5-Day Comprehensive Itinerary for Exploring Srinagar, Kashmir

Day 1: Dal Lake Exploration

Srinagar, India on April 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Chinar Cafe

Start your day with authentic Kashmiri Kahwa tea and traditional breads like Sheermal at Chinar Cafe overlooking Dal Lake, open from 7 AM to 11 PM.
INR300, 1h

9:00am

Shikara Ride on Dal Lake

Enjoy a peaceful Shikara boat ride exploring the floating gardens and markets on Dal Lake, a must-visit for first-timers, operating from 9 AM to 6 PM.
INR600, 2h

11:30am

Visit Shankaracharya Temple

Climb up to the Shankaracharya Temple situated on a hill with panoramic views of Srinagar and Dal Lake, open from 8 AM to 7 PM.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Mughal Darbar

Savor traditional Kashmiri Wazwan dishes like Rogan Josh and Gushtaba at the famed Mughal Darbar, open 11 AM to 11 PM.
INR800, 1h30m

3:00pm

Explore Hazratbal Shrine

Visit the revered Hazratbal Shrine located on the northwestern shore of Dal Lake, known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful ambiance. Open 6 AM to 8 PM.
Free, 1h

5:00pm

Evening Stroll at Boulevard Road

Relax with a stroll along Boulevard Road by Dal Lake, perfect for sunset views and street food snacks.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Ahdoos Restaurant

Enjoy authentic Kashmiri cuisine in a cozy ambiance at Ahdoos Restaurant, open 12 PM to 11 PM.
INR900, 1h30m

Day 2: Mughal Gardens & Heritage

Srinagar, India on April 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Chai Jaai

Relish freshly brewed Kashmiri tea and light breakfast options at this popular café, open from 7 AM to 11 PM.
INR250, 1h

9:00am

Visit Shalimar Bagh

Explore the famous Mughal garden built by Emperor Jahangir, known for beautiful terraces and water fountains. Open 8 AM to 6 PM.
INR20, 1h30m

11:00am

Visit Nishat Bagh

Walk through the second largest Mughal garden, overlooking Dal Lake with terraced lawns and scenic views, open 8 AM to 6 PM.
INR20, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Raja Paan Shop

Enjoy quick snacks and light meals including Kashmiri kebabs and paans, open till late evening.
INR200, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Chashme Shahi Garden

Visit the smallest but charming Mughal garden famous for its spring water and serene landscaping, open 8 AM to 6 PM.
INR20, 1h

3:30pm

Heritage Walk in Old Srinagar

Explore the old town with its historic buildings, traditional markets, and artisans crafting paper mache and shawls, best done in afternoon light.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Tea break at Mughal Darbar

Relax with some Kahwa tea and light snacks during the evening at this well-reviewed spot known for local flavor.
INR200, 45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Shamyana Restaurant

Dine on traditional Kashmiri dishes in an inviting setting, open 11 AM to 11 PM.
INR850, 1h30m

Day 3: Historical and Religious Sites

Srinagar, India on April 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Krishna Vaishno Dhaba

Have a simple vegetarian breakfast including aloo paratha and tea at this local favourite, open from 7 AM to 10 PM.
INR150, 1h

9:00am

Visit Jamia Masjid

Tour the grand 14th century mosque located in the heart of the old city with typical wooden architecture, open till 5 PM.
Free, 1h

10:30am

Visit Shankaracharya Temple

Optionally revisit or use this time for a second visit if missed on Day 1 for spiritual upliftment and cityscape views.
Free, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Lhasa Restaurant

Taste Tibetan and Kashmiri fusion dishes like momos and thukpa noodles, open 11 AM to 10 PM.
INR600, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Hazratbal Shrine

Spend more time at this revered mosque and tranquil lake location reflecting Kashmir’s spiritual heritage.
Free, 1h

3:00pm

Shopping at Lal Chowk Market

Explore Srinagar’s main market for traditional handicrafts, saffron, and local spices. Shops usually close by 7 PM.
Varies, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Ahdoos Restaurant

Relish Kashmiri cuisine one last time at this iconic restaurant, open till 11 PM.
INR900, 1h30m

Day 4: Nature & Wildlife

Srinagar, India on April 22, 2025

7:30am

Early Breakfast at hotel

Have a nourishing breakfast before heading out for the day's excursion, typically includes eggs, bread, and tea.
Included in stay, 30m

8:00am

Day Trip to Dachigam National Park

Visit the famous national park just 22 km from Srinagar, known for its Himalayan wildlife and scenic trekking trails. Park open 8 AM to 5 PM.
INR100, 4h

12:30pm

Lunch Picnic at Dachigam

Enjoy a packed picnic lunch amidst serene natural surroundings (arranged beforehand).
INR500, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Hariparvat Fort

Explore the historic Hariparvat Fort with views over Srinagar and Dal Lake, reachable by 1-hour drive from the park.
INR20, 1h

4:30pm

Return to Srinagar & Rest

Relax and refresh after the day’s adventurous activities.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at The Chinar, Vivanta by Taj

Enjoy fine dining with multi-cuisine options including Kashmiri dishes in a luxurious setting, open 7 PM to 11 PM.
INR1500, 1h30m

Day 5: Cultural & Leisure

Srinagar, India on April 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Ahdoos Cafe

Have a traditional Kashmiri breakfast including Noon Chai and breads before your final day of exploration.
INR300, 1h

9:00am

Shopping for Handicrafts at Polo View Market

Buy authentic Kashmiri souvenirs including pashmina shawls, carved wooden items, and papier-mâché crafts. Shops open 10 AM to 8 PM.
Varies, 2h

11:30am

Visit to Sheikh Baba Shrine

Experience the peaceful ambiance of this famous shrine dedicated to Sheikh Noor-ud-Din Noorani, located about 20 km from Srinagar.
Free, 1h30m

1:30pm

Lunch at Local Dhaba

Enjoy simple, hearty Kashmiri dishes at a roadside dhaba for an authentic experience.
INR300, 1h

3:00pm

Relax by Dal Lake or Spa Session

Spend your afternoon relaxing by Dal Lake or opt for a rejuvenating spa treatment at your hotel or local spa to unwind before departure.
INR1000, 2h

6:00pm

Early Dinner at Mughal Darbar

Have a final dinner indulging in Kashmiri delicacies you might have missed, open till 11 PM.
INR800, 1h30m