Enchanting Jammu and Kashmir: A 10-Day Journey from Katra to Pahalgam

Day 1: Pilgrimage and Exploration

Katra, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Shree Ram Restaurant

Start your day with a delicious North Indian breakfast that includes aloo paratha and chai.
Located just a short walk from your accommodations.
INR 200, 1 hour

8:30AM

Trek to Vaishno Devi Temple

Embark on a spiritual journey to the renowned Vaishno Devi Temple, a trek of about 13 kilometers, it’s a must-do.
Follow the well-marked paths to the temple. You can hire a pony for convenience.
INR 1500 for pony (optional), 5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Sagar Ratna

Savor a delightful South Indian lunch with idli, dosa, and fresh coconut chutney.
Back to Katra town, just 10 minutes from the temple.
INR 300, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit Bhairon Temple

After lunch, continue to the Bhairon Temple, which can be accessed via a short hike offering stunning views.
Walk or hire a local pony to the temple.
INR 100, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at the Hotel

Enjoy a nice dinner at your hotel with local Kashmiri dishes like Rogan Josh and Dum Aloo.
In-house dining options.
INR 600, 1 hour
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Day 2: Scenic Escape

Patnitop, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast that includes eggs, toast, and fruits.
Enjoy the view as you dine.
INR 350, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Patnitop

Leave for Patnitop, a picturesque hill station known for its lush green meadows.
Approximately 2 hours’ drive on NH44.
INR 1500 (taxi), 2 hours

12:00PM

Check-in and Lunch at Hotel

Settle into your hotel and enjoy a simple meal featuring local cuisine.
Hotel in Patnitop.
INR 400, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Naag Mandir

Explore the ancient Naag Mandir, an important cultural site with tranquil surroundings.
A short drive followed by a short walk.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Nature Walk in Patnitop Meadows

Take a leisurely stroll through the meadows, soaking in the breathtaking scenery.
Directly accessible from your hotel.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Green Hill Restaurant

Delight in traditional Kashmiri cuisine and enjoy the local hospitality.
Just a short drive or walk from your hotel.
INR 700, 1 hour
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Day 3: Nature and Serenity

Batote, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with fresh bread, butter, and jam alongside your favorite beverage.
In the hotel restaurant.
INR 350, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Batote

Depart for Batote, known for its wonderful views, nestled in the Chenab Valley.
Drive for around 1 hour.
INR 800 (taxi), 1 hour

11:00AM

Check-in and Relax

Settle in at your new hotel and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Hotel check-in procedure.
N/A, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Hotel

Lunch with a view, featuring seasonal vegetables and local delicacies.
In-house dining.
INR 500, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Batote Market

Explore the vibrant local market and shop for souvenirs and handicrafts.
A short walk from your hotel.
Free to explore (souvenir shopping extra), 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit the Chenab River

Relax by the banks of the Chenab River, enjoying the serene atmosphere.
Drive for 15 minutes to riverbank.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Riverbank

Enjoy a lakeside dining experience with barbecued dishes.
Nearby riverside restaurant.
INR 600, 1 hour
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Day 4: Cultural Immersion

Srinagar, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a traditional Kashmiri breakfast of khameer roti, nadru monje, and chai.
In the hotel dining area.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Srinagar

Drive to Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu & Kashmir, renowned for its beauty.
A 3-hour drive through stunning landscapes.
INR 1500 (taxi), 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Ahdoos

Savor exquisite Kashmiri dishes including Yakhni and Dum Aloo.
Located on the famous Lal Chowk.
INR 600, 1 hour

2:00PM

Shikara Ride on Dal Lake

Experience a peaceful shikara ride on the picturesque Dal Lake, surrounded by mountains.
Head to Dal Lake, a short drive from the restaurant.
INR 500 per person, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Mughal Gardens

Explore the stunning Nishat and Shalimar Gardens, known for their stunning Mughal architecture.
A quick drive from Dal Lake.
INR 50, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Famous Dawat

Relax over an authentic Kashmiri Wazwan, a traditional multi-course meal.
Easily accessible from your hotel.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Exploration Day

Srinagar, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast featuring toast, eggs, and a variety of fruits.
In the hotel restaurant.
INR 350, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Jamia Masjid

Wander through the mesmerizing architecture of this historic mosque, a symbol of Kashmiri culture.
Within the old city area, travel via local taxi.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore the Old City Markets

Stroll through local bazaars where authentic handicrafts, pashmina, and saffron are sold.
Walking distance from the mosque.
Free to explore (shopping optional), 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Al-Ittehad Hotel

Have a delightful meal filled with regional specialties such as Kebabs and Biryani.
In the city center.
INR 600, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Pari Mahal

Enjoy the beautiful architecture and panoramic views of Srinagar from this heritage site.
Short drive from city center.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Shamyana Restaurant

