Enchanting Kashmir: A 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Lakeside Serenity

Srinagar, India

8:00AM

Shikara Ride on Dal Lake

Start your day with a serene Shikara ride on the iconic Dal Lake, surrounded by majestic mountains and beautiful houseboats.
Dal Lake is easily accessible from most hotels in Srinagar. It takes about 30 minutes to reach there by car.
INR 500, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Shankaracharya Temple

Head to Shankaracharya Temple for panoramic views of Srinagar city and the Dal Lake.
The temple is located on Shankaracharya Hill. It's a 30-minute drive from Dal Lake.
Free entry, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Mughal Darbar

Enjoy authentic Kashmiri cuisine at Mughal Darbar, known for its delicious Wazwan dishes.
Mughal Darbar is centrally located in Srinagar city.
INR 800, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Mughal Gardens

Stroll through the lush Mughal Gardens, including Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh, showcasing exquisite Mughal architecture and vibrant flowers.
The gardens are a short drive from the city center.
INR 150 (combined ticket), 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Ahdoos

Indulge in traditional Kashmiri cuisine at Ahdoos restaurant, known for its delectable Rogan Josh and Kashmiri Pulao.
Ahdoos is a popular dining spot in Srinagar.
INR 1000, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Snowy Retreat

Gulmarg, India

8:00AM

Gondola Ride to Apharwat Peak

Embark on a thrilling Gondola ride to Apharwat Peak in Gulmarg, offering panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and lush meadows.
Gulmarg is about a 2-hour drive from Srinagar. The Gondola base station is located in Gulmarg.
INR 700 (Gondola ticket), 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Highland Park

Relish a hearty meal at Highland Park, a cozy restaurant with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Highland Park is located near the Gondola base station.
INR 600, 1 hour

2:00PM

Skiing or Snowboarding

Try your hand at skiing or snowboarding on the powdery slopes of Gulmarg, known for its excellent winter sports facilities.
Rent equipment at the base station and take a short lesson before hitting the slopes.
INR 2000 (ski/snowboard rental), 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Nedous Dining Room

Enjoy a cozy dinner at Nedous Dining Room, a charming restaurant offering a variety of Kashmiri and international dishes.
Nedous Dining Room is a popular dining option in Gulmarg.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Valley of Shepherds

Pahalgam, India

9:00AM

Visit Betaab Valley

Explore the picturesque Betaab Valley, named after the Bollywood movie 'Betaab' and surrounded by lush greenery and snow-capped mountains.
Pahalgam is around a 4-hour drive from Gulmarg. Betaab Valley is a short distance from Pahalgam town.
INR 50 (entry fee), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Dana Pani

Dine at Dana Pani, a popular restaurant in Pahalgam known for its delicious North Indian and Kashmiri cuisine.
Dana Pani is conveniently located in the town center of Pahalgam.
INR 700, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Aru Valley

Explore the serene Aru Valley, a pristine meadow surrounded by pine forests and gushing rivers, offering a peaceful retreat.
Aru Valley is a short drive from Pahalgam town.
INR 100 (entry fee), 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Troutbeat

Savor a delightful dinner at Troutbeat restaurant, known for its fresh trout dishes and cozy ambiance.
Troutbeat is a popular dining spot in Pahalgam.
INR 900, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Glacier Paradise

Sonamarg, India

8:00AM

Explore Thajiwas Glacier

Embark on a trek to Thajiwas Glacier, a stunning glacier surrounded by snow-capped peaks and pristine landscapes, offering breathtaking views.
Sonamarg is around a 3-hour drive from Pahalgam. You can reach the base of Thajiwas Glacier by a short trek or hiring a pony.
INR 300 (approx. pony ride), 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Glacier View Restaurant

Enjoy a meal with a view at Glacier View Restaurant, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Glacier View Restaurant is located near the base of Thajiwas Glacier.
INR 800, 1 hour

3:00PM

River Rafting on Sindh River

Experience thrilling river rafting on the gushing waters of Sindh River, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Sonamarg.
Rafting operators are available near the riverbanks for booking a session.
INR 1500, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Paradise Restaurant

Relish a delicious dinner at Paradise Restaurant, known for its warm hospitality and a variety of Kashmiri delicacies.
Paradise Restaurant is a popular dining choice in Sonamarg.
INR 1000, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Return to Srinagar

Srinagar, India

9:00AM

Shopping at Lal Chowk

Explore the bustling markets of Lal Chowk for authentic Kashmiri handicrafts, Pashmina shawls, and traditional souvenirs.
Sonamarg to Srinagar is approximately a 3-hour drive. Lal Chowk is located in the heart of Srinagar.
Variable, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Stream Restaurant

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Stream Restaurant, offering a range of local and international dishes by the gushing Jhelum River.
Stream Restaurant is located along the banks of the Jhelum River in Srinagar.
INR 1000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Hazratbal Shrine

Pay a visit to the revered Hazratbal Shrine, a significant religious site with stunning views of the Dal Lake.
Hazratbal Shrine is easily accessible by road from the city center.
Free entry, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Nigeen Lake

Spend a relaxing evening at the tranquil Nigeen Lake, known for its calm waters and scenic beauty.
Nigeen Lake is a short drive from Hazratbal Shrine.
INR 200 (Shikara ride), 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Farewell Dinner at Shamyana Restaurant

Conclude your Kashmir trip with a memorable dinner at Shamyana Restaurant, offering a blend of Kashmiri and Mughlai flavors.
Shamyana Restaurant is located in a central area of Srinagar.
INR 1200, 2 hours
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