9-Day Family Adventure in Kashmir: Nature and Culture on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar

Srinagar, India

10:00AM

Check-in to Houseboat

Arrive and settle into your houseboat on Dal Lake, a unique and enriching experience offering stunning views.
Take a local taxi from Srinagar Airport to Dal Lake, approximately 30 minutes.
INR3500, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ahdoos Restaurant

Enjoy traditional Kashmiri cuisine with delights like Rogan Josh and Yakhni in a family-friendly atmosphere.
Walk or take a rickshaw from Dal Lake, 15 minutes.
INR800, 1 hour

2:00PM

Shikara Ride

Experience the enchanting beauty of Dal Lake with a shikara ride, watching local life unfold on the water.
Join a shikara from the houseboat for an hour’s ride.
INR1000, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Mughal Gardens

Explore the renowned Mughal Gardens – Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh – adorned with blooming flowers and breathtaking views.
Take a taxi from Dal Lake to Mughal Gardens, about 20 minutes.
INR100, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Shamyana Restaurant

Savor Kashmiri style fried fish paired with hot naan in a cozy, family-friendly dining setting.
Take a taxi back to the city center, roughly 20 minutes.
INR700, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Adventure in Gulmarg

Gulmarg, India

8:00AM

Travel to Gulmarg

Take a shared taxi to Gulmarg to enjoy the snow-clad hills and breathtaking views, a family favorite for skiing and snow activities.
Shared taxi from Srinagar to Gulmarg, about 2 hours.
INR1500, 2 hours

10:30AM

Gulmarg Gondola Experience

Ride the world's highest golf course gondola for stunning views of the Himalayas.
Walk a short distance from the taxi drop-off to the gondola station.
INR1500, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Colosseo Restaurant

Fuel up with pizza and pasta at this cozy spot before heading out for further adventures.
Near the gondola, just a short walk.
INR800, 1 hour

2:30PM

Skiing or Snow Play

Engage in skiing activities or simply enjoy the snow with the kids, creating unforgettable family memories.
Equipment rental available right where you are.
INR2500, 3 hours

6:00PM

Return to Srinagar

Head back to Srinagar for a restful night after a thrilling day in the snow.
Shared taxi back to Srinagar.
INR1500, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at the Hotel

Relax with a dinner of local specialties at your houseboat, enjoying the cozy atmosphere.
Back at the houseboat.
INR500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Explore Pahalgam

Pahalgam, India

7:00AM

Travel to Pahalgam

Journey to Pahalgam, a picturesque town on the banks of the Lidder River, perfect for family adventures.
Shared taxi to Pahalgam, approximately 3 hours.
INR2000, 3 hours

10:00AM

Check-in at a Local Guesthouse

Settle into a budget-friendly guesthouse with stunning views.
Arrive at the guesthouse in Pahalgam.
INR2500, 1 hour

11:30AM

Breakfast at the Guesthouse

Enjoy a hearty breakfast of parathas and local chutneys before setting off for a fun-filled day.
In-house breakfast.
Included, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at River Side Café

Gorge on grilled sandwiches and fresh juices by the riverside while breathing in the pristine nature.
Short walk from the guesthouse.
INR600, 1 hour

2:30PM

Nature Walk along Lidder River

Take a serene nature walk along the banks of the Lidder River, perfect for capturing family photos in a breathtaking setting.
Start from the café, walking along the riverbank.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit Betaab Valley

Explore Betaab Valley, known for its stunning landscape and Bollywood filming locations – a delight for the whole family.
Hire a local taxi from Pahalgam, 20 minutes away.
INR1000, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at The Pahalgam Hotel

End the day enjoying Kashmiri dum aloo and local rice in this family-friendly restaurant.
Walk back to the hotel.
INR700, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Adventure in Aru Valley

Aru Valley, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Guesthouse

Start your day with a warm breakfast of eggs, toast, and tea before the day's adventure.
In-house breakfast.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Aru Valley

Travel to Aru Valley, famous for its breathtaking landscapes and meadows perfect for family outdoor activities.
Hire a local taxi for the 12 km drive, about 30 minutes.
INR800, 1 hour

10:30AM

Nature Trekking

Embark on a family-friendly guided trek to explore the stunning meadows and perhaps sight some wildlife.
Trekking with a local guide from the entrance of Aru Valley.
INR1200, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch Picnic in the Valleys

Enjoy a local-style picnic made by your guesthouse amid the mesmerizing views.
Bring lunch along during the trek.
INR400, 1 hour

3:00PM

Horse Riding

Experience delightful horse riding, a favorite activity in this beautiful valley that kids will love.
Local horse rental available at Aru Valley.
INR1500, 2 hours

5:30PM

Return to Pahalgam

Head back to Pahalgam and relax after a fun-filled day.
Taxi back to the guesthouse.
INR800, 30 minutes

7:00PM

Dinner at The Troutbeat

Enjoy a memorable meal featuring freshly caught trout grilled beautifully in a local restaurant.
Nearby the guesthouse.
INR900, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Adventure in Betaab Valley

Betaab Valley, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Guesthouse

A fulfilling breakfast at your guesthouse to energize you for the day ahead.
In-house breakfast.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Betaab Valley

