Srinagar is the summer capital and largest city of the Indian-administered union territory of Jammu and Kashmir in the disputed Kashmir region. It lies in the Kashmir Valley along the banks of the Jhelum River, and the shores of Dal and Anchar lakes, between the Hari Parbat and Shankaracharya hills. The city is known for its natural environment, various gardens, waterfronts and houseboats. It is also known for traditional Kashmiri handicrafts like the Kashmir shawl (made of pashmina and cashmere wool), papier-mâché, wood carving, carpet weaving, and jewel making, as well as for dried fruits. It is the second-largest metropolitan area in the Himalayas (after Kathmandu, Nepal).
The city took on the name of an earlier capital thought to have been founded by the Maury’s in its vicinity. The city remained the most important capital of the Kashmir Valley under the Hindu and was a major Centre of learning. During the 14th–16th centuries the city’s old town saw major expansions, particularly under the Shah Mir dynasty, whose kings used various parts of it as their capitals. It became the spiritual Centre of Kashmir and attracted several Sufi preachers. It also started to emerge as a hub of shawl weaving and other Kashmiri handicrafts. In the late 16th century the city became part of the Mughal Empire, many of whose emperors used it as their summer resort. Many Mughal gardens were built in the city and around Dal Lake during this time, of which Shalimar and Nishat are the most well-known.
The city became a popular tourist destination among Europeans and Indian elites during this time, with several hotels and its iconic houseboats being built. In 1952, the city became the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, a region administered by India as a state, with Jammu being its winter capital. It was the flash point of violence during the 1990s and early 2000s insurgency in the region. In 2019, it became the summer capital of a smaller region which is administered by India as a union territory, after the former state’s reorganization.
1. Dal Lake
The Jewel of Srinagar, the Dal Lake is synonymous with a visit to Srinagar and is almost a visual definition of the town. Spread over 15 km, it is the second-largest lake in Jammu & Kashmir. The important attractions in and around Dal Lake include the Island of Char Chinar, Nagin Lake, Chashme Shahi, Shankaracharya Temple, Hari Parbat, Hazratbal Shrine, and Mazar-e-Shura Cemetery. A sweeping view of the lake can be witnessed from the shores of one of the Mughal Gardens.
2. Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden
Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden is the largest tulip garden in Asia which is set in the foothills of the Zabarwan mountain range in Srinagar. The Tulip Garden is home to flowers like roses, daffodils, hyacinths, and iris amongst 48 varieties of tulips. The Tulip Festival held here is the highlight that attracts tourists from the world over.
3. Shankaracharya Temple
The Shankaracharya Temple in Srinagar, located on top of the Shankaracharya Hill, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the oldest shrines in Kashmir. Also known as Jyesteshwara Temple, the temple is named after the great philosopher Shankaracharya who is believed to have visited Srinagar about ten centuries ago. The Shankaracharya temple sits on a solid rock and is constructed on a high octagonal platform that is approachable by a flight of around 243 steps. The top of the temple affords a sweeping view of the valley below.
4. Nishat Bagh
The Nishat Bagh is a 12 – terraced garden located near Srinagar’s famous Dal Lake. It is the second-largest Mughal garden in Kashmir after Shalimar Bagh. which is surrounded by tall Chinar trees. Nishat Bagh was designed and built in 1633 by Asif Khan, the elder brother of Nur Jehan.
5. Shikara Ride
Shikara rides can be taken in one of the circuits from Nehru Park past Hazratbal, Nagin, Raina Wari and back. Taking the ride across the scenic Dal Lake at the backdrop of the majestic slow – clad Himalayas is indeed an experience in itself both enjoyable and unparallelly.
6. Shalimar Bagh Mughal Garden
Shalimar Bagh is a beautifully laid out Mughal garden, the largest of the three Mughal gardens in Srinagar (the other two being Nishat Bagh and Chashme Shahi). This pristine attraction was built in the year 1619 by the Mughal emperor Jahangir for his beloved wife Nur Jahan and lies overlooking the scintillating waters of the Dal Lake. It is now a public park and is known as the “crown of Srinagar, Shalimar Garden is a gentle blend of natural allure and man-made structures. Exhibiting the exemplary craftsmanship of Mughals in horticulture, the Mughal garden is quite popular with tourists from all over the world.
7. Floating Vegetable Market
Srinagar is also popular for its floating vegetables markets where vegetable and fruits are sold around in the waters of the Shikara. One of the most unique things to do in Srinagar, these markets are run at the corner of the Dal Lake and besides the regular traders and buyers, they attract a whole lot of tourists.
