Budget-Friendly 5-Day Relaxation Itinerary in Kashmir

Day 1: Srinagar Exploration

Srinagar, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ahdoos Restaurant

Start your day with traditional Kashmiri breakfast of 'Kashmiri Pulao' and 'Kashmiri Chai' at this popular local spot.
Located in the heart of Srinagar, it's an easy walk from most hotel accommodations.
INR250, 1 hour

9:30AM

Shikara Ride on Dal Lake

Enjoy a serene shikara ride, gliding over the famous Dal Lake while soaking in the stunning views of the mountains and houseboats.
Board the shikara from Lal Ghat, a short walk from Ahdoos.
INR500, 2 hours

12:00PM

Visit Mughal Gardens

Spend your afternoon in the lush gardens of Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh, immersing yourself in Mughal architecture and vibrant flowers.
Hire a shared taxi from Dal Lake for an inexpensive transfer to the gardens.
INR200, 3 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Shamyana Restaurant

Feast on local cuisine with a view of the Dal Lake at Shamyana, where you can try 'Rogan Josh' or 'Dum Aloo'.
Take a local bus or shared taxi back towards the city centre.
INR400, 1 hour

5:00PM

Explore Local Markets

Wander through Lal Chowk and the Old City, picking up local handicrafts and souvenirs while engaging with friendly locals.
Easily accessible by foot from Shamyana.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Mahi's Kitchen

End your day with freshly made 'Nihari' or vegetarian specialties in a cozy, budget-friendly eatery.
Located near the city centre, a short walk from the markets.
INR300, 1 hour
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Day 2: Nature Retreat in Pahalgam

Pahalgam, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Blossom

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast of fresh fruits, toast, and omelettes before heading out to Pahalgam.
Located near your accommodation in Srinagar.
INR200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Pahalgam

Catch a local bus to Pahalgam, a picturesque town nestled in the Lidder Valley.
Buses leave regularly from Srinagar's bus stand.
INR300, 2 hours

12:00PM

Visit Betaab Valley

Explore Betaab Valley, famous for its breathtaking scenery and tranquil atmosphere.
Take a shared taxi from Pahalgam for a short, budget-friendly ride.
INR100, 3 hours

3:00PM

Lunch Picnic

Pack a picnic with local fruits and snacks from Pahalgam's market and enjoy eating amidst nature.
Pick up supplies from the local market before heading to the valley.
INR150, 1 hour

5:00PM

Rafting on Lidder River

Experience an exhilarating rafting session on the Lidder River for an adrenaline rush.
Outfitters are available near the riverbank in Pahalgam.
INR800, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at The Bellflower

Dine on delicious 'Kashmiri Dum Aloo' and 'Kashmiri Yakhni' while soaking in Pahalgam's ambiance.
Just a short walk from the riverbank restaurants.
INR350, 1 hour
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Day 3: Adventure in Gulmarg

Gulmarg, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Green View

Enjoy a warm breakfast with local bread and butter before heading to Gulmarg.
You can find this delightful eatery near your hotel in Pahalgam.
INR200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Gulmarg

Catch a shared taxi from Pahalgam to Gulmarg and enjoy beautiful scenery on the way.
Shared taxis are easily accessible from Pahalgam's main square.
INR400, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Gulmarg Cable Car Ride

Take the famous Gulmarg Gondola ride, which offers breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks.
The ticket counter is located at the base, easily reached from the taxi drop-off.
INR700, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at The Hilltop Cafe

Enjoy a cozy lunch with 'Aloo-Gobhi' and warming 'Kashmiri Tea' at this cafe surrounded by nature.
Located right by the Gondola station.
INR350, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore the meadows

Spend time strolling through the lush meadows of Gulmarg, taking in the beauty and photography spots.
Easily navigable on foot from the cafe.
Free, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Return to Pahalgam

Head back to Pahalgam for a relaxing evening.
Catch a shared taxi back to Pahalgam from Gulmarg.
INR400, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at The Dine Restaurant

Savor a night of traditional dining as you enjoy Roti and Paneer Tikka at this budget-friendly restaurant.
Located centrally in Pahalgam.
INR300, 1 hour
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Day 4: Scenic Sonmarg

Sonmarg, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Pahalgam Bakery

Grab some fresh baked goods and coffee from a local bakery before heading out.
Conveniently located in Pahalgam.
INR150, 30 minutes

8:00AM

Travel to Sonmarg

Take a shared taxi to the stunning valley of Sonmarg, surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
Shared taxis are widely available early in the day.
INR400, 3 hours

11:30AM

Explore Thajiwas Glacier

Hike or pony ride to Thajiwas Glacier, known for its magnificent views and soft snow.
Local pony services can be hired upon arrival.
INR1500 for pony ride, 2.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at a Local Eatery

Have a filling meal at a local eatery and taste 'Mutton Rogan Josh' with rice.
Local options are available near the Glacier.
INR300, 1 hour

3:30PM

Relax by the River

Unwind for a while by the Sindh river and absorb the peaceful surroundings.
Easily reachable by foot from the eatery.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Return to Pahalgam

Travel back to Pahalgam and relax in the evening.
Take a shared taxi back from Sonmarg.
INR400, 3 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at The Riverside Restaurant

Enjoy a peaceful dinner by the river, indulging in local favorites like Chicken Curry.
Located centrally in Pahalgam.
INR350, 1 hour
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Day 5: Srinagar Leisure Day

Srinagar, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Start your final day with breakfast from your hotel or try 'Kashmiri Wazwan' at a local diner.
Easily accessible from your lodging.
INR200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Jamia Masjid

Experience the beautiful architecture of Jamia Masjid and spend some time in quiet reflection.
A short walk from your hotel in Srinagar.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Pharmacy Street Exploration

Explore the local artisans and vendors along Pharmacy Street, where you can find great handmade souvenirs.
Easy walk from the masjid.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Yemberzal Restaurant

Indulge in authentic Kashmiri cuisine such as 'Fish Chris' alongside beautiful lake views.
Located on the outskirts of the main city.
INR500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Kashmir Handicrafts Showroom

Discover local handicrafts and textiles, where you can find unique gifts to take home.
Nearby to the restaurant, easily walkable.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Final Sunset at Dal Lake

End your Kashmir journey watching the sunset over Dal Lake, a truly iconic experience.
Head back to Dal Lake by foot.
Free, 1 hour

8:00PM

Farewell Dinner at The Royal Dal Restaurant

Enjoy a relaxed farewell dinner with a view, indulging in local specialties like 'Kashmiri Pilaf'.
Located along the Dal Lake promenade.
INR600, 1.5 hours
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