8-Day Adventure and Nature Itinerary in Kashmir

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Srinagar, India

10:00AM

Shikara Ride on Dal Lake

Begin your adventure with a serene Shikara ride on Dal Lake, enjoying the stunning views of the Himalayas and traditional houseboats.
Head to Dal Lake from your hotel, which should be located in the city center.
INR1000, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ahdoos Restaurant

Savor authentic Kashmiri cuisine such as Rogan Josh and Dum Aloo while enjoying the warm ambiance.
Located near the Lal Chowk market.
INR800, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Mughal Gardens

Marvel at the stunning architecture and meticulously maintained gardens at Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh.
The gardens are 15-20 minutes' drive from the city center.
INR100, 2 hours

6:00PM

Explore Old City

Walk through the narrow lanes of the Old City, visiting Jamia Masjid and experiencing local life.
1.5 kilometers from the gardens, a short taxi ride.
Free, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Lalit Grand Palace

Enjoy a lavish dinner with local dishes while overlooking the Dal Lake.
Return to Dal Lake and dine at the palace hotel.
INR1500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Gulmarg Adventure

Gulmarg, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast to prepare for a day full of adventure in Gulmarg.
Quickly pack and check out from your Srinagar hotel before heading to Gulmarg.
Included in stay, 1 hour

10:00AM

Gulmarg Gondola Ride

Experience a thrilling gondola ride, one of the highest in the world, providing breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains.
Take a taxi from Srinagar to Gulmarg, which is about 2 hours away.
INR1000, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Club House

Relish some delicious local vegetarian dishes with stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
Located conveniently near the gondola station.
INR800, 1 hour

3:00PM

Nature Walk and Photography

Embark on an invigorating nature walk, perfect for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Explore the trails around Gulmarg, easily accessible from the restaurant.
Free, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Hilltop Hotel

End your day with a cozy dinner featuring exquisite Kashmiri dishes amidst stunning views.
Drive to the Hilltop Hotel, approximately 20 minutes from the walking trails.
INR1200, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Pahalgam Views

Pahalgam, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Indulge in a local breakfast before heading to Pahalgam, known for its lush greenery and scenic landscapes.
Check out from your Gulmarg hotel.
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Pahalgam

Drive to Pahalgam, taking in the mesmerizing mountain views along the way.
Traveling distance is approximately 140 kilometers; plan for 4 hours.
Taxi Fare, 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Riverside Restaurant

Enjoy a delightful riverfront lunch with local specialties while enjoying the flowing Beas River beside you.
Situated along the banks of Lidder River.
INR900, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Betaab Valley

Spend the afternoon exploring Betaab Valley, renowned for its lush landscapes and Bollywood film shoots.
A short taxi ride from Pahalgam takes around 15 minutes.
INR400, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Trout Beat

Savor freshly caught trout cooked to perfection at this popular local restaurant.
Return to Pahalgam town for dining.
INR1200, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Exploring Sonamarg

Sonamarg, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Feast on a filling breakfast before departing for Sonamarg, known for its natural beauty.
Check out from your Pahalgam accommodation.
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Sonamarg

Enjoy a scenic drive to Sonamarg through picturesque valleys and up to the mountain ranges.
Approximately a 3-hour drive of around 70 kilometers.
Taxi Fare, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Glacier Resort

Relish a hearty meal at the Glacier Resort amidst the enchanting landscapes of Sonamarg.
Located just outside the main town area.
INR1000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Trek to Thajiwas Glacier

Experience an exhilarating trek to Thajiwas Glacier, where you can see stunning glaciers up close.
Hiring a local guide is recommended.
INR3000 (guide fee), 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Hotel Hilltop

Culminate your adventurous day with dinner while enjoying mesmerizing views of the surrounding mountains.
Return to Sonamarg and choose the hotel dining option.
INR1200, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Exploring the Betaab Valley

Pahalgam, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Recharge with a nourishing breakfast to prepare for another day filled with natural exploration.
Check out from the previous hotel in Sonamarg.
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Return to Pahalgam

Drive back to Pahalgam and enjoy the beautiful route covered with lush green forests.
Approximately 3 hours of travel.
Taxi Fare, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Hilltop Hotel

Dine at the popular Hilltop Hotel, featuring panoramic views of Pahalgam.
Conveniently located in Pahalgam.
INR800, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Aru Valley

Explore the calm and picturesque Aru Valley, perfect for nature walks and photography.
Easily accessible with 12 km drive from Pahalgam.
Free, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Trout House

Enjoy fresh fish preparations in a rustic and traditional setting.
Return to Pahalgam town for dinner.
INR900, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Nature Retreat at Aru Valley

Aru Valley, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your Pahalgam hotel before a day at Aru Valley.
Checking out and transferring to Aru Valley area fit for easy exploration.
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Discover Aru Valley

Stroll through the beautiful meadows and serene landscapes, ideal for nature lovers.
Explore on foot or hire a pony for an exhilarating experience.
Free or pony fee INR800, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Local Dhaba

Enjoy authentic village-style food at a local dhaba (roadside eatery) with friendly locals.
Look for one along the main road.
INR500, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Aru Wildlife Sanctuary

Explore rich biodiversity by visiting the wildlife sanctuary in Aru Valley.
A short hike to reach the entrance of the sanctuary.
INR200, 4 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Scenic Family Restaurant

Wind down with another wonderful meal, featuring regional dishes.
Option to ask for home-cooked local meals.
INR1000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Serene Dal Lake Experience

Srinagar, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel in Pahalgam

Enjoy your breakfast and prepare for scenic travel back to Srinagar.
Check out and drive back to Srinagar.
Included in stay, 1 hour

10:30AM

Traditional Spice Market Tour

Wander through Srinagar's spice markets, absorbing the local culture and vibrant atmosphere.
Explore the famous Lal Chowk area market.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Kafe Dastaan

Savor the famous Kashmiri Biryani in a casual ambiance.
Located in the alleys of the old city.
INR800, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Shankaracharya Temple

Climb to the temple atop Shankaracharya Hill to witness awe-inspiring views of Srinagar.
A 30-minute taxi ride to the base of the hill.
INR200, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Houseboat

Experience the famous houseboat dining on Dal Lake with delectable Kashmiri Wazwan.
Return to the houseboat for an utterly unique experience.
INR1500, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Departure Day

Srinagar, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Houseboat

Enjoy one last breakfast on the houseboat while soaking in the views.
Relax and prepare for check-out.
Included in stay, 1 hour

10:00AM

Relax and Store Luggage

Take a final stroll around the lakes and savor your surroundings before check-out.
Luggage can be stored at hotel or houseboat while you explore.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Shahrukh Hotel

Enjoy a closing meal filled with traditional dishes before your flight.
Located near the airport for convenience.
INR800, 1 hour

2:00PM

Departure from Srinagar

Head to the airport with lasting memories of Kashmir's beauty.
Travel to Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport, roughly a 30-minute drive.
Taxi Fare, 1 hour
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