Start your trip by arriving in Srinagar, the capital city of Kashmir. In the morning, visit the beautiful Shalimar Bagh, a Mughal garden adorned with colorful flowers and fountains. In the afternoon, take a relaxing shikara ride on Dal Lake, exploring the floating gardens and enjoying the scenic surroundings. As the evening sets in, experience the vibrant local market of Lal Chowk, known for its traditional handicrafts and street food.
For breakfast, head to Ahdoos, a popular restaurant known for its delicious Kashmiri cuisine. Enjoy a traditional Kashmiri breakfast of kehwa (a fragrant tea) and tasty local breads. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, visit Mughal Darbar, a well-known restaurant offering a wide range of authentic Kashmiri dishes. Try their famous Rogan Josh or Yakhni Pulao for a true taste of Kashmir. The average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
For dinner, dine at Shamyana Restaurant, which offers a cozy ambiance and a menu featuring both Indian and Continental dishes. Sample their delectable Chicken Biryani or indulge in some mouth-watering Tandoori kebabs. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Saturday, October 21: Gulmarg
Embark on a day trip to Gulmarg, a scenic hill station renowned for its panoramic views and winter sports activities. In the morning, take the Gulmarg Gondola, one of the highest cable car rides in the world, and enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Himalayan peaks. In the afternoon, try your hand at skiing or snowboarding in the Gulmarg Ski Resort. As the evening approaches, take a leisurely walk through the picturesque meadows and visit the St. Mary's Church.
The Cloves: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at The Cloves, a charming restaurant known for its delicious Kashmiri cuisine. Indulge in traditional dishes like Kashmiri Pulao and Rogan Josh. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Alpine Restaurant: Head to Alpine Restaurant for a satisfying lunch after a day of adventure. This family-friendly eatery offers a variety of options, including Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Shamyana Restaurant: For a memorable dinner experience, visit Shamyana Restaurant, known for its warm ambiance and mouthwatering Kashmiri dishes. Try the famous Wazwan platter and end your meal with a delicious phirni. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Sunday, October 22: Pahalgam
Head to Pahalgam, a picturesque town located in the Anantnag district. In the morning, visit the beautiful Betaab Valley, named after the Bollywood film "Betaab" that was shot here. Explore the lush green meadows and enjoy a picnic by the Lidder River. In the afternoon, embark on a pony ride to explore the scenic Aru Valley. As the evening sets in, take a peaceful walk in the peaceful surroundings of Chandanwari.
For breakfast, head to Cafe Log Inn located in Pahalgam. Enjoy a cozy ambiance with a variety of dishes to choose from. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, try Nathus Rasoi, a popular restaurant known for its delicious Kashmiri cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
For dinner, visit Dana Pani, a charming restaurant offering a range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Monday, October 23: Sonamarg
Embark on a day trip to Sonamarg, also known as the "Meadow of Gold." In the morning, visit the Thajiwas Glacier and enjoy the snow-capped peaks and gushing streams. Take a pony ride or go for a brief trek to explore the glacier. In the afternoon, visit the Gangabal Lake, surrounded by breathtaking mountains and offering a serene atmosphere. As the evening approaches, indulge in some trout fishing in the Sind River.
Bristlecone Cafe offers a delicious breakfast with a variety of options. Their fluffy pancakes and crispy bacon are a must-try. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
At Cafe Chinar, enjoy a hearty lunch with their mouthwatering Kashmiri cuisine. Their Rogan Josh and Kashmiri Pulao are highly recommended. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
For a delightful dinner, head to Shamyana Restaurant that serves a wide range of Indian and Continental dishes. Their Chicken Biryani and Tandoori Chicken are popular choices. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Tuesday, October 24: Srinagar
Spend the day exploring more of Srinagar. In the morning, visit the magnificent Mughal gardens of Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh, known for their stunning architecture and natural beauty. In the afternoon, take a relaxing walk in the scenic Nigeen Lake and visit the nearby Hazratbal Mosque, a revered Islamic shrine. As the evening sets in, enjoy a traditional Kashmiri meal at a local restaurant.
Nishat Bagh: Free, 2 hours
Shalimar Bagh: Free, 2 hours
Nigeen Lake: Free, 1 hour
Hazratbal Mosque: Free, 1 hour
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe Coffee Day located near Nishat Bagh. Enjoy a delicious spread of freshly brewed coffee, mouth-watering sandwiches, and scrumptious pastries. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
If you're looking for a place to have lunch, try Shamyana Restaurant situated near Hazratbal Mosque. Indulge in a variety of mouthwatering North Indian and Kashmiri cuisine, including kebabs, biryanis, and traditional curries. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
To end your day with a delightful dinner, visit Khyber Restaurant overlooking the beautiful Nigeen Lake. Savor authentic Kashmiri delicacies like Rogan Josh, Yakhni, and Dum Aloo. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Wednesday, October 25: Dachigam Wildlife Sanctuary
Explore the Dachigam Wildlife Sanctuary, located on the outskirts of Srinagar. In the morning, take a guided wildlife safari and spot rare species like the Kashmir stag and Himalayan black bear. In the afternoon, hike through the scenic trails of the sanctuary and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. As the evening approaches, visit the historic ancient temples of Pandrethan and take in the architectural beauty.
End your trip with a visit to the floating vegetable market on Dal Lake, where locals sell fresh produce from their shikaras. Enjoy a hearty breakfast on one of the shikaras while observing the vibrant market scene. Afterward, bid farewell to mesmerizing Kashmir and depart for your onward journey.
Floating Vegetable Market: Free, 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day at Café Coffee Day, a popular breakfast spot located near Dal Lake. This cozy café offers a variety of breakfast options, including sandwiches, pancakes, and omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Ahdoos Restaurant, known for its authentic Kashmiri cuisine. Indulge in dishes like Rogan Josh, Yakhni, and Kashmiri Pulao, all prepared with traditional spices and flavors. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
For a delightful dinner experience, try The Chinar Restaurant. Situated in a beautiful garden setting, this restaurant offers a range of Indian, Kashmiri, and continental dishes. Don't miss their specialty, the Kashmiri Wazwan, a grand feast comprising of multiple courses. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For off the beaten path attractions, visit the serene Manasbal Lake, known for its tranquility and bird watching opportunities. Explore the ancient ruins of Parihaspora, an archaeological site with rich historical significance. Don't miss the authentic Kashmiri cuisine at local dhabas, where you can savor mouthwatering dishes like Rogan josh and Kashmiri pulao.