Kashmir Family Friendly 7-Day Itinerary - October 2023

1. Day 1: Dal Lake
   30 minutes (8.3 km) from Srinagar International Airport

   Begin your day with a scenic shikara ride on Dal Lake. Enjoy the morning views of the floating market and the flower gardens. In the afternoon, visit the Shankaracharya Hill Temple which is located on top of a hill and offers panoramic views of the valley. End your day with a candle-lit dinner on a houseboat.

2. Day 2: Pari Mahal and Mughal Gardens
   30 minutes (9.5 km) from Dal Lake

   Visit Pari Mahal for a morning stroll and take in the stunning views of the city. In the afternoon, visit the Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh, two of the famous Mughal Gardens. End your day with a visit to the Hazratbal Shrine and offer your prayers.

3. Day 3: Gulmarg
   2 hours (53 km) from Srinagar

   Spend the day at the Gulmarg Ski Resort. Take a gondola ride to see the panoramic views of the valley. You can also go skiing, snowboarding or simply enjoy the snow. End your day with a hot cup of Kahwah tea and some local snacks.

4. Day 4: Sonamarg
   3 hours (80 km) from Srinagar

   Visit Sonamarg for a day trip and explore the Thajiwas Glacier. Take a pony ride to the glacier and enjoy the views along the way. You can also go camping or trekking. End your day with a traditional Kashmiri dinner at a local restaurant.

5. Day 5: Pahalgam
   3 hours (90 km) from Srinagar

   Spend the day exploring the beautiful town of Pahalgam. Visit the Betaab Valley and Chandanwari. If you're feeling adventurous, try river rafting. End your day with a bonfire and some delicious Kashmiri kebabs.

6. Day 6: Yusmarg
   2.5 hours (49 km) from Srinagar

   Visit Yusmarg for a day trip. Enjoy horse riding, fishing or trekking. Take a picnic lunch and enjoy the scenic views of the meadows and forests. End your day with a visit to the Charar-i-Sharief Shrine.

7. Day 7: Srinagar
   30 minutes (10 km) from Dal Lake

   Spend your last day in Srinagar exploring the local markets. Visit the Jamia Masjid, one of the oldest mosques in the city. In the afternoon, visit the Hari Parbat Fort and enjoy the views of the city. End your day with a traditional Kashmiri wazwan dinner.

Recommendations

If you have extra time, consider visiting the Dachigam Wildlife Sanctuary or take a trek to the Amarnath Cave. You can also visit the Martand Sun Temple in Anantnag. Maximise your fun by trying out different local foods like Tabak Maaz, Gushtaba, and Rogan Josh. Lastly, make sure to interact with the locals and learn about their culture and traditions.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Dal Lake Shikara Ride (2 hours, INR 500)
• Shankaracharya Hill Temple (1 hour, Free)
• Houseboat Dinner (2 hours, INR 1500)
• Pari Mahal (1 hour, INR 100)
• Mughal Gardens (2 hours, INR 200)
• Hazratbal Shrine (1 hour, Free)
• Gulmarg Ski Resort (6 hours, INR 3000)
• Sonamarg Thajiwas Glacier (6 hours, INR 2000)
• Pahalgam Betaab Valley and Chandanwari (8 hours, INR 2500)
• Yusmarg (8 hours, INR 2000)
• Jamia Masjid (1 hour, Free)
• Hari Parbat Fort (2 hours, Free)
• Kashmiri Wazwan Dinner (2 hours, INR 2000)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 14,500