5-Day Relaxation in Kashmir on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar

Srinagar, India on May 15, 2024

Morning

Shikara Ride on Dal Lake

Start your day with a peaceful shikara ride on Dal Lake, surrounded by mountains and colorful houseboats.
Dal Lake is easily accessible from most accommodations in Srinagar, and the ride can last around 2 hours.
INR 500, 2 hours

Afternoon

Visit Mughal Gardens

Explore the beautiful terraced Mughal Gardens like Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh, offering stunning views and peaceful ambiance.
Mughal Gardens are a short drive from Dal Lake, and you can spend about 2-3 hours here.
INR 200, 3 hours

Evening

Local Market Exploration

Stroll through the bustling local markets of Srinagar like Lal Chowk and Residency Road, and shop for souvenirs.
The markets are walkable from Mughal Gardens and offer a variety of shopping options. Plan for 2-3 hours.
Varies, 2-3 hours
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Day 2: Birthday Celebration in Srinagar

Srinagar, India on May 16, 2024

Morning

Houseboat Stay

Surprise your wife with a unique experience by staying in a traditional houseboat on Dal Lake.
You can easily reach the houseboats from the local market area. Check-in time is usually around noon.
INR 1500 (approx.), Overnight

Afternoon

Shikara Decorated Ride

Arrange for a specially decorated shikara ride with flowers and candles to make the day memorable.
Coordinate with the houseboat staff for this special arrangement. The ride can take 1-2 hours.
INR 1000, 1-2 hours

Evening

Dinner at Shamyana Restaurant

Enjoy a romantic dinner at Shamyana Restaurant, known for its delectable Kashmiri cuisine and serene setting.
Shamyana Restaurant is located near Dal Lake and offers a great dining experience. Budget around INR 800 per person.
INR 1600 (for 2), 2 hours
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Day 3: Exploring Gulmarg

Gulmarg, India on May 17, 2024

Morning

Gulmarg Gondola Ride

Embark on a thrilling gondola ride in Gulmarg, offering panoramic views of snow-capped peaks.
Travel from Srinagar to Gulmarg by road (about 2 hours drive). The gondola ride can take 1-2 hours.
INR 700 (approx.), 2-3 hours

Afternoon

Golf Course Visit

Visit the highest green golf course in the world and enjoy the serene surroundings of Gulmarg.
The golf course is a short drive from the gondola ride point and can be explored for about an hour.
INR 200, 1 hour

Evening

Local Cuisine at Highland Park

Indulge in authentic Kashmiri cuisine at Highland Park restaurant, known for its local flavors and cozy ambiance.
Highland Park is located in Gulmarg town and offers a variety of Kashmiri dishes. Budget around INR 600 per person.
INR 1200 (for 2), 2 hours
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Day 4: Nature Retreat in Pahalgam

Pahalgam, India on May 18, 2024

Morning

Betaab Valley Exploration

Discover the picturesque Betaab Valley, named after a Bollywood movie, and enjoy the tranquil natural beauty.
Travel from Gulmarg to Pahalgam (about 4-5 hours drive). Betaab Valley is easily accessible by road.
INR 300, 2-3 hours

Afternoon

Lunch at Dana Pani Restaurant

Relish a simple yet delicious meal at Dana Pani Restaurant, offering local Kashmiri cuisine at affordable prices.
Dana Pani is a popular eatery in Pahalgam town and provides a budget-friendly dining option.
INR 500 (for 2), 1 hour

Evening

Riverside Walk at Lidder River

Take a leisurely walk along the banks of Lidder River, surrounded by lush greenery and peaceful landscapes.
Lidder River is a short distance from the main market area and offers a serene setting for an evening stroll.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 5: Alpine Beauty of Sonmarg

Sonmarg, India on May 19, 2024

Morning

Thajiwas Glacier Trek

Embark on a trek to Thajiwas Glacier, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and pristine alpine scenery.
Travel from Pahalgam to Sonmarg (about 2-3 hours drive). The trek to Thajiwas Glacier can take 2-3 hours.
INR 500 (approx.), 3-4 hours

Afternoon

Lunch at Glacier View Restaurant

Enjoy a meal with a view at Glacier View Restaurant, offering local Kashmiri dishes and a panoramic vista of the mountains.
The restaurant is located near the glacier trek point and provides a scenic dining experience.
INR 800 (for 2), 1 hour

Evening

Return to Srinagar

Head back to Srinagar and spend your last evening exploring the local markets or relaxing by Dal Lake.
Travel back to Srinagar by road (about 3-4 hours drive) and unwind in the charming surroundings.
Varies, 3-4 hours
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