How many days do you need in Kashmir?

This itinerary covers 5 days in Kashmir, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for Kashmir?

Plan your perfect 5 days trip to Kashmir. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Enchanting Kashmir Journey: 5-Day Itinerary from Srinagar to Gulmarg and Pahalgam

Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation

Srinagar, India on April 23, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Ahdoos Restaurant

Start your Kashmir journey with a hearty breakfast at Ahdoos, known for its authentic Kashmiri kahwa and traditional breads.

INR500, 1h

11:00am

Check-in at houseboat on Dal Lake

Experience the unique charm of Kashmir by staying in a houseboat on Dal Lake, enjoying serene views and traditional decor.

INR3000, 1h

12:30pm

Shikara Ride on Dal Lake

Relax with a peaceful Shikara boat ride across Dal Lake, witnessing floating gardens and local life on water. Open daily from 9am to 6pm.

INR600, 1h

2:00pm

Lunch at Mughal Darbar

Savor delicious Mughlai and Kashmiri cuisine at Mughal Darbar, a popular spot famous for its Rogan Josh and Gushtaba dishes.

INR700, 1h

4:00pm

Visit Shankaracharya Temple

Explore this ancient Hindu temple situated on a hilltop overlooking Srinagar and the Dal Lake, offering panoramic views. Open 9am-5pm.

Free, 1.5h

7:30pm

Dinner at Krishna Vaishno Dhaba

Enjoy a simple and tasty vegetarian dinner at this well-loved local eatery serving regional dishes and comfort food.

INR400, 1h

Find Hotels in Srinagar

Day 2: Local Culture and Gardens

Srinagar, India on April 24, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Chinar Bagh

Delight in breakfast at Chinar Bagh, famed for its traditional Wazwan dishes and great chai to energize your day.

INR450, 1h

10:00am

Visit Mughal Gardens: Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, Chashme Shahi

Spend your morning exploring the exquisite Mughal Gardens with stunning floral displays, intricate waterworks, and a tranquil atmosphere. Open 9am to 6pm.

INR100, 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at Lhasa Restaurant

Relish Tibetan and local delicacies at Lhasa Restaurant, known for momos and noodle soups, perfect after a morning of sightseeing.

INR600, 1h

3:00pm

Explore Old Srinagar Market

Walk through the vibrant old city bazaars like Lal Chowk to shop for handicrafts, pashmina shawls, and local spices.

Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Chinar

Dine in an ambiance-rich setting at The Chinar, offering contemporary Kashmiri and continental cuisine with a welcoming atmosphere.

INR800, 1h

Find Hotels in Srinagar

Day 3: Gulmarg Adventure

Gulmarg, India on April 25, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Hotel in Srinagar

Have a light and energizing breakfast including local chai and parathas before heading to Gulmarg.

INR350, 0.5h

8:00am

Drive to Gulmarg

Travel approximately 2 hours from Srinagar to Gulmarg, enjoying picturesque Himalayan landscapes en route.

INR1500 (taxi fare), 2h

10:30am

Gulmarg Gondola Ride

Take one of the highest cable car rides in the world to reach the Mt. Apharwat peak, ideal for breathtaking vistas and snow activities. Gondola operates 9am-5pm.

INR7000, 3h

2:00pm

Lunch at The Khyber Restaurant

Enjoy sumptuous meals including grilled meats and Kashmiri specialties in the cozy atmosphere of The Khyber.

INR900, 1h

3:30pm

Explore Gulmarg Meadows & St. Mary's Church

Walk through beautiful alpine meadows and visit the quaint St. Mary's Church, enjoying the peaceful surroundings and fresh air.

Free, 1.5h

6:00pm

Drive back to Srinagar

Return to Srinagar to rest and prepare for the next day's adventure.

Included in earlier taxi fare, 2h

8:30pm

Dinner at Ahdoos Restaurant

Revisit Ahdoos for a traditional Kashmiri dinner featuring dishes like Dum Aloo and Haakh, perfect for ending an active day.

INR700, 1h

Find Hotels in Gulmarg

Day 4: Pahalgam Nature and Leisure

Pahalgam, India on April 26, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel in Srinagar

Fuel up with a wholesome breakfast similar to previous days before setting off to Pahalgam.

INR350, 0.5h

8:00am

Drive to Pahalgam

Enjoy a beautiful 2.5-hour drive winding through valleys and pine forests to reach Pahalgam, a popular hill station.

INR2000 (taxi fare), 2.5h

11:00am

Visit Betaab Valley

Explore Betaab Valley, known for its lush greenery and clear water streams, a perfect spot for photography and nature walks. Open 9am-6pm.

INR50, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Hotel Heevan Retreat

Enjoy a lunch with local and continental cuisine in a comfortable setting offering splendid valley views.

INR800, 1h

2:30pm

Leisure walk along Lidder River & Pahalgam Market

Stroll beside the Lidder River for fresh air and visit the Pahalgam bazaar to shop for souvenirs and dry fruits.

Free, 2h

6:30pm

Drive back to Srinagar

Return to Srinagar for overnight stay to prepare for departure.

Included in earlier taxi fare, 2.5h

8:30pm

Dinner at Krishna Vaishno Dhaba

Wrap up your day with a comforting vegetarian dinner at this local favourite in Srinagar.

INR400, 1h

Find Hotels in Pahalgam

Day 5: Departure Day

Srinagar, India on April 27, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel/Houseboat

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast featuring Kashmiri specialties like Sheer Chai and bakarkhani before your departure.

INR400, 1h

9:00am

Visit Hazratbal Shrine

A last cultural stop at Hazratbal Mosque by the Dal Lake, an important and serene spiritual site open from 8am to 6pm.

Free, 1h

11:00am

Transfer to Srinagar Airport

Head to Srinagar Airport for your onward journey. Ensure timely arrival considering security and check-in minimum 2 hours prior.

Included in taxi fare, 1h

Find Hotels in Srinagar

Step 1 Outline Preview:

Enchanting Kashmir Journey: 5-Day Itinerary from Srinagar to Gulmarg and Pahalgam

Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation

9:00am

11:00am

12:30pm

2:00pm

4:00pm

7:30pm

Day 2: Local Culture and Gardens

8:30am

10:00am

1:30pm

3:00pm

7:00pm

Day 3: Gulmarg Adventure

7:00am

8:00am

10:30am

2:00pm

3:30pm

6:00pm

8:30pm

Day 4: Pahalgam Nature and Leisure

7:00am

8:00am

11:00am

1:00pm

2:30pm

6:30pm

8:30pm

Day 5: Departure Day

7:30am

9:00am

11:00am

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