Srinagar long weekend

Day 1: Arrive in Srinagar

Srinagar

• Shikara ride on Dal Lake · 2 h. Hourly rates per boat are posted at the ghats on Boulevard Road; agree the route (Char Chinari, the floating gardens, Nehru Park) before you set off. Sunset is the classic time.
• Hazratbal shrine and the Nigeen shore · 1.5 h. The white marble shrine on the lake's north shore; remove shoes, dress modestly, and note that women may enter only part of it.

Local tip: Hourly rates per boat are posted at the ghats on Boulevard Road; agree the route (Char Chinari, the floating gardens, Nehru Park) before you set off. Sunset is the classic time.

Open day 1 route in Google Maps

Day 2: Explore Srinagar

Srinagar

• Shalimar, Nishat and Chashme Shahi gardens · 4 h. Terraced 17th-century Mughal gardens along the lake's east shore, each with a small entry fee. Add Pari Mahal above Chashme Shahi for the view over Dal.
• Old city walk: Jamia Masjid and Khanqah-e-Moula · 3 h. The wooden Khanqah-e-Moula on the Jhelum and the great Jamia Masjid courtyard are the highlights; a local guide helps in the lanes. Dress modestly, women cover their heads, and avoid Friday prayer times.

Local tip: Terraced 17th-century Mughal gardens along the lake's east shore, each with a small entry fee. Add Pari Mahal above Chashme Shahi for the view over Dal.

Open day 2 route in Google Maps

Day 3: Doodhpathri meadows day trip

Srinagar

• Doodhpathri meadows day trip · 7 h. About 2h from Srinagar via Budgam: wide meadows, pine forest and the Shaliganga river. Pony rides from the parking area follow posted rates; carry lunch as food is basic.

Local tip: About 2h from Srinagar via Budgam: wide meadows, pine forest and the Shaliganga river. Pony rides from the parking area follow posted rates; carry lunch as food is basic.

Open day 3 route in Google Maps

Day 4: Depart from Srinagar

Srinagar

• Tulip Garden (spring only) · 2 h. The Zabarwan foothill garden opens for roughly three to four weeks from late March into April; dates depend on the bloom and are announced each year. Weekdays and early mornings are calmer.

Local tip: The Zabarwan foothill garden opens for roughly three to four weeks from late March into April; dates depend on the bloom and are announced each year. Weekdays and early mornings are calmer.

Keep a buffer before your flight; check-out is usually noon.

Open day 4 route in Google Maps