Explore the Hidden Gems of Kashmir: A 5-Day Offbeat Itinerary

Day 1: Srinagar Arrival

Srinagar, India on June 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Chinar Bagh

Start your day with traditional Kashmiri kahwa tea and local bakery items in a serene garden setting open from 7 AM.
INR300, 1h0m

9:30am

Shikara Ride on Dal Lake

Enjoy a peaceful hour-long Shikara ride to observe floating gardens and houseboats, a distinctive charm of Srinagar.
INR600, 1h0m

11:00am

Visit Shankaracharya Temple

Explore this ancient hilltop temple dedicated to Lord Shiva with panoramic views over Srinagar. Open until 6 PM.
INR20, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Ahdoos Restaurant

Taste authentic Wazwaan dishes in one of Srinagar’s iconic restaurants, known for its Kashmiri cuisine.
INR700, 1h0m

2:00pm

Explore Old Srinagar and Bazaar

Walk through narrow alleys of the old city to shop for Pashmina shawls and handicrafts, soaking in local culture.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Relax at Boulevard Road

Stroll along the waterfront boulevard with views of the lake and mountains, ideal for evening tea.
INR200, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Mughal Darbar

Enjoy a refined Kashmiri dinner featuring Rogan Josh and Gushtaba in a cozy setting. Open till 10 PM.
INR800, 1h30m
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Day 2: Yousmarg & Doodhpathri

Kashmir Valley, India on June 17, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel in Srinagar

Have an early breakfast with parathas and local chutneys before heading out to Yousmarg.
Included in stay, 0h30m

8:30am

Drive to Yousmarg

Travel 50 km southeast of Srinagar to Yousmarg, a serene meadow surrounded by pine trees and mountain views.
INR1500 by taxi, 2h0m

10:30am

Horse Riding & Walk in Yousmarg

Explore the meadows and gentle hills on horseback or by foot, a quiet alternative to crowded Gulmarg.
INR800, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch Picnic at Yousmarg

Pack local snacks or enjoy packed lunch amidst nature in Yousmarg’s tranquil environment.
INR400, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Doodhpathri

Short 25 km drive to Doodhpathri, known as 'Valley of Milk', for lush green meadows and gentle streams. Open all day.
Free, 2h0m

4:00pm

Return to Srinagar

Head back to Srinagar to relax after a day of nature walks and meadow explorations.
INR1500 by taxi, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at The Chinar

Dine on contemporary Kashmiri and north Indian fare with a view of Dal Lake’s illumination at night.
INR900, 1h30m
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Day 3: Gulmarg Adventure

Gulmarg, India on June 18, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel Srinagar

Early wholesome breakfast with Kashmiri omelette and fresh bread to energize for the day ahead.
Included in stay, 0h30m

7:30am

Drive to Gulmarg

2-hour scenic journey southwest to Gulmarg, famous for its alpine meadows and cable car rides.
INR2000 by taxi, 2h0m

9:30am

Gondola Ride to Apharwat Peak

Take one of Asia’s highest cable cars up to 4,000m altitude for spectacular panoramic views and mountain trails. Operating 9 AM to 4 PM.
INR1500, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Highland Park Restaurant

Enjoy a meal with views of hills featuring local trout and grilled vegetables.
INR700, 1h0m

1:30pm

Nature Walk & Pony Ride

Explore lesser-known trails around Gulmarg or opt for pony rides through meadows and forested areas.
INR600, 2h0m

4:00pm

Drive Back to Srinagar

Return to Srinagar with some rest time before dinner.
INR2000, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Ahdoos Restaurant

Enjoy a second evening at this legendary restaurant indulging in warm, spiced Kashmiri dishes.
INR900, 1h30m
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Day 4: Pahalgam & Aru Valley

Pahalgam, India on June 19, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel Srinagar

Fill up on fresh fruits and Kashmiri breads before an early start to Pahalgam.
Included in stay, 0h30m

7:30am

Drive to Pahalgam

Enjoy a 3-hour drive southeast to picturesque Pahalgam, known for pine forests and meandering Lidder River.
INR2500 taxi, 3h0m

10:30am

Visit Aru Valley

Short 12 km trip to Aru Valley, a quiet hamlet for walking, trout fishing, and nature excursions. Open all day.
Free, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Café Sehar

Taste local delicacies from lamb dishes to fresh salads in this charming café in Pahalgam.
INR600, 1h0m

1:30pm

Walk Along Lidder River

A leisurely riverside walk through scenic surroundings and poplar forests, great for photos and fresh air.
Free, 2h0m

3:30pm

Explore Betaab Valley

En route back, visit Betaab Valley, named after a Bollywood movie, featuring beautiful green meadows and clear streams.
INR50 entry, 1h0m

5:00pm

Return to Srinagar

Drive back to Srinagar to enjoy the last evening in the city.
INR2500 taxi, 3h0m

8:30pm

Dinner at The Chinar

Savour a relaxed and elegant meal overlooking Dal Lake, finishing your trip on a high note.
INR900, 1h30m
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Day 5: Departure & Local Walks

Srinagar, India on June 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Ahdoos

Enjoy a final Kashmiri breakfast with breads and chutneys at this beloved local spot.
INR300, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Nigeen Lake

Short stroll at Nigeen Lake for tranquil views and fewer tourists, before heading to the airport.
Free, 1h0m

11:00am

Transfer to Srinagar Airport

Catch your flight back home after a memorable tour of Kashmir’s secluded gems.
INR500 taxi, 1h0m
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