5-Day Adventure & Relaxation in Jammu and Kashmir on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Exploring Srinagar

Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir

8:00AM

Visit Dal Lake

Start your day with a boat ride on the picturesque Dal Lake, surrounded by the Himalayas.
Dal Lake is easily accessible by local transport or a short walk from most accommodations.
INR 200, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Mughal Gardens

Visit Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh to admire the beautiful Mughal architecture and well-manicured gardens.
Take a local bus or hire a taxi to reach the gardens.
INR 50 (entrance fee), 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Kashmiri meal at a local restaurant, savoring dishes like Rogan Josh and Dum Aloo.
Ask locals for recommendations for authentic eateries.
INR 300, 1 hour

3:30PM

Shop at Lal Chowk

Explore the vibrant market of Lal Chowk for souvenirs, handicrafts, and traditional Kashmiri clothing.
Walk or take a short taxi ride to Lal Chowk.
Varies, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at a Local Dhaba

End your day with a hearty meal at a local dhaba, trying local street food like Seekh Kebabs and Phirni.
Ask locals for nearby dhabas for an authentic experience.
INR 150, 1 hour
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Day 2: Skiing and Snowboarding in Gulmarg

Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir

8:00AM

Gulmarg Gondola Ride

Take the famed Gulmarg Gondola to reach the snow-covered peaks and enjoy breathtaking views.
Reach the base station by local transport or shared taxi.
INR 800, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at a Hilltop Café

Relish a hot meal at a scenic hilltop café, surrounded by snow-capped mountains.
Cafés are located near the Gondola's top station.
INR 400, 1 hour

2:00PM

Skiing or Snowboarding

Spend the afternoon skiing or snowboarding on the slopes of Gulmarg, known for its winter sports.
Rent equipment from local shops near the Gondola.
INR 1000 for rental, 4 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at a Local Dhaba

Enjoy a simple dinner at a local dhaba, tasting local Kashmiri dishes like Yakhni and Tabak Maaz.
Ask for recommendations from locals or hotel staff.
INR 200, 1 hour
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Day 3: Relaxing in Pahalgam

Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir

9:00AM

Walk along Lidder River

Start your day with a leisurely walk along the banks of the Lidder River, surrounded by lush greenery.
The river is a short walk from most accommodations.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Betaab Valley

Explore the scenic Betaab Valley, known for its Bollywood movie connections and stunning landscapes.
Shared taxis are available for a quick ride to the valley.
INR 100 (entrance fee), 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at a Riverside Café

Enjoy a meal at a café by the river, soaking in the peaceful ambiance of Pahalgam.
Choose one of the riverside cafés for a relaxing lunch.
INR 300, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Aru Valley

Head to the charming Aru Valley for a serene nature walk amidst meadows and pine forests.
Local transport or shared taxis can take you to Aru Valley.
INR 50, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at a Local Restaurant

Have dinner at a local restaurant, trying Kashmiri specialties like Gushtaba and Phirni for dessert.
Ask for recommendations at your accommodation or from locals.
INR 250, 1 hour
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Day 4: Glacier Trekking in Sonamarg

Sonamarg, Jammu and Kashmir

8:00AM

Sonamarg Glacier Trek

Embark on an adventure with a glacier trek in the stunning landscape of Sonamarg, surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
Join a trekking group or hire a local guide for the best experience.
INR 500 (guide), 6 hours

2:00PM

Picnic at Thajiwas Glacier

Enjoy a picnic lunch at Thajiwas Glacier, appreciating the natural beauty and tranquillity of the area.
Hike or hire a pony to reach Thajiwas Glacier from the base.
INR 200 (food), 2 hours

5:00PM

Local Snacks at a Tea Stall

Treat yourself to local snacks like Maggi noodles and Kashmiri Kahwa at a roadside tea stall.
Look out for tea stalls near the glacier area.
INR 100, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at a Guesthouse

Have a simple dinner at a guesthouse, enjoying the warmth of Kashmiri hospitality.
Ask your host for a home-cooked meal or dine at the guesthouse's restaurant.
INR 300, 1 hour
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Day 5: Back to Srinagar for Departure

Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir

9:00AM

Shikara Ride on Dal Lake

End your trip with a serene Shikara ride on Dal Lake, taking in the sunrise views and bidding farewell to Kashmir.
Shikaras can be hired from the Dal Lake waterfront.
INR 300, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy a final Kashmiri meal at a local restaurant before heading to the airport or bus station.
Choose a restaurant near your accommodation for convenience.
INR 250, 1 hour
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