An Easy 6 Day Itinerary To Kashmir With Family

Last Updated on January 22, 2024 by Roslin Dwivedi

The beauty of Kashmir starts getting into you way before you touch the ground. The vast glacier’s aerial view from the plane starts building that excitement of playing in those mountains once you reach. It sounds like a child, but I doubt if any adult doesn’t feel the same way. I am discussing our An Easy 6 Day Itinerary To Kashmir With Family that started on the day of Eid festival. When we arrived at the Srinagar airport. It felt festive as the airport crew dressed in Eid dresses. We were overwhelmed by the military we saw around when we came out of the airport. You will get used to it as the day passes in Kashmir. One more thing that overwhelmed us was the beautiful bushes of roses outside the airport, and on the way, many houses and buildings had them hanging out of the boundary walls. 

Now let’s discuss your itinerary for the Kashmir vacation. 

The 6 Day Itinerary To Kashmir goes like this:

Day 1 – Arrive in Srinagar and explore the Dal Lake and Kashmiri wazwan

Day 2 – Take a trip to Pahalgam and enjoy the area’s natural beauty.

Day 3 – Take a drive from Pahalgam to offbeat places.

Day 4 – Drive to Sonamarg or Srinagar and take a hiking expedition or Dal Lake Shikara ride.

Day 5 – Head to Gulmarg for a Gondola ride, skiing or snowboarding

Day 6 – Take the Srinagar city tour, Dal lake shikara ride and visit the Mughal gardens.

Day 7 – Fly back home from Srinagar.

Day 1 – Arrive in Srinagar and explore the Dal Lake and Kashmiri wazwan

Our first day of 6 day itinerary to Kashmir, started in Srinagar with a Kashmiri family, was truly unforgettable. Right from the welcome at their house to their hospitality till the end was so pleasing to the heart. We were wowed at the house’s entrance with the beautiful flower plantation in their front yard and all around the house walls. The whole family met with us as if we had known each other for ages. They gave us a small tour of their Kashmiri-style house. Extending their hospitality, they washed our hands on one of their hand wash utensils and were served Kashmiri food on Kashmiri utensils sitting in Kashmiri wazwan style. 

The day went by with all the talks about life in Kashmir and some hilarious incidents they faced being in Kashmir. They showed the houses around and said they all lived close to each other. The neighbours you see are all family, and also they like to marry the girls from close by houses. So the girl also stays close to the family. As our meeting ended, they served us some Kashmiri tea. This tea was unique as it was white because of milk but was also not sweet but salty. Honestly, I had it not being spoilsport, but salty tea is not for me. Hahaha 

To experience Kashmiri dastarkhwan, check out any Airbnb that provides that kind of experience or go to Salam-e-wazwan or Bhat restaurant/ Kashmiri wazwan, Ahdoos, or Kareema Restaurant.

We checked into our Airbnb located behind Dal Lake. A small hotel that only served vegetarian food in the room. Since it was last minute booking, we couldn’t find a nice hotel or a view. But staying the night was cheap, and the vegetarian parathas were delicious too. The room had no toiletries or water, so we had to buy some from the nearby shop. 

Those who don’t have such meeting plans with the Kashmiri family can check in to their hotel, go for the Dal lake shikara ride first, and start their itinerary by driving to Pahalgam the next day.

Day 2 – Take a trip to Pahalgam and enjoy the area’s natural beauty.

The following day we drove to Pahalgam for 3 to 4 hours approx. Are you in the mood to escape the city life’s hustle and bustle? Look no further than Pahalgam, a hill station nestled in the lush Kashmir Valley. Known for its pristine meadows, dense pine forests, and sparkling streams, Pahalgam is a nature lover’s paradise. 

If you get a chance, visit the bazaar on the way to Pahalgam. That is Anantnag Market. I wanted to stop at some local bread shops, where I saw colossal round naan and Kashmiri copper wear shops selling brass utensils with an authentic vibe. All these shops showed a tiny part of their culture. 

You can stop at some of the restaurants on the way to Pahalgam. These restaurants (Evergreen Resort) are very crowded in the morning. Looks like every tourist is travelling to Pahalgam. Next to the restaurant, we found a small garden with the Lidder river streaming behind, picnic tables around and the boundary was fascinatingly filled with peach, and red rose plants.

Check out some beautiful scenes you will get on the way to Pahalgam.

We travelled along the Lidder river to our hotel Raj Palace in Pahalgam. The hotel is right on the main road of Pahalgam market. 

The weather in Pahalgam is unpredictable. At times it’s warm and sunny and next you will find it’s raining. 

The day we reached, it was raining, so we lost our afternoon. We walked around our hotel and checked out the nearby Pahalgam markets. We had no idea Pahalgam had so many parks around. 

Parks in Pahalgam – We went to one of the parks, Island Park, next to the enormous parking area you will find when you enter Pahalgam. The park has some mesmerizing views of snow hills, and a large grassland garden allows you to have a lovely picnic where parents can relax by letting the kids run free. One more thing you can do over here is clicking as many better-posed pictures as you want. Also, you can get some close shots of the Lidder river.

Pahalgam Market – Since the hotels are located near Pahalgam market, you may take a walk around. Check out some souvenir shops, and we mostly checked out the restaurants there. 

Day 3: Take a drive from Pahalgam to offbeat places.

Aru Valley – Located about 12 km from Pahalgam, we drove for almost 3 hours and reached the location. Since it’s one of the famous locations near Pahalgam, you often find it crowded. The place is on the hills but not at a high altitude. Families with kids and old parents can have a lovely picnic here and reach this place easily by car. The beauty of Aru valley lies in the surrounding mountains with tall pine trees. You may also do horse riding over here. 

Betab valley – Betab Valley is also known as Hagan Valley or Hajan Valley. It got its name Betab valley, after the movie Betaab shot over here. You can reach here in 15-20 mins by car, or if you are up for a walk and a little hike, you can get here in 1 hour from Pahalgam. Or you can go to Aru Valley first via taxi, and then Betab valley. You will have to take tickets to go inside and enjoy the garden. This location looks out of the movies, surrounded by colossal pine tree hills and streaming rivers.

Chandanwari – Chandanwari is the starting point to go for the Amarnath yatra. And it’s such a high altitude that you might face severe breathlessness as you walk up to the plain glacier sight. A few people were fainting due to a lack of oxygen. It’s not dreadful, but I suggest a slow movement as you progress. As you reach the Chandanwari entrance, you will find multiple small cafes and shops offering tea/coffee and fried items like bread pakora, onion, potato pakora, and maggie. You will not have more than this in any of these shops. There is no proper restaurant that serves you lunch, and most of the tourists arrive here during lunchtime. It was a huge letdown.

Another thing is you will have to walk at least a kilometre to reach the main attraction and then you will have to climb the staircase. Where you are actually tired and start feeling breathless. You can hire a sleigh at the spot or go with the vendors who will take you up the hill and slide down, making you experience the snow slide sledge. We booked them for 500 INR per person (we bargained). You can also rent a boot which is a wise decision. 

Baisaran – Located 5 km from Pahalgam, Baisaran is often called Switzerland due to its picturesque landscape surrounded by snowy mountains. The hilltop is densely filled with Pine trees, giving you a fantastic walking experience between the pine trees and on the hill. Tourists visiting Pahalgam also go for Baisaran, which looks similar to Aru Valley but has a more beautiful landscape. You may find a few vendors asking you to take them to mini Switzerland via horseback riding at a high price, you don’t have to go with them if you can hike a bit, but you better bargain and reach this impressive site. The top things you can do over here are Horse riding, pony riding, zip lining and zorbing.

River Rafting – Pahalgam river rafting is another adventure in Pahalgam. This distance from the start to the finish point is set in three rides. You can choose among 2.5 km rides, 5 km medium long ride and 8 km extra long ride. And all these rides are set with difficulty levels you want to choose to get the thrilling rafting experience. 

The best time to do river rafting in Pahalgam is in May and June when the weather in Kashmir is a little warm, and the water is also not freezing. But book it in advance, so you are not lost among the crowded tourists gushing to do the rafting.

Lidder River – Lidder river is a beauty spot in the serene sights of Pahalgam. It serves some impeccable views for your eyes. Getting close to the river is one small happiness you will have. We got down from our car as often as possible to click pictures around the Lidder river.

Around this area, you will also see a lot of Kashmiris camping. Many companies also offer camping in Kashmir if you like to have that experience.  

Tip: 1. You will find multiple vendors selling your shawl saying it’s a pashmina, not 100% but 80 %. Please do not believe you can also buy those shawls just like a woollen shawl and bargain. 

Day 4 – Drive to Sonamarg or Srinagar and take a hiking expedition or Dal Lake Shikara ride.

On day 4, you can go back to Srinagar or drive through to Sonamarg. The drive alone is breathtaking. The scenery constantly changes as you pass rolling hills, towering mountain ranges, and trekking through winding valleys. And then arrive at your destination – Sonamarg, known as “The Meadow of Gold.” 

Best things to do in Sonamarg: Thajiwas Glacier, Gangabal Lake, Jozila pass, Vishansar lake, Krishansar lake, Baltal Valley. 

Thajiwas Glacier and the frozen stream nearby, where you could see snow even during summer. Set off on a trail that will take you past waterfalls and meadows dotted with wildflowers. It isn’t easy at times, but every step is worth it when you reach the top and can take in the fantastic views around you. It’s suggested to hire a horse to reach Thajiwas Glacier. It’s around 7-800 INR per person. But bargaining is your art. 

The best time to visit Sonamarg is from April to October. When the weather is open and a little warm. From November to February, Sonamarg is closed due to excessive snowfall. 

Day 5 – Head to Gulmarg for a Gondola ride, skiing or snowboarding

Take a leisurely stroll through the meadows dotted with wildflowers during the summer season, hike through winding paths to reach stunning viewpoints, or take a bumpy ride through the mountains. All are worth it. 

A Kashmir vacation in India wouldn’t be complete without a trip to Gulmarg for some Gondola rides, walking between the summer blooms, or skiing or snowboarding in winter on the gorgeous mountains. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or starting out, Gulmarg has slopes for all experience levels. The instructors at the resort are friendly and willing to teach beginners the ropes, but more advanced skiers and boarders can have a blast hitting the advanced runs and even attempting some off-piste areas with a guide. And when it’s time for a break from shredding powder, take a gondola ride to check out the breathtaking views at Apharwat Peak. Trust me – you won’t regret checking off skiing or snowboarding from your bucket list at Gulmarg. Or just a little tour of Gulmarg’s parks and uneven roads if you visit in summer. And head back to Srinagar. 

Check out some tips for a Gondola ride in a Gulmarg video.

Day 6 – Take the Srinagar city tour, Dal lake shikara ride and visit the Mughal gardens.

We decided to visit the fantastic Nishat Bagh gardens in Shalimar. As soon as we arrived, we were mesmerized by the symmetrical layout and vibrant colours of the flowers and trees. The 12 terraces surrounded us with beauty, representing the 12 zodiac signs according to Mughal tradition. And amidst it all was a stunning view of Dal Lake, providing an idyllic backdrop for this green oasis. We spent hours strolling through the garden, taking occasional breaks to enjoy the delicious Kashmiri tea and snacks sold by local vendors. It was a tough decision to leave such a serene paradise.

We went for a lovely shikara ride on the majestic Dal Lake. As the shikara glided across the water, the scenic view of the colourful houseboats was unlike anything. As we chugged along, vendors approached our boat, offering everything from trinkets to freshly made Kashmiri tea. It was heartwarming to see floating herb gardens and floating markets. The shikara driver explained the lives of locals at Dal lake. I couldn’t believe that the population was around 3 lakhs at Dal lake. The day ended with a delicious dinner of traditional Kashmiri cuisine in one of the restaurants near Dal lake, followed by some Kashmiri pashmina cashmere shopping. 

Day 7 – Fly back home from Srinagar.

From taking a leisurely shikara ride on Dal Lake to the marvellous valleys of Pahalgam and the unbeatable beauty of the snow hills of Gulmarg, the past week has been filled with unforgettable memories. The warmth and hospitality of the locals or savouring delicious meals at local restaurants was a great experience. 

Overall, Kashmir was a fantastic experience, and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a unique travel destination in India. The people are friendly, the scenery is breathtaking, and there’s so much to see and do. If you’re planning a trip to Kashmir soon, add these things to your itinerary!