7-Day Adventure in Kashmir on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Exploring Srinagar

Srinagar, India

8:00AM

Shikara Ride on Dal Lake

Start your day with a serene shikara ride on Dal Lake, taking in the beautiful surroundings of Srinagar's floating market and houseboats.
The shikaras are available near the Boulevard Road in Srinagar and can be easily reached by local transport. It takes about 15 minutes to reach there from the city center.
500 INR, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Mughal Gardens

Explore the stunning Mughal Gardens like Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh, known for their Persian-style architecture and vibrant flower beds.
The Mughal Gardens are located on the banks of Dal Lake and can be accessed by a short taxi ride from the city center.
200 INR, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at a Local Dhaba

Enjoy a traditional Kashmiri meal at a local dhaba, savoring dishes like Rogan Josh, Yakhni, and Kashmiri Pulao.
Ask the locals for recommendations on nearby dhabas serving authentic Kashmiri cuisine.
300 INR, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore Old Srinagar

Stroll through the bustling streets of Old Srinagar, visiting historic sites like Jama Masjid and Shah Hamdan's Shrine.
Old Srinagar can be explored on foot or by hiring a cycle rickshaw for a more local experience.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at a Local Restaurant

End your day with a hearty dinner at a local restaurant, trying dishes like Gushtaba and Dum Aloo.
Ask for recommendations from locals for budget-friendly eateries in Srinagar.
400 INR, 1 hour
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Day 2: More of Srinagar

Srinagar, India

9:00AM

Day Trip to Gulmarg

Take a day trip to Gulmarg, known for its snow-capped mountains, lush meadows, and the Gulmarg Gondola, the highest cable car in the world.
Hire a taxi or take a shared cab from Srinagar to Gulmarg, which takes around 2 hours.
1000 INR, Full Day

1:00PM

Picnic at Gulmarg Meadows

Enjoy a picnic amidst the picturesque meadows of Gulmarg, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and blooming flowers.
You can buy picnic supplies in Gulmarg town or pack your own from Srinagar.
500 INR, 2 hours

4:00PM

Gulmarg Market Exploration

Explore the local market in Gulmarg, known for its handicrafts, woolens, and souvenirs to take back home.
The market is a short walk from the Gulmarg Gondola base station.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at a Local Eatery

Enjoy a simple dinner at a local eatery in Gulmarg, trying out Kashmiri street food like Seekh Kebabs and Phirni.
Ask for recommendations from locals or your hotel staff for budget-friendly dining options.
300 INR, 1 hour
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Day 3: Pahalgam Paradise

Pahalgam, India

9:00AM

Scenic Drive to Pahalgam

Embark on a scenic drive from Srinagar to Pahalgam, passing through lush valleys, pine forests, and the Lidder River.
You can hire a taxi or take a shared cab from Srinagar to Pahalgam, which takes around 2 hours.
800 INR, Half Day

1:00PM

Lunch at a Riverside Cafe

Relish a riverside lunch at a cozy cafe in Pahalgam, serving local delicacies like Kebabs, Tabak Maaz, and Noon Chai.
Head to the main market area in Pahalgam where you'll find several riverside cafes to choose from.
400 INR, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Betaab Valley

Explore the picturesque Betaab Valley, known for its lush greenery, crystal-clear streams, and stunning mountain backdrop.
Betaab Valley is a short drive from the main market in Pahalgam and entry tickets can be purchased on-site.
50 INR, 2 hours

6:00PM

Evening Walk by Lidder River

Take a leisurely evening walk along the banks of the Lidder River, enjoying the tranquil surroundings of Pahalgam.
The riverside promenade in Pahalgam is easily accessible from the main market area.
Free, 1 hour

8:00PM

Dinner at a Local Dhaba

Savor a delicious dinner at a local dhaba in Pahalgam, trying out Kashmiri specialties like Rista, Nadur Yakhni, and Sheermal.
Ask locals or your hotel staff for recommendations on authentic dhabas in Pahalgam.
350 INR, 1 hour
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Day 4: Adventure in Pahalgam

Pahalgam, India

9:00AM

Trek to Aru Valley

Embark on a scenic trek to Aru Valley, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, lush meadows, and gushing streams.
You can hire a local guide or join a trekking group in Pahalgam for the Aru Valley trek, which takes around 4-5 hours round trip.
500 INR, Half Day

2:00PM

River Rafting on Lidder River

Experience the thrill of river rafting on the gushing waters of the Lidder River, with varying rapids suitable for beginners.
Book a river rafting session at one of the adventure companies in Pahalgam, with options for different difficulty levels.
800 INR, 2 hours

