Family-Friendly 5-Day Kashmir Itinerary

Day 1: Lakes and Gardens

Srinagar, Kashmir

8:00AM

Visit Dal Lake

Start your day with a Shikara boat ride on the iconic Dal Lake, surrounded by breathtaking mountains.
Dal Lake is a short drive from most hotels in Srinagar, taking about 20 minutes. You can rent a taxi or use a hotel shuttle service.
500 INR, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Mughal Gardens

Visit the stunning Mughal Gardens like Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh, known for their terraced lawns, beautiful flowerbeds, and historic architecture.
The Mughal Gardens are close to Dal Lake and can be reached by a short taxi ride.
200 INR, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Kashmiri Wazwan meal at a local restaurant for an authentic culinary experience.
You can find many restaurants serving Wazwan in Srinagar. Ask locals or your hotel for recommendations.
800 INR, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Shankaracharya Temple

Head to the Shankaracharya Temple for panoramic views of Srinagar and the Dal Lake from the hilltop.
A short drive from the city center, the temple is accessible by taxi or private car.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Shopping at Lal Chowk

Explore the bustling markets of Lal Chowk for souvenirs like Pashmina shawls, Kashmiri handicrafts, and dry fruits.
Lal Chowk is in the heart of Srinagar and can be reached by a short taxi ride.
Varies, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at a Houseboat

End your day with a delightful dinner aboard a traditional Kashmiri houseboat on Dal Lake, enjoying the serene night views.
Houseboats offer pick-up services from various points around Dal Lake. Pre-arrange with your chosen houseboat.
1000 INR, 2 hours
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Day 2: Historical Sites

Srinagar, Kashmir

9:00AM

Visit Hazratbal Shrine

Begin your day by exploring the serene Hazratbal Shrine, a significant religious site in Srinagar.
Hazratbal Shrine is a short drive from the city center, easily accessible by taxi or local transport.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Discover Pari Mahal

Explore the historic Pari Mahal, a seven-terraced garden overlooking the Dal Lake, offering a glimpse into the past.
Pari Mahal is located near Chashme Shahi Garden, reachable by a short taxi ride.
200 INR, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious Kashmiri meal at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of the region.
Choose a nearby restaurant in Srinagar for a convenient dining experience.
600 INR, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Hari Parbat Fort

Visit the historic Hari Parbat Fort, offering panoramic views of Srinagar city and the surrounding mountains.
Hari Parbat Fort is a short drive from the city center, accessible by taxi or private car.
300 INR, 2 hours

5:00PM

Shop at Floating Vegetable Market

Witness the vibrant Floating Vegetable Market on Dal Lake, where local vendors sell fresh produce from their colorful shikaras.
Take a shikara ride on Dal Lake early in the morning to experience the market in full swing.
Varies, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner and Cultural Show

Enjoy a traditional Kashmiri dinner with a cultural show featuring folk music and dance performances.
Many hotels in Srinagar offer dinner and cultural show packages. Inquire at your accommodation for options.
1000 INR, 2 hours
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Day 3: Alpine Beauty

Gulmarg, Kashmir

9:00AM

Gondola Ride

Start your day with a thrilling Gondola ride in Gulmarg, offering panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks.
The Gulmarg Gondola base station is easily accessible from most hotels in Gulmarg, a short walk or taxi ride away.
1500 INR, 2 hours

12:00PM

Skiing or Snowboarding

Engage in winter sports like skiing or snowboarding on the slopes of Gulmarg, known for its powder snow.
Rent equipment from local shops near the Gondola base station and enjoy the slopes.
2000 INR, 3 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Cafeteria

Grab a quick bite at one of the cafeterias near the Gondola station, offering a variety of snacks and beverages.
Several cafeterias are located near the Gondola station for your convenience.
300 INR, 1 hour

4:00PM

Sledging and Snow Play

Enjoy a fun-filled session of sledging and playing in the snow, perfect for family bonding and creating memories.
Rent sledges from local vendors near the Gondola area and enjoy the snow play activities.
500 INR, 2 hours

6:00PM

Scenic Walk in Gulmarg

Take a leisurely walk around Gulmarg, enjoying the picturesque landscapes and fresh mountain air.
Explore the town on foot, soaking in the natural beauty of Gulmarg.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Hotel

Relax and have dinner at your hotel, recounting the exciting day spent amidst the snow-capped mountains.
Most hotels in Gulmarg have on-site restaurants serving delicious meals. Enjoy a peaceful dinner with your family.
1000 INR, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Nature's Retreat

Pahalgam, Kashmir

9:00AM

Visit Betaab Valley

Explore the picturesque Betaab Valley, surrounded by lush green meadows and snow-covered mountains, a popular Bollywood filming location.
Betaab Valley is a short drive from most hotels in Pahalgam, easily accessible by taxi or private car.
300 INR, 2 hours

11:00AM

River Rafting in Lidder River

Embark on an exciting river rafting adventure in the gushing waters of the Lidder River, suitable for beginners and families.
Rafting operators along the river offer guided tours and equipment for a thrilling experience.
1000 INR, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Riverside Restaurant

Enjoy a riverside lunch at a local restaurant, savoring Kashmiri delicacies amidst the tranquil surroundings.
Choose a restaurant along the Lidder River for a scenic dining experience.
800 INR, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Aru Valley

Visit the charming Aru Valley, known for its alpine scenery, meadows, and adventurous trekking trails.
Aru Valley is a short drive from Pahalgam town, accessible by taxi or private car.
200 INR, 2 hours

5:00PM

Horse Riding in Baisaran

Experience horse riding in the beautiful meadows of Baisaran, offering a serene and scenic ride for the whole family.
Local operators in Pahalgam offer horse riding tours to Baisaran. Arrange for a ride at your hotel or through a tour guide.
500 INR, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Hotel

Wind down with a cozy dinner at your hotel in Pahalgam, sharing stories of the day's adventures in nature.
Most hotels in Pahalgam have dining options serving a variety of cuisines. Enjoy a relaxing evening meal with your family.
1000 INR, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Glacial Wonders

Sonamarg, Kashmir

9:00AM

Trek to Thajiwas Glacier

Embark on a scenic trek to the Thajiwas Glacier, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and pristine natural beauty.
Start the trek from Sonamarg town, where guides and horses are available for assistance. The trek takes about 2 hours one way.
500 INR, 4 hours

1:00PM

Picnic by the Glacier

Enjoy a relaxing picnic by the glacier, soaking in the tranquility and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Carry a picnic basket from Sonamarg town or arrange one through your hotel for a delightful outdoor meal.
500 INR, 2 hours

3:00PM

Pony Ride in Meadow of Gold

Take a pony ride in the Meadow of Gold, a vast expanse of golden meadows offering a unique experience for all ages.
Pony operators in Sonamarg offer rides to the Meadow of Gold. Negotiate rates and duration before starting the ride.
800 INR, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Explore Zero Point

Visit Zero Point, a popular viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of the Thajiwas Glacier and the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
Zero Point is accessible by a short trek from the Glacier or by pony ride. Enjoy the scenic beauty at this spot.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Local Restaurant

Savor a hearty dinner at a local restaurant in Sonamarg, tasting the flavors of Kashmiri cuisine under the starlit sky.
Choose a restaurant in Sonamarg town for a delicious dining experience. Enjoy the serene ambiance of the Himalayan night.
800 INR, 1.5 hours
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