Kashmir Gulmarg and Sonmarg 6-Day Family Friendly Itinerary

Thursday, December 28, 2023: Arrival in Srinagar

Morning: Upon your arrival in Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, check into your hotel and freshen up. Explore the beautiful Mughal Gardens, including Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh, with their stunning landscapes and intricate architecture.

Afternoon: Enjoy a relaxing Shikara boat ride on Dal Lake, where you can admire the floating gardens and colorful houseboats.

Evening: Head to Hazratbal Shrine, a famous Muslim shrine located on the banks of Dal Lake, and witness the evening prayers.

• Mughal Gardens: Free entrance, approximately 2 hours
• Shikara boat ride: INR 400-500 per boat, approximately 1 hour
• Hazratbal Shrine: Free entrance, approximately 1 hour

Friday, December 29, 2023: Gulmarg

Morning: Depart from Srinagar and head to Gulmarg, the "Meadow of Flowers." Enjoy a scenic cable car ride on the Gulmarg Gondola, offering breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas.

Afternoon: Try your hand at skiing or snowboarding in Gulmarg's powder-soft slopes or take a leisurely walk through the picturesque meadows.

Evening: Indulge in a warm cup of traditional Kashmiri Kahwa tea and savor local Kashmiri cuisine at one of the local restaurants.

• Gulmarg Gondola: INR 750-1,500 per person, approximately 2 hours
• Skiing or snowboarding: INR 1,500-3,000 per person, approximately 3-4 hours
• Kashmiri cuisine dinner: Varies, approximately 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Café Arabica, a cozy café known for its delicious Kashmiri breads and freshly brewed coffee. Expect to spend around $10 per person for a scrumptious meal.
• If you're looking for a lunch spot, try Shamyana Restaurant which offers a variety of Kashmiri and Indian dishes. The average cost for a meal here is about $15 per person.
• In the evening, treat yourself to a memorable dinner experience at Ahdoos Restaurant, known for its authentic Kashmiri Wazwan cuisine. A meal at Ahdoos will cost approximately $25 per person.

Saturday, December 30, 2023: Gulmarg

Morning: Visit the Alpather Lake, located amidst beautiful alpine meadows. Enjoy the serene surroundings and take stunning photographs.

Afternoon: Explore the Gulmarg Golf Course, one of the highest golf courses in the world. Practice your swing or simply enjoy the panoramic views.

Evening: Take a peaceful stroll through the Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve and keep an eye out for the unique flora and fauna.

• Alpather Lake: Free entrance, approximately 2 hours
• Gulmarg Golf Course: INR 1,000-2,000 per person, approximately 2-3 hours
• Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve: Free entrance, approximately 1-2 hours

Sunday, December 31, 2023: Sonmarg

Morning: Leave Gulmarg and head to Sonmarg, also known as the "Meadow of Gold." Take a pony ride to the enchanting Thajiwas Glacier and enjoy the mesmerizing views.

Afternoon: Explore the local market in Sonmarg and shop for traditional handicrafts and souvenirs.

Evening: Enjoy a bonfire along with some local folk music and dance performances.

• Thajiwas Glacier pony ride: INR 500-800 per person, approximately 2-3 hours
• Shopping in Sonmarg: Varies, approximately 1-2 hours
• Bonfire and folk performances: Varies, approximately 2-3 hours

Monday, January 1, 2024: Srinagar

Morning: Depart from Sonmarg and return to Srinagar. Visit the famous Shankaracharya Temple, located on a hilltop, for panoramic views of the city.

Afternoon: Explore the bustling old city of Srinagar, including the famous Jamia Masjid and the floating vegetable market on Dal Lake.

Evening: Board a romantic evening shikara ride on Dal Lake and witness the beautiful sunset.

• Shankaracharya Temple: Free entrance, approximately 1-2 hours
• Jamia Masjid: Free entrance, approximately 1 hour
• Shikara ride: INR 500-1,000 per boat, approximately 1-2 hours

Tuesday, January 2, 2024: Departure

Morning: Check out from your hotel and bid farewell to the beautiful Kashmir Valley as you head back home.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting Dachigam National Park, located near Srinagar, which is home to the endangered Hangul deer. You can also explore the quaint village of Doodhpatri, known for its lush green meadows and crystal-clear streams, offering a peaceful escape from the city. These hidden gems are family-friendly and provide unique experiences in the natural beauty of Kashmir.

Check hotel and flight prices on Kayak.