Family-Friendly Kashmir Road Trip

Day 1: Explore Srinagar

Srinagar, India

9:00 AM

Shikara Ride on Dal Lake

Start your day with a peaceful Shikara ride on Dal Lake, immersing in the beauty of the floating gardens and local life.
Dal Lake is easily accessible by road from most accommodations in Srinagar, and the ride usually lasts around 2 hours.
INR 500, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Visit Mughal Gardens

Explore the stunning Mughal Gardens like Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh, known for their terraced lawns, fountains, and flower beds.
The Mughal Gardens are a short drive from Dal Lake, and visiting both gardens can take around 2-3 hours.
INR 250, 2-3 hours

3:00 PM

Shopping at Lal Chowk

Indulge in some souvenir shopping at Lal Chowk, a bustling market offering a variety of Kashmiri handicrafts and traditional items.
Lal Chowk is in the heart of Srinagar, easily reachable by car, and you can spend around 2 hours exploring the shops.
Variable, 2 hours
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Day 2: More of Srinagar

Srinagar, India

9:00 AM

Visit Shankaracharya Temple

Head to Shankaracharya Temple for panoramic views of Srinagar city and Dal Lake from atop a hill.
The temple is a short drive from most hotels in Srinagar and involves a climb of around 250 steps, taking about 1 hour.
Free, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Explore Old Srinagar

Stroll through the charming lanes of Old Srinagar, visiting historical sites like Jamia Masjid and sampling local street food.
Old Srinagar is best explored on foot, and you can spend around 2-3 hours wandering around.
Variable, 2-3 hours

3:00 PM

Enjoy a Traditional Kashmiri Wazwan

Treat your taste buds to a traditional Kashmiri Wazwan, a multicourse meal featuring local delicacies like Rogan Josh and Yakhni.
There are several restaurants in Srinagar offering Wazwan; ask your hotel for recommendations. A meal typically lasts around 1-2 hours.
INR 800 per person, 1-2 hours
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Day 3: Gulmarg Day Trip

Gulmarg, India

9:00 AM

Gondola Ride

Embark on an unforgettable Gondola ride in Gulmarg, one of the highest cable cars in the world, offering breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains.
Gulmarg is about a 2-hour drive from Srinagar. The Gondola ride has different phases, and the entire experience can take around 3-4 hours.
INR 700 per person, 3-4 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious Kashmiri meal at a local restaurant in Gulmarg, savoring the flavors of the region.
There are several restaurants near the Gondola base station. Lunch can take around 1-2 hours.
INR 500 per person, 1-2 hours

3:00 PM

Explore Gulmarg Town

Take a leisurely walk around Gulmarg town, visit the golf course, and interact with the friendly locals.
Gulmarg town is small and easily walkable. You can spend around 1-2 hours exploring the area.
Free, 1-2 hours
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Day 4: Pahalgam Excursion

Pahalgam, India

9:00 AM

Visit Betaab Valley

Explore the picturesque Betaab Valley, known for its lush greenery, crystal-clear streams, and backdrop of snow-covered mountains.
Pahalgam is around a 4-hour drive from Gulmarg. Betaab Valley is a short distance from the main town.
INR 50 entry fee, 2-3 hours

12:00 PM

River Rafting on Lidder River

Experience the thrill of river rafting on the gushing waters of the Lidder River, suitable for beginners and families.
River rafting operators are available near the riverbanks. The activity usually lasts around 1-2 hours.
INR 1000 per person, 1-2 hours

3:00 PM

Explore Aru Valley

Drive to Aru Valley, a scenic spot with meadows, forests, and a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely walk or picnic.
Aru Valley is a short drive from Pahalgam town. Spend around 1-2 hours enjoying the natural beauty.
Free, 1-2 hours
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Day 5: Sonamarg Delights

Sonamarg, India

9:00 AM

Trek to Thajiwas Glacier

Embark on a scenic trek to Thajiwas Glacier, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and offering stunning views of the valley.
Sonamarg is around a 3-hour drive from Pahalgam. The trek to Thajiwas Glacier can take 2-3 hours round trip.
INR 200 per person for ponies (optional), 2-3 hours

12:00 PM

Picnic by the River

Enjoy a relaxing picnic by the gurgling river in Sonamarg, soaking in the peaceful surroundings and fresh mountain air.
There are picnic spots along the riverbank easily accessible from the main road. Spend 1-2 hours for a leisurely picnic.
Variable, 1-2 hours

3:00 PM

Horse Riding at Thajiwas Glacier

Opt for a horse riding experience around Thajiwas Glacier, a fun activity for all family members to enjoy the scenic beauty.
Local operators offer horse riding services near the glacier. A ride typically lasts around 1 hour.
INR 300 per person, 1 hour
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Day 6: Final Day in Srinagar

Srinagar, India

9:00 AM

Visit Hazratbal Shrine

Explore the serene Hazratbal Shrine, a significant religious site in Srinagar located on the banks of Dal Lake.
Hazratbal Shrine is easily reachable by road from most parts of Srinagar. Plan for about 1-2 hours for the visit.
Free, 1-2 hours

12:00 PM

Shopping for Kashmiri Handicrafts

Shop for exquisite Kashmiri handicrafts like Pashmina shawls, carpets, and saffron to take back as souvenirs.
Head to local markets like Residency Road or Polo View for a wide selection of authentic handicrafts. Budget 2-3 hours for shopping.
Variable, 2-3 hours

3:00 PM

Farewell Dinner at a Houseboat

Conclude your trip with a memorable dinner on a traditional Kashmiri houseboat, enjoying a cultural and gastronomic experience.
Houseboats on Dal Lake offer dining services; pre-book a dinner experience. Dinner can last around 2 hours.
INR 1500 per person, 2 hours
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