7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Jammu and Kashmir

Day 1: Explore Srinagar

Srinagar, India

9:00AM

Shikara ride on Dal Lake

Start your adventure with a serene Shikara ride, gliding across the iconic Dal Lake, surrounded by stunning mountains.
Take a local taxi to Dal Lake, around 15 minutes from the city centre.
INR 2000, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Mughal Gardens

Explore the enchanting Mughal Gardens, including Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh, famous for their terraced lawns and vibrant flowers.
It's a short drive of approximately 20 minutes from Dal Lake.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Chashme Shahi Restaurant

Enjoy a hearty lunch featuring local Kashmir cuisine with a view of the beautiful gardens.
Located near the Mughal Gardens.
INR 600, 1 hour

3:00PM

Shopping at Lal Chowk

Stroll through the bustling market of Lal Chowk, where you can shop for traditional Pashmina shawls and handicrafts.
Take a taxi to Lal Chowk, approximately 15 minutes from the restaurant.
Varies, 2 hours

5:30PM

Evening Walk on Boulevard Road

Take a leisurely walk along the picturesque Boulevard Road, enjoying the sunset views over the lake.
Walk from Lal Chowk, around 10 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Ahdoos Restaurant

Savor authentic Kashmiri cuisine in a cozy family-friendly atmosphere with specialities like Rogan Josh and Yakhni.
Located in the city centre, approximately 15 minutes from Boulevard Road.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Adventures in Pahalgam

Pahalgam, India

8:00AM

Travel to Pahalgam

Head to the beautiful hill station of Pahalgam, known for its lush green valleys.
Drive from Srinagar to Pahalgam, around 2.5 hours.
INR 2000 (taxi charge), 2.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Betaab Valley

Discover the stunning landscapes of Betaab Valley, famous for its lush surroundings and river views.
Local taxi to Betaab Valley, about 15 minutes.
INR 500, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Cafe Log Inn

Relax with a family-friendly meal, enjoying scenic views while sampling local dishes.
Close to Betaab Valley.
INR 700, 1 hour

2:30PM

Horse Riding Adventure

Take your family on a guided horse riding tour that beautifully showcases the rich landscapes of Pahalgam.
Arrange a horse through local vendors in the area.
INR 1500, 2 hours

5:00PM

Explore Aru Valley

Enjoy the picturesque views and beautiful meadows of Aru Valley, ideal for family photo opportunities.
Tax to Aru Valley, approximately 30 minutes.
INR 300, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Riverside

Dine with the sounds of nature and riverside views, offering a variety of cuisines including vegetarian options.
Located in Pahalgam, 10 minutes from Aru Valley.
INR 800, 1 hour
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Day 3: Gulmarg Excursion

Gulmarg, India

8:00AM

Travel to Gulmarg

Set off for the stunning meadows of Gulmarg, where adventure awaits!
Drive from Pahalgam to Gulmarg, around 1.5 hours.
INR 1500 (taxi charge), 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Gulmarg Gondola Ride

Experience the breathtaking views of the Himalayas on the Gulmarg Gondola ride, one of the highest cable cars in the world.
Head to the gondola station upon arrival.
INR 700 per person, 1 hour

11:30AM

Sightseeing and Photography

Explore the picturesque landscape and snap stunning family photos amidst the breathtaking backdrop.
Explore by walking around the gondola area.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Hilltop

Indulge in a delicious lunch with local flavours and scenic views of the valley.
Located conveniently in Gulmarg.
INR 900, 1 hour

2:30PM

Play in the Meadows

Enjoy leisure time in the meadows, perfect for picnicking and playing games with the family.
Just a short walk from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit the Historic St. Mary’s Church

Explore this beautiful church, set amidst the stunning landscape, a perfect serene spot for reflection.
Around 10 minutes from the meadows.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Pine View

Wrap up the day with dinner offering a variety of dishes with a focus on local cuisine.
Close by in Gulmarg.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Sonamarg Adventures

Sonamarg, India

8:00AM

Travel to Sonamarg

Depart for Sonamarg, also known as the 'Meadow of Gold,' famed for its stunning natural beauty.
Drive from Gulmarg to Sonamarg, a scenic journey of about 3 hours.
INR 2500 (taxi charge), 3 hours

