5-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Kashmir

Day 1: Exploring Srinagar

Srinagar, India

8:00AM

Shikara Ride on Dal Lake

Start your day with a peaceful shikara ride on Dal Lake, taking in the serene surroundings of Srinagar.
500 INR, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit to Mughal Gardens

Explore the beautiful Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh, the Mughal Gardens known for their stunning architecture and lush greenery.
150 INR, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Mughal Darbar

Enjoy a sumptuous Wazwan meal at Mughal Darbar, savoring the flavors of Kashmiri cuisine.
300 INR, 1 hour

3:00PM

Shopping at Lal Chowk

Head to Lal Chowk for budget-friendly shopping, where you can find traditional Kashmiri handicrafts, pashminas, and more.
Variable, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Ahdoos

Indulge in a delicious Kashmiri kebab platter at Ahdoos, known for its affordable and authentic Kashmiri cuisine.
400 INR, 1.5 hours

Day 2: Gulmarg Adventure

Gulmarg, India

8:00AM

Gondola Ride

Embark on a gondola ride up to the stunning Himalayan peaks of Gulmarg, taking in breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains.
800 INR, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Highlands Park

Enjoy a hearty meal at Hotel Highlands Park, offering scenic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
400 INR, 1 hour

2:00PM

Adventure Activities

Explore budget-friendly options for activities like horse riding, trekking, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of Gulmarg.
Varies, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Trison Restaurant

Relish a comforting dinner at Trison Restaurant, known for its delicious local cuisine at affordable prices.
350 INR, 1.5 hours

Day 3: Nature's Bliss in Pahalgam

Pahalgam, India

9:00AM

Hiking in Betaab Valley

Start your day with a budget-friendly hike in the picturesque Betaab Valley, surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil streams.
200 INR, 2 hours

1:00PM

Picnic by Lidder River

Relax by the banks of the Lidder River and have a picnic amidst the natural beauty of Pahalgam.
100 INR, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Aru Village

Take a stroll through the charming Aru Village, experiencing the warm hospitality of the locals and admiring the quaint architecture.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Dana Pani

Savor a delightful dinner at Dana Pani, offering a variety of affordable Kashmiri and Indian dishes in a cozy setting.
300 INR, 1.5 hours

Day 4: Tranquility of Sonamarg

Sonamarg, India

8:00AM

Scenic Walk to Thajiwas Glacier

Embark on a budget-friendly walk to the Thajiwas Glacier, surrounded by stunning alpine scenery and glistening streams.
300 INR (including pony ride), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Stream Restaurant

Enjoy a simple yet delightful lunch at Stream Restaurant, offering local Kashmiri cuisine with a view of the surrounding natural beauty.
250 INR, 1 hour

2:00PM

Relax by Sindh River

Spend the afternoon relaxing by the scenic Sindh River, unwinding amidst the tranquil ambience of Sonamarg.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Rah Villas

Indulge in a satisfying dinner at Hotel Rah Villas, known for its delicious yet budget-friendly Kashmiri and Indian dishes.
350 INR, 1.5 hours

Day 5: Final Day in Srinagar

Srinagar, India

9:00AM

Explore Old Srinagar

Take a stroll through the charming lanes of Old Srinagar, discovering historic sites, local markets, and traditional Kashmiri handicrafts.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at 14th Avenue Cafe & Grill

Enjoy a cozy lunch at 14th Avenue Cafe & Grill, offering budget-friendly international and Kashmiri fusion cuisine.
350 INR, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Jama Masjid

Explore the grandeur of Jama Masjid, one of the oldest and largest mosques in Srinagar, known for its stunning architecture.
50 INR, 1 hour

5:00PM

Relax at Shalimar Bagh

Unwind in the peaceful ambiance of Shalimar Bagh, taking a leisurely stroll through the gardens and enjoying the evening serenity.
25 INR, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Mughal Darbar

Indulge in a final dinner at Mughal Darbar, savoring the flavors of Kashmiri cuisine before bidding farewell to Srinagar.
400 INR, 1.5 hours