4-Day Relaxation and Nature Adventure in Kashmir on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Srinagar Serenity

Srinagar, India

9:00AM

Breakfast at Ahdoos Hotel

Start your day with a hearty Kashmiri breakfast featuring 'Lassi' and 'Aloo Paratha' at the local favourite, Ahdoos Hotel.
Walk to any nearby houseboat for a serene view.
INR 250, 1 hour

10:30AM

Shikara Ride on Dal Lake

Enjoy a peaceful Shikara ride on the iconic Dal Lake, surrounded by the breathtaking Himalayan mountains.
Local boatmen will guide you to the rental area.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Leisurely Stroll at Mughal Gardens

Visit the beautiful Mughal Gardens, Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh, and absorb the tranquil surroundings bursting with floral beauty.
A short cab ride or auto-rickshaw can get you there.
INR 100, 2 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Shamyana Restaurant

Feast on some delightful Rogan Josh and Kashmiri naan at Shamyana, known for its authentic local dishes.
10-minute auto-rickshaw ride from Mughal Gardens.
INR 400, 1 hour

4:30PM

Visit the Local Markets

Wander through the bustling handicrafts markets at Lal Chowk, perfect for souvenirs and interacting with local vendors.
Walk from the restaurant to Lal Chowk.
Free, unless you choose to shop, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Pavilion

Savour delicious Kashmiri dum aloo and rice at The Pavilion, home to a warm atmosphere.
Short walk from the market.
INR 350, 1 hour
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Day 2: Gulmarg Getaway

Gulmarg, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Hilltop

Fuel your energy with a simple breakfast at Hotel Hilltop before heading off for the day.
9 AM bus from Srinagar to Gulmarg.
INR 200, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Gulmarg Ski Resort

Enjoy the stunning landscapes at Gulmarg Ski Resort, perfect even during the off-season to soak in nature's beauty.
Follow the signs to the resort upon arrival.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Khilji Restaurant

Indulge in a wholesome meal of Kashmiri dumplings and dal at the cozy Khilji Restaurant.
Just a short walk from the resort.
INR 350, 1 hour

2:30PM

Nature Walk through Gulmarg Meadows

Take a relaxed stroll through the lush meadows, a perfect way to admire the local flora and fauna.
Follow marked trails, maps available at the visitor centre.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Evening Tea at Hilltop Café

Wind down with some chai and local snacks at Hilltop Café while enjoying panoramic views.
Just nearby the meadows.
INR 150, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Grand Mumtaz

Wrap up your day with a simple yet satisfying meal of kebabs and bread at Grand Mumtaz.
Short walk from the café.
INR 300, 1 hour
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Day 3: Pahalgam Peace

Pahalgam, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel Hilltop

Start the day early with a filling breakfast at the hotel before venturing to Pahalgam.
Bus from Gulmarg to Pahalgam is available.
INR 200, 1 hour

9:00AM

Betab Valley Exploration

Explore the picturesque Betab Valley, known for its lush meadows and clear streaming waters, ideal for relaxation.
Take a local taxi or shared vehicle from Pahalgam.
INR 100, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Doodh Ganga Restaurant

Savour local fish dishes and rice with a view of the beautiful river at Doodh Ganga Restaurant.
Return back to Pahalgam town area for lunch.
INR 400, 1 hour

2:00PM

River Rafting in Lidder River

Experience the thrill of river rafting in the gentle rapids of the Lidder River, a fantastic way to engage with nature.
Available through local operators in Pahalgam.
INR 800, 2 hours

5:00PM

Evening Walk along Lidder River

Stroll along the banks of Lidder River while enjoying the sunset views, reflecting upon the day's adventure.
Walk down from the rafting point.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Trout Stream

Enjoy freshly grilled trout while listening to the soothing sounds of the river as you dine at The Trout Stream.
A pleasant walk back into town.
INR 500, 1 hour
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Day 4: Return to Srinagar

Srinagar, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Garden Cafe

Enjoy a light breakfast with local pastries at The Garden Cafe, setting the tone for a relaxing journey back.
Bus back to Srinagar is available from Pahalgam.
INR 200, 1 hour

9:00AM

Return to Srinagar

Board the bus back to Srinagar and enjoy the scenic journey through the valleys.
Check local bus schedules for departure times.
INR 300, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Surya Resorts

Enjoy a buffet-style lunch featuring a variety of local dishes at Surya Resorts, perfect before your journey's end.
Short taxi ride from the bus station.
INR 450, 1 hour

2:00PM

Shopping in Srinagar

Spend your last few hours shopping for Kashmiri shawls, carpets, and spices at the local markets.
Walking distance from the restaurant.
Free, unless you choose to shop, 2 hours

4:30PM

Coffee at Coffee House

Relax and enjoy some local Kashmiri tea or coffee at the Coffee House, reflecting on the trip.
A brief walk from the market.
INR 100, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Mughal Darbar

Wrap up your Kashmir experience with a sumptuous meal of kebabs and biryani at Mughal Darbar.
Short walk from Coffee House.
INR 500, 1 hour
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