7-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in Kashmir

Friday, January 5: Arrival in Srinagar

Welcome to Srinagar, the picturesque capital city of Jammu and Kashmir! Begin your trip by exploring the beautiful Dal Lake. Take a shikara boat ride in the morning to enjoy the serene surroundings. In the afternoon, visit the stunning Mughal Gardens such as Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh. In the evening, indulge in some shopping at Lal Chowk, the popular market area in the heart of the city.

• Dal Lake: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Mughal Gardens: Estimated Cost - INR 50 per person, Time Spent - 3 hours
• Lal Chowk: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Saturday, January 6: Gulmarg

Set off for Gulmarg, a winter wonderland nestled in the Himalayas. Spend the morning exploring the alpine meadows and enjoy activities like skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. After a delightful picnic lunch, take the famous Gondola ride to Apharwat Peak for breathtaking panoramic views. End the day with a leisurely stroll in the charming Gulmarg town.

• Gulmarg Meadows: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
• Gondola Ride: Estimated Cost - INR 600 per person for Phase 1, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Exploring Gulmarg Town: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 2 hours

Sunday, January 7: Pahalgam

Travel to Pahalgam, a quaint town known for its scenic beauty. Start your morning with a visit to Betaab Valley, named after a Bollywood movie. Enjoy the lush green surroundings and the serene Lidder River. Afterward, head to Aru Valley for a picnic lunch amidst the picturesque landscapes. In the evening, explore Pahalgam Market and indulge in some local delicacies.

• Betaab Valley: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
• Aru Valley: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Pahalgam Market: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 2 hours

Monday, January 8: Sonamarg

Venture to Sonamarg, the 'Meadow of Gold,' surrounded by breathtaking glaciers and meadows. Spend the morning at Thajiwas Glacier, where you can enjoy a scenic pony ride and snow activities. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the stunning landscape. In the afternoon, explore the town and visit the nearby Krishnasar Lake. End the day with an enchanting sunset view at the Vishansar Lake.

• Thajiwas Glacier: Estimated Cost - INR 800 for pony ride, Time Spent - 4-5 hours
• Krishnasar Lake: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Vishansar Lake: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Tuesday, January 9: Srinagar

Return to Srinagar and spend the day exploring its cultural heritage. Start with a visit to the iconic Shankaracharya Temple atop the Shankaracharya Hill. Then, experience the enchanting beauty of the old city with a Shikara ride in the famous Floating Markets on Dal Lake. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kashmiri dinner houseboat experience.

• Shankaracharya Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Shikara Ride: Estimated Cost - INR 500 per hour, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Kashmiri Dinner Houseboat: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Wednesday, January 10: Dachigam National Park

Embark on a wildlife adventure to Dachigam National Park, located just outside Srinagar. Spend the day exploring the park's diverse flora and fauna. Go for a nature walk along the picturesque trails and try to spot rare species like the Kashmir stag and black bear. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the serene surroundings before returning to Srinagar.

• Entry Fee for Dachigam National Park: Estimated Cost - INR 100 per person, Time Spent - 4-5 hours
• Picnic Lunch: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Thursday, January 11: Departure

Say goodbye to the enchanting land of Kashmir and depart from Srinagar with beautiful memories.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

Looking for off the beaten path attractions? Explore the unspoiled beauty of Yousmarg, a picturesque meadow surrounded by snowy mountains. Take the kids on a pony ride and have a picnic amidst nature. For a unique cultural experience, visit the rural village of Doodhpathri, known for its rolling green meadows and crystal-clear streams. Enjoy a traditional Kashmiri meal in a local home and interact with the warm and friendly villagers.

For more information on accommodations and flights, check out KAYAK.