Start your trip in the picturesque city of Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir. In the morning, visit the iconic Dal Lake and take a shikara ride, gliding through serene waters surrounded by snow-capped mountains and lush gardens. For the afternoon, head to the Mughal Gardens, including Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh, where you can marvel at the intricate terraced gardens and stunning views. In the evening, take a stroll through the lively local markets, such as Lal Chowk, for authentic Kashmiri handicrafts.
Dal Lake: Entrance fee - Approx. INR 200 per person, Shikara ride - Approx. INR 400 per hour, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Mughal Gardens: Entrance fee - Approx. INR 20 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Lal Chowk: Expenditure varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Coffee Day. This cozy café offers a variety of breakfast options, including sandwiches, pastries, and hot beverages. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, visit Ahdoos Restaurant. Known for its authentic Kashmiri cuisine, this restaurant serves delicacies such as Rogan Josh and Dum Aloo. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at Mughal Darbar. This popular restaurant specializes in Mughlai cuisine and offers dishes like Biryani and Butter Chicken. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Friday, December 29: Gulmarg and Gondola Ride
Embark on a day trip to Gulmarg, a beautiful hill station known for its pristine landscapes. Start your morning by taking a scenic drive to Gulmarg, approximately 52 km away from Srinagar. Spend the morning exploring the stunning meadows and snow-covered peaks. In the afternoon, indulge in an unforgettable gondola ride, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Take the Phase 1 cable car to Kongdori and then continue to Apharwat Peak, if weather permits. The evening can be spent enjoying a cup of steaming Kahwa tea by a bonfire, embracing the tranquility of nature.
Transportation to Gulmarg: Approx. INR 2,000 per taxi (round trip), Time spent - Full day
Gondola Ride: Phase 1 - Approx. INR 800 per person (round trip), Phase 2 - Approx. INR 1,200 per person (round trip), Time spent - 3-4 hours
Kahwa Tea: Approx. INR 100 per cup, Expenditure varies
Restaurants
Start your morning with a hearty breakfast at Café de Himalaya, a cozy café offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Indulge in delicious Kashmiri specialties such as Rogan Josh and Kashmiri Pulao. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 300 per person.
For lunch, head to the famous Nathus Rasoi, a local favorite known for its authentic Kashmiri cuisine. Enjoy mouthwatering dishes like Kashmiri Dum Aloo and Yakhni Pulao. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 500 per person.
Treat yourself to a memorable dinner at Shamyana Restaurant, which offers a cozy ambiance and a delightful menu. Savor flavorsome dishes like Kashmiri Wazwan and Dum Biryani while enjoying live traditional music performances. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 800 per person.
Saturday, December 30: Pahalgam and Betaab Valley
On day three, venture to Pahalgam, a charming town nestled amidst the Himalayas. Start your morning by exploring the picturesque Betaab Valley, known for its lush green meadows, crystal-clear streams, and snow-capped peaks. Enjoy a leisurely picnic amidst nature's beauty. In the afternoon, visit the famous Aru Valley, offering breathtaking vistas and opportunities for short hikes. As the day winds down, you can take a leisurely walk through the quaint streets of Pahalgam, enjoying the local culture and cuisine.
Transportation to Pahalgam: Approx. INR 4,000 per taxi (round trip), Time spent - Full day
Betaab Valley: Entrance fee - Approx. INR 100 per person, Picnic expenses - Expenditure varies, Time spent - 3-4 hours
Aru Valley: Entrance fee - Approx. INR 50 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Exploring Pahalgam: Expenditure varies, Time spent - Evening
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Log Inn, a cozy restaurant in Pahalgam. Indulge in their freshly made pancakes and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Satisfy your appetite for lunch at Dana Pani, a popular restaurant offering a wide range of Indian and Kashmiri cuisine. Don't miss their delectable butter chicken and saffron-infused rice. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, head to Nathu's Rasoi, a quaint restaurant known for its authentic Kashmiri dishes. Treat yourself to their mouth-watering Rogan Josh and Kashmiri Pulao. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Sunday, December 31: Sonamarg and Thajiwas Glacier
On your final day, take a stunning drive to Sonamarg, known as the "Meadow of Gold." Begin your day by exploring the enchanting Thajiwas Glacier, located at an altitude of 9,186 feet. Enjoy the breathtaking views of snow-covered peaks and glistening glaciers. You can also indulge in activities like sledge rides and skiing, depending on snow conditions. In the evening, savor a delicious authentic Kashmiri Wazwan dinner, complete with aromatic flavors and traditional cuisine, to bid farewell to this unforgettable trip.
Transportation to Sonamarg: Approx. INR 6,000 per taxi (round trip), Time spent - Full day
Thajiwas Glacier: Entrance fee - Approx. INR 300 per person for pony or hike, Time spent - 3-4 hours
Optional Activities: Expenditure varies, Time spent - Flexible
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Coffee Day. They offer a variety of breakfast options such as sandwiches, croissants, and pancakes. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to the famous Krishna Vaishno Dhaba. This vegetarian restaurant serves mouthwatering North Indian cuisine including dal makhani, paneer tikka, and butter naan. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at Ahdoos Restaurant, known for its authentic Kashmiri cuisine. Enjoy dishes like Rogan Josh, Yakhni, and Kashmiri Pulao. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
If you have additional time to explore, consider visiting the enchanting Dachigam National Park, located just outside Srinagar. This park is home to endangered species like the Kashmir stag and offers scenic hiking trails amidst pristine wildlife. For those seeking an offbeat experience, a visit to Lolab Valley is highly recommended. This hidden gem boasts stunning landscapes, alpine meadows, and a serene atmosphere away from the crowds. Don't forget to try the local specialty, the mouthwatering Kashmiri kebab, which can be found at various street food stalls and restaurants throughout the region.
Check out hotel and flight prices for your trip here.