Exploring Srinagar and Visiting Vaishno Devi in 7 Days

Day 1: Srinagar Exploration

Srinagar, India

8:00AM

Shikara Ride on Dal Lake

Start your day with a peaceful Shikara ride on the iconic Dal Lake, surrounded by stunning mountains and vibrant houseboats.
Head to Dal Lake, which is easily accessible by road, and hire a Shikara from the lake's shore. The ride usually lasts for about 1-2 hours.
INR 500, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Mughal Gardens

Explore the beautiful Mughal Gardens like Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh, known for their terraced lawns, fountains, and vibrant flowers.
Take a short drive to the Mughal Gardens located on the banks of Dal Lake. Entry fees are around INR 50 per garden.
INR 100, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at a Local Kashmiri Restaurant

Indulge in authentic Kashmiri cuisine for lunch at a local restaurant, savoring dishes like Rogan Josh and Yakhni.
Ask locals or your accommodation for recommendations on nearby Kashmiri restaurants.
INR 500, 1 hour

4:00PM

Shopping at Lal Chowk

Shop for souvenirs and traditional Kashmiri handicrafts at the bustling Lal Chowk market, known for its vibrant atmosphere.
Take a short drive to Lal Chowk market in the city centre. Bargaining is common in this market.
Variable, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at a Floating Restaurant

Enjoy a romantic dinner at a floating restaurant on Dal Lake, experiencing the serene beauty of the lake at night.
Head back to Dal Lake and dine at one of the floating restaurants. Book a table in advance for the best experience.
INR 800, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Srinagar Cultural Exploration

Srinagar, India

9:00AM

Explore Shankaracharya Temple

Visit the Shankaracharya Temple, perched on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of Srinagar and the Dal Lake.
Drive to the temple entrance and climb the stairs to reach the hilltop. Remember to dress modestly.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Hazratbal Shrine

Explore the Hazratbal Shrine, a revered Muslim shrine located on the northern shores of Dal Lake, known for its peaceful ambiance.
Take a short drive to the shrine. Respect the religious customs and traditions while visiting.
Free entry, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at a Local Dhaba

Have a hearty lunch at a local dhaba, trying Kashmiri Wazwan dishes like Dum Aloo and Modur Pulav.
Ask locals for recommendations on nearby dhabas serving authentic Kashmiri cuisine.
INR 300, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Old Srinagar

Stroll through the charming lanes of Old Srinagar, admiring the traditional wooden houses and vibrant markets.
Walk or take a cycle rickshaw to explore the narrow streets of Old Srinagar. Bargain with local shopkeepers for handicrafts.
Variable, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at a Local Rooftop Restaurant

Enjoy dinner at a local rooftop restaurant, watching the sunset over the Dal Lake and the surrounding mountains.
Head to a rooftop restaurant in the city centre for a picturesque dining experience.
INR 600, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Srinagar Nature Retreat

Srinagar, India

8:00AM

Day Trip to Gulmarg

Embark on a day trip to Gulmarg, a scenic hill station known for its meadows, Gondola rides, and skiing in winter.
Hire a car for a day trip to Gulmarg. The journey takes about 2 hours through picturesque landscapes.
INR 2000, Full day

1:00PM

Lunch at Gulmarg's Local Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Kashmiri meal at a local restaurant in Gulmarg, surrounded by stunning mountain views.
Choose a restaurant in the town centre of Gulmarg for authentic Kashmiri cuisine.
INR 400, 1 hour

3:00PM

Gondola Ride in Gulmarg

Experience the thrilling Gondola ride in Gulmarg, offering panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks and lush valleys.
Head to the Gondola base station and purchase tickets for the ride. Be prepared for queues during peak times.
INR 700, 2 hours

6:00PM

Return to Srinagar

Head back to Srinagar and relax at your accommodation after a day of nature exploration in Gulmarg.
Take the same route back to Srinagar, enjoying the scenic views on the way.
INR 500, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Srinagar Relaxation Day

Srinagar, India

9:00AM

Visit Pari Mahal

Explore the Pari Mahal, a historic monument with terraced gardens offering panoramic views of Srinagar city.
Drive to Pari Mahal, located on Zabarwan mountain range. Entry fee is around INR 50.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Relax at a Houseboat

Spend the morning relaxing on a traditional houseboat on Dal Lake, enjoying the tranquillity and scenic beauty.
Head to the Dal Lake and board a houseboat for a peaceful retreat on the water.
INR 1000, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch on the Houseboat

Have a delicious lunch served on the houseboat, featuring Kashmiri specialties like Gushtaba and Kahwa.
Enjoy a freshly prepared meal on the houseboat while admiring the views of the lake.
INR 800, 1 hour

3:00PM

Shikara Ride to Floating Market

Take a leisurely Shikara ride to the floating market on Dal Lake, where you can shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs.
Board a Shikara from your houseboat and navigate to the floating market area on the lake.
INR 300, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Srinagar, trying different Kashmiri delicacies and flavours.
Choose a restaurant in the city centre for an authentic dining experience.
INR 600, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Vaishno Devi Pilgrimage

Vaishno Devi, India

8:00AM

Start Trek to Vaishno Devi

Begin your trek to the holy shrine of Vaishno Devi, a popular pilgrimage site for devotees from around the world.
Start the trek from Katra, the base camp for Vaishno Devi. The trek takes around 12-14 hours round trip.
Variable (depends on services chosen), Full day

8:00PM

Dinner and Rest

After completing the trek, have dinner and rest at your accommodation in Katra, reflecting on your spiritual journey.
Head back to your hotel or guesthouse in Katra for a well-deserved rest.
INR 500, Rest of the day
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Vaishno Devi Exploration

Vaishno Devi, India

9:00AM

Visit Bhairon Temple

Explore the Bhairon Temple, another significant religious site near Vaishno Devi shrine, known for its spiritual importance.
After breakfast, trek to the Bhairon Temple to seek blessings and enjoy the scenic views along the way.
Free entry, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Katra

Enjoy a hearty lunch in Katra, savoring local cuisine and relaxing after your spiritual exploration.
Choose a restaurant in Katra town centre for a variety of dining options.
INR 400, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Local Markets

Roam around the local markets of Katra, shopping for souvenirs and religious items to commemorate your visit.
Explore the bustling markets on foot, interacting with local vendors and exploring the unique offerings.
Variable, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy a peaceful dinner at a local restaurant in Katra, reminiscing about your spiritual journey at Vaishno Devi.
Choose a cosy restaurant in Katra to unwind and enjoy a delicious meal.
INR 500, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Return to Srinagar

Srinagar, India

9:00AM

Drive back to Srinagar

After your spiritual journey, drive back to Srinagar and enjoy the scenic landscapes on the way.
Take a private car or public transport from Katra to Srinagar. The journey takes around 5-6 hours.
INR 1000, Full day

3:00PM

Check-in to Accommodation

Check back into your accommodation in Srinagar and relax after a long day of travel.
Head to your hotel or guesthouse in Srinagar for a comfortable stay.
INR 800, Rest of the day

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner

Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant in Srinagar, reminiscing about your memorable trip to Srinagar and Vaishno Devi.
Choose a restaurant with a pleasant ambiance to conclude your trip on a high note.
INR 700, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability