Family Fun in the Enchanting Kashmir: 8-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Srinagar

Srinagar, India

9:00AM

Shikara Ride

Start your day with a serene Shikara ride on Dal Lake, an unforgettable experience surrounded by the stunning mountains.
From your hotel, take a short walk to the Dal Lake.
INR 1500, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Mughal Gardens

Explore the famous Mughal Gardens, such as Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh, where the kids can run around amidst beautiful flowers and fountains.
Drive 15 minutes from Dal Lake to the gardens.
INR 100, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Ahdoos

Enjoy a delicious Kashmiri lunch featuring Rogan Josh and Dum Aloo at Ahdoos Restaurant.
Head 10 minutes by car to Ahdoos.
INR 2000, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Local Markets

Wander through local markets to shop for pashmina shawls and handicrafts, where children can learn about local culture and craftsmanship.
Short drive to Lal Chowk market area.
Free (shopping optional), 2 hours

5:30PM

Evening walk at Dal Lake

End the day with a peaceful evening walk by the Dal Lake while admiring the sunset reflecting on the water.
Return to the Dal Lake area.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 2: Adventure in Gulmarg

Gulmarg, India

7:30AM

Drive to Gulmarg

Depart early for Gulmarg, known for its lush green meadows and snow-capped peaks; it’s perfect for a family day out.
Drive 2 hours from Srinagar to Gulmarg.
Free, 2 hours

9:30AM

Gulmarg Gondola

Experience the exhilarating Gulmarg Gondola ride to Khilanmarg, offering stunning views and exciting photo opportunities.
Head to the Gondola station.
INR 800, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Hilltop

Enjoy a cozy lunch at Hotel Hilltop, offering local and international cuisines; try their pizza for kids!
Walk to the restaurant from the gondola station.
INR 1500, 1 hour

2:00PM

Enjoy Activities at Gulmarg

Let the kids enjoy activities like horse riding or nature walks in the beautiful meadows; the adults can join in the fun!
Head to the meadows from the restaurant.
INR 600 for activities, 2.5 hours

4:30PM

Return to Srinagar

Make your way back to Srinagar to relax after a day of adventure.
Drive back to Srinagar.
Free, 2 hours
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Day 3: Scenic Pahalgam

Pahalgam, India

8:00AM

Drive to Pahalgam

After breakfast, take a scenic drive to Pahalgam, known for its breathtaking beauty and lush landscapes.
Travel approximately 2.5 hours from Srinagar to Pahalgam.
Free, 2.5 hours

10:30AM

Betab Valley

Visit the stunning Betaab Valley, where kids can run freely and enjoy the scenic beauty.
Take a short drive to Betaab Valley from Pahalgam.
INR 300, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pahalgam Hotel

Savor a family-friendly lunch at the Pahalgam Hotel, offering a variety of dishes, including vegetarian options.
Drive back to Pahalgam town for lunch.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Aru Valley

Explore the picturesque Aru Valley, where you can rent ponies for a family ride in the stunning countryside.
Short drive from Pahalgam to Aru Valley.
INR 1200 for pony rides, 2 hours

5:00PM

Return to Pahalgam and Leisure

Head back to your accommodation for some leisure time, letting the kids unwind after the day's adventures.
Drive back to Pahalgam.
Free, 30 minutes
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Day 4: Exploring Sonmarg

Sonmarg, India

8:00AM

Drive to Sonmarg

After breakfast, embark on a drive to Sonmarg, known as the ‘Meadow of Gold’ for its mesmerizing beauty.
Drive 3 hours from Pahalgam to Sonmarg.
Free, 3 hours

11:30AM

Thajiwas Glacier

Trek to Thajiwas Glacier, where kids can play in the snow and adults can sip some hot chai at the cozy huts.
Take a local pony ride to the glacier point.
INR 1800 for pony ride, 2.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch Picnic at Sonmarg

Enjoy a hearty picnic lunch amidst breathtaking views; pack sandwiches and snacks for a fun family meal.
Find a scenic spot near the glacier.
INR 800 (provisions), 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Local Market

Explore the local market at Sonmarg to pick up unique souvenirs and enjoy local handicrafts.
Drive back to Sonmarg market area.
Free (shopping optional), 1 hour

4:30PM

Return to Pahalgam

Travel back to Pahalgam for a restful evening after the invigorating day in Sonmarg.
Drive back to your hotel in Pahalgam.
Free, 3 hours
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Day 5: Back to Srinagar

Srinagar, India

9:00AM

Return to Srinagar

Leisurely breakfast followed by a drive back to Srinagar, giving you time to relax and soak in the views.
Drive approximately 2.5 hours back to Srinagar.
Free, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Boulevard Restaurant

Savor lunch with a view at Boulevard Restaurant, known for its Kashmiri dishes, especially the Yakhni.
Short drive to Boulevard Road area.
INR 2000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Shankaracharya Temple

Climb the steps up to Shankaracharya Temple which provides panoramic views of Srinagar; this is a rewarding experience for the family.
Drive to the temple's base.
INR 50, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit the local museum

Explore the local heritage museum to learn more about Kashmiri culture and history—a fun educational break for kids.
Short drive to the museum area.
INR 100, 1 hour

6:00PM

Relax at Hotel

Spend the evening relaxing at your hotel, maybe take a swim if your hotel offers it.
Return to your hotel for evening leisure.
Free, 2 hours
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Day 6: Wildlife Day

Dachigam Park, India

7:00AM

Drive to Dachigam National Park

Begin the day early to explore the breathtaking Dachigam National Park, home to the endangered Hangul deer.
Drive about 1 hour from Srinagar to the park.
Free, 1 hour

8:30AM

Morning Safari

Set off on a guided morning safari to spot various wildlife and learn about the local ecology, a thrilling adventure for the whole family.
Head to the safari starting point in the park.
INR 1500 for guide, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Local Dhaba

Enjoy a simple yet tasty meal at a local dhaba near the park, offering authentic local flavors.
Return to a nearby dhaba.
INR 800, 1 hour

2:00PM

Post-lunch Exploration

Spend the afternoon exploring the park on foot, spotting more wildlife and enjoying the serene landscape.
Follow the guided trails within the park.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Return to Srinagar

Head back to Srinagar for an evening of leisure or maybe some shopping.
Drive back to Srinagar.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 7: Srinagar Culture Day

Srinagar, India

8:30AM

Visit Pari Mahal

Start your day at Pari Mahal, known as the ‘Palace of Fairies,’ for a cultural and historical experience with beautiful gardens.
Short drive to Pari Mahal.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Kashmiri Handicraft Workshops

Participate in a family-friendly handicraft workshop to learn about traditional Kashmiri crafts, promoting creativity in the kids.
Head to a local workshop.
INR 2000 for family, 2.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Mughal Darbar

Savor authentic Kashmiri cuisine at Mughal Darbar; their Wazwan menu is a must-try!
Located near the workshop area.
INR 1800, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Shikara Cycling

Enjoy a unique experience of cycling on Dal Lake on the shikara pedal boats, a fun activity for all ages.
Return to Dal Lake area.
INR 600, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit Local Craft Market

Stroll through the local craft market to pick up more souvenirs, handmade items, and artisan goods.
Head to the main market area nearby.
Free (shopping optional), 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Departure

Srinagar, India

8:00AM

Leisurely Breakfast

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at the hotel, savoring the last tastes of Kashmir.
At your hotel.
Free, 1 hour

9:30AM

Departure

Wrap up your delightful Kashmir trip with a fond farewell as you head to Srinagar Airport for your onward journey.
Drive to Srinagar Airport, around 30 minutes from your hotel.
Free, 30 minutes
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