Epic Shoestring Budget Journey Through Kashmir

Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar

Srinagar, India

10:00AM

Check-in at a Budget Guesthouse

Settle into your budget guesthouse in Srinagar, which offers stunning views of Dal Lake.
Walk or take a local bus to the guesthouse from the airport.
INR800, 1 hour

12:00PM

Breakfast at Shamyana Restaurant

Enjoy a warm bowl of Kashmiri Porridge, a traditional comforting breakfast to start your day.
Short walk from the guesthouse.
INR150, 1 hour

1:00PM

Shikara Ride on Dal Lake

Experience the serenity of Dal Lake while paddling through its still waters on a traditional shikara.
Walk to the lakefront to find shikara operators.
INR500, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit Mughal Gardens

Explore the famous Mughal Gardens like Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh adorned with vibrant blooms.
Take a local bus or share a taxi to the gardens.
INR300, 3 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Ahdoos Restaurant

Savour authentic Kashmiri Rogan Josh at this popular eatery, recommended by locals.
Short taxi ride or walk back to the city.
INR600, 1 hour
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Day 2: Explore Pahalgam

Pahalgam, India

7:00AM

Take a Shared Taxi to Pahalgam

Travel to the picturesque Pahalgam, known for its lush green meadows and breathtaking views.
Board a shared taxi from the local taxi stand.
INR200, 2 hours

9:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel Hilltop

Enjoy a simple but delicious breakfast consisting of eggs and toast.
Walk to Hotel Hilltop from the taxi drop-off.
INR150, 1 hour

11:00AM

Horse Riding

Experience the stunning beauty of Pahalgam on horseback, a perfect way to see the scenic views.
Visit local horse rental shops.
INR800, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Aloha Restaurant

Relish a platter of local fish and chips that capture the essence of Kashmiri cuisine.
Short walk from the riding area.
INR300, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore Betaab Valley

Wander through Betaab Valley, a picturesque retreat perfect for nature lovers.
Take a local taxi or hike to the valley.
INR500, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Local Dhabha

Experience the heart of Indian food with a thali served at a roadside dhaba.
Walk to the nearest dhaba.
INR250, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Adventure in Gulmarg

Gulmarg, India

7:00AM

Take a Shared Taxi to Gulmarg

Travel to Gulmarg, known for its beautiful meadows and outdoor adventures.
Board a shared taxi from Pahalgam.
INR300, 2 hours

9:30AM

Breakfast at Value Inn

Fuel up with a warm cup of chai and a hearty omelette.
Short walk from the taxi stop.
INR150, 1 hour

11:00AM

Gulmarg Gondola Ride

Experience one of the highest cable cars in the world for magnificent views of the Himalayas.
Purchase tickets at the gondola station.
INR600, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Hub

Have a delightful vegetarian pizza to recharge your energy after the morning's activities.
Walk to the nearby restaurant.
INR350, 1 hour

3:00PM

Skiing or Snowboarding

If adventurous, try skiing or snowboarding in this winter paradise.
Rent equipment at the ski shop.
INR2000, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Khalid Restaurant

Enjoy a warm bowl of Kashmiri Yakhni with rice at this cozy restaurant.
Walk back from the ski area.
INR500, 1 hour
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Day 4: Scenic Sonamarg

Sonamarg, India

7:00AM

Travel to Sonamarg

Head to Sonamarg, a stunning valley noted for its breathtaking views.
Ride a local bus to Sonamarg.
INR300, 2 hours

9:30AM

Breakfast at a Local Dhaba

Enjoy a traditional Kashmiri breakfast of parathas and chutney.
Find a dhaba nearby the bus stop.
INR150, 1 hour

11:00AM

Trek to Thajiwas Glacier

Embark on a trek to Thajiwas Glacier, where you can play in the snow.
Join a local trekking group.
INR500, 3 hours

3:00PM

Lunch Packed Lunch

Have a simple packed lunch on your trek to enjoy nature's beauty.
Bring a packed lunch from the guesthouse.
INR100, 1 hour

6:00PM

Return to Sonamarg

After an adventurous day, return to soak in the tranquil beauty of Sonamarg.
Trek back with the group.
Included in trekking cost, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Local Restaurant

Delight in a warm dinner of vegetarian curry and rice.
Find a nice local eatery.
INR300, 1 hour
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Day 5: Return to Srinagar

Srinagar, India

8:00AM

Travel Back to Srinagar

Conclude your Kashmir adventure with a heartfelt journey back to Srinagar.
Board a local bus from Sonamarg.
INR300, 2 hours

10:30AM

Breakfast at Lalitaji's Home Kitchen

Experience the warmth of homely breakfast, including fresh bread and local jam.
Walk from the bus stop.
INR200, 1 hour

12:00PM

Visit Jamia Masjid

Explore the historical Jamia Masjid, a magnificent wooden mosque in Srinagar.
Take a rickshaw to the mosque.
Free, 1 hour

1:30PM

Lunch at Mugal Darbar

Savour a delectable Kashmiri Wazwan meal complete with a local dessert.
Short taxi ride to the restaurant.
INR650, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Shopping at Lal Chowk

Indulge in shopping for pashmina shawls and local handicrafts at Lal Chowk Market.
Walk to Lal Chowk from the restaurant.
Variable, 2 hours

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Krishna Vaishno Dhaba

Celebrate the conclusion of your Kashmir journey with a sumptuous feast of local vegetarian dishes.
Short ride to the dhaba.
INR500, 1 hour
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