A Week of Family Fun in Jammu and Kashmir

Day 1: Exploring Srinagar

Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir

8:00AM

Shikara Boat Ride on Dal Lake

Begin your day with a peaceful shikara boat ride on Dal Lake, admiring the floating gardens and houseboats.
Head to Dal Lake and look for a reliable boat service provider. Most boat rides are per hour and can be negotiated.
$20, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Mughal Gardens

Explore the beautiful Mughal Gardens, such as Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh, known for their stunning architecture and manicured lawns.
Mughal Gardens are easily accessible by taxi or hired car from Dal Lake.
$10, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Indulge in authentic Kashmiri cuisine for lunch at a local restaurant near Dal Lake.
Ask locals or your guide for recommended restaurants.
$15, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Shankaracharya Temple

Head to Shankaracharya Temple for a panoramic view of Srinagar and the Dal Lake.
The temple is located on a hill and can be reached by car followed by a short climb.
$5, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Houseboat

End your day with a traditional dinner experience on a houseboat, enjoying Kashmiri hospitality and serene views.
Ask your houseboat staff to arrange a delicious dinner for the family.
$30, 2 hours
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Day 2: Skiing and Snow Fun in Gulmarg

Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir

9:00AM

Gondola Ride

Embark on a thrilling gondola ride to Apharwat Peak, where you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding.
Head to the Gulmarg Gondola base station to purchase tickets for the ride.
$50, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Apharwat Peak

Relish a hearty meal at one of the restaurants at Apharwat Peak while soaking in the breathtaking mountain views.
Choose a restaurant based on your preferences and enjoy the meal.
$20, 1 hour

3:00PM

Snow Activities

Engage in family-friendly snow activities like snowball fights and building snowmen near Apharwat Peak.
Rent snow gear and equipment from local vendors for the activities.
$30, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Hotel

Enjoy a cozy dinner at your hotel in Gulmarg, sharing stories of the day's adventures.
Consult the hotel staff for dining options or nearby restaurants.
$25, 2 hours
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Day 3: Nature Walks in Pahalgam

Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir

8:00AM

Betaab Valley Visit

Embark on a scenic nature walk in Betaab Valley, known for its lush greenery and picturesque landscapes.
Drive to Betaab Valley and start your nature walk from the parking area.
$10, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Riverside Cafe

Enjoy a riverside lunch at a cozy cafe in Pahalgam, savoring local delicacies amidst nature's tranquility.
Explore cafes along the Lidder River and choose one with a peaceful ambiance.
$15, 1 hour

2:00PM

Aru Valley Exploration

Discover the enchanting Aru Valley, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush forests, perfect for light trekking or pony rides.
Drive to Aru Valley and explore the area on foot or on a pony ride.
$5, 2 hours

5:00PM

Shopping in Pahalgam Market

Stroll through Pahalgam's vibrant market, picking up souvenirs like Kashmiri shawls and local handicrafts.
Explore the market area on foot and bargain with the vendors for authentic items.
$20, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Hotel

Head back to your hotel in Pahalgam for a cozy dinner, reminiscing about the day's explorations.
Choose from the hotel's dining options or nearby restaurants for dinner.
$25, 2 hours
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Day 4: Glacial Excursion in Sonmarg

Sonmarg, Jammu and Kashmir

9:00AM

Thajiwas Glacier Trek

Embark on an exciting trek to Thajiwas Glacier, crossing gushing streams and snow-laden trails for an unforgettable family adventure.
Join a guided trekking group or hire a local guide for the trek.
$50, 5 hours

2:00PM

Picnic by River

Enjoy a relaxing picnic by the river in Sonmarg, surrounded by towering mountains and pristine nature.
Find a scenic spot by the river and unpack your picnic basket filled with local treats.
$15, 2 hours

4:00PM

Pony Rides for Kids

Let the kids enjoy pony rides in Sonmarg, creating lasting memories amidst the breathtaking landscapes.
Hire ponies from local vendors at the designated pony ride area.
$10, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner Under the Stars

