Budget Adventure in Kashmir: 8-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar

Srinagar, India

10:00AM

Check in to Houseboat

Start your journey by settling into a traditional houseboat on Dal Lake, where luxury and budget blend seamlessly.
From Srinagar Airport, take a local taxi to Dal Lake (approximately 30 minutes).
INR1000, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Ahdoos Restaurant

Savour some authentic Kashmiri cuisine, try Rogan Josh or Dum Aloo.
A quick five-minute walk from the houseboat.
INR600, 1 hour

2:00PM

Shikara Ride

Experience the tranquility of Dal Lake with a picturesque ride on a Shikara.
Shikara docks are just a short walk from the houseboat.
INR300, 2 hours

5:00PM

Explore Local Markets

Take a stroll through the local handicraft markets and pick up some souvenirs.
The nearest market is about a 10-minute walk away.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at a Local Dhabha

Enjoy comforting local fare like Kashmiri Pulao or Yakhni at an affordable eatery.
Only a short walk from the market.
INR400, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Discover Gulmarg

Gulmarg, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Houseboat

Savour a traditional breakfast including roti and local cheese before heading out.
Back at the houseboat.
Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Gulmarg

Take a shared taxi to Gulmarg, known for its stunning meadows and snow-covered slopes.
Local taxis can be booked a short walk from your houseboat.
INR800, 2 hours

10:00AM

Gulmarg Gondola

Experience the exhilarating views on one of the highest cable cars in the world.
Walk to the Gondola station from the taxi drop-off point.
INR700, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Hilltop

Refuel with local cuisine while enjoying panoramic views of the snow-capped mountains.
Located within walking distance of the Gondola.
INR500, 1 hour

2:00PM

Snow Activities

Engage in snow sports like skiing or gentle snowboarding depending on your comfort level.
Activities are available near the Gondola station.
INR1200, 3 hours

5:00PM

Return to Srinagar

Head back to Srinagar via shared taxi after a fulfilling day in the snow.
Shared taxis available at the Gulmarg taxi stand.
INR800, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Mugal Darbar

Dig into traditional Kashmiri dishes, perfect for warming the soul after a day in the cold.
A short walk from your houseboat.
INR500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Adventures in Pahalgam

Pahalgam, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Houseboat

Enjoy another hearty meal with fresh bread and local jam.
Back at the houseboat.
Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Pahalgam

Catch a bus to Pahalgam, famous for its scenic landscapes.
Buses leave regularly from the main bus station in Srinagar.
INR300, 3 hours

11:00AM

Betaab Valley

Visit this stunning valley, perfect for a leisurely walk amidst nature.
Buses and local transports are readily available from Pahalgam town.
INR500, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Local Eatery

Try the local trout delicacy, fresh from the river.
Many options available within walking distance.
INR400, 1 hour

3:00PM

Aru Valley

Embark on a trek to Aru Valley, a breathtaking spot for nature lovers.
Catch a local taxi or rent a pony from Pahalgam.
INR700, 3 hours

6:00PM

Return to Pahalgam Town

Come back to the town and explore for more local shops.
Local transport will be available.
INR300, 1 hour

8:00PM

Dinner at The Trout Restaurant

Savour delicious trout with a touch of Kashmiri spices before resting.
Located in Pahalgam town.
INR600, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Journey to Sonamarg

Sonamarg, India

7:00AM

Breakfast in Pahalgam

Enjoy crisp rotis with butter for fuel for the travel ahead.
Available at your guest house or local eateries.
INR200, 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Sonamarg

Take an early bus ride to Sonamarg, often called the Meadow of Gold.
Buses leave from Pahalgam’s main bus station.
INR400, 2.5 hours

10:30AM

Exploring Sonamarg

Wander through breathtaking meadows and gaze at the majestic mountains surrounding you.
Local guides are available at the entrance to help explore.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Local Dhaba

Taste some hot rice and curry, a great energy booster.
Nearby local eateries provide options.
INR400, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Thajiwas Glacier

