Experience the enchanting beauty of Kashmir with your family on a 7-day itinerary starting on Saturday, February 3, 2024.
Saturday, February 3: Arrival in Srinagar
Begin your trip by arriving in Srinagar, the capital city of Kashmir. Take a morning shikara ride on the iconic Dal Lake, surrounded by majestic mountains and lush gardens. In the afternoon, visit the Mughal Gardens, such as Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh, to explore their stunning terraced lawns and vibrant flowerbeds. Spend the evening exploring the local markets and savoring delicious Kashmiri cuisine.
Dal Lake Shikara Ride: Estimated cost - INR 500 per hour, Time spent - 2 hours
Mughal Gardens: Estimated cost - INR 100 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
The Srinagar Breakfast Club serves a variety of local and international breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
Cafe Kashmir offers delicious Kashmiri cuisine for lunch, including their famous Rogan Josh. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Shamyana Restaurant is a great choice for dinner with its cozy atmosphere and a menu featuring a range of Indian and Continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Sunday, February 4: Gulmarg Excursion
Embark on a day trip to Gulmarg, a picturesque hill station renowned for its scenic beauty. Enjoy a morning cable car ride, known as the Gulmarg Gondola, offering panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks. Afterward, indulge in various winter activities like skiing, snowboarding, or simply building snowmen with your family. Return to Srinagar by evening and relax.
Gulmarg Gondola Ride: Estimated cost - INR 600 per person, Time spent - 3-4 hours
Winter Activities: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - Flexible
Restaurants
A cozy café serving delicious breakfast options such as freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
A charming restaurant offering a variety of authentic Kashmiri dishes for lunch. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
A lakeside restaurant with a breathtaking view, specializing in Kashmiri Wazwan cuisine for dinner. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Monday, February 5: Pahalgam Exploration
Head to Pahalgam, a scenic town nestled amidst the Himalayan ranges. In the morning, visit Betaab Valley, named after a Bollywood movie shot there, and revel in its breathtaking landscapes. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon horse ride in the picturesque meadows of Baisaran, also known as the Mini Switzerland of Kashmir. Conclude your day with a visit to the awe-inspiring Chandanwari temple.
Betaab Valley: Estimated cost - INR 200 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Horse Ride in Baisaran: Estimated cost - INR 500 per hour, Time spent - 2 hours
Chandanwari Temple: Free entry, Time spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
A charming breakfast spot in Pahalgam is Café Log Inn, offering a variety of freshly baked goods and delicious Kashmiri tea. Average cost for a meal is about INR 150 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Dana Pani Restaurant, known for its flavorful Kashmiri cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about INR 300 per person.
Indulge in a delectable dinner at Nathu's Rasoi, serving authentic Kashmiri dishes in a cozy ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about INR 500 per person.
Tuesday, February 6: Sonamarg Expedition
Explore Sonamarg, the "Meadow of Gold," surrounded by majestic glaciers and serene lakes. Begin your day with a scenic drive to Thajiwas Glacier, where you can enjoy snow activities and breathtaking views. Take a leisurely walk along the Sind River and witness its pristine beauty. In the afternoon, visit the Nilagrad River, believed to have miraculous healing powers, and enjoy a peaceful picnic by the riverbank.
Thajiwas Glacier: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Time spent - 3-4 hours
Sind River Walk: Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Nilagrad River: Free, Time spent - 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Glacier. This cozy café offers a wide selection of freshly baked pastries, sandwiches, and aromatic Kashmiri chai. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, visit Ahdoos Restaurant. Known for its authentic Kashmiri cuisine, this restaurant serves a variety of traditional dishes such as Rogan Josh and Dum Aloo. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
In the evening, indulge in a fine dining experience at Shamyana Restaurant. With its elegant ambiance and mouthwatering Kashmiri specialties like Yakhni and Gushtaba, this restaurant is perfect for a memorable dinner. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Wednesday, February 7: Explore Srinagar's Cultural Sites
Spend the day immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Srinagar. Begin by visiting the iconic Jama Masjid, a stunning mosque known for its magnificent wooden architecture. Explore the historic Shankaracharya Temple, perched on a hilltop, which offers panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, visit the enchanting Pari Mahal, a seven-terraced garden showcasing Persian influence. Conclude the day with some souvenir shopping in the lively markets of Srinagar.
Jama Masjid: Free entry, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Shankaracharya Temple: Estimated cost - INR 50 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Pari Mahal: Estimated cost - INR 100 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Shopping in Srinagar Markets: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - Flexible
Restaurants
Start your day at Café Coffee Day, a cozy breakfast spot in Srinagar. Enjoy their delicious pancakes and a hot cup of coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For lunch, head to Shamyana Restaurant, famous for its mouthwatering Kashmiri cuisine. Indulge in their aromatic biryanis and flavorful kebabs. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
End your day with a dining experience at Ahdoos, a renowned restaurant known for its Kashmiri Wazwan delicacies. Try their delectable Rogan Josh and Yakhni Pulao. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Thursday, February 8: Discover the Beauty of Patnitop
Embark on a day trip to Patnitop, a tranquil hill station perched at an altitude of 6,640 feet. Explore the meadows of Sanasar, known for adventure activities like paragliding and ziplining. Visit the Nag Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and enjoy the serene surroundings. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk through the Pine View Park, surrounded by towering pine trees. Return to Srinagar by evening and unwind.
Sanasar Meadows: Estimated cost - INR 200 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Nag Temple: Free entry, Time spent - 1 hour
Pine View Park: Estimated cost - INR 100 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For a delicious breakfast, head to Cafe Coffee Day, located near Patnitop. Enjoy a variety of freshly brewed coffees and a range of breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
If you're looking for a satisfying lunch, visit Patnitop Heights Restaurant. Indulge in authentic Kashmiri cuisine along with stunning views of the surrounding valley. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Treat yourself to a memorable dinner at Monal Restaurant, known for its exquisite Kashmiri and Indian delicacies. The cozy ambience and flavorful dishes make for a perfect dining experience. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Friday, February 9: Farewell to Kashmir
Say goodbye to the serene beauty of Kashmir as you depart from Srinagar. Spend your morning visiting the iconic Hazratbal Shrine, located on the banks of Dal Lake. Experience the spiritual ambiance and offer prayers. Reflect on the wonderful memories created during your journey through Kashmir as you prepare to return home.
Hazratbal Shrine: Free entry, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, visit Café Coffee Day located near Hazratbal Shrine. Enjoy a variety of freshly brewed coffees and delicious breakfast options. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Mughal Darbar Restaurant. Indulge in authentic Kashmiri cuisine including Wazwan dishes, kebabs, and biryanis. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
For dinner, try the famous Shamyana Restaurant. Delight in a range of Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes while enjoying the beautiful view of Dal Lake. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Kashmir, don't miss the opportunity to visit the enchanting Aru Valley. This hidden gem is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and offers breathtaking landscapes. Enjoy horse rides, camping, and picnics amidst nature, creating lasting memories for your family.