla's Nature

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Shimla on this day. In the morning, visit Jakhu Temple, dedicated to the Hindu deity Hanuman. Take a leisurely stroll through the scenic Glen Forests and enjoy a picnic lunch. Afterward, explore the Viceregal Lodge, the former summer residence of the British viceroys. End the day by enjoying panoramic views from the Observatory Hill.

• Jakhu Temple: No entry fee, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Glen Forests: No entry fee, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Viceregal Lodge: Entry fee: INR 20 (approx.), Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Observatory Hill: No entry fee, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Sunday, October 1: Srinagar and Dal Lake

Fly from Shimla to Srinagar, the scenic capital city of Jammu and Kashmir. Upon arrival, take a shikara boat ride on the iconic Dal Lake and experience the floating markets. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Mughal Gardens, including Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh. Visit the enchanting Hazratbal Shrine, known for its exquisite architecture. Enjoy a traditional Kashmiri dinner in the evening.

• Shikara boat ride: Cost varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Mughal Gardens: Entry fee: INR 30 (approx.), Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Hazratbal Shrine: No entry fee, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Traditional Kashmiri dinner: Cost varies, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Monday, October 2: Gulmarg and Gondola Ride

Embark on a day trip to Gulmarg, a picturesque hill station known for its snow-capped mountains and meadows. Take a thrilling gondola ride to Kongdoori and explore the beautiful surroundings. Enjoy a packed picnic lunch amidst the scenic landscapes. If weather permits, indulge in adventure activities like skiing and snowboarding. Return to Srinagar in the evening.

• Gulmarg Gondola: Cost varies, Time spent: 3-4 hours
• Picnic lunch: Cost varies, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Optional adventure activities: Cost varies, Time spent: 1-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While visiting Kashmir, don't miss the opportunity to explore Sonamarg, a picturesque valley known for its scenic beauty and adventurous treks. Also, indulge in traditional Kashmiri cuisine at local restaurants and visit the local handicraft markets to purchase exquisite Pashmina shawls and Kashmiri carpets.