11:30AM

Visit Thajiwas Glacier

Sledging on Thajiwas Glacier is a must, providing thrilling fun for the entire family.
Local pony rides can be hired from Sonamarg to the glacier site.
INR 1200 (for pony rental), 2.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch picnic at the glacier

Relish a packed picnic lunch while enjoying the mesmerizing views of the glacier.
Pack lunch from a local store before departure.
INR 500, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore the Valley

Take time to stroll through Sonamarg's lush valleys and enjoy its tranquil environment.
Walking through designated paths in the valley.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Visit the Local Market

Explore local handicrafts and souvenirs to take back home as mementos of your trip.
Just a short walk from the valley area.
Varies, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Sonmarg

Enjoy dinner featuring local delicacies and warm hospitality to finish your busy day.
Located in Sonamarg, just 10 minutes from the market.
INR 700, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Wildlife Day at Dachigam

Dachigam National Park, India

8:00AM

Travel to Dachigam

Travel to Dachigam National Park, known for its rich biodiversity and the rare Hangul deer.
Drive from Sonamarg to Dachigam, approximately 3 hours.
INR 2500 (taxi charge), 3 hours

11:00AM

Wildlife Safari

Embark on a guided safari to witness the incredible wildlife and picturesque landscapes of Dachigam National Park.
Safaris can be arranged at the park's entrance.
INR 3000 (for family), 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Wildflower

Enjoy a locally-inspired lunch at this charming place set near the park.
Located just outside the park.
INR 800, 1 hour

3:00PM

Nature Walk

Leisurely walk along marked trails in the park, learning about the flora and fauna with the family.
Follow the trails designated by park guides.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Photography Opportunities

Capture stunning wildlife photographs as the sun sets and the park comes alive.
Wander back towards the entrance for photo spots.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Hotel Hilltop

Conclude your adventurous day with a hearty dinner featuring regional dishes.
Located near the park, around 15 minutes away.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Cultural Exploration in Jammu

Jammu, India

8:00AM

Travel to Jammu

Drive to Jammu, known for its vibrant culture and historical sites.
Approximately a 2-hour drive from Dachigam.
INR 2000 (taxi charge), 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit Raghunath Temple

Explore one of Jammu's most important temples, famous for its stunning architecture and religious significance.
Local transport or taxi to the temple.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Manda Zoo

Take the kids to Manda Zoo to see a variety of animals and enjoy a family-friendly environment.
About 20 minutes from Raghunath Temple.
INR 200, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Singh Hotel

Savour authentic North Indian food with friendly service suitable for families.
Near Manda Zoo.
INR 600, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore Bahu Fort

Visit Bahu Fort for panoramic views of Jammu and the Tawi River, along with insights into the region's history.
Local taxi to Bahu Fort, about 15 minutes.
INR 300, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Wander in the Bagh-e-Bahu Garden

Relax in this beautifully landscaped garden, ideal for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Just a few minutes’ walk from Bahu Fort.
INR 100, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Royal Café

Wrap up the day at The Royal Café, which offers various cuisines that cater to all tastes.
Located centrally in Jammu.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Spiritual Journey to Amarnath Cave

Amarnath, India

5:00AM

Travel to Amarnath Cave Base

Start your day early to travel to the Amarnath Cave, home of the famous ice Shiva Lingam.
Drive from Jammu to Pahalgam (3-4 hours) and then trek to the cave.
INR 3000 (transport + trek charge), 4 hours

9:00AM

Trek to Amarnath Cave

Family trekking experience through breathtaking landscapes leading to the sacred cave.
Follow the designated trekking paths.
Free, 3 hours

12:00PM

Spiritual Visit to the Cave

Experience a spiritual moment as you visit the sacred site and witness the ice Shiva Lingam.
Located inside the cave accessible after trekking.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at the Base Camp

Post-trek, enjoy a packed lunch at the base camp with fellow pilgrims.
Gather back at the base camp.
INR 500 (pre-packed meal), 1 hour

2:30PM

Return Trek

Trek back from Amarnath Cave, reflecting on the day’s spiritual and emotional journey.
Follow the marked trail back.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Last Resort

Finish your adventurous week with a warm meal and share stories of your incredible journey together.
Return to Pahalgam for dinner.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
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