Enchanting 5-Day Kashmir Adventure: Scenic Beauty and Cultural Wonders

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Srinagar, India on April 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Ahdoos Restaurant

Start your day with a traditional Kashmiri breakfast at Ahdoos, known for its authentic local delicacies like Noorani chai and kahwa tea.
INR500, 1h

9:30am

Explore Dal Lake and Shikara Ride

Take a serene Shikara boat ride on Dal Lake, experiencing floating gardens and markets while enjoying picturesque mountain views; a classic Srinagar experience.
INR400, 2h

12:00pm

Visit Mughal Gardens

Visit Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, and Chashme Shahi to admire the beautifully maintained Mughal-era gardens reflecting rich history and stunning horticulture.
INR150, 2h

2:30pm

Lunch at Mughal Darbar

Enjoy a sumptuous lunch featuring Kashmiri Wazwan cuisine, including dishes like rogan josh and gushtaba in a traditional setting.
INR800, 1h 30m

4:30pm

Visit Shankaracharya Temple

Take a short trek to this ancient temple on a hilltop overlooking Srinagar, offering panoramic views and spiritual insight into Kashmir's heritage.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Chinar

Experience fine dining at The Chinar, known for blending Kashmiri and continental cuisine in a sophisticated ambiance.
INR1200, 1h 30m

Day 2: Mountain Meadows

Gulmarg, India on April 30, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel Green Top

Simple and hearty breakfast to fuel up before heading to Gulmarg, with options including local breads and eggs.
INR300, 45m

8:30am

Drive to Gulmarg

Scenic 2-hour drive through mountain roads from Srinagar to Gulmarg, renowned for its lush meadows and winter sports.
INR2000 (taxi cost), 2h

11:00am

Gulmarg Gondola Ride

Ride one of the highest cable cars in the world up Mount Apharwat, enjoying breathtaking views of the Himalayas and snowfields.
INR700, 3h

2:30pm

Lunch at The Khyber Himalayan Resort

Savour delicious North Indian and Kashmiri dishes in an elegant setting with mountain views.
INR1000, 1h 30m

4:30pm

Walk in Gulmarg Meadows

Leisurely afternoon exploring the beautiful flower-filled meadows and peaceful nature trails around Gulmarg town.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at The Vintage Gulmarg

Enjoy comfort food and local favourites in a cosy atmosphere after a day of outdoor adventures.
INR900, 1h 30m

Day 3: Valley Serenity

Pahalgam, India on May 1, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel in Gulmarg

A quick, energising breakfast to prepare for the journey to Pahalgam.
INR300, 45m

8:00am

Drive to Pahalgam

Travel 3 hours through scenic routes to Pahalgam, a tranquil town famed for its river valleys and pine forests.
INR2200 (taxi cost), 3h

11:30am

Visit Betaab Valley

Explore the lush Betaab Valley, named after a Bollywood film, famous for its stunning landscapes and river streams.
INR100, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Dana Pani

Enjoy hearty Kashmiri and North Indian dishes with hearty portions, perfect after a morning of sightseeing.
INR700, 1h

3:00pm

Trek to Aru Valley

Take a moderate trek of around 6km to the serene Aru Valley, offering spectacular mountain views and picnic spots.
Free, 3h

7:00pm

Dinner at Hotel Heevan Pahalgam

Dine in style with multi-cuisine options and refreshing local flavours to end your day on a high note.
INR900, 1h 30m

Day 4: Glacier Views

Sonamarg, India on May 2, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel in Pahalgam

Start early with a nutritious breakfast featuring fresh fruits and local breads.
INR300, 45m

8:30am

Drive to Sonamarg

Enjoy a 3 hour drive to Sonamarg, known as the 'Meadow of Gold,' surrounded by glaciers and high peaks.
INR2500 (taxi cost), 3h

12:00pm

Excursion to Thajiwas Glacier

Take a 1.5-2 hour trek or pony ride to the stunning Thajiwas Glacier to witness breathtaking snow and ice formations.
INR500 (pony ride optional), 3h

3:30pm

Lunch at Glacier Reach Restaurant

A relaxed meal offering traditional Kashmiri dishes and continental options with warm hospitality.
INR800, 1h 30m

5:30pm

Explore Sonamarg Meadows

Walk around the alpine meadows, enjoy the river views and take photos of the spectacular Himalayan surroundings.
Free, 2h

8:00pm

Dinner at Hotel Pine Palace

Enjoy a comforting buffet dinner featuring local, Indian, and continental specialties.
INR900, 1h 30m

Day 5: Return and Leisure

Srinagar, India on May 3, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel in Sonamarg

Start with a fresh breakfast before the journey back to Srinagar.
INR300, 45m

8:30am

Drive back to Srinagar

Travel back to Srinagar over approximately 2.5 hours enjoying final scenic views of the valley.
INR2000 (taxi cost), 2h 30m

11:00am

Visit Hazratbal Shrine

A spiritual visit to this serene mosque with beautiful architecture overlooking Dal Lake; open till evening for visitors.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Lhasa Restaurant

Enjoy authentic Tibetan and Tibetan-influenced Kashmiri cuisine in a cozy setting close to Dal Lake.
INR700, 1h 30m

2:30pm

Shopping at Lal Chowk

Explore bustling markets famous for Pashmina shawls, handcrafts, and spices to pick up local souvenirs.
Variable, 2h

5:00pm

Relax at Hotel or Houseboat

Unwind on your final evening in Kashmir with tea on your houseboat or hotel balcony overlooking the water.
Included in accommodation, Rest of day

7:30pm

Farewell Dinner at Shamyana Restaurant

Celebrate your memorable journey with a grand dinner featuring Kashmiri and Indian delicacies.
INR1200, 1h 30m