Take a short trek or pony ride to the stunning glacier; a must-visit landmark.
Ponies can be rented from Sonamarg town.
INR800, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Return to Sonamarg

Come back from the glacier and get ready for dinner.
Backtrack to Sonamarg town by the same transport.
INR200, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Local Dhaba

Relish simple Kashmiri dishes to end your adventurous day.
Dining options are plentiful in town.
INR450, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Back to Srinagar

Srinagar, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Guest House

Enjoy typical Kashmiri breakfast dishes like Phirans.
Available at your stay in Sonamarg.
INR200, 1 hour

8:00AM

Return to Srinagar

Catch a bus back to the vibrant city of Srinagar.
Buses head back to Srinagar frequently.
INR400, 2.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit Shankaracharya Temple

Clamber up the hill for stunning views and to explore this ancient temple.
Local transport can take you near the entrance.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Delhi Restaurant

Savour north Indian dishes to fuel up for the rest of the day.
Located within the main city.
INR500, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit Mughal Gardens

Explore the beautifully maintained gardens with stunning flower beds.
Public transport is available from the city centre.
INR200, 2 hours

4:00PM

Shah-e-Hamadan Mosque

Visit this stunning mosque, known for its intricate woodwork and peaceful setting.
A short walk from the Mughal Gardens.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Pind Punjab

Enjoy a hearty Punjabi meal after a day of exploration.
Located in Srinagar, accessible via local transport.
INR600, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Dachigam National Park

Srinagar, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Guest House

Enjoy a filling breakfast with local specialities before heading to the park.
Same as previous accommodations.
Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Dachigam National Park Expedition

Join a group tour to experience the local wildlife and stunning scenery in the park.
Book a local tour operator for transportation.
INR1200, 4 hours

12:00PM

Lunch en route

Pack a simple local meal or enjoy snacks provided during the tour.
Usually arranged by the tour operator.
INR300, 1 hour

1:00PM

Further Exploration of the Park

Continue to discover the lush greenery and diverse fauna of the park.
Follow along with your guide.
Included in tour price, 3 hours

4:00PM

Return to Srinagar

Travel back to the city with great memories of wildlife encounters.
In joining the tour, your return transport is included.
Included in tour price, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Khatta Meetha

Enjoy Kashmiri sweets and savoury dishes to complete your day.
Close to the city.
INR500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Exploring Mughal Gardens

Srinagar, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Guest House

Begin your day with a traditional breakfast before heading out.
Provided at your stay.
Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Visit Nishat Bagh

Stroll through this beautiful garden, renowned for its breathtaking views of Dal Lake.
Accessible via local bus or taxi.
INR200, 2 hours

10:00AM

Explore Shalimar Bagh

Continue your exploration with India's most famed Mughal garden, adorned with terraced flower beds.
Nearby Nishat Bagh.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Shirin Palace

Indulge in local flavours amidst beautiful surroundings.
Close to the Mughal gardens.
INR500, 1 hour

1:00PM

Return to City Centre

Head back to the Srinagar city centre to explore the historical sites.
Use local transportation.
INR100, 1 hour

3:00PM

Jama Masjid

Visit this historic mosque with stunning Indo-Saracenic architecture and intricate wood carvings.
A short walk from the city centre.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Local Markets for Souvenirs

Explore the vibrant local markets for handicrafts and local produce.
Near the Jama Masjid.
Variable, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Mughal Darbar

Wrap up your Kashmir adventure with a dinner of traditional dishes.
Head back towards your accommodation.
INR600, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Departure from Srinagar

Srinagar, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Guest House

Enjoy your last breakfast in the serene atmosphere of Kashmir.
Provided at your stay.
Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Last-minute Sightseeing

Experience a final stroll by Dal Lake or visit any nearby sites you've missed.
Study the time left before your flight.
Free, 1-2 hours

10:00AM

Check out and Transfer to Airport

Get ready for your departure and head to the airport full of wonderful memories.
Book a taxi to the airport from your accommodation.
INR500, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability