Family-Friendly 7-Day Kashmir Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Srinagar

Srinagar, India

8:00AM

Shikara Ride on Dal Lake

Start your day with a peaceful Shikara ride on the iconic Dal Lake, surrounded by majestic mountains and colorful houseboats.
Dal Lake is easily accessible from most hotels in Srinagar and the ride typically lasts for 2 hours.
INR 500 per person, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Mughal Gardens

Explore the beautiful Mughal Gardens like Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh, known for their stunning terraced lawns, fountains, and flower beds.
The gardens are a short drive from Dal Lake and entry fees range from INR 10-50 per person.
INR 50 per person, 2 hours

2:00PM

Shopping at Lal Chowk

Head to Lal Chowk for some souvenir shopping. You'll find traditional Kashmiri handicrafts, Pashmina shawls, and local spices.
Lal Chowk is a bustling market in the city center, easily reachable by local transport.
Varies, 2 hours
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Day 2: Srinagar Sightseeing

Srinagar, India

9:00AM

Visit Shankaracharya Temple

Start your day with a visit to Shankaracharya Temple, perched on a hill offering panoramic views of Srinagar.
The temple is accessible by car followed by a short climb of stairs and usually takes 1 hour to explore.
Free entry, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Old City

Stroll through the narrow lanes of the Old City, admire the wooden architecture, and try some local street food.
The Old City is best explored on foot and you can spend around 2 hours wandering around.
Varies, 2 hours

3:00PM

Enjoy a Kashmiri Wazwan Lunch

Indulge in a traditional Kashmiri Wazwan lunch at a local restaurant, savoring dishes like Rogan Josh and Yakhni.
Ask your hotel for recommendations or head to popular restaurants in the city.
INR 800 per person, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Gulmarg Day Trip

Gulmarg, India

8:00AM

Gondola Ride

Embark on a thrilling Gondola ride in Gulmarg, one of the highest cable cars in the world offering breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks.
Gulmarg is around 50 km from Srinagar and takes about 2 hours by car. The Gondola ride has varying ticket prices based on the level you choose.
INR 700-3000 per person, 3 hours

12:00PM

Skiing or Snowboarding

Try your hand at skiing or snowboarding in the snowy slopes of Gulmarg, perfect for beginners and experienced enthusiasts alike.
There are rental shops and instructors available near the Gondola base station.
INR 1000-3000 for rentals, 3 hours

4:00PM

Explore Gulmarg Town

Take a leisurely walk around Gulmarg town, visit local markets, and enjoy a cup of Kashmiri Kahwa at a cozy cafe.
The town is small and can be explored on foot. Don't forget to buy some saffron as a souvenir.
Varies, 2 hours
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Day 4: Pahalgam Leisure Day

Pahalgam, India

9:00AM

Lidder River Rafting

Experience the thrill of white-water rafting on the Lidder River in Pahalgam, surrounded by lush pine forests and snow-capped peaks.
Pahalgam is around 90 km from Srinagar and takes about 2.5 hours by car. Rafting tours are available near the riverbanks.
INR 1000 per person, 2 hours

12:00PM

Picnic at Betaab Valley

Spend a relaxing afternoon at Betaab Valley, named after the Bollywood movie 'Betaab' shot here. Enjoy a picnic amidst picturesque scenery.
Betaab Valley is a short drive from Pahalgam town and entry fees are around INR 50 per person.
INR 50 per person, 2 hours

3:00PM

Horse Riding in Aru Valley

Explore the scenic Aru Valley on a horseback ride, passing through meadows, streams, and pine forests.
Aru Valley is a short distance from Pahalgam and you can easily find horse riding operators in the area.
INR 500 per person, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Pahalgam Adventure Day

Pahalgam, India

9:00AM

Trek to Chandanwari

Embark on a trek to Chandanwari, the starting point of the Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and alpine meadows.
Chandanwari is accessible by car from Pahalgam and the trek usually takes 3-4 hours round trip.
Varies, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Local Dhaba

Enjoy a simple and delicious lunch at a local dhaba, trying Kashmiri specialties like Rajma Chawal or Dum Aloo.
Ask locals for recommendations or choose a dhaba along the way to Chandanwari.
INR 200 per person, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Mamleshwar Temple

Explore the ancient Mamleshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its intricate stone carvings and spiritual ambience.
The temple is a short drive from Pahalgam town and entry is free for all visitors.
Free entry, 1 hour
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Day 6: Scenic Sonamarg

Sonamarg, India

9:00AM

Thajiwas Glacier Trek

Embark on a picturesque trek to Thajiwas Glacier in Sonamarg, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and meadows.
Sonamarg is around 80 km from Srinagar and takes about 3 hours by car. The trek to Thajiwas Glacier is easy and takes 2-3 hours.
INR 500 per person, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Local Dhaba

Savor a hearty meal at a local dhaba, enjoying Kashmiri Pulao or Kebabs with a view of the stunning landscapes.
There are dhabas along the trekking route offering delicious home-cooked meals.
INR 300 per person, 1 hour

3:00PM

Pony Ride at Thajiwas Glacier

Experience the thrill of a pony ride at Thajiwas Glacier, taking in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Pony rides are easily available at the glacier base and can be negotiated with local operators.
INR 500 per person, 1 hour
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Day 7: Dal Lake Relaxation

Srinagar, India

9:00AM

Shikara Ride to Floating Market

Take a serene Shikara ride to the Floating Market on Dal Lake, where local vendors sell fruits, vegetables, and handicrafts from their boats.
Start your ride from the nearest Shikara pier and enjoy the bustling market atmosphere.
INR 300 per person, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch on Houseboat

Enjoy a traditional Kashmiri lunch on a houseboat, relishing dishes like Gushtaba and Kashmiri Pulao while surrounded by the tranquil waters.
Many houseboats offer lunch services and you can book one in advance through your hotel.
INR 1000 per person, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Shopping at Boulevard Road

Shop for souvenirs and local handicrafts at Boulevard Road, lined with shops selling Kashmiri carpets, papier-mache items, and jewelry.
Boulevard Road is easily accessible from most parts of Srinagar and offers a wide range of shopping options.
Varies, 2 hours
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