Discovering Kashmir: 7-Day Itinerary Starting from Pahalgam

Day 1: Arrival in Pahalgam

Pahalgam, India

8:00AM

Arrive in Pahalgam

Begin your journey in the picturesque town of Pahalgam, known for its stunning landscapes.
Book a taxi from Srinagar Airport to Pahalgam, a 2.5-hour journey (approximately 90 km).
INR 2000 for taxi, N/A

10:30AM

Hike to Baisaran

Take a short hike to Baisaran, also known as 'Mini Switzerland', to enjoy breathtaking views of lush green meadows and forests.
The hike begins from the center of Pahalgam, which is easily accessible.
Free entry, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Dana Pani Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious lunch at Dana Pani, well-known for its cozy atmosphere and local Kashmiri dishes.
Dana Pani is located in the town center of Pahalgam.
INR 700, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Aru Valley

Explore the stunning Aru Valley, famous for its meadows and serene environment, perfect for nature lovers.
Aru Valley is a short drive from Pahalgam, approximately 12 km away (15 minutes).
INR 50 entry fee, 2 hours

5:00PM

Return to Pahalgam

Head back to the town and unwind after a day filled with scenic exploration.
Travel back from Aru Valley to Pahalgam (15 minutes).
N/A, 30 minutes

7:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Hilltop

Savor your dinner at Hotel Hilltop, which offers a variety of delectable dishes, providing a perfect end to your day.
Hotel Hilltop is centrally located in Pahalgam.
INR 900, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Adventure in Pahalgam

Pahalgam, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel to fuel up for the adventures ahead.
Breakfast is included at your hotel.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

River Rafting in Lidder River

Experience the thrill of river rafting in the Lidder River, offering exciting rapids and beautiful surroundings.
Contact local rafting agencies in Pahalgam to arrange transportation.
INR 1500 for rafting., 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Cafe Log In

Enjoy a relaxing lunch at Cafe Log In, famous for its great ambience and tasty food.
Located within Pahalgam, it's easy to reach.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Betaab Valley

Explore Betaab Valley, known for its lush gardens and landscapes, perfect for picturesque walks.
Take a taxi from Cafe Log In to Betaab Valley (approximately 15 minutes).
INR 50 entry fee, 2 hours

5:00PM

Walk along Lidder River

Stroll along the Lidder River, taking in the tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty.
Lidder River is easily accessible near the town.
Free entry, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Cricket Bat Restaurant

Conclude your day with dinner at Cricket Bat Restaurant, known for its delicious Kashmiri cuisine and delightful ambiance.
Located in the heart of Pahalgam, easy to find.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Srinagar Exploration

Srinagar, India

9:00AM

Depart for Srinagar

After breakfast, head towards Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir.
Srinagar is located about 90 km from Pahalgam; travel by taxi (approximately 2.5-hour drive).
INR 2000 for taxi, 2.5 hours

11:30AM

Check in to Houseboat

Experience staying on a traditional houseboat on Dal Lake, soaking in the beautiful surroundings.
Check in to a pre-reserved houseboat on Dal Lake.
INR 5000 per night, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch on Houseboat

Enjoy a freshly prepared lunch on your houseboat featuring local delicacies.
Meals will be served on board.
Included in houseboat stay, 1 hour

3:00PM

Shikara Ride on Dal Lake

Take a picturesque shikara ride on Dal Lake, exploring the floating gardens and vibrant life on the water.
Join a shikara operator from your houseboat.
INR 400 for shikara ride, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Explore Local Markets

Wander through the local markets near Dal Lake, famous for pashmina shawls and handicrafts.
Markets are easily accessible from Dal Lake.
Variable based on shopping, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Mughal Darbar

End your day with a delicious dinner at The Mughal Darbar, renowned for traditional Kashmiri cuisine.
The restaurant is a short taxi ride from the local markets.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Sightseeing in Srinagar

Srinagar, India

9:00AM

Visit Shankaracharya Temple

Start your day with a visit to Shankaracharya Temple, offering panoramic views of Srinagar.
Take a taxi from Dal Lake to Shankaracharya Temple (approximately 20 minutes).
Free entry, 1 hour

