Tuesday, October 31, 2023: Arrival and Local Exploration
Welcome to Kashmir! Begin your trip by soaking in the natural beauty of Srinagar. In the morning, take a serene shikara ride on Dal Lake, admiring the surrounding floating gardens and historic houseboats. In the afternoon, explore the magnificent Mughal Gardens, such as Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh, landscaped marvels filled with blooming flowers and water fountains. As the evening sets in, visit the bustling Lal Chowk market, known for its vibrant atmosphere and local handicrafts.
Dal Lake Shikara Ride: Starting from $10 per person, 2 hours
Mughal Gardens: Entrance fee $5 per person, 3 hours
Lal Chowk Market: Shopping budget $25 per person, 2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Café Mornings, a cozy cafe offering a variety of freshly baked pastries and delicious coffee. The average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
For lunch, try Al-Bukhara Restaurant, known for its authentic Kashmiri cuisine. Indulge in the flavors of traditional dishes like Rogan Josh and Kashmiri Pulao. The average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
For dinner, dine at Shamyana Restaurant, a popular local eatery serving a range of Indian and international dishes. With a lively ambiance and great service, it's a perfect spot for a satisfying dinner. The average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Wednesday, November 1, 2023: Scenic Gulmarg
Embark on a day trip to the picturesque town of Gulmarg. In the morning, ride the Gulmarg Gondola, the world's second-highest cable car, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains. Spend the afternoon exploring the Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve, home to diverse flora and fauna. Enjoy activities like horse riding or a leisurely walk through the lush meadows. As the evening arrives, unwind with a cup of traditional Kashmiri Kahwa tea at a local cafe.
Gulmarg Gondola: Tickets from $20 per person, 3 hours
Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve: Free entry, 4 hours
Local Cafe: Budget $10 per person, 1 hour
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Café de Gulmarg, known for its freshly baked bread and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For a delicious lunch, head to Shanawaz Restaurant and try their famous Rogan Josh, a slow-cooked lamb curry. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Indulge in a fine dining experience at Driftwood Terrace & Lounge for dinner, offering breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains. Try their Kashmiri Wazwan dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹1000 per person.
Thursday, November 2, 2023: Enchanting Pahalgam
Discover the captivating beauty of Pahalgam today. Start your morning with a visit to Betaab Valley, known for its lush green meadows, crystal-clear streams, and scenic backdrops in Bollywood films. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk along the Lidder River and enjoy a picnic amidst the picturesque surroundings. For some exhilaration, indulge in river rafting or horse riding. As the evening approaches, explore the vibrant local market and savor traditional Kashmiri cuisine.
Betaab Valley: Entrance fee $3 per person, 3 hours
Lidder River: Free access, 2 hours
Local Market: Shopping budget $20 per person, 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day at Café Pine View, a cozy breakfast spot offering a variety of delicious options. From fluffy pancakes to freshly baked pastries, you can enjoy a satisfying breakfast here. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For a delightful lunch experience, head to River View Restaurant. Located by the Lidder River, this restaurant offers a serene atmosphere and serves mouthwatering Kashmiri cuisine. Try their aromatic biryanis or flavorful kebabs. The average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
In the evening, dine at Pahalgam Delights, a restaurant known for its warm ambiance and delectable local dishes. Indulge in classics like rogan josh and dum aloo, which are made with authentic Kashmiri spices. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Friday, November 3, 2023: Majestic Sonamarg
Experience the majesty of Sonamarg, the "Meadow of Gold." In the morning, embark on a thrilling trek to the stunning Thajiwas Glacier, surrounded by snow-covered peaks. Enjoy sledging or just marvel at the breathtaking scenery. Afterward, explore the serene town, visit the ancient Mamleshwar Temple, and take in the panoramic views. In the evening, indulge in local cuisine at a cozy restaurant, savoring the flavors of Kashmir.
Thajiwas Glacier Trek: Starting from $15 per person, 4 hours
Mamleshwar Temple: Free entry, 2 hours
Local Restaurant: Dining budget $30 per person, 2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe Morning Bliss for a delightful start to your day. This cozy cafe offers a variety of freshly baked goods and delicious breakfast options. The average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, visit Mughal Darbar Restaurant and savor the flavors of authentic Kashmiri cuisine. From delicious kebabs to delectable biryanis, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, dine at Pahalgam Delights and enjoy a scrumptious feast of traditional Kashmiri dishes. The restaurant offers a cozy ambiance and a menu filled with flavorful curries and aromatic rice preparations. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Saturday, November 4, 2023: Departure
Today marks the end of your Kashmir adventure. After breakfast, bid farewell to the beautiful valley and depart for the Srinagar airport. Take home cherished memories of your time spent in this paradise on earth.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
A hidden gem in Kashmir is the Lolab Valley, located in the Kupwara district. It offers pristine landscapes, charming villages, and opportunities for hiking and birdwatching. The unspoiled beauty of this valley is perfect for a peaceful day trip with your family. Locals also love visiting the Dachigam National Park, a wildlife sanctuary known for its population of Kashmiri Stag (Hangul). Exploring the park's scenic trails and encountering these majestic creatures is an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts of all ages.
To check hotel and flight prices for your Kashmir trip, click here.