Family Friendly 5-Day Kashmir Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Srinagar

Srinagar, India

8:00AM

Shikara Ride on Dal Lake

Start your day with a serene Shikara ride on Dal Lake, surrounded by majestic mountains and charming houseboats.
Dal Lake is easily accessible from most accommodations in Srinagar. It takes about 30 minutes to reach the Shikara boarding point from the city center.
INR 500, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Mughal Gardens

Explore the beautiful Mughal Gardens of Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh, known for their terraced lawns, vibrant flowers, and historic significance.
Mughal Gardens are a short drive from Dal Lake, taking around 20 minutes to reach.
INR 200, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Kashmiri Wazwan meal at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of the region.
There are many restaurants around the Mughal Gardens offering authentic Kashmiri cuisine.
INR 800, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Old Srinagar City

Stroll through the bustling markets of Old Srinagar City, filled with handicrafts, spices, and local delicacies.
Old Srinagar City is a short drive from the Mughal Gardens, approximately 15 minutes away.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at a Houseboat

End your day with a delicious dinner on a traditional Kashmiri houseboat, floating peacefully on Dal Lake.
Houseboats on Dal Lake can be reached by Shikara or road, about 20 minutes from Old Srinagar City.
INR 1500, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: More of Srinagar

Srinagar, India

9:00AM

Visit Shankaracharya Temple

Head to Shankaracharya Temple for panoramic views of Srinagar and the surrounding mountains, with a touch of spirituality.
Shankaracharya Temple is located on a hill, accessible by a short drive from the city center, taking around 30 minutes.
INR 50, 1 hour

11:00AM

Shopping at Lal Chowk

Explore the vibrant markets of Lal Chowk for souvenirs, traditional Kashmiri clothing, and intricate handicrafts.
Lal Chowk is a bustling commercial area in Srinagar, easily reachable within 15 minutes from Shankaracharya Temple.
Varies, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Taste more Kashmiri delights at a local restaurant in Lal Chowk, experiencing the diverse flavors of the region.
There are plenty of dining options in Lal Chowk offering authentic Kashmiri dishes.
INR 1000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Shikara Ride to Floating Vegetable Market

Embark on a unique Shikara ride to the Floating Vegetable Market on Dal Lake, witnessing a fascinating local trade tradition.
You can hire a Shikara from the Dal Lake shores, a short distance from Lal Chowk. The ride takes about 45 minutes.
INR 300, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy a leisurely dinner at a local restaurant in Srinagar, trying more Kashmiri specialties.
Choose a restaurant in the city center for a convenient dining experience.
INR 900, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Gulmarg Day Trip

Gulmarg, India

8:00AM

Scenic Gondola Ride

Begin your day with a breathtaking Gondola ride in Gulmarg, offering panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks.
Gulmarg is around 50 km from Srinagar, and the Gondola base station is a short drive from the main town, taking approximately 30 minutes to reach.
INR 700, 2 hours

11:00AM

Skiing or Snow Activities

Engage in skiing or other snow activities in the winter paradise of Gulmarg, suitable for all family members.
There are various snow activity providers near the Gondola station to rent equipment and enjoy the snow.
INR 1500, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at a Local Cafe

Relish a warm meal at a cozy cafe in Gulmarg, rejuvenating after your snowy adventures.
There are charming cafes around the town offering a variety of cuisines to cater to different tastes.
INR 600, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore Gulmarg Town

Take a leisurely walk through the picturesque streets of Gulmarg, soaking in the alpine beauty and fresh mountain air.
The town center of Gulmarg is easily walkable, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Return to Srinagar

Drive back to Srinagar from Gulmarg, reminiscing about the day's memorable experiences.
It takes around 2 hours to drive back to Srinagar from Gulmarg, covering a distance of approximately 50 km.
INR 1000, 2 hours
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Day 4: Pahalgam Excursion

Pahalgam, India

8:00AM

Visit Betaab Valley

Start your day with a visit to the picturesque Betaab Valley, named after a Bollywood movie shot here, surrounded by lush greenery.
Pahalgam is around 90 km from Srinagar, and Betaab Valley is a short drive from the main town, taking approximately 20 minutes.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

River Rafting on Lidder River

Experience the thrill of river rafting on the gushing waters of the Lidder River, a fun activity for the whole family.
You can easily access rafting operators near the riverbanks in Pahalgam, with sessions lasting around 1-2 hours.
INR 800, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Riverside Restaurant

Dine at a charming riverside restaurant in Pahalgam, enjoying the serene views and delicious local cuisine.
There are several riverside eateries offering a peaceful dining experience by the Lidder River.
INR 700, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Aru Valley

Visit the scenic Aru Valley, surrounded by pine forests and meadows, perfect for a leisurely walk and nature photography.
Aru Valley is a short drive from Pahalgam town, taking around 30 minutes to reach by car.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Return to Srinagar

Drive back to Srinagar from Pahalgam, cherishing the memories of your day in the enchanting valley.
It takes around 2.5 hours to drive back to Srinagar from Pahalgam, covering a distance of approximately 90 km.
INR 1200, 3 hours
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Day 5: Sonamarg Exploration

Sonamarg, India

8:00AM

Trek to Thajiwas Glacier

Embark on a scenic trek to Thajiwas Glacier in Sonamarg, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and gushing streams.
Sonamarg is around 80 km from Srinagar, and the trek to Thajiwas Glacier starts from the main town, easily accessible by road in about 30 minutes.
INR 200, 2 hours

11:00AM

Pony Ride in Meadow of Gold

Enjoy a pony ride through the lush Meadow of Gold in Sonamarg, immersing in the natural beauty of the Himalayas.
Pony rides can be arranged in Sonamarg town, offering a gentle and scenic exploration of the meadows.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at a Local Dhaba

Savor a simple and hearty meal at a local dhaba in Sonamarg, tasting authentic Kashmiri flavors amidst nature.
There are rustic dhabas serving delicious meals in Sonamarg, providing a cozy dining experience.
INR 400, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Thajiwas Glacier

Explore the stunning Thajiwas Glacier up close, marveling at the icy landscapes and panoramic vistas of Sonamarg.
The glacier is a short trek from the main town, taking around 45 minutes to reach on foot or by pony.
INR 100, 2 hours

6:00PM

Return to Srinagar

Bid farewell to the enchanting Sonamarg and drive back to Srinagar, carrying memories of the day's natural wonders.
It takes around 2 hours to drive back to Srinagar from Sonamarg, covering a distance of approximately 80 km.
INR 1000, 2 hours
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