Arrive in Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir. Start your day with a peaceful Shikara ride on Dal Lake. In the afternoon, explore the Mughal Gardens - Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, and Chashme Shahi. As the evening sets in, visit the vibrant local markets of Srinagar for souvenirs and traditional Kashmiri handicrafts.
Dal Lake Shikara Ride: Cost: ₹500 per hour, Time: 2 hours
Mughal Darbar: Indulge in a delicious breakfast at Mughal Darbar, known for its exquisite Kashmiri cuisine. Start your day with mouthwatering Kashmiri tea and kehwa along with traditional breads like lavasa and baqerkhani. Average cost for a breakfast meal is about 300 INR per person.
Sakoon: For lunch, head to Sakoon, a popular vegetarian restaurant in Srinagar. Enjoy a wide variety of authentic Kashmiri dishes like Rogan Josh, Dum Aloo, and Kashmiri Pulao. Average cost for a lunch meal is about 500 INR per person.
Tuesday, October 24: Gulmarg Excursion
Embark on a breathtaking day trip to Gulmarg, the meadow of flowers. Start your morning with a gondola ride to the summit of Apharwat Peak to enjoy panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayas. In the afternoon, indulge in thrilling outdoor activities such as skiing, snowboarding, or simply stroll through the picturesque landscapes. As the day comes to a close, experience the warmth of a traditional Kashmiri meal.
Gondola Ride: Cost: ₹750 per person (phase 1), Time: 1-2 hours
Outdoor Activities: Cost: Varies, Time: 2-4 hours
Kashmiri Dinner: Cost: Varies, Time: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Mornings. This cozy cafe offers a variety of continental and traditional Kashmiri dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Alka Salka Restaurant. Known for its flavorful Indian cuisine and scenic views, enjoy dishes like Rogan Josh and Dum Aloo. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at Shamyana Restaurant. This charming eatery serves authentic Kashmiri delicacies like Kashmiri Pulao and Yakhni. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Wednesday, October 25: Pahalgam Exploration
Embark on a scenic journey to Pahalgam, also known as the Valley of Shepherds. In the morning, visit the picturesque Betaab Valley, named after the famous Bollywood movie shot here. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon exploring the surreal beauty of Aru Valley and Chandanwari. As evening approaches, savor the serene surroundings while sipping Kashmiri Kahwa, a traditional saffron-infused tea.
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Shamus Kashmiri Restaurant, located near Pahalgam. Enjoy traditional Kashmiri delicacies like Rogan Josh and Yakhni alongside freshly baked bread. The average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Dana Pani Restaurant, situated in the heart of Pahalgam. Indulge in a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes inspired by the local cuisine, such as Dum Aloo and Goshtaba. The average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at Troutbeat Restaurant, known for its scenic location by the Lidder River. Relish the flavors of delicious trout fish cooked in traditional Kashmiri spices, along with a wide range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. The average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
Thursday, October 26: Sonamarg Day Trip
Embark on an adventurous day trip to Sonamarg, the Meadow of Gold. In the morning, explore the Thajiwas Glacier, a stunning glacier surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Enjoy a thrilling pony ride or short trekking in the area. In the afternoon, experience river rafting on the gushing waters of River Sindh. As the day ends, savor delicious local cuisine at a riverside restaurant.
Spend the day exploring the historical and cultural gems of Srinagar. Start your day by visiting the iconic Shankaracharya Temple, perched on a hilltop overlooking the city. Explore the ancient marvel of Hari Parbat Fort and soak in the spiritual vibes at Hazratbal Shrine. In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll in the vibrant lanes of Old Srinagar, discovering hidden mosques and traditional Kashmiri architecture. As evening approaches, enjoy a peaceful Shikara ride on the canals of the Old City.
Old Srinagar Exploration: Cost: Varies, Time: 2-3 hours
Shikara Ride: Cost: ₹500 per hour, Time: 1-2 hours
Saturday, October 28: Departure from Srinagar
Grab your last moments to soak in the charm of Srinagar. If time permits, take a visit to Jamia Masjid, a revered mosque offering a glimpse into the Islamic heritage of Kashmir. Stroll through the colorful floating markets of Dal Lake and bid farewell to the enchanting landscapes of Kashmir. Depart from Srinagar with unforgettable memories.
Jamia Masjid: Cost: Free, Time: 1-2 hours
Floating Markets: Cost: Varies, Time: 1-2 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Srinagar, don't miss out on the serene beauty of Nigeen Lake, a quieter alternative to Dal Lake. Take a leisurely boat ride to experience tranquility amidst picturesque surroundings. For nature enthusiasts, a visit to Dachigam National Park is a must. Encounter the rich biodiversity of Kashmir and catch glimpses of exotic wildlife, including the endangered Hangul deer. Delve into Kashmir's mystical culture at the Pari Mahal, a beautiful seven-terraced garden showcasing a blend of Islamic and Buddhist architectural styles.