Jammu and Kashmir
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3 Days in Srinagar for a Food Lover's Delight
Srinagar is a paradise not just for its stunning landscapes but also for its rich, flavorful cuisine. Over three days, you'll dive into the heart of Kashmiri food, from fragrant wazwan feasts to steaming cups of kahwa by Dal Lake. I've spent years savoring every bite here, and this itinerary covers the must-try dishes and hidden gems.
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Day 1
Day 1 in Srinagar
Start your Srinagar adventure with its iconic attractions and flavors, from serene lakes to rich Kashmiri cuisine.
Activities
Shikara Ride on Dal Lake
Glide across the shimmering waters of Dal Lake in a traditional wooden shikara. Watch floating gardens, houseboats, and local life unfold as your boatman rows gently. Early mornings are magical with mist lifting off the water.
- Bargain politely for shikara rates
- Carry a light jacket—mornings can be chilly
Breakfast at Mughal Darbar
Head to this beloved local spot for an authentic Kashmiri breakfast. Try their 'noon chai' (pink salted tea) with 'bakarkhani' (flaky bread) or 'tchot' (Kashmiri bagel). The cozy ambiance and warm hospitality make it a perfect start.
- Ask for 'sheermal' if you prefer sweet bread
- Try 'kahwa' (saffron tea) for a fragrant twist
Explore Shalimar Bagh
Wander through the terraced Mughal gardens of Shalimar Bagh, built by Emperor Jahangir. The cascading fountains, chinar trees, and flowerbeds are a visual treat. Don’t miss the central black marble pavilion—it’s a quiet spot to soak in history.
- Visit the garden’s upper terrace for lake views
- Weekdays are less crowded
Must Try Foods
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Day 2
Day 2 in Srinagar
A mix of history, local markets, and Kashmiri flavors, with visits to Nishat Bagh, a stroll through the old city, and a taste of authentic Wazwan.
Activities
Morning at Nishat Bagh
Start your day at Nishat Bagh, the 'Garden of Joy,' with stunning terraced lawns and views of Dal Lake. It's less crowded than Shalimar Bagh but equally beautiful, with vibrant flowerbeds and ancient chinar trees. Perfect for a peaceful walk or just sitting by the fountains.
- Carry water and sunscreen—shade is limited in parts.
- Visit the small tea stall near the entrance for a quick Kashmiri noon chai.
Explore Old City & Jamia Masjid
Head to Srinagar's old city, a maze of narrow lanes and wooden houses. The star here is the 14th-century Jamia Masjid, with its 370 wooden pillars and serene courtyard. Wander around the nearby markets for spices, dried fruits, and handmade papier-mâché items.
- Dress modestly for the mosque.
- Bargain gently in markets—start at half the quoted price.
Wazwan Feast at Ahdoos
No trip to Kashmir is complete without Wazwan, a multi-course meal fit for royalty. Try it at Ahdoos, a legendary restaurant serving dishes like rogan josh, yakhni, and gushtaba (minced mutton in yogurt gravy). The ambiance is old-school Kashmiri, with walnut wood carvings and warm hospitality.
- Order the 'special Wazwan' for smaller groups—it’s a curated selection.
- Save room for phirni (rice pudding) dessert.
Must Try Foods
Transportation
Day 3
Day 3 in Srinagar
A relaxed day exploring hidden gems and local flavors, from a quiet morning at Pari Mahal to sipping kahwa in a traditional houseboat and ending with a cozy dinner at a family-run eatery.
Activities
Sunrise at Pari Mahal
Start your day early with a visit to Pari Mahal, the 'Palace of Fairies.' This lesser-known spot offers stunning views of Dal Lake and the city as the sun rises. The terraced gardens and ancient ruins make it a peaceful escape from the usual tourist crowds. The morning light here is magical, perfect for photos or just soaking in the quiet.
- Wear comfortable shoes for the short uphill walk
- Carry a light jacket—mornings can be chilly
Kahwa and Stories on a Houseboat
Head back to Dal Lake but skip the shikara ride this time. Instead, visit a local houseboat owner’s family for an intimate kahwa (Kashmiri saffron tea) session. Many families welcome guests to share stories about life on the lake while serving homemade kahwa with almonds and local bread. It’s a warm, personal way to connect with Kashmiri culture.
- Bring small gifts like chocolates for the host family—it’s a kind gesture
- Ask about their favorite Wazwan dishes for fun food stories
Dinner at Gadda’s Darbar
End your trip with a cozy dinner at Gadda’s Darbar, a no-frills local favorite known for its hearty Kashmiri dishes. Try their rogan josh (slow-cooked lamb) and dum aloo (spiced potatoes), both rich with local spices. The place is small and family-run, so it feels like eating at a Kashmiri home.
- Go early—it gets crowded by 8 PM
- Try their phirni (rice pudding) for dessert