11:00AM

Mughal Gardens Tour

Explore the exquisite Mughal Gardens including Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh, known for their beautiful layouts and serene ambiance.
The gardens are only a short drive (15 minutes) from the temple.
INR 50 entry fee per garden, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Chashme Shahi Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious lunch at Chashme Shahi, located near the gardens and offering a scenic view.
Chashme Shahi is located close to the Mughal Gardens.
INR 700, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit Hazratbal Shrine

Explore the revered Hazratbal Shrine situated on the northern shores of Dal Lake, an important pilgrimage site.
A short taxi ride from the gardens (approximately 15 minutes).
Free entry, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Return to Houseboat

Go back to your houseboat to relax and refresh.
Take a taxi back to Dal Lake.
INR 500, 30 minutes

7:30PM

Dinner on Houseboat

Relax and enjoy a delightful dinner on your houseboat with a view of the lake.
Dinner will be served on board.
Included in houseboat stay, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Cultural Day in Srinagar

Srinagar, India

9:00AM

Visit Jama Masjid

Begin your day at Jama Masjid, a significant mosque in the heart of Srinagar highlighting Indo-Saracenic architecture.
Take a taxi (approximately 10 minutes) to reach the mosque from Dal Lake.
Free entry, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Old City Markets

Stroll through the bustling markets of the Old City, indulging in local street food and shopping for handicrafts.
The markets are just a short walk from Jama Masjid.
Variable based on shopping, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Stream Restaurant

Savor traditional Kashmiri dishes at Stream Restaurant located along the banks of the Jhelum River.
Stream Restaurant is not far from the Old City.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Pari Mahal

Explore Pari Mahal, an architectural marvel with terraced gardens and stunning views of Dal Lake.
Pari Mahal is a 15-minute taxi ride from Stream Restaurant.
INR 100 entry fee, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Visit Tulip Garden (seasonal)

If visiting in spring, explore the famous Tulip Garden, showcasing vibrant blooms of various tulip species.
A short taxi ride from Pari Mahal (approximately 20 minutes).
INR 50 entry fee, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at 14th Avenue

Conclude your day with dinner at 14th Avenue, offering both Kashmiri and international dishes in a cozy environment.
14th Avenue is located near Dal Lake.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Outdoor Activities in Srinagar

Srinagar, India

8:00AM

Depart for Yusmarg

Head to Yusmarg, a tranquil destination known for its alpine meadows and serene environment.
Yusmarg is located about 50 km from Srinagar; take a taxi (approximately 1.5-hour drive).
INR 1500 for taxi, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Horse Riding in Yusmarg

Enjoy horse riding or walking through the beautiful meadows of Yusmarg surrounded by lush forests.
Horse riding facilities are available at Yusmarg.
INR 500 per hour, 2 hours

12:00PM

Picnic Lunch

Have a picnic lunch amidst the glorious landscapes of Yusmarg, making the most of this pristine location.
Find a picturesque spot in Yusmarg to unwind and enjoy your meal.
INR 300 for picnic supplies, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore Doodh Ganga River

Visit Doodh Ganga River, known for its crystal-clear waters and serene surroundings, perfect for relaxation and photography.
Reach the river by walking or horseback from your picnic spot.
Free entry, 2 hours

4:00PM

Return to Srinagar

Embark on your journey back to Srinagar, absorbing the beauty of the landscapes once again.
Return via the same taxi (approximately 1.5 hours).
N/A, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Ahdoos Restaurant

End your day with a sumptuous dinner at Ahdoos Restaurant, known for its authentic Kashmiri and Mughlai delicacies.
Ahdoos Restaurant is located in the city center.
INR 900, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Relaxation and Departure

Srinagar, India

10:00AM

Visit Nishat Bagh

Enjoy a leisurely morning at Nishat Bagh, known for its terraced gardens and stunning views of the Zabarwan Range.
Nishat Bagh is located on the banks of Dal Lake.
INR 50 entry fee, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Royal Castle

Relish a delightful lunch at Royal Castle, offering a mix of authentic and contemporary dishes.
Royal Castle is situated near Nishat Bagh.
INR 700, 1 hour

2:00PM

Shikara Ride on Dal Lake

Indulge in a final shikara ride on Dal Lake, soaking in the serene beauty that Srinagar has to offer.
Board a shikara near Nishat Bagh.
INR 400 for boat ride, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Check-out and Departure

Check out from your houseboat and head to the airport for your onward journey.
Make arrangements for a taxi to the airport from Dal Lake (approximately 30 minutes).
INR 500 for taxi, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability