When someone says “heaven on Earth,” it’s Kashmir that often comes to mind. From snow-capped mountains and shimmering lakes to Mughal gardens and warm-hearted locals, Kashmir is not just a destination — it’s an experience.
Whether you’re planning a romantic honeymoon, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, this perfect 5 day Kashmir itinerary covers the best of nature, culture, food, and relaxation. So let’s get you started on your dream trip.
🗓 Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar – The Jewel of Kashmir
Highlights:
- Dal Lake shikara ride
- Mughal Gardens
- Local cuisine in Srinagar
Most travelers arrive in Srinagar either by flight or by road. As your plane descends, you’ll witness an aerial view of endless valleys surrounded by mountains — a sight that sets the tone for the next five days.
What to Do:
- Check-in to a houseboat or hotel: For a truly Kashmiri experience, opt for a traditional houseboat on Dal Lake.
- Shikara ride on Dal Lake: Glide over the peaceful waters, pass floating gardens and vendors — it’s serene and magical.
- Explore Mughal Gardens: Visit Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh, designed with Persian influence and Himalayan beauty.
- Visit Hazratbal Shrine or Shankaracharya Temple (if time permits).
Where to Eat:
Try Ahdoos Restaurant or Mughal Darbar for authentic wazwan (traditional Kashmiri multi-course meal).
Tip: Layer up even in summer — evenings can get chilly, especially on the lake.
🗓 Day 2: Gulmarg – Winter Wonderland or Meadow Paradise
Travel Time from Srinagar: ~2 hours by road
Highlights:
- Gondola ride
- Snow activities (in winter)
- Trekking or horse riding (in summer)
Gulmarg is a year-round destination — ski capital of India in winter and a meadow of flowers in spring and summer.
What to Do:
- Gondola Ride: One of the highest cable cars in the world, it takes you up to 13,000 feet with spectacular views.
- Winter activities: Skiing, snowboarding, or making snowmen!
- Summer fun: Horseback riding, walking through meadows, or trying the golf course — one of the world’s highest.
Evening Plan:
Return to Srinagar or stay overnight in Gulmarg if you want more snow time.
Tip: Book the Gondola in advance online to skip long queues.
🗓 Day 3: Pahalgam – River Valleys & Pine Forests
Travel Time from Srinagar: ~2.5 to 3 hours
Highlights:
- Betaab Valley
- Aru Valley
- River Lidder
This is your third day from Perfect 5 Days in Kashmir and after breakfast, head to Pahalgam, a charming valley town known for its scenic beauty, movie locations, and peaceful vibe.
What to Do:
- Visit Betaab Valley: Named after the Bollywood film Betaab, this spot offers pine forests, a glacial river, and postcard-perfect views.
- Explore Aru Valley: Less touristy, more raw. Ideal for nature walks or short treks.
- Enjoy a pony ride or a riverside picnic along the Lidder River.
Optional:
For adventure lovers, consider white-water rafting on the Lidder or a short nature hike.
Tip: Stay overnight in Pahalgam to truly enjoy the calm and starlit skies.
🗓 Day 4: Return to Srinagar via Apple Orchards & Local Culture
Highlights:
- Local apple orchards
- Dry fruit shopping
- Visit old Srinagar bazaars
On your way back to Srinagar, take the scenic route and stop at the local apple orchards (especially during harvest season in August–October).
What to Do in Srinagar:
- Shopping in Lal Chowk or Polo View Market: Pick up saffron, pashmina shawls, papier-mâché souvenirs, and local spices.
- Visit the old Srinagar city: Wander through historic lanes, and visit Jamia Masjid, a stunning wooden mosque.
- Indulge in street snacks like nadru chips (lotus stem) and kebabs.
Evening:
Relax with Kahwa tea on your houseboat balcony as the sun sets over the lake.
Tip: Bargain gently in local shops, but with respect — it’s part of the culture.
🗓 Day 5: Local Flavours, Floating Markets & Departure
Highlights:
- Morning floating vegetable market
- Traditional Kashmiri breakfast
- Last-minute shopping
Wake up early and take a morning shikara ride to witness the floating vegetable market — a beautiful sight of traders exchanging fresh produce on boats as mist rises from the lake.
Breakfast:
Try Harisa (winter dish) or Girda bread with noon chai (salty pink tea) from a local bakery or café.
Last Stops:
- Pick up dry fruits, Kahwa mix, and spices before leaving.
- Enjoy a quiet walk by Nigeen Lake, a less crowded alternative to Dal.
Departure:
Head to the airport with your heart full and your phone full of memories.
Tip: Reach the airport at least 2.5 hours before your flight — security is tight, and queues can be long.
🌸 Optional Add-Ons (If You Have Extra Days):
- Sonamarg: The “Meadow of Gold,” perfect for a day trip with glaciers and pony rides.
- Yusmarg: A peaceful alternative to popular spots — fewer tourists, more nature.
- Doodhpathri: An emerging offbeat spot, known for milky streams and rolling hills.
🧳 Packing List for Kashmir:
- Warm clothes (even in summer)
- Comfortable walking shoes or trekking boots
- Moisturizer and sunscreen (mountain sun can be harsh)
- Power bank and camera
- Basic medicines (especially for altitude and motion sickness)
🛏️ Where to Stay in Kashmir:
Srinagar:
- Houseboat: Peacock Houseboats, Butt’s Clermont
- Hotels: The Khyber Himalayan Resort (premium), Hotel Dar-Es-Salam (boutique)
Pahalgam:
- Welcomhotel Pine N Peak
- Lidder Spring Resort
Gulmarg:
- The Khyber Gulmarg
- Hotel Hilltop
🍛 Must-Try Kashmiri Dishes:
- Rogan Josh – tender lamb in aromatic curry
- Gushtaba – meatballs in yogurt gravy
- Kashmiri Pulao – fragrant rice with dry fruits
- Modur Pulao – sweet saffron rice
- Kahwa – green tea with spices and almonds
Vegetarians can enjoy dishes like Chaman (paneer curry), Dum Aloo, and Haak (collard greens).
💬 Local Language Tips:
- Hello: Asalam-u-Alaikum / Namaste
- Thank you: Shukriya
- Beautiful: Khoobsurat
- Food is good: Khaana bohot acha hai
🌿 Travel Responsibly:
- Don’t litter — keep the valleys clean.
- Respect local customs and avoid intrusive photography.
- Shop local and support Kashmiri artisans.
- Avoid political discussions — stay safe and mindful.
✨ Final Thoughts: Kashmir Beyond the Postcards
Kashmir is not just about sightseeing. It’s about pausing and feeling — the warmth of its people, the serenity of its valleys, and the flavors of its traditions.
This perfect 5-day itinerary gives you a balanced taste of adventure, culture, and calm. Whether you spend your time gliding over Dal Lake or sipping Kahwa in a quiet village, Kashmir will stay with you long after you’ve left.