Travel to Betaab Valley, enjoying the pristine beauty and stunning views of the mountains and pastures.
Taxi from Pahalgam to Betaab Valley, about 20 minutes.
INR800, 1 hour

10:30AM

Photography and Exploration

Explore the meadows and indulge in photography amid captivating landscapes creating lasting family memories.
Free exploration within Betaab Valley.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Green Valley Restaurant

Lunch at a nearby restaurant famous for its delightful chicken biryani and fresh salads.
Walk from the valley site.
INR700, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Baisaran

Head to Baisaran, known as 'Mini Switzerland', perfect for family activities like soft trekking and picnics.
Local taxi ride from Betaab Valley.
INR1000, 2 hours

5:00PM

Return to Pahalgam

Return to Pahalgam after a fun day exploring these stunning locations.
Taxi back to guesthouse.
INR800, 30 minutes

7:00PM

Dinner at Guesthouse

Enjoy a family dinner of mixed vegetarian curries and staple rice to end the day.
In-house dining.
INR600, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Cultural Day in Anantnag

Anantnag, India

8:00AM

Travel to Anantnag

Venture to Anantnag, a town rich in culture and steeped in history.
Shared taxi from Pahalgam to Anantnag, about 1.5 hours.
INR800, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Breakfast at Local Dhaba

Try a local breakfast of chai and bread, enjoying the local vibe.
At the breakfast dhaba near Anantnag's bus stand.
INR200, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Kherbawani Temple

Experience spiritual tranquility touring the revered Kherbawani Temple, learning about local faith and customs.
Short taxi ride from dhaba to temple.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Jannat Restaurant

Lunch in this local eatery serves delectable Kashmiri rogan josh and saffron rice.
Nearby the temple.
INR700, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Anantnag Springs

Explore the beautiful Anantnag springs, a serene spot providing insight into the surroundings’ natural beauty.
Taxi from the restaurant to the springs.
INR400, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Sari Weaving Workshop

Witness a traditional sari weaving workshop, fascinating for both parents and children, learning about this art.
Local taxi to the workshop, about 20 minutes.
INR500, 2 hours

6:30PM

Return to Pahalgam

After a culturally enriching day, head back to your guesthouse.
Shared taxi back to Pahalgam.
INR800, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Guesthouse

Have a filling family dinner of local dum aloo and naan served with warmth and hospitality.
In-house dining.
INR600, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Visit to Mughal Gardens

Srinagar, India

8:00AM

Travel back to Srinagar

Return to Srinagar from Pahalgam to continue your adventure.
Shared taxi back, about 3 hours.
INR1500, 3 hours

11:00AM

Visit Shalimar Bagh

Wander through the beautiful Shalimar Bagh designed by Mughal Emperor Jahangir, enjoying the serene surroundings.
Taxi to the garden from the city center, 20 minutes.
INR100, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Mughal Darbar

Delight in a flavorful lunch featuring local lamb dishes and Kashmiri bread.
Short taxi ride from Shalimar Bagh.
INR700, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Nishat Bagh

Unwind at Nishat Bagh, perched on the banks of Dal Lake, offering stunning views and a history steeped in beauty.
Walk to Nishat Bagh from Mughal Darbar.
INR100, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Shopping for Local Handicrafts

Spend some time shopping for traditional Kashmiri handicrafts as souvenirs for the family.
Market area near Nishat Bagh.
Variable, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Shamyana Restaurant

Wrap up the day with a classic Kashmiri feast including yakhni and assorted breads.
Taxi from the market back to the restaurant.
INR700, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Relaxation Day in Srinagar

Srinagar, India

9:00AM

Breakfast at Guesthouse

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast of fluffy pancakes and fresh fruits together.
At your houseboat.
Included, 1 hour

10:30AM

Leisure Day in Srinagar

Spend the day at your leisure, you can explore the local markets, or simply relax at your houseboat.
At the houseboat or nearby areas.
Variable, Variable

1:00PM

Lunch at Local Dhaba

Have a tasty, affordable lunch made with fresh local ingredients at a nearby dhaba.
Near your houseboat.
INR400, 1 hour

3:00PM

Shikara Ride at Leisure

Enjoy another shikara ride at your own pace or opt for some birdwatching, appreciating the leisurely ambiance.
Houseboat access.
INR1000, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Visit Local Textile Shops

Explore and shop for beautiful Kashmiri textiles to take home, including pashmina and shawls.
Nearby the houseboat.
Variable, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Farewell Dinner at the Houseboat

Indulge in a lavish dinner to celebrate the end of your trip, featuring the best of Kashmiri cuisine.
At your houseboat.
INR800, 2 hours
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Day 9: Departure from Srinagar

Srinagar, India

8:00AM

Last Breakfast in Kashmir

Enjoy your last breakfast, reminiscing about the beautiful places you've seen.
At your houseboat.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Pack and Shop for Last Minute Souvenirs

Check out of the houseboat and grab any last-minute souvenirs before leaving.
Near the houseboat.
Variable, 1 hour

11:00AM

Airport Transfer

Head to the airport for your departure, concluding your beautiful Kashmir adventure.
Taxi from houseboat to Srinagar Airport, about 30 minutes.
INR1000, 1 hour
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