Kashmir Family Itinerary – 7 Days / 6 Nights
Overview
A perfect family-friendly itinerary to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of Kashmir. Relax on traditional houseboats, explore scenic meadows, enjoy snow activities, and discover local heritage with comfortable stays and fun-filled days for all ages.
Highlights
- Stay on heritage houseboats on Dal Lake
- Shikara rides during sunset
- Visit famous Mughal Gardens
- Scenic day trip to Sonamarg with glacier pony rides
- Gondola cable car rides in Gulmarg
- Explore apple orchards and riverside in Pahalgam
- Family-friendly activities: river rafting, sledding, nature walks
- Optional cultural experiences and local handicraft shopping
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar – Welcome to Paradise
Arrive at Srinagar Airport. Check-in at a heritage houseboat on Dal Lake. Relax with Kahwa (Kashmiri tea), enjoy a Shikara ride during golden hour, and walk along Boulevard Road. Overnight stay on the houseboat.
Day 2: Srinagar – Mughal Garden Tour
Visit the famous Mughal Gardens: Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, and Chashme Shahi. Explore Pari Mahal for panoramic views and optionally trek to Shankaracharya Temple. Shop for local Kashmiri handicrafts such as Pashmina and Paper Mache. Optional sunset boat ride or cultural dinner. Overnight stay at hotel or houseboat.
Day 3: Day Trip to Sonamarg – The Meadow of Gold
Drive to Sonamarg (2.5 hrs). Enjoy a short pony ride to Thajiwas Glacier, perfect for kids. Participate in sledding or snow play (seasonal) and have a picnic by the river. Return to Srinagar by evening. Overnight stay in Srinagar.
Day 4: Srinagar → Gulmarg (Meadow of Flowers)
Drive to Gulmarg (2 hrs). Check-in at a mountain view resort. Take a ride on the Gulmarg Gondola (Asia’s highest cable car) to Phase 1: Kongdoori and Phase 2: Apharwat (weather permitting). Enjoy snow activities such as sledging, skiing, or building a snowman (in winter). Optionally, horse ride or walk through pine trails. Overnight in Gulmarg.
Day 5: Gulmarg → Pahalgam – Valley of Shepherds
Drive to Pahalgam (4–5 hrs via scenic route). Stop en route at Avantipur Ruins, apple orchards (seasonal), and Lidder River viewpoints. Check-in at riverside hotel or cottage. Leisure time includes bonfire evening and riverside stroll. Overnight stay in Pahalgam.
Day 6: Explore Pahalgam
Visit Aru Valley and Betaab Valley for beautiful meadows and picnic spots. Explore Chandanwari snow point (seasonal). Family fun options include gentle river rafting and nature photography. Overnight stay in Pahalgam.
Day 7: Pahalgam → Srinagar Airport (Departure)
Drive back to Srinagar Airport (2.5–3 hrs). Optional stop at saffron fields (seasonal) or dry fruit market near Pampore for last-minute shopping and sightseeing.
Trip Details
- 6 nights accommodation (houseboat, hotel, resort)
- Breakfast daily
- Private transfers and sightseeing tours
- Shikara rides and gondola cable car tickets
- All entry fees for mentioned sites
- Experienced local guides
- 24x7 tour support
What Travelers Say
Real experiences from our amazing travelers
"Absolutely incredible experience! The itinerary was perfectly planned and every moment was magical. Our guide was knowledgeable and the accommodations exceeded expectations."
Sarah Johnson
New York, USA
"This trip changed my perspective on travel. Every detail was taken care of, and the local experiences were authentic and memorable. Highly recommended!"
Raj Patel
Mumbai, India
"Beautiful destinations and well-organized tour. The food experiences were a highlight, and the group was fantastic. Would definitely book again!"
Emma Chen
Singapore
"Outstanding service from start to finish. The team went above and beyond to make our honeymoon perfect. Every detail was thoughtfully planned."
Michael Rodriguez
Barcelona, Spain
"An unforgettable family vacation! The kids loved every activity, and we adults were equally entertained. Perfect balance of adventure and relaxation."
Priya Sharma
Delhi, India
FAQs
March to October offers pleasant weather and good sightseeing opportunities.
Yes, houseboats are well-maintained and offer a unique, comfortable stay experience suitable for families.
Snow activities are available in winter months (December to February) mainly in Gulmarg.