5-Day Itinerary for Jammu and Kashmir: Natural Wonders and Cultural Riches

Day 1: Explore Jammu

Jammu, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Karan's

Start the day with a hearty breakfast at Karan's, famous for its traditional Jammu breakfast of Aloo Paratha and curd.
Located in the bustling part of the city, just a short drive from main attractions.
INR 200, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Raghunath Temple

Explore the magnificent Raghunath Temple, known for its beautiful architecture and divine ambience.
A 10-minute drive from the breakfast spot.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30 AM

Visit Ranbireshwar Temple

Experience the serene atmosphere at Ranbireshwar Temple, noted for one of the largest Shiv Lingas.
Just a 5-minute drive from the Raghunath Temple.
Free, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Lunch at Punjabi Dhaba

Enjoy a delicious North Indian lunch featuring Butter Chicken and more at Punjabi Dhaba, a local favourite.
A 15-minute taxi ride from Ranbireshwar Temple.
INR 600, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Explore Bahu Fort

Head to Bahu Fort for its historical significance, scenic views of the river Tawi, and serene gardens.
A 15-minute drive from the lunch spot.
INR 100, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Shree Hari Market

Spend some time shopping in Shree Hari Market for local handicrafts and souvenirs.
A 20-minute drive from Bahu Fort.
Varies, 2 hours

8:00 PM

Dinner at Dal Roti

Savour local flavours with a classic Kashmiri dish, Rogan Josh at Dal Roti.
A short 10-minute drive from the market.
INR 700, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Visit Katra

Katra, India

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with a simple breakfast of toast and tea at your hotel before your trip to Katra.
Dining facility available in the hotel.
INR 200, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Travel to Katra

Travel to Katra, the base camp for the famous Vaishno Devi shrine.
It takes about 2 hours by private taxi.
INR 1500, 2 hours

10:30 AM

Trek to Vaishno Devi Temple

Start your trek (approx 13 km) to Vaishno Devi Temple, where you’ll experience breathtaking views and spirituality.
Follow the main trekking path to the temple.
Free, 5 hours

4:00 PM

Lunch at Bhawan

Enjoy a simple and wholesome meal at the local eateries near Vaishno Devi Temple.
Several eateries are available close to the temple.
INR 500, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Return Trek

Begin your descent back to Katra town to rest after a spiritually fulfilling day.
Use the same trekking path back.
Free, 4 hours

9:00 PM

Dinner at Sagar Ratna

Indulge in South Indian cuisine, especially Dosa and Uttapam, to replenish your energy.
Located near your accommodation in Katra.
INR 600, 1 hour
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Day 3: Discover Pahalgam

Pahalgam, India

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a fulfilling breakfast at your hotel featuring local delicacies like Chole Bhature.
Dining facility at the hotel.
INR 250, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Travel to Pahalgam

Travel to Pahalgam, a stunning valley town known for its natural beauty.
It takes about 2.5 hours by taxi.
INR 2000, 2.5 hours

11:00 AM

Betaab Valley

Visit Betaab Valley for its picturesque landscapes, ideal for photography and relaxation.
A 20-minute drive from Pahalgam town.
INR 200, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Royal Castle

Dine at Royal Castle, known for its Kashmiri Wazwan and stunning views.
Nearby the valley entrance.
INR 700, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Aru Valley

Explore Aru Valley, a serene area perfect for trekking and interacting with locals.
A short 30-minute drive from Royal Castle.
INR 100, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Lovers' Point

Relax at Lovers' Point, a scenic location for unwinding and soaking in the beauty of the surroundings.
A 15-minute drive from Aru Valley.
Free, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at Ayesha Restaurant

Replenish at Ayesha Restaurant with traditional Kashmiri dishes, particularly Yakhni.
Located in downtown Pahalgam.
INR 800, 1 hour
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Day 4: Admire Gulmarg

Gulmarg, India

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a great breakfast spread including local breads and jam at your hotel.
Included in your hotel stay.
INR 300, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Travel to Gulmarg

Travel to Gulmarg, a beautiful hill station known for its scenic beauty and skiing.
Approximately a 1.5-hour drive.
INR 1000, 1.5 hours

10:00 AM

Gulmarg Gondola Ride

Experience breathtaking views of the Himalayas with a gondola ride to Khilanmarg.
Tickets available at the base of the gondola lift.
INR 1000, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Hilltop Restaurant

Enjoy a delightful lunch with panoramic views of the snow-capped mountains.
Located near the gondola station.
INR 800, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Explore local sights

Discover local attractions including St. Mary’s Church and the meadows surrounding Gulmarg.
Easy to walk around and explore.
Free, 3 hours

5:30 PM

Return to Pahalgam

Travel back to Pahalgam in anticipation of the next day's adventure.
The drive takes about 2 hours.
INR 1000, 2 hours

8:00 PM

Dinner at Pahalgam Restaurant

Enjoy a relaxing dinner tasting local lamb and rice at Pahalgam Restaurant.
Located in the centre of Pahalgam.
INR 700, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Srinagar's Serenity

Srinagar, India

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a traditional Kashmiri breakfast of Kehwa (a local saffron tea) and bread.
Dining facility at the hotel.
INR 300, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Travel to Srinagar

Head to Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir.
Travel takes about 2.5 hours by taxi.
INR 1500, 2.5 hours

11:00 AM

Shikara Ride on Dal Lake

Experience a picturesque shikara ride on the stunning Dal Lake, surrounded by mountains.
Board at the Dal Lake jetty.
INR 800, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Ahdoos Restaurant

Savour authentic Kashmiri cuisine with a meal at Ahdoos, famous for its delectable Rogan Josh.
Located near Dal Lake.
INR 700, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Visit Mughal Gardens

Explore the beautiful Mughal Gardens, including Shalimar and Nishat Bagh, known for their stunning floral landscapes.
Easily accessible by taxi.
INR 500, 3 hours

5:00 PM

Shopping in Lal Chowk

Engage in local shopping at Lal Chowk for pashminas and handicrafts.
Close to the Mughal Gardens.
Varies, 2 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at The Chashme Shahi

Enjoy a farewell dinner at The Chashme Shahi with beautiful views over the garden and the city skyline.
Located in the vicinity of the gardens.
INR 900, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability