Srinagar India 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Enchanting Srinagar

Morning:

  • Arrival at Sheikh Ul-Alam International Airport, Srinagar.
  • Check-in at a traditional Houseboat (Shikara) on Dal Lake, one of the most iconic experiences in Srinagar.
  • Breakfast at your houseboat, typically featuring Kashmiri dishes like Aloo Goght, Muj Gaad and Nund-Routhie.

Mid-Morning:

  • Visit Shalimar Bagh, a beautiful terraced garden built by Mughal Emperor Jahangir for his beloved Noor Jahan.

Afternoon:

  • Head to Nishat Bagh, the Garden of Joy, another Mughal garden overlooking Dal Lake.
  • Lunch at local restaurant like New Lassi Wala or Mughal Darbar, try traditional dishes like Rogan Josh and Yakhni Pulao.

Evening:

  • Shikara ride on Dal Lake, visit the famous Floating Gardens (Char Chinari) and enjoy sunset over the lake.
  • Dinner at your houseboat or head to The Lalit Grand Palace Hotel for a multi-cuisine meal.

Day 2: Discovering Srinagar’s Rich Culture & Scenic Beauty

Morning:

  • Visit Dachigam National Park, home to Himalayan Black Bear, Musk Deer and a variety of birds.
  • Lunch at the park cafeteria or return to your houseboat for a packed lunch.

Afternoon:

  • Travel to Pahalgam (Valley of Shepherds), one of the most famous valleys in Kashmir, around 96 km from Srinagar.
  • Explore Betaab Valley or Tulian Lake, take a pony ride or just enjoy the picturesque landscapes.
  • Head back to Srinagar in the evening.

Evening:

  • Visit the local bazaars of Lal Chowk and Badshah Chowk for shopping traditional Kashmiri handicrafts, carpets and souvenirs.
  • Dinner at Heev (The Lalit Grand Palace Hotel) or at any other recommended restaurant.

Things to Know:

  1. Srinagar’s weather can be unpredictable; carry warm clothing even during summers.
  2. Always maintain respect for local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites.
  3. Bartering is common in local markets; negotiate prices before purchasing items.
  4. Mobile connectivity may be limited in certain areas, ensure you have a working data connection before venturing out.
  5. Carry cash (Indian Rupees) as some places may not accept cards or mobile payments.

Transportation:

  • Taxis and auto-rickshaws are easily available for local travel in Srinagar, but negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
  • For traveling to Pahalgam, you can hire a cab for the day or opt for shared taxis from Lal Chowk.

Tips:

  1. Explore lesser-known places like Manasbal Lake and Gulmarg for unique experiences.
  2. Try traditional Kashmiri tea (Noon Chai) at every opportunity.
  3. Interact with locals to gain insights into their rich culture and history.
  4. Carry a power bank, as access to electricity may be limited during travels.
  5. Respect the environment while exploring the beautiful landscapes of Kashmir.