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 5-Day Kashmir Adventure: Srinagar to Gulmarg and Pahalgam

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Srinagar, India on June 6, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Cheshmashahi

Start your day with a traditional Kashmiri breakfast at Cheshmashahi, enjoying local specialties like kahwa and Noon Chai alongside freshly baked breads.

INR500, 1h

10:30am

Shikara Ride on Dal Lake

Experience a serene Shikara boat ride on Dal Lake, soaking in the spectacular views of floating gardens and houseboats until early afternoon.

INR600, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Ahdoos Restaurant

Enjoy authentic Kashmiri cuisine with dishes like Rogan Josh and Gushtaba in this iconic Srinagar eatery open from 12pm to 3:30pm.

INR800, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Mughal Gardens

Explore the breathtaking Mughal Gardens including Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, and Chashme Shahi, open until sunset, reflecting the perfect blend of Persian and Mughal garden architecture.

INR100, 2h30m

5:30pm

Relax at Hotel or Houseboat

Unwind in your hotel or the iconic houseboat on Dal Lake, enjoying the tranquil surroundings and sunset views.

Included in accommodation, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at The Chinar at The Lalit Grand Palace

Savor a fine dining experience featuring Kashmiri and international flavors in a historic palace setting, open till 11pm.

INR1500, 1h30m

Find Hotels in Srinagar

Day 2: Cultural Heritage

Srinagar, India on June 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a buffet breakfast at your hotel with a range of local and continental options to prepare for the day ahead.

Included, 1h

9:30am

Old Srinagar Walking Tour

Discover Srinagar's rich history visiting the Jamia Masjid, Shah Hamadan Shrine, and traditional bazaars, open from early morning to evening.

Free, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Mughal Darbar

Feast on delicate Wazwan dishes in a warm, welcoming atmosphere to experience true Kashmiri hospitality.

INR900, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Hazratbal Shrine

Visit the revered Hazratbal Shrine overlooking Dal Lake, a significant Muslim pilgrimage site, open till sunset.

Free, 1h

4:00pm

Explore Boulevard Road

Stroll along Boulevard Road by Dal Lake with cafes and shops, perfect for souvenirs and light refreshments.

Optional purchases, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Krishna Vaishno Dhaba

Dine on delicious vegetarian Kashmiri and North Indian cuisine at this popular local eatery open until 10pm.

INR400, 1h

Find Hotels in Srinagar

Day 3: Alpine Adventures

Gulmarg, India on June 8, 2025

7:30am

Early Breakfast at Hotel in Srinagar

Fuel up with a hearty early breakfast before heading out to Gulmarg.

Included, 1h

8:30am

Travel to Gulmarg

Drive approximately 2 hours from Srinagar to Gulmarg, known for its breathtaking meadows and alpine beauty.

Transport approx INR1500, 2h

11:00am

Gulmarg Gondola Ride

Take the famous Gondola ride up to Kongdoori and Apharwat peaks, offering unparalleled views and photo opportunities. Open daily from 9am to 5pm.

INR700, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Highland Park Restaurant

Enjoy fresh trout and other local dishes in this scenic Gulmarg restaurant open from 12pm to 3pm.

INR800, 1h

3:00pm

Explore Gulmarg Meadows

Stroll or take a pony ride through Gulmarg’s beautiful meadows filled with wildflowers and pine forests, ideal until sunset.

INR300 for pony ride optional, 2h

5:30pm

Check-in and Relax at Hotel

Rest and enjoy the alpine atmosphere at your hotel in Gulmarg.

Included, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Hotel Restaurant

Savor warm, comforting Kashmiri-style dishes at your hotel’s restaurant open until 10pm.

INR1200, 1h30m

Find Hotels in Gulmarg

Day 4: Pahalgam Serenity

Pahalgam, India on June 9, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a nourishing breakfast before the scenic drive to Pahalgam.

Included, 1h

8:00am

Travel to Pahalgam

Drive approximately 3 hours to Pahalgam, a picturesque valley on the banks of the Lidder River known for natural beauty and adventure.

Transport approx INR2000, 3h

11:30am

Visit Betaab Valley

Explore the stunning Betaab Valley famous for its lush greenery and Himalayan views, open all day.

INR50, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at The Chinar at Hotel Heevan

Dine on flavorful Kashmiri and North Indian cuisine with lovely garden views.

INR900, 1h

2:30pm

Lidder River Walk and Aru Village Visit

Take a gentle walk along the scenic Lidder River and proceed to Aru Village, a tranquil spot perfect for photos and nature appreciation.

Free, 2h

5:00pm

Check-in and Relaxation at Pahalgam Hotel

Enjoy the peaceful mountain ambiance and rest before dinner.

Included, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Dana Pani Restaurant

Experience hearty and delicious Kashmiri meals in a rustic setting popular among locals.

INR700, 1h

Find Hotels in Pahalgam

Day 5: Final Day and Departure

Srinagar, India on June 10, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a filling breakfast as you prepare for the return trip to Srinagar.

Included, 1h

8:00am

Travel back to Srinagar

Drive back to Srinagar, roughly 2.5 hours, allowing plenty of time for sightseeing.

Transport approx INR1500, 2h30m

11:00am

Visit Shankaracharya Temple

Visit the ancient hilltop Shankaracharya Temple offering panoramic views of Srinagar. Open from 9am to sunset.

INR50, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Mughal Darbar

Relish a final rich Kashmiri meal to savor the flavors of the region.

INR900, 1h

2:00pm

Shopping and Leisure at Lal Chowk

Spend the afternoon exploring Lal Chowk for local handicrafts and souvenirs before departure.

Optional purchases, 2h

5:00pm

Departure from Srinagar

Head to the airport or onward destination with memories of a beautiful Kashmir journey.

Transport varies, Varies

Find Hotels in Srinagar

Step 1 Outline Preview:

Enchanting 5-Day Kashmir Adventure: Srinagar to Gulmarg and Pahalgam

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

9:00am

10:30am

1:00pm

2:30pm

5:30pm

7:30pm

Day 2: Cultural Heritage

8:00am

9:30am

1:00pm

2:30pm

4:00pm

7:00pm

Day 3: Alpine Adventures

7:30am

8:30am

11:00am

1:30pm

3:00pm

5:30pm

7:30pm

Day 4: Pahalgam Serenity

7:00am

8:00am

11:30am

1:00pm

2:30pm

5:00pm

7:00pm

Day 5: Final Day and Departure

7:00am

8:00am

11:00am

12:30pm

2:00pm

5:00pm

More About Kashmir

Plan Your Kashmir Trip