Kashmir Family-Friendly 7-Day Itinerary

Thursday, October 19:

Arrive in Kashmir and check into your hotel. Start your trip with a peaceful visit to the beautiful Shalimar Bagh in Srinagar, known for its stunning Mughal-style gardens and serene atmosphere. In the afternoon, take a Shikara ride on the Dal Lake and explore the floating markets. End the day with a traditional Kashmiri dinner.

• Shalimar Bagh: Entrance fee - INR 50, Time spent - 2 hours
• Dal Lake Shikara Ride: INR 500 per hour, Time spent - 2 hours

Restaurants

• A popular breakfast spot in Srinagar is Café Arabica, known for its delicious Kashmiri chai and freshly baked pastries. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
• For lunch, head to Mughal Darbar, a local favorite serving mouthwatering Wazwan dishes such as Rogan Josh and Yakhni. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
• For dinner, try Ahdoos, a renowned restaurant in the heart of Srinagar offering a variety of authentic Kashmiri cuisine including Dum Aloo and Gushtaba. Average cost for a meal is about ₹600 per person.

Friday, October 20:

Visit the famous Sonamarg, also known as the "Meadow of Gold." Start your day with an adventurous trek to the Thajiwas Glacier and witness the breathtaking views of snow-covered mountains. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature. In the evening, return to Srinagar and explore the local markets for authentic handicrafts.

• Sonamarg Trek to Thajiwas Glacier: Trek cost - INR 1500, Time spent - 6 hours

Saturday, October 21:

Head to Gulmarg, known as the "Meadow of Flowers." Spend the morning indulging in various outdoor activities like skiing, cable car rides, and horse riding. Enjoy a scenic picnic amidst the meadows. In the evening, visit the famous Golf Course and take a leisurely walk around the town.

• Gulmarg Outdoor Activities: Prices vary based on the activity, Time spent - 6 hours

Sunday, October 22:

Embark on a day trip to Pahalgam, often called the "Valley of Shepherds." Explore the picturesque Betaab Valley and admire the breathtaking landscapes. Enjoy a leisurely picnic by the Lidder River. On the way back, stop by the Martand Sun Temple in Anantnag, a historical site of architectural brilliance.

• Pahalgam and Betaab Valley: Entrance fee - INR 50, Time spent - 8 hours

Monday, October 23:

Visit the enchanting Mughal Gardens of Nishat Bagh and Chashme Shahi. Explore the terraced gardens, fountains, and vibrant flower beds. In the afternoon, take a shikara ride to the Char Chinar Island on Dal Lake and enjoy some serene moments. End the day with a delightful Kashmiri Wazwan dinner.

• Nishat Bagh: Entrance fee - INR 30, Time spent - 2 hours
• Chashme Shahi: Entrance fee - INR 25, Time spent - 1 hour
• Dal Lake Shikara Ride to Char Chinar Island: INR 500 per hour, Time spent - 2 hours

Restaurants

• Sip your morning coffee at Cafe Mornings, a cozy breakfast spot with a rustic ambience. Enjoy freshly baked pastries and sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
• For a quick and delicious lunch, head over to Spice Bites, a local favorite for its flavorful Indian street food. Try their mouthwatering chaat and samosas. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
• Indulge in a memorable dining experience at Kashmiri Kitchen, known for its authentic Kashmiri cuisine. Sample their aromatic biryani and delectable rogan josh. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.

Tuesday, October 24:

Explore the ancient site of Awantipora, known for its remarkable ruins of temples built during the reign of the Pandavas. Continue your journey to the town of Achabal and visit the Achabal Gardens, featuring beautiful terraces and fountains. In the evening, immerse yourself in the traditional Kashmiri music and dance at a cultural show.

• Awantipora Ruins: Entrance fee - INR 15, Time spent - 1 hour
• Achabal Gardens: Entrance fee - INR 20, Time spent - 2 hours
• Kashmiri Cultural Show: Ticket price - INR 500, Time spent - 2 hours

Wednesday, October 25:

Experience the mystical beauty of the Aru Valley. Take a scenic trek and explore the picturesque landscapes, including the famous Lidderwat Valley. Enjoy a peaceful picnic amidst nature. In the evening, indulge in some shopping for authentic Kashmiri handicrafts and souvenirs.

• Aru Valley Trek: Trek cost - INR 1000, Time spent - 6 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

When exploring Kashmir with your family, don't miss the opportunity to visit Doodhpathri, also known as the "Valley of Milk." This untouched paradise is a perfect spot for a family picnic amidst lush meadows and sparkling streams.

Another hidden gem is the small town of Verinag, home to the Verinag Spring. Explore the beautifully crafted gardens and the origin of the Jhelum River, surrounded by stunning Mughal architecture.

For a unique experience, take your family to the Kokernag Botanical Garden, where you can marvel at the diverse flora and fauna while enjoying a relaxing day alongside natural springs.

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