Pachmīr

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Pachmīr's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Dal Lake
morning
:

Start your day with a serene shikara ride on Dal Lake, where the morning mist dances above the water. As the sun rises, enjoy the sight of floating gardens and local vendors selling fresh flowers and vegetables. This peaceful experience sets the tone for a tranquil day ahead in the heart of Kashmir.

afternoon
:

After your boat ride, visit the vibrant local markets that line the lake, where you can shop for traditional Kashmiri handicrafts and pashmina shawls. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a lakeside restaurant, sampling local delicacies such as Rogan Josh and Yakhni. Spend your afternoon exploring the picturesque houseboats, learning about their unique architecture and history.

evening
:

As the sun sets over the mountains, take another shikara ride to witness the breathtaking colors reflecting on the water. Return to your houseboat for a traditional Kashmiri dinner, featuring local dishes prepared by your hosts. End your day by sitting on the deck, sipping Kahwa, and listening to the soothing sounds of the lake.

day 2
Gulmarg Skiing Adventure
morning
:

Begin your day with an early breakfast before heading to Gulmarg, renowned for its stunning landscapes and winter sports. Upon arrival, take the Gondola ride to Apharwat Peak, where the snow-capped mountains stretch as far as the eye can see. Prepare for a thrilling day of skiing or snowboarding in one of Asia’s finest ski resorts.

afternoon
:

After enjoying the exhilarating slopes, take a break for lunch at a cozy mountain café, savoring hot soup and local specialties. Spend your afternoon exploring the beautiful meadows of Gulmarg, where you can also try your hand at snowshoeing or simply enjoy the breathtaking views. Capture stunning photographs of the snow-laden landscapes and the vibrant flora peeking through the snow.

evening
:

As the day winds down, return to Pachmīr, where you can relax and unwind at your accommodation. Enjoy a warm dinner featuring traditional Kashmiri cuisine, surrounded by the warmth of a local fire. Reflect on the day's adventures while gazing at the starlit sky above the mesmerizing mountains.

day 3
Cultural Immersion in Local Villages
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast before setting off to explore the nearby villages of Pahalgam, where you can experience the rich local culture. Interact with friendly villagers as they go about their morning routines, providing a glimpse into their traditional lifestyles. Visit local artisans who create beautiful handcrafted goods, learning about their techniques and stories.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a homemade lunch with a local family, tasting authentic Kashmiri dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. After lunch, take part in traditional crafts, such as weaving or pottery, guided by skilled artisans eager to share their knowledge. Spend the afternoon wandering the scenic paths of the village, surrounded by lush greenery and stunning views of the mountains.

evening
:

As dusk falls, return to Pachmīr and enjoy a quiet evening reflecting on the day's experiences. Dine at a local restaurant that serves traditional Kashmiri cuisine, indulging in flavors unique to the region. Conclude your day with a stroll along the lakeside, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.

day 4
Visiting Mughal Gardens
morning
:

After breakfast, set out to explore the stunning Mughal Gardens of Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh, renowned for their beautiful terraced lawns and intricate flowerbeds. Take a leisurely stroll through the gardens, admiring the stunning views of Dal Lake and the surrounding mountains. Capture the vibrant colors of blooming flowers as you immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance.

afternoon
:

Indulge in a picnic lunch amidst the lush greenery of the gardens, enjoying the refreshing breeze and the sound of chirping birds. After lunch, visit the nearby Pari Mahal, a historic site with breathtaking views of the gardens and lake below. Spend your afternoon learning about the history and architecture of these exquisite gardens.

evening
:

As the sun sets, take a moment to reflect in the serene environment of the gardens, with the vibrant colors of the sunset painting the sky. Return to Pachmīr for dinner, enjoying a meal at a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views over the city. Spend your evening relaxing, perhaps with a traditional dance performance or folk music.

day 5
Adventure in Pahalgam
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast before heading to Pahalgam, a picturesque town known for its lush green landscapes and adventure activities. On arrival, embark on a trek through the scenic Betaab Valley, surrounded by dense forests and stunning mountain views. Take in the crisp air and the beauty of nature as you traverse through the trails.

afternoon
:

After your trek, enjoy lunch at a local eatery, sampling fresh trout caught from the nearby streams. Spend the afternoon participating in river rafting on the Lidder River, experiencing the thrill of navigating through gentle rapids. Capture the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys from the river's edge.

evening
:

As dusk approaches, return to Pachmīr and unwind after a full day of adventure. Dine at a local restaurant, enjoying the flavors of Kashmiri cuisine while sharing stories of your day's experiences. Conclude your evening with a leisurely walk, taking in the cool mountain air and the sounds of nature.

day 6
Exploring Heritage Sites
morning
:

Start your morning with breakfast before heading to the ancient heritage sites of Awantipora, where you can explore the ruins of the 9th-century Hindu temples. Take a guided tour to learn about the history and significance of these archaeological treasures. The serene surroundings enhance the experience as you walk through the remnants of a bygone era.

afternoon
:

After your exploration, enjoy lunch at a nearby café, savoring local flavors and freshly made bread. Continue your heritage journey by visiting the historic Jamia Masjid in Srinagar, known for its stunning Indo-Saracenic architecture. Spend the afternoon wandering through the old city, observing the charming wooden houses and vibrant bazaars.

evening
:

As the sun begins to set, return to Pachmīr and relax at your accommodation. Enjoy a traditional dinner that showcases the culinary heritage of Kashmir, with dishes that tell stories of the region's rich history. Spend your evening reflecting on the cultural treasures you encountered throughout the day.

day 7
Nature Walk and Bird Watching
morning
:

Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to the beautiful meadows of Dachigam National Park, known for its rich wildlife and stunning landscapes. Enjoy a guided nature walk, where you can spot a variety of flora and fauna, including the elusive Kashmir stag. The morning air is fresh and invigorating, making it perfect for exploration.

afternoon
:

After your walk, enjoy lunch at a local spot, sampling traditional dishes while taking in views of the surrounding mountains. Spend your afternoon engaging in bird watching with a local expert, who will help you identify various species found in the region, from colorful pheasants to majestic eagles. The tranquil atmosphere and lush greenery create a perfect backdrop for this immersive experience.

evening
:

As evening falls, return to Pachmīr, where you can enjoy a warm dinner at your accommodation. Share stories of the day’s wildlife encounters with fellow travelers. Wind down by enjoying a bonfire under the stars, listening to the sounds of the wilderness surrounding you.

day 8
Shopping and Culinary Delights
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast before heading to the bustling Lal Chowk market, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and shop for local spices, saffron, and handicrafts. Stroll through the stalls and engage with local vendors to learn about their crafts and products. This lively market experience is a feast for the senses, filled with colors, scents, and sounds.

afternoon
:

Take a break for lunch at a local hakh restaurant, known for its authentic Kashmiri cuisine, where you can try dishes like Dum Aloo and Gustaba. After lunch, participate in a cooking class where you will learn how to prepare traditional Kashmiri dishes, guided by a local chef. The hands-on experience allows you to understand the intricacies of Kashmiri cooking and the importance of spices.

evening
:

As the day comes to a close, enjoy a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the beautiful landscape of Pachmīr. Relish the dishes you learned to prepare during your cooking class, savoring the flavors of your culinary journey. Conclude your evening by sharing your travel stories with fellow diners, creating lasting memories.

day 9
Relaxation and Wellness Retreat
morning
:

Begin your final day with a leisurely breakfast, savoring the tranquility of your surroundings. Treat yourself to a spa session focused on traditional Kashmiri wellness practices, including herbal treatments and massage techniques. This rejuvenating experience allows you to unwind and reflect on your travels in Pachmīr.

afternoon
:

After your spa session, enjoy a light lunch at your accommodation, followed by some downtime to relax and pack. Spend your afternoon exploring the serene landscapes surrounding Pachmīr on a gentle walk, taking in the beauty of the mountains and lakes. Capture the last moments of your journey in photographs, cherishing the memories you've created.

evening
:

As your trip comes to an end, enjoy a farewell dinner at a charming local restaurant, where you can taste any remaining dishes you haven’t yet tried. Take a moment to appreciate the scenic views and the warm hospitality of the Kashmiri people. Conclude your evening with a quiet reflection on your unforgettable journey through this enchanting region.

Discover Pachmīr

Read more in our Pachmīr 2025 Travel Guide.

Pachmīr Travel Guide