Experience the tranquil beauty of Dal Lake with a Shikara ride, a traditional gondola-type light rowing boat. As you glide across the still waters, admire the majestic Himalayan mountains and the reflection of the sky. You'll pass by floating gardens, witness local life on the water, and see the magnificent houseboats that adorn the lake. This peaceful activity provides a chance to relax and take in the serene environment of Srinagar. Photographers will find ample opportunities to capture the unique charm of this lake. The ride typically includes a visit to the famous floating market and Char Chinar island, a small island marked by the presence of four majestic Chinar trees.
The Mughal Gardens of Srinagar, such as Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, and Chashme Shahi, are a testament to the Mughal Empire's love for exquisite gardens and nature. These gardens are beautifully laid out with cascading fountains, well-trimmed hedges, and a myriad of flowers that spread vibrant colors all around. Shalimar Bagh, built by Emperor Jahangir for his wife Nur Jahan, is the largest and perhaps the most famous one. The design of these gardens follows the Persian style of architecture and is a perfect blend of man-made artistry and natural beauty. Each garden provides a relaxing ambiance and a glimpse into the historical past of the region. Visitors can spend hours walking along the garden paths, admiring the panoramic views of the Dal Lake, and enjoying the Mughal architecture.
The Hazratbal Shrine is a revered religious site in Srinagar, located on the left bank of the Dal Lake. It is famous for housing a relic believed to be the hair of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. The shrine presents a white marble facade and offers a stunning view of the lake and the nearby mountains. The peaceful atmosphere of the Hazratbal Shrine is palpable, and it attracts people from all faiths. Visitors are expected to dress appropriately and maintain the sanctity of the place. On Fridays, and especially on religious occasions, the shrine gets crowded with worshippers. It's a place where you can observe the spiritual side of Kashmiri culture and also enjoy the architectural beauty of the building itself.
The ancient Shankaracharya Temple, situated atop the Shankaracharya Hill (also known as Takht-e-Suleiman), offers a panoramic view of Srinagar. Visitors can trek up the hill to reach this sacred Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple dates back to 200 BC and holds great religious significance. As you ascend the steps, you'll feel the tranquility of the surrounding dense forest. It's advised to start your trek early in the morning to witness the sunrise from the hilltop. The panoramic view of Srinagar city along with the Dal Lake is spectacular, making the exertion well worth it. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and carry water for the trek.
The heart of Srinagar is in its Old City, also referred to as Downtown, where history comes alive. Walking through the narrow lanes, you'll encounter the vibrant local life, ancient wooden mosques, and houses with unique Kashmiri architecture. The Jama Masjid of Srinagar, with its impressive wooden pillars, is a peaceful sanctuary and a fine example of local craftsmanship. Don't miss the chance to sample traditional Kashmiri street food or shop for authentic handcrafted items such as Pashmina shawls, carpets, and paper mache products. Guided walking tours can provide insights into the historical and cultural significance of this area. Embrace the hustle and bustle as you immerse yourself in the daily life of the residents of the Old City.
Although not within Srinagar itself, a trip to the famed hill station of Gulmarg is a must-do when visiting Kashmir. Just a couple of hours' drive from the city, Gulmarg's gondola is one of the highest in the world and offers breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains. The two-stage ropeway ferries people up to the Apharwat Peak, where you can witness the splendor of the Pir Panjal range. The first stage takes you to Kongdori Station and the second to Apharwat Peak. During winter, Gulmarg transforms into a skiing paradise, and the gondola ride provides skiers access to some of the best slopes in the Himalayas. It's recommended to book your gondola tickets online in advance to avoid long queues.
Perched on top of the Zabarwan mountain range, Parimahal or 'The abode of fairies' is a historical place offering a splendid view of Srinagar and Dal Lake. Built during the rule of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan's son, Dara Shikoh, this terraced garden is a blend of Islamic architecture and Persian gardens. It's a wonderful place to witness the sunset and see the city lights come on around the lake. The gardens are well maintained and offer a serene and peaceful environment. Parimahal is also an ideal spot for photographers who wish to capture the enchanting beauty of Srinagar from a vantage point.
Nigeen Lake, a slightly less crowded counterpart of Dal Lake, offers an ideal setting for paddle boarding. Surrounded by willow and poplar trees, this quiet and clean lake allows you to experience the peacefulness of the area while engaging in the thrilling sport of stand-up paddle boarding (SUP). Whether you're an experienced boarder or trying it for the first time, instructors are available to guide you. Enjoy paddling around the lake and feel close to nature amid the calm waters. This water sport not only gives you a fresh perspective of the lake's surroundings but also provides a good workout for your core muscles.
Hokersar Wetland, located about 14 km north of Srinagar, is a paradise for bird watchers and nature lovers. This wetland reserve is home to thousands of migratory birds that visit during the winter season from Siberia and Central Asia. With a variety of species such as geese, teals, shovellers, and plovers, it's the perfect place for ornithologists and amateur bird watchers alike. The wetland provides a majestic view of different species flying against the backdrop of the Himalayas. Visitors can hire a guide to make the most of the experience, who can assist with spotting and identifying different bird species. Be sure to carry binoculars for a better view and a camera to capture the memories.
Lal Chowk is the commercial heart of Srinagar and an exciting shopping destination for those looking to buy local specialties. Bustling with activity, the market space is filled with a wide array of shops selling authentic Kashmiri products such as intricate Pashmina shawls, hand-woven rugs, saffron, and dried fruits. Lal Chowk is also famous for its traditional Kashmiri handicrafts, like paper mache items and walnut wood carvings. Walking through the market, the scents of spices and the colorful displays will engage your senses. Bargaining is expected, so be prepared to negotiate with vendors to get the best price. Visiting Lal Chowk is not just about shopping; it's an immersive experience into Kashmir's vibrant culture and local life.
Hill Stations (27)
Religious Places (101)
Historical Places (61)
Museums (19)
Wildlife Sanctuaries (3)
National Parks (9)
Forts (3)
Villages (33)
Zoos (3)
Mountains (28)
Gardens (4)
Waterfalls (4)
Dams (5)
Lakes (15)
Trekking Places (18)
