5-Day Scenic and Cultural Exploration of Kashmir

Day 1: Srinagar Exploration

Srinagar, India on April 16, 2025

8:30AM

Breakfast at Chinar Blossom Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Kashmiri breakfast featuring kahwa tea and local breads in a serene garden setting.
INR500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Dal Lake Shikara Ride

Take a peaceful shikara boat ride on the iconic Dal Lake, witnessing floating gardens and houseboats.
INR600, 2 hours

12:00PM

Visit Mughal Gardens

Explore Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, and Chashme Shahi gardens, famous for their Persian style and seasonal blooms. Open 9:00AM to 6:00PM.
INR50, 2 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at Ahdoos Restaurant

Taste authentic Kashmiri cuisine such as Rogan Josh and Gushtaba in one of Srinagar’s most renowned eateries.
INR800, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Old City Walk

Wander the historic old city lanes visiting Jamia Masjid and local bazaars for crafts and souvenirs.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Chinar at Lalit Grand Palace

Dine overlooking Dal Lake with a sophisticated menu of Kashmiri and continental dishes.
INR1200, 1.5 hours

Day 2: Adventure in Gulmarg

Gulmarg, India on April 17, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel Pine Palace

Start early with a hearty breakfast offering fresh local produce at your hotel or nearby café.
INR400, 45 minutes

9:00AM

Gulmarg Gondola Ride

Ride one of the highest cable cars in the world for spectacular views of the Himalayas. Open 9:00AM - 5:00PM.
INR1050, 3 hours including wait times and taking photos

12:30PM

Lunch at The Bungalow Restaurant

Enjoy comfort food with a view, serving North Indian and Kashmiri dishes in a cozy setting.
INR700, 1 hour

2:00PM

Nature Walk or Pony Ride

Explore nearby meadows such as Alpather Lake or take a pony ride around the scenic trails.
INR300 for pony ride, 2 hours

6:00PM

Check-in and Relax at Hotel

Relax at your hotel with picturesque views and prepare for next day’s journey.
Included in accommodation, Rest of evening

8:00PM

Dinner at local restaurant

Sample local delicacies such as Gustaba or Yak meat stew if available, preferred by locals and adventurous eaters.
INR900, 1.5 hours

Day 3: Scenic Pahalgam

Pahalgam, India on April 18, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Heevan Retreat

Enjoy views of the Lidder River with breakfast offering fresh fruits and traditional Kahwa tea.
INR450, 1 hour

9:30AM

Betaab Valley visit

Explore the lush green valley famous for its breathtaking views and Bollywood movie shoots. Open from 9:00AM to sunset.
INR150, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Dana Pani Restaurant

Experience authentic Kashmiri style lamb and vegetarian dishes in a rustic setting.
INR700, 1 hour

1:30PM

Aru Valley or Chandanwari Day Trip

Choose between a short hike or pony ride to Aru Valley or a visit to Chandanwari, the starting point of the Amarnath Yatra.
INR300 - 500, 3 hours

6:00PM

Evening Stroll in Pahalgam Bazaar

Browse local handicrafts, saffron products, and woollens in the charming market area.
Free to browse, 1 hour

8:00PM

Dinner at River View Restaurant

Dine on fresh trout and other Kashmiri specialties overlooking the lidder river.
INR800, 1.5 hours

Day 4: Mountain Beauty at Sonamarg

Sonamarg, India on April 19, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast in Srinagar or en route

Have a light early breakfast before departing from Pahalgam to Sonamarg, approximately 3 hours drive.
INR300, 30 minutes

11:00AM

Thajiwas Glacier Trek

Enjoy a trek or pony ride to the stunning Thajiwas Glacier, open all day until sunset; late spring offers excellent views.
INR500 for pony ride, 3 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at Glacier Park Restaurant

Relax with a hearty lunch featuring fresh trout and seasonal vegetables.
INR700, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore Local Market and Return to Srinagar

Browse artisanal woollens and souvenirs before a scenic drive back to Srinagar (2 hours).
Free, 3 hours including travel

7:30PM

Dinner at Your Hotel in Srinagar

Enjoy a relaxing dinner offering Kashmiri cuisine, perfect to unwind after the day’s adventures.
INR900, 1.5 hours

Day 5: Culture & Markets

Srinagar, India on April 20, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mughal Darbar

Savour robust keema and traditional kahwa to start your last day in Kashmir.
INR400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Hazratbal Shrine and Shankaracharya Temple

Explore these important religious monuments perched on scenic hilltops with panoramic city views; open 8:00AM to 6:00PM.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Shopping at Lal Chowk Market

Shop for handicrafts, pashmina shawls, and spices to bring home authentic Kashmiri memories.
Varies according to purchases, 2 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at Shamyana Restaurant

Relish delicious Wazwan dishes, a traditional Kashmiri multi-course feast, highly recommended for food lovers.
INR1000, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Relaxing Walk Along Boulevard Road

Stroll along Dal Lake’s Boulevard Road to enjoy the lakeside ambiance and farewell views before departure.
Free, 1.5 hours