Enchanting 4-Day Kashmir Itinerary: Explore Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg

Day 1: Explore Srinagar

Srinagar, India on July 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Chinar Cafe

Start your day with a traditional Kashmiri breakfast at Chinar Cafe, known for its delicious kahwa tea and sheermal bread. It's a cosy spot ideal for authentic flavours.
INR300, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Dal Lake and Houseboat Tour

Experience the iconic Dal Lake on a Shikara boat tour, soaking in the stunning vistas of the water gardens and floating markets. Tours typically last an hour and offer peaceful views of Srinagar.
INR800, 1h15m

11:00am

Nishat Bagh Garden

Explore Nishat Bagh, the second largest Mughal garden in Kashmir, famed for its terraced layout and views over Dal Lake. Open 9am to 5pm, entrance fee applies.
INR30, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Ahdoos Restaurant

Dine at Ahdoos, a renowned establishment famed for classic Kashmiri dishes like Gushtaba and Rogan Josh. A perfect place to savour local cuisine.
INR600, 1h0m

2:00pm

Shankaracharya Temple

Visit the ancient Shankaracharya Temple on a hilltop overlooking Srinagar, offering panoramic views and spiritual insight. Open throughout the day; modest entry.
Free, 1h0m

4:00pm

Walk through the old city markets

Stroll through Srinagar’s vibrant old marketplaces, browsing handicrafts such as pashmina shawls and papier-mâché items. Great for souvenirs and local interaction.
Free, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Krishna Vaishno Dhaba

Enjoy a casual dinner with vegetarian Kashmiri dishes and North Indian cuisine, popular among locals and tourists alike.
INR400, 1h0m

Day 2: Gulmarg Adventure

Gulmarg, India on July 7, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at your Srinagar hotel before heading to Gulmarg for the day.
Included with stay, 0h45m

8:00am

Drive to Gulmarg

Commence a scenic 2-hour drive from Srinagar to Gulmarg, famed for its lush meadows and alpine landscapes.
Car rental approx. INR2500, 2h0m

10:30am

Gondola Ride

Ride the Gulmarg Gondola, one of the highest cable cars in the world, to the Apharwat Peak for breathtaking views and possible summer snow activities.
INR700, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at The Kebab Factory

Enjoy a sumptuous lunch featuring continental and Mughlai dishes at The Kebab Factory within Gulmarg resort.
INR700, 1h0m

2:30pm

Walk in the Meadows

Spend your afternoon walking through Gulmarg’s verdant meadows and flower-lined paths, perfect for photography and relaxation.
Free, 2h0m

4:30pm

Visit St Mary’s Church

Drop by St Mary’s Church, a historic colonial-era church known for its wooden interiors and stained glass artwork.
Free, 0h30m

6:00pm

Drive back to Srinagar

Return to Srinagar for a restful evening after a day of adventure.
Included in car rental, 2h0m

8:30pm

Dinner at Mughal Darbar

Indulge in well-known traditional Kashmiri cuisine at Mughal Darbar, a favourite for its rich flavours and ambience.
INR650, 1h0m

Day 3: Pahalgam Serenity

Pahalgam, India on July 8, 2025

7:00am

Drive to Pahalgam

Early morning drive for approximately 3 hours to reach the peaceful town of Pahalgam, nestled along the Lidder River.
Car rental approx. INR3000, 3h0m

10:30am

Breakfast at Dana Pani

Enjoy a late breakfast with fresh local dishes and baked goods at Dana Pani, known for its riverfront setting.
INR400, 1h0m

11:30am

Betaab Valley

Visit Betaab Valley, a stunning spot for nature lovers famous for its lush greenery and river views. Ideal for walks and photography.
INR20, 2h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at Hotel Highland Park

Have a delicious lunch with local and Indian cuisine at Hotel Highland Park overlooking the valley.
INR600, 1h0m

3:30pm

Aru and Chandanwari

Head out to Aru and Chandanwari, nearby scenic meadows, perfect for an afternoon stroll to unwind in pristine nature.
INR50, 2h0m

6:00pm

Return to Srinagar

Drive back to Srinagar to prepare for your next day's journey.
Included in car rental, 3h0m

9:30pm

Late Dinner at Lhasa Restaurant

Enjoy a late dinner offering Tibetan and Kashmiri delights at Lhasa Restaurant in Srinagar.
INR500, 1h0m

Day 4: Sonamarg and Departure

Sonamarg, India on July 9, 2025

7:00am

Drive to Sonamarg

Set out early for a scenic 2-hour journey to Sonamarg, known as the 'Meadow of Gold' and gateway to Himalayan treks.
Car rental approx. INR2500, 2h0m

9:30am

Thajiwas Glacier Trek

Embark on a moderate trek or pony ride to Thajiwas Glacier to witness spectacular ice formations and cool mountain air. The area is open from early morning until evening.
INR500 for pony ride, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Glacier Restaurant

Refresh with a lunch offering hearty Indian and continental dishes while enjoying stunning mountain views.
INR600, 1h0m

1:45pm

Explore Sonamarg Local Market

Browse local handicrafts and sample fresh apples and apricots, a regional speciality.
Free, 1h0m

3:00pm

Return to Srinagar

Drive back to Srinagar for your departure or onward travel, enjoying last views of the Kashmir valley.
Included in car rental, 2h0m