Experience a cozy dinner featuring local specialties with a stunning view of Dal Lake.
Close to Dal Lake.
INR 700, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Adventure Awaits

Gulmarg, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a traditional breakfast of roti, cheese, and local garden vegetables.
In the hotel dining area.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Gulmarg

Journey to Gulmarg, famed for its scenic beauty and adventure activities, especially during winters.
About a 2-hour drive from Srinagar.
INR 1600 (taxi), 2 hours

11:30AM

Check-In and Lunch at Hotel

Enjoy a warm Kashmiri meal upon arrival at your hotel.
At your hotel in Gulmarg.
INR 500, 1 hour

1:00PM

Gulmarg Gondola Ride

Take a breathtaking cable car ride up to Khilanmarg, offering panoramic views and photo opportunities.
The gondola station is close to your hotel.
INR 900, 2 hours

3:30PM

Explore the Meadows

Wander the lush meadows; during winter, enjoy skiing lessons offered in the region.
Direct access from the gondola and hotel area.
Free (skiing lessons extra), 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Hilltop

End your day with a hearty meal featuring local Lamb curry.
At your hotel.
INR 600, 1 hour
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Day 7: Nature's Paradise

Pahalgam, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Relish a breakfast of parathas, eggs, and seasonal fruits.
In the hotel dining area.
INR 350, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Pahalgam

Drive to Pahalgam, a charming town by the bank of Lidder River surrounded by pine forests.
A picturesque 2.5-hour drive.
INR 1500 (taxi), 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Check-In and Lunch at Hotel

Enjoy lunch featuring local trout and fresh salads.
At your hotel in Pahalgam.
INR 500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Lidder River Activities

Engage in some fishing or river-side relaxation by the Lidder River.
Direct access from the hotel.
INR 300 (fishing gear rental), 3 hours

5:00PM

Visit Betaab Valley

Explore the stunning Betaab Valley, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes.
A short taxi ride from the hotel.
INR 100, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Hotel

End your adventure with a classic Kashmiri meal of paneer and rice.
Returning to your hotel.
INR 600, 1 hour
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Day 8: Adventurous Excursions

Pahalgam, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Savor a breakfast spread including pancakes, fruits, and local jams.
In your hotel.
INR 350, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Aru Valley

Take a day trip to Aru Valley, known for its picturesque landscapes and trekking opportunities.
Hire a local taxi or shuttle from your hotel.
INR 700 (taxi), 30 minutes

10:30AM

Trekking in Aru Valley

Enjoy a guided trek exploring the lush green surroundings and stunning views.
There are guided treks available directly in Aru.
INR 1500 (guide fees), 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Local Dhabha

Refuel with a hearty meal including local rice and chicken curry.
At a local eatery in Aru.
INR 500, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Betaab Valley Again

Return to Betaab Valley for more breathtaking views and relaxation.
After lunch, return to Betaab Valley.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Hill-Top Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious blend of continental and Kashmiri cuisine to wrap up your day.
Back at your hotel.
INR 700, 1 hour
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Day 9: Historical Journey

Avantipur, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Indulge in a breakfast of traditional Kashmiri bread with butter and local tea.
In your hotel restaurant.
INR 350, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Avantipur

Drive to Avantipur to explore its ancient temple ruins, an important part of Kashmiri history.
Approximately a 1 hour drive from Pahalgam.
INR 800 (taxi), 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Avantipur Temples

Explore the remnants of ancient temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Shiva.
Walking through the historic site.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Local Restaurant

Enjoy traditional vegetarian meals featuring local greens and lentils.
In a restaurant just outside the temple site.
INR 500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Local Village

Engage with locals and learn about their way of life in a nearby village.
Just a short walk from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Return to Pahalgam

Head back to Pahalgam for a relaxed evening.
Tax ride back to Pahalgam.
INR 800 (taxi), 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Hotel

Conclude your day with a Kashmiri feast at your hotel.
In-house dining.
INR 600, 1 hour
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Day 10: Return Journey

Katra, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy your final breakfast, sampling the last of the Kashmiri flavors.
At your hotel.
INR 350, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel back to Katra

Begin your journey back to Katra, reflecting on your incredible adventure.
A 2.5-hour drive.
INR 1500 (taxi), 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Arrive and Lunch at Manhas Dhaba

Once arrived, satiate your hunger with hearty North Indian food.
Close to the Katra bus stand.
INR 400, 1 hour

1:30PM

Relax and Walk Around Katra

Spend the afternoon relaxing and enjoying the vibrant local ambiance.
Walking around the market area.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Final Dinner at Gaurav Restaurant

Enjoy one last meal featuring a mix of North Indian and Kashmiri flavors.
Located in the heart of Katra.
INR 600, 1 hour

6:00PM

Departure

Wrap up your journey as you prepare for your departure, carrying beautiful memories.
Head to the transportation hub.
N/A, N/A
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