Family-Friendly 6-Day Itinerary in Kashmir, October 26-31, 2023

Thursday, October 26: Arrival in Srinagar

Start your trip in the charming city of Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir. In the morning, explore the famous Dal Lake by taking a Shikara boat ride. Enjoy the serene surroundings and visit floating gardens. Afternoon can be spent visiting the beautiful Mughal Gardens like Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh. In the evening, take a traditional Kashmiri cuisine cooking class to learn about the local flavors. Accommodation options can be found at kayak.com.

• Dal Lake: ₹500 for a Shikara ride, 2 hours
• Mughal Gardens: ₹50 entry fee, 2 hours
• Cooking Class: ₹1,000 per person, 2 hours

Friday, October 27: Pahalgam Adventure

Embark on a day trip to Pahalgam, a scenic hill station known for its lush meadows and charming valleys. In the morning, visit Betaab Valley and enjoy the picturesque landscapes. Afternoon can be spent horse riding in Aru Valley, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. In the evening, explore the local market and try traditional Kashmiri crafts. Return to Srinagar for a night's stay.

• Betaab Valley: ₹100 entry fee, 2 hours
• Aru Valley Horse Riding: ₹1,000 per person, 3 hours
• Local Market: No entry fee, 2 hours

Saturday, October 28: Gulmarg Snow Fun

Head to Gulmarg, a popular skiing destination, for a thrilling day in the snow. Morning can be spent enjoying various snow activities like tubing, skiing, and snowboarding. Afternoon, take a Gondola cable car ride to Kongdori and revel in the stunning views. In the evening, explore the town and taste local Kashmiri delicacies like Rogan Josh and Yakhni.

• Snow Activities: ₹1,500 per person, 3 hours
• Gondola Ride: ₹800 for Phase 1, ₹1,200 for Phase 2, 2 hours
• Local Cuisine: ₹500 per person, 2 hours

Sunday, October 29: Sonamarg Trekking

Prepare for a day of adventure in Sonamarg, known as the "Meadow of Gold." Morning can be spent trekking to Thajiwas Glacier, surrounded by breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Afternoon, enjoy a picnic by the Sindh River and immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere. In the evening, take a leisurely walk through the town and interact with the friendly locals.

• Trekking to Thajiwas Glacier: ₹1,200 per person, 4 hours
• Picnic by Sindh River: ₹300 per group, 2 hours
• Exploring Sonamarg: No additional cost, 2 hours

Monday, October 30: Srinagar Cultural Experience

Delve deeper into the cultural heritage of Srinagar. Start the morning by visiting the Shankaracharya Temple, offering panoramic views of the city. Afternoon can be spent exploring the old city and its bustling markets, such as Lal Chowk and Residency Road. In the evening, witness a live Kashmiri folk music and dance performance to immerse yourself in the traditions of the region.

• Shankaracharya Temple: No entry fee, 2 hours
• Exploring Old City: No additional cost, 3 hours
• Folk Music and Dance Performance: ₹500 per person, 2 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Taj Bakers in Srinagar for a delightful array of freshly baked goods. Their pastries and breads are mouthwatering. The average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
• If you're looking for a satisfying lunch, try Ahdoos Restaurant. They serve traditional Kashmiri cuisine with flavorful dishes like Rogan Josh and Kashmiri Pulao. The average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
• For a memorable dinner experience, visit Mughal Darbar in Srinagar. This restaurant is known for its delectable Mughlai cuisine, with signature dishes like Butter Chicken and Biryani. The average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.

Tuesday, October 31: Departure

On your last day, bid farewell to Kashmir with a memorable experience. Visit the iconic Hazratbal Shrine in the morning, a revered mosque overlooking the Dal Lake. Afterward, explore the city's handicraft markets for authentic souvenirs like Pashmina shawls and Kashmiri carpets. Depart from Srinagar with cherished memories of your family-friendly Kashmir getaway.

• Hazratbal Shrine: No entry fee, 2 hours
• Handicraft Markets: Varies based on purchases, 2 hours

Restaurants

• For a hearty breakfast with a view, head to Shamyana Restaurant located near the Dal Lake. Enjoy traditional Kashmiri delicacies like Kashmiri pulao and Seekh kababs. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 300 per person.
• For a satisfying lunch, try Ahdoos Restaurant in the heart of Srinagar. Indulge in their delicious Wazwan, a traditional multi-course Kashmiri feast. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 800 per person.
• End your day with a delightful dinner at Mughal Darbar, known for its mouthwatering Kashmiri cuisine. Try their famous Rogan Josh or Yakhni Pulao. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 600 per person.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

One hidden gem in Kashmir is Dachigam National Park, located near Srinagar. This park is home to endangered species like the Kashmir stag and the black bear. Families can enjoy wildlife sightings, go birdwatching, and have picnics in the lush surroundings. Another local favorite is the Wular Lake, the largest freshwater lake in India. Take a boat ride on the lake for breathtaking views and tranquility.