A Luxurious 5-Day Trip to Srinagar, Gulmarg, Sonmarg, and Pehalgam
Sunday October 15: Arrival in Srinagar
Welcome to the charming city of Srinagar! Start your day with a visit to the famous Dal Lake, where you can take a peaceful shikara ride amidst stunning mountain views. In the afternoon, explore the Mughal Gardens, including Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh, known for their exquisite landscaping and beautiful flowerbeds. In the evening, indulge in a luxurious dinner at one of the fine dining restaurants overlooking the Dal Lake.
For breakfast, head to Café Coffee Day, a popular chain in Srinagar. Enjoy a variety of hot and cold beverages along with delicious sandwiches and pastries. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, try Ahdoos, a renowned restaurant known for its authentic Kashmiri cuisine. Indulge in mouthwatering delicacies like Rogan Josh and Kashmiri Pulao. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
For a luxurious dinner, visit The Chinar at The Lalit Grand Palace. Set in a majestic palace with breathtaking views, the restaurant offers a wide range of Indian and international dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 1500 INR per person.
Monday October 16: Gulmarg
Embark on a day trip to Gulmarg, known as the "Meadow of Flowers." Morning at the Gulmarg Gondola, the highest cable car system in the world offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks. Afternoon, enjoy a leisurely horse ride through the scenic meadows. In the evening, treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa session at one of the luxury resorts in Gulmarg.
Gulmarg Gondola: Cable Car Fee - Approx INR 700 per person, 4-5 hours
Horse Ride in Meadows: Approx INR 500 per person, 2-3 hours
Luxury Spa: Price varies, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious local breakfast at Café De Monde. Indulge in their freshly baked pastries and aromatic Kashmiri tea. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Shanawaz Restaurant. Enjoy their flavorful biryanis and succulent kebabs. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Ahdoos Restaurant. Experience their mouthwatering Kashmiri cuisine, including traditional dishes like Rogan Josh and Yakhni. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Tuesday October 17: Sonmarg
Today, venture to the picturesque town of Sonmarg. Start your day with a thrilling trek to the stunning Thajiwas Glacier, surrounded by snow-covered peaks. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature's beauty. In the afternoon, indulge in some adventure activities like river rafting in the Sind River. In the evening, relax and unwind at a cozy riverside café.
Picnic Lunch: Approx INR 500 per couple, 1-2 hours
River Rafting: Approx INR 1,500 per person, 2-3 hours
Riverside Café: Price varies, 1-2 hours
Wednesday October 18: Pehalgam
Head towards the scenic town of Pehalgam, known as the "Valley of Shepherds." Morning at the picturesque Betaab Valley, surrounded by lush green meadows and snow-capped mountains. Afternoon, enjoy a leisurely walk along the Lidder River, or go horse riding to explore the beautiful Aru Valley. In the evening, savor a delicious traditional Kashmiri cuisine at one of the luxury restaurants.
End your luxurious journey with a visit to the famous Hazratbal Shrine, an important religious site. Take a mesmerizing boat ride on the serene Nigeen Lake and soak in the tranquil atmosphere. In the afternoon, explore the bustling local markets for souvenirs and traditional Kashmiri crafts. Finally, bid farewell to the beautiful Kashmir Valley as you depart.
Hazratbal Shrine: Free, 1-2 hours
Nigeen Lake Boat Ride: Approx INR 300 per couple, 2-3 hours
Local Market Shopping: Price varies, 2-3 hours
Departure from Srinagar:
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a truly unique experience, venture off the beaten path and visit the Nishat Bagh Floating Gardens, where you can explore beautifully crafted gardens and floating flower beds. Another local favorite is the Dachigam National Park, a wildlife haven where you can spot endangered species like the Kashmir stag. These hidden gems showcase the serene and untouched beauty of the region.
Check out the hotel and flight prices for your trip at kayak.com.