5:00PM

Explore Pahalgam Market

Stroll through the bustling market of Pahalgam, browsing through local handicrafts, souvenirs, and woolens.
The main market area in Pahalgam is perfect for shopping and exploring local goods.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant in Pahalgam, tasting Kashmiri Wazwan dishes like Tabak Maaz, Gushtaba, and Kahwa.
Ask for recommendations from locals or your hotel staff for authentic Kashmiri dining experiences.
400 INR, 1 hour
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Day 5: Serenity in Sonamarg

Sonamarg, India

9:00AM

Scenic Drive to Sonamarg

Embark on a scenic drive from Pahalgam to Sonamarg, passing through breathtaking landscapes of meadows, glaciers, and the Sindh River.
You can hire a taxi or take a shared cab from Pahalgam to Sonamarg, which takes around 3 hours.
1000 INR, Half Day

1:00PM

Lunch at a Local Dhaba

Enjoy a simple lunch at a local dhaba in Sonamarg, savoring local favorites like Rajma Chawal and Kebabs.
Look for dhabas along the main road in Sonamarg serving authentic Kashmiri cuisine.
300 INR, 1 hour

3:00PM

Thajiwas Glacier Trek

Embark on a trek to Thajiwas Glacier, a stunning glacier surrounded by snow-capped peaks and glistening streams.
You can hire a pony or trek on foot to reach the base of Thajiwas Glacier, which is about 5 km from Sonamarg.
300 INR, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner under the Stars

Enjoy a cozy dinner under the stars at your accommodation in Sonamarg, relishing a simple meal amidst the peaceful surroundings.
Most accommodations in Sonamarg offer dinner options, perfect for a quiet evening in the mountains.
400 INR, 1 hour
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Day 6: Sonamarg Delights

Sonamarg, India

9:00AM

Baltal Valley Exploration

Explore the stunning Baltal Valley, known for its lush green meadows, gushing streams, and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Baltal Valley is a short drive from Sonamarg and offers scenic viewpoints and trekking opportunities.
100 INR, 2 hours

12:00PM

River Crossing Adventure

Experience the thrill of river crossing over the gushing streams in Sonamarg, with trained guides ensuring safety and fun.
Book a river crossing session with a local adventure company in Sonamarg, with options for different difficulty levels.
600 INR, 2 hours

3:00PM

Local Cultural Experience

Immerse yourself in the local culture of Sonamarg by visiting nearby villages, interacting with locals, and learning about their traditional way of life.
You can arrange for a guided village tour through your accommodation or with local tour operators in Sonamarg.
200 INR, 2 hours

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner

Enjoy a farewell dinner at your accommodation, relishing a variety of Kashmiri dishes and reflecting on your memorable trip through the valley.
Most accommodations in Sonamarg offer dinner options, allowing you to enjoy a cozy meal before departing the next day.
500 INR, 1 hour
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Day 7: Return to Srinagar

Srinagar, India

9:00AM

Drive back to Srinagar

Embark on a scenic drive back to Srinagar from Sonamarg, enjoying the last views of the stunning Kashmir Valley landscapes.
You can hire a taxi or take a shared cab from Sonamarg to Srinagar, which takes around 3 hours.
1000 INR, Half Day

1:00PM

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Have a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant in Srinagar, trying out Kashmiri Wazwan dishes and local specialties.
Explore the city for hidden gems and local eateries serving authentic Kashmiri cuisine for your final meal in the valley.
400 INR, 1 hour

3:00PM

Shopping in Srinagar

Shop for souvenirs and local handicrafts in the bustling markets of Srinagar, picking up items like Pashmina shawls, Kashmiri spices, and wooden crafts.
Head to popular markets like Lal Chowk and Polo View in Srinagar for a wide range of shopping options.
Varies, 2 hours

6:00PM

Final Evening in Dal Lake

Spend your final evening in Srinagar with a relaxing shikara ride on Dal Lake, watching the sunset over the tranquil waters and houseboats.
Head to the Boulevard Road area for shikara rides and soak in the last moments of your Kashmir adventure.
500 INR, 1 hour

8:00PM

Farewell Dinner

End your 7-day Kashmir adventure with a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, reminiscing about the memories made and the beauty of the valley.
Choose a cozy restaurant with a view in Srinagar to enjoy your final dinner in Kashmir.
500 INR, 1 hour
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