Exploring Kashmir's Alpine Charm: 5-Day Srinagar to Pahalgam Scenic Adventure

Day 1: Nature and Culture

Srinagar to Kokernag, India on April 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Chinar Shamiana

Enjoy a traditional Kashmiri breakfast with a view of Dal Lake to start your journey with local flavours.
INR500, 1h

9:30am

Drive Srinagar to Kokernag

Travel 70 km south-east to Kokernag, renowned for its natural springs and lush gardens.
INR1000 (taxi fare approx.), 2h

11:30am

Visit Kokernag Botanical Garden

Explore the scenic botanical garden featuring Salix, Cedrus, and a variety of native plants.
INR50, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at local dhaba

Savour authentic Kashmiri Wazwan dishes and fresh trout fish in a traditional setting.
INR400, 1h

2:30pm

Relax at Kokernag Springs

Spend a peaceful afternoon at the natural springs known for their sulphur-rich medicinal properties.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Return to Kokernag hotel

Check in and rest for the evening, preparing for tomorrow's journey.
INR2500, overnight

7:30pm

Dinner at Hotel Restaurant

Enjoy a warm dinner with local Kashmiri delicacies like Gushtaba and Kahwa tea.
INR600, 1h
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Day 2: Mountain Adventure

Kokernag to Daksum, India on April 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Start your day with fresh bread, jams, and traditional kahwa tea to fuel your hike.
Included with stay, 1h

9:00am

Drive to Daksum

Travel approximately 35 km towards Daksum, a scenic hill station with alpine meadows.
INR800 (taxi fare approx.), 1h30m

10:30am

Explore Aru Valley

En route or soon after arrival, visit Aru Valley near Daksum, famous for vibrant meadows and trout fishing.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Daksum Guest House

Relish simple yet hearty Kashmiri cuisine with a spectacular mountainous backdrop.
INR450, 1h

2:00pm

Walk to Kokernag Streams

Take a gentle walk along crystal-clear streams ideal for nature photography and relaxation.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Overnight stay at Daksum

Settle into a local guest house to enjoy the serene mountain atmosphere.
INR2000, overnight

7:30pm

Dinner at guesthouse

Try warming dishes like Rogan Josh and Nadru Yakhni to end your day.
INR500, 1h
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Day 3: High Mountain Drive

Daksum to Sinthan Top, India on April 23, 2025

7:30am

Early Breakfast

Eat an early breakfast to prepare for the high altitude drive and outdoor exploration.
Included with stay, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Sinthan Top

Drive 25 km to Sinthan Top, a spectacular mountain pass offering panoramic views of the Himalayas.
INR700 (taxi fare approx.), 1h30m

10:00am

Explore Sinthan Top Summit

Spend time hiking and admiring the breathtaking vistas and pristine snow-capped peaks.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Picnic Lunch

Enjoy a packed picnic lunch amidst the tranquil surroundings of Sinthan Top.
INR300 (self-arranged), 1h

1:00pm

Drive to Pahalgam

Descend 40 km towards Pahalgam, a beautiful resort town on the Lidder River known for its lush valleys.
INR1000 (taxi fare approx.), 2h

3:00pm

Check-in and rest at Pahalgam Hotel

Relax in your hotel after the scenic drive and prepare for evening activities.
INR3000, overnight

6:00pm

Visit Betaab Valley

Late afternoon visit to the famous Betaab Valley for stunning natural beauty and photography.
INR60, 1h30m

8:00pm

Dinner at Hotel

Dine on Kashmiri and North Indian specialities with an ambient mountain atmosphere.
INR700, 1h
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Day 4: Pahalgam Exploration

Pahalgam, India on April 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a continental or local breakfast to start your day of exploration.
Included with stay, 1h

9:00am

Trek to Aru and Chandanwari

Take a guided trek to the nearby meadows of Aru and Chandanwari, famous for their scenic beauty and grazing pastures.
INR300 (guide), 4h

1:00pm

Lunch at Blossom Restaurant

Enjoy fresh river trout and traditional Kashmiri dishes in this well-regarded eatery.
INR600, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Pahalgam Market

Stroll through the market to shop for local handicrafts, woollens, and souvenirs.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Relax at hotel

A restful evening with views of the Lidder River to round off your day.
Free, overnight

7:30pm

Dinner at Hotel

Sample Kashmiri cuisine such as Dum Aloo and Modur Pulaw before bedtime.
INR700, 1h
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Day 5: Return and Sundown

Pahalgam to Srinagar, India on April 25, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before the return journey to Srinagar.
Included with stay, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Srinagar

Travel approximately 90 km back to Srinagar, with scenic views of the Kashmir valley.
INR1200 (taxi fare approx.), 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at Ahdoos Restaurant, Srinagar

Savour traditional Kashmiri Wazwan dishes in one of Srinagar's most famous eateries.
INR800, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Dal Lake and Shikara Ride

Enjoy a peaceful 1.5-hour Shikara boat ride on Dal Lake, admiring floating gardens and Himalayan views.
INR600, 1h30m

3:30pm

Explore Mughal Gardens

Visit Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh gardens, open until 6pm, showcasing Persian-style landscaping.
INR100, 2h

6:00pm

Evening tea at Chai Jaai

Relax with traditional Kashmiri Kahwa and snacks in a cosy setting.
INR200, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Krishna Vaishno Dhaba

Enjoy vegetarian Kashmiri dishes and the local ambiance to conclude your trip beautifully.
INR400, 1h
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