Savor a delightful dinner under the starlit sky near your accommodation, experiencing the magic of Sonmarg's night sky.
Arrange for a special outdoor dining experience with the hotel or campsite staff.
$30, 2 hours
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Day 5: Cultural Immersion in Kargil

Kargil, Jammu and Kashmir

9:00AM

Dras War Memorial

Visit the Dras War Memorial to pay homage to the brave soldiers who fought in the Kargil War, an educational experience for the family.
Drive to Dras War Memorial from Sonmarg for a somber yet enlightening visit.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Local Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Ladakhi meal at a local restaurant in Kargil, tasting flavors unique to the region.
Ask locals or your guide for recommended restaurants serving authentic Ladakhi cuisine.
$20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Mulbekh Monastery

Explore the ancient Mulbekh Monastery, known for its stunning rock carvings and peaceful ambiance, ideal for a family cultural outing.
Drive to the monastery and take a guided tour to understand the significance of the carvings.
$5, 1 hour

4:00PM

Local Market Exploration

Wander through Kargil's bustling local market, interact with locals, and shop for souvenirs like traditional handicrafts and spices.
Take a leisurely walk through the market streets and haggle with vendors for unique finds.
$30, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Guesthouse

Enjoy a cozy dinner at your guesthouse in Kargil, exchanging stories and immersing in the local hospitality.
Check with your guesthouse for dining options or nearby eateries for dinner.
$20, 2 hours
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Day 6: Monastery Visit in Leh

Leh, Jammu and Kashmir

9:00AM

Thiksey Monastery

Begin your day with a visit to the Thiksey Monastery, marveling at its architectural splendor and serene surroundings.
Drive to Thiksey Monastery and explore its various halls and temples with a guide.
$10, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Leh Palace

Explore the historic Leh Palace, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains, a perfect photo spot for the family.
Make your way to Leh Palace for a guided tour of its rooms and galleries.
$5, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Rooftop Cafe

Dine at a rooftop cafe in Leh, enjoying a mix of Ladakhi and international cuisines while soaking in the city's vibe.
Choose a rooftop cafe with good reviews and a charming ambiance for your lunch.
$15, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Local Handicrafts

Shop for authentic Ladakhi handicrafts and souvenirs at the local markets, supporting local artisans and bringing back unique keepsakes.
Stroll through the market lanes and visit shops showcasing traditional handicrafts and textiles.
$50, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Local Restaurant

End your day with a delightful dinner at a cozy local restaurant, sampling more Ladakhi specialties with your family.
Ask locals or your guide for recommendations on the best Ladakhi restaurants in Leh.
$30, 2 hours
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Day 7: Finale in Ladakh

Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir

9:00AM

Visit Shey Palace

Commence your day with a visit to Shey Palace, an ancient royal residence with intricate murals and sweeping views of the Indus Valley.
Drive to Shey Palace and explore its historical and architectural marvels with a guide.
$5, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Hemis Monastery

Discover the grandeur of Hemis Monastery, one of the largest in Ladakh, immersing in its spiritual aura and vibrant festivals.
Travel to Hemis Monastery for a guided tour of its prayer halls and museum showcasing Buddhist artifacts.
$10, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Monastery Cafe

Enjoy a peaceful lunch at a monastery cafe, savoring simple yet delicious meals amidst a tranquil and spiritual setting.
Choose a cafe within the monastery premises and relish the serene ambiance.
$15, 1 hour

3:00PM

Leisurely Walk in Leh Market

Spend the afternoon exploring Leh's bustling market, picking up last-minute souvenirs and enjoying local street food treats.
Take a leisurely stroll through the market alleys, interacting with vendors and savoring local snacks.
$20, 2 hours

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner with Cultural Show

Conclude your family adventure with a memorable farewell dinner featuring traditional Ladakhi cuisine and a captivating cultural show.
Book a cultural dinner experience at a local restaurant or hotel for an authentic Ladakhi farewell.
$50, 3 hours
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