5-Day Kashmir Adventure: Explore Dal Lake, Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Sonmarg, and Aru Valley

Day 1: Srinagar Serenity

Srinagar, India

8:00AM

Shikara Ride on Dal Lake

Start your day with a serene shikara ride on the picturesque Dal Lake, where you can admire floating gardens and local houseboats.
Board a shikara from the Dal Lake jetty, typically found near your accommodation.
INR1200, 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit Mughal Gardens

Explore the beautiful Mughal gardens – Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh, known for their stunning terraced lawns and intricate flower beds.
Take a short taxi ride of around 30 minutes.
INR100, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ahdoos Restaurant

Enjoy authentic Kashmiri cuisine at Ahdoos, famous for its Rogan Josh and Yakhni.
Located in the heart of Srinagar, easily reachable by taxi.
INR800, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Local Markets

Stroll through the local bazaars, including Lal Chowk, to shop for traditional handicrafts and saffron.
A short taxi ride will take you to Lal Chowk.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Chashme Shahi

Have a delightful dinner at The Chashme Shahi with views of the gardens and lake, perfect for unwinding.
Back near the Dal Lake, well-known for its ambiance.
INR1000, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Pahalgam Paradise

Pahalgam, India

8:00AM

Early Morning Drive to Pahalgam

Depart for Pahalgam, nestled in the Lidder Valley, while enjoying breathtaking views along the way.
A taxi ride of about 2.5 hours through stunning landscapes.
INR3000, 2.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Betaab Valley

Discover the stunning Betaab Valley, renowned for its lush green meadows, and crystal-clear streams.
Take a short taxi ride from Pahalgam, approximately 15 minutes.
INR500, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Riverside

Enjoy a riverside lunch at The Riverside, offering a scenic atmosphere and local dishes.
Nearby the banks of Lidder River.
INR800, 1 hour

3:00PM

Horse Riding at Aru Valley

Experience the thrill of horseback riding through the stunning landscapes of Aru Valley.
Round trip taxi ride from Pahalgam takes roughly 30 minutes.
INR1500, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Dogra Rasoi

Savor the flavors of regional cuisine at Dogra Rasoi, known for its traditional Kashmiri dishes.
Easily accessible in Pahalgam town.
INR900, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Gulmarg Retreat

Gulmarg, India

8:00AM

Drive to Gulmarg

Travel to Gulmarg, famous for its beautiful landscapes and skiing opportunities.
Enjoy a taxi ride of around 1.5 hours.
INR2000, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Gulmarg Gondola Ride

Take a thrilling gondola ride to Khilanmarg and enjoy views of snow-capped mountains.
Located at the Gulmarg Resort, accessible by foot upon arrival.
INR1000, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Hilltop

Have a lovely lunch at Hotel Hilltop, famous for its warm atmosphere and local Kashmiri dishes.
A short walk from the gondola station.
INR900, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Gulmarg Meadows

Walk or take a leisurely hike through the breathtaking meadows of Gulmarg, abundant in wildflowers.
Easily accessible, just step outside the hotel.
Free, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Vintage

Dine at The Vintage, a cozy restaurant offering a curated menu of local cuisine alongside stunning views.
A short walk from the main area.
INR1100, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Sonmarg Exploration

Sonmarg, India

8:00AM

Depart for Sonmarg

Head towards Sonmarg, a land of meadows, glaciers, and pristine beauty.
A scenic taxi ride of about 3 hours.
INR3500, 3 hours

11:00AM

Visit Thajiwas Glacier

Trek or take a pony ride to Thajiwas Glacier, a captivating experience amid dramatic landscapes.
Arrangements for pony rides can be made upon arrival in Sonmarg.
INR1200, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Sunny Side

Eat lunch at Sunny Side, known for its inviting atmosphere and hearty meals.
Located conveniently near the main attractions.
INR800, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit the Sindh River

Spend your afternoon by the beautiful Sindh River, relax among nature or try fishing.
Easy access from Sonmarg center.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Glacier View Hotel

Enjoy a cozy dinner with views of the glacier and diverse Kashmiri cuisine.
Situated right in Sonmarg.
INR1000, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Aru Valley Adventure

Aru Valley, India

8:00AM

Drive to Aru Valley

Travel to Aru Valley, known for its stunning natural beauty and adventure activities.
A short taxi ride from Pahalgam takes around 30 minutes.
INR800, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Aru Valley Trekking

Enjoy an early morning trek in the picturesque Aru Valley, taking in the unspoiled views.
Follow local trails; guides can be hired locally.
INR1500, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Aru Café

Refuel with a hearty lunch at Aru Café, known for its fresh, local ingredients.
Easy walk through the valley.
INR500, 1 hour

3:00PM

Fishing at Aru River

Try your hand at fishing in the adjacent Aru River, a serene and refreshing experience.
Fishing spots are easily reachable by foot.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Café 1947

Wrap up your journey with a cozy dinner at Café 1947, which offers a fusion of local and international dishes.
Located back in Pahalgam a short taxi ride away.
INR800, 1.5 hours
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