7-Day Itinerary To Explore Kashmir With Family

One night is not enough to take in the beauty of Dal Lake, especially if you are staying in a boathouse on the lake. Known as Srinagar’s jewel, Dal Lake offers more than just splendid houseboats. A source of commercial operations, there is a unique floating flower and vegetable market that can be explored early in the morning. Have lunch at the in-house restaurant and check out the local spice and woollen market in Srinagar. Later, make it a point to watch the beautiful sunset over the lake before you call it a night.

A skier’s paradise, Gulmarg is a must-visit spot in every tourist’s Kashmir itinerary. From vibrant flowers to snow-capped mountains, Gulmarg is paradise for adventure buffs. Stop for lunch at one of the local dhabas and if the weather is favourable, you can go mountain biking, skiing, trekking, or take gondola rides for a panoramic view of the valley. It gets dark early, so it is best to enjoy the view with your family after dinner, over laughter and conversation.

Sonmarg, a hill station located to the northeast of Srinagar, is another popular tourist place in Kashmir. Set at an altitude of 9186 feet against scenic meadows and a clear blue sky, the name literally translates to ‘Meadow of Gold’. After lunch, do check out the Kheer Bhawani Temple located in the middle of a natural spring and the Gadsar Lake that is at 16,400 feet and remains frozen throughout the year. Surrounded by snow-covered mountains and alpine flowers, Sonmarg also has beautiful walnut orchards that you definitely must visit.

A favourite tourist place in Kashmir, Pahalgam is a small hill station that embodies the beauty of Kashmir. Also known as the Valley of Shepherds, Pahalgam is perched at the intersection of the Lidder and Sheshnag rivers. This tiny town has the beautiful Baisaran Hills that are just the place for a trek with your children. An ideal picnic spot; it’s a great place to enjoy a meal with your family after a rejuvenating trek. You can also visit Mamaleshwar Temple, Kolahoi Glacier, and Betaab Valley later in the evening (before sunset) for a picturesque view of the valley.

At a distance of only 15 km from Pahalgam is Chandanwari, a glacier point and the starting point of the sacred Amarnath Yatra. Located at an elevation, it’s an offbeat destination to stop and have breakfast in the lap of nature. After a 30-minute detour, you can go on with your journey back to Srinagar. Spend the night in a houseboat (if you haven’t already) or a hotel in the city and relish a local meal. Try the authentic mutton rogan josh with the traditional bread and finish off with the world-famous Kashmiri phirni for dessert.

Have a hearty breakfast at your boathouse or hotel and depart on your return journey!

The Kashmir Valley is resplendent with vibrant orchards, lakes, and snow-clad mountains.