Begin your Kashmir adventure with a visit to Dal Lake where you can try a shikara ride as you watch the sun go down. Next, head to Mughal Gardens, a group of gardens built by the Mughals and admire the stunning architecture and natural beauty. For your first night in Srinagar, indulge in some delicious Kashmiri cuisine at Ahdoos Restaurant.
Escape the city and take a trip to the scenic hill towns of Gulmarg and Pahalgam. In Gulmarg, take a gondola ride to Apharwat Peak for stunning views of the valley. In Pahalgam, hike to Betaab Valley and admire the crystal clear streams and stunning Himalayan flora. End your day by feasting on some scrumptious Wazwan, a traditional Kashmiri meal, at Mughal Darbar Restaurant.
Experience the wonders of Sonamarg with a visit to Thajiwas Glacier, a stunning glacier nestled in the mountains. Take a pony ride through the valley and soak in the stunning scenery. Later, visit the Baltal Valley which serves as a base camp for the Amarnath Yatra. For dinner, head to Aroma Multi-Cuisine Restaurant and try out their Kashmiri, Indian, and Chinese fare.
Take a break from sightseeing and explore the markets of Srinagar. Head to the Lal Chowk Market, one of the oldest markets in the city, and shop for traditional Kashmiri handicrafts. Don't miss the chance to taste some mouthwatering street food at Ghulam Mohamad & Sons Fast Food. End your day by listening to some live Kashmiri Music at Munshi Aziz Bhat Museum of Central Asian and Kargil Trade Artifacts.
Public transportation is readily available in Srinagar at low costs. Taxis are also widely available to take you around the city and to other towns. The total cost for taxi rides during your trip should not exceed INR 2,000.
For travelers with more time, consider spending an extra day in Pahalgam and embark on a trek to some of the famous scenic spots nearby. Those with less time can skip Pahalgam altogether and explore more of Srinagar's hidden gems. Take note of the political situation and plan your trip accordingly before traveling to Kashmir.
Srinagar International Airport (SXR) is the main airport of Kashmir and is located in the city of Srinagar, 14 km away from the city center. The airport offers many direct flights to major Indian cities, as well as a few international destinations.