5-Day Kashmir Itinerary: Explore Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg

Day 1: Arrival & Srinagar City

Srinagar, India on May 14, 2025

9:30AM

Dal Lake Boating

Start your Kashmir trip with a serene shikara ride on Dal Lake, enjoying the scenic beauty and houseboats along the shores.
IND200, 1h30m

11:30AM

Breakfast at Ahdoos Restaurant

Relish traditional Kashmiri cuisine such as kahwa (green tea) and bakarkhani bread in this historic restaurant.
IND450, 1h

1:00PM

Visit Mughal Gardens (Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh)

Explore the beautifully manicured Mughal Gardens located on the eastern side of Dal Lake, perfect for a relaxing stroll and photo ops.
IND100, 2h

3:30PM

Visit Hazratbal Shrine

Discover this revered Muslim shrine known for its stunning architecture and spiritual significance.
Free, 1h

6:30PM

Dinner at The Chinar at Lalit Grand Palace

Indulge in fine dining with a variety of Kashmiri and North Indian dishes while enjoying beautiful views of the gardens.
IND1200, 1h30m
View Hotels

Day 2: Gulmarg Adventure

Gulmarg, India on May 15, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at hotel in Srinagar

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your Srinagar hotel before heading out to Gulmarg.
Included in hotel stay, 1h

8:30AM

Drive to Gulmarg

Travel approximately 50km (about 2 hours) north to the beautiful hill station of Gulmarg.
IND300 for taxi, 2h

11:00AM

Ride Gulmarg Gondola

Take one of the highest cable car rides in the world to Khilanmarg and Apharwat peaks, offering stunning views of the Himalayas.
IND700, 2h

1:00PM

Lunch at Kongwattan

Dine on warm and comforting Indian dishes with views of Gulmarg’s meadows and pine forests.
IND600, 1h

2:30PM

Explore Gulmarg Meadow and Nature Walk

Enjoy walking through beautiful flower-filled meadows and forests, perfect for nature lovers.
Free, 2h

5:00PM

Return to Srinagar

Head back to Srinagar for overnight stay.
IND300 for taxi, 2h

7:30PM

Dinner at Krishna Vaishno Dhaba

Try delicious vegetarian local dishes in this popular budget-friendly spot.
IND250, 1h
View Hotels

Day 3: Pahalgam Scenic Beauty

Pahalgam, India on May 16, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at hotel in Srinagar

Fuel up with breakfast before early morning drive to Pahalgam.
Included in hotel stay, 1h

8:00AM

Drive to Pahalgam

Enjoy the 3-hour scenic drive along Lidder River to this charming valley town.
IND600 for taxi, 3h

11:00AM

Betaab Valley Exploration

Visit the stunning Betaab Valley known for its lush meadows and clear streams, featured in many Bollywood films.
IND50, 2h

1:30PM

Lunch at Dana Pani Restaurant

Enjoy fresh trout and other Kashmiri specialties at this local favorite.
IND500, 1h

3:00PM

Visit Aru Valley

Take a short taxi ride to this peaceful hamlet, perfect for walks and pony rides.
IND100 for taxi, 2h

6:00PM

Return to Srinagar

Drive back to Srinagar for overnight stay.
IND600 for taxi, 3h

8:30PM

Dinner at Ahdoos Restaurant

Enjoy another round of authentic Kashmiri food in one of Srinagar’s best restaurants.
IND700, 1h
View Hotels

Day 4: Sonamarg Day Trip

Sonamarg, India on May 17, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at hotel in Srinagar

Start with a quick breakfast before leaving for Sonamarg.
Included in hotel stay, 1h

8:00AM

Drive to Sonamarg

Travel northeast for about 2.5 hours to Sonamarg, famous for its golden meadow and mountain views.
IND700 for taxi, 2h30m

10:30AM

Thajiwas Glacier Excursion

Trek or pony ride to the pristine Thajiwas Glacier, a must-see natural wonder in the area.
IND150 for pony ride, 3h

1:30PM

Lunch picnic by the Sind River

Enjoy a packed lunch amidst stunning alpine scenery by the river banks.
Self-catered approx IND200, 1h

3:00PM

Explore local meadows and hike short nature trails

Relax in the meadows or take a gentle hike around Sonamarg’s beautiful surroundings.
Free, 2h

5:30PM

Return to Srinagar

Travel back to your Srinagar accommodation for rest.
IND700 for taxi, 2h30m

8:30PM

Dinner at Mughal Darbar

Savor traditional Kashmiri dishes like rogan josh and gushtaba in an atmospheric setting.
IND800, 1h
View Hotels

Day 5: Shopping & Departure

Srinagar, India on May 18, 2025

8:30AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy your final breakfast in Srinagar with views of the Dal Lake.
Included, 1h

9:30AM

Shopping in Srinagar's Lal Chowk and markets

Shop for traditional Kashmiri handicrafts like pashmina shawls, carpets, and saffron in the bustling markets.
Varies by purchase, 3h

1:00PM

Lunch at Shamyana Restaurant

Relax and enjoy one last meal of local cuisine in a cozy restaurant near Dal Lake.
IND500, 1h

2:30PM

Departure preparations

Return to your hotel to pack and prepare for departure.
Free, 1h
View Hotels