8. Chashme Shahi
Chashme Shahi is one of the three Mughal gardens in Srinagar, located in the Zabarwan range overlooking the Dal Lake. It remains open for tourists from March to November. Translating to the Royal Spring, Chashme Shahi is a terraced garden dotted with walkways, colorful plants and pools of water. Exhibiting exquisite Mughal architecture, the Chashme Shahi garden is influenced by the Persian gardens
9. Stay in a Houseboat
Staying in a houseboat amidst the pristine waters of the Dal Lake is one of the most essential things to do in Srinagar. the houseboats are a perfect way to experience the quintessential local life luxuriously. You will also be mesmerized by the surrounding atmosphere and the interior decor.
10. Char Chinar
Char Chinar is an island in the Dal Lake of Srinagar, surrounded by the Chinar trees on all four sides of it. Also known as Char Chinari (char chinari means four sides) and Rupa Lank, it was constructed by Murad Baksh, the brother of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. The Char Chinar is best explored during a shikara ride in the Dal Lake. The Char Chinar trees are characteristic of Kashmir and are long-living trees with stunning beauty.
11. Salim Ali National Park
Located in Srinagar, Salim Ali National Park is a national park housing beautiful mangrove shrubbery habitat for several endangered animals and birds alike. The Salim Ali National Park is among the three national parks of Jammu and Kashmir; the Dachigam National Park and the Kishtwar National Park. There are a handful of stay options close by as well.
12. Amarnath Cave
Located in Jammu and Kashmir, the Amarnath Cave is a Hindu Shrine and is visited by lakhs of people every year. It is located at an altitude of 3,888 m. The Amarnath falls into the category of the most famous Hindu Shrines. The shrine, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is almost 5000 years old. It holds an important place in Hindu Mythology. Inside it is an ice stalagmite that resembles Lord Shiva and waxes during the month May to August. The water seeps into the rocks and soon wanes after that. It is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva explained to his consort Goddess Parvati about the secrets of life and eternity.
13. Lal Chowk
The historic and strategic importance of Lal Chowk has been ever present in the Indian history books since the struggle for freedom that the country overcame in 1947, The name was given by left-wing activists. Located in the center of the city of Srinagar, The market area here sells authentic jewelry, ornaments, wedding items, and silverware. It is one of the most visited and popular shopping sites in Srinagar. You can also buy pretty Kashmiri paintings and traditional ethnic wear that are known for their embroidery and intricate designs such as pherans, fantastic pashmina shawls, and pathani suits.
14. Nehru Garden Srinagar
The Nehru Garden is popular for housing a collection of rare Kashmiri tropical plants. Other things to see include 15000 ornamental plants and a collection of oak trees. With its well-maintained landscapes, you can head out to the Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Botanical Garden on a lazy Sunday morning for a picnic or simply relax.
15. Hazratbal Shrine
The Hazratbal Shrine in Srinagar is the holiest Muslim shrine and mosque in Kashmir, located on the banks of the Dal Lake. The shrine takes its name from the Kashmiri language, where Hazrat means ‘holy’, and the word Bal stands for ‘place’. Known by multiple names such as Assar-e-Sharief, Madinat-us-Sani and Dargah Shari, the Hazratbal Shrine is a beautiful structure made of white marble and is the only domed mosque in Srinagar. The weekly prayer at the Hazratbal Shrine takes place every Friday. MUST VISIT.
16. Pari Mahal
Pari Mahal is a seven-terraced garden located above the beautiful Chashme Shahi Gardens near Srinagar. Also called the abode of fairies or the home of angels, the historical monument sits on top of the Zabarwan range overlooking Srinagar and the Dal Lake. The architecture of Pari Mahal is traditional Islamic type of architecture while the surrounding gardens are exceptionally well maintained.
17. Hari Parbat
The majestic mountain overlooking the city of Srinagar is called Hari Parbat. Besides the famous Hari Parbat Fort, the mountain also has various Hindu and Muslim shrines and even a Gurudwara here. this fort was constructed by Atta Mohammad Khan, the Afghan governor of the time. However, the building of this fort was initially started by the Mughal emperor, Akbar during the late 1500s. But this fortification was left undone halfway through.
18. Nigeen Lake
Tourists looking for a bit more adventure can also try swimming in the lake for a once – in – a – lifetime experience. Nigeen Lake is renowned for its pristine waters and stunning ambiance. It is located next to Dal Lake but is much smaller in size. The lake gets its name from the word nageena which means “the jewel in the ring. It is a tourist hotspot for those looking to enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains in peace.
19. Sinthan Top
A mountain pass in the Pir Panjal Mountain Ranges, Sithan Top is found along the National Highway of Kokernag-Sinthan Top-Kishtwar Road. It is also popular for mountaineering, trekking and skiing. There are just about two or three small food stalls selling regional chai and eggs. There will be a tunnel soon passing through the Sinthan pass.
20. Yusmarg
Considered by some as the best place in Jammu and Kashmir, Yusmarg is now connected by a very good motorable road. With the government working on its roads and connectivity, Yusmarg is a beautiful place and can be called a mini hill stationed in a one of the most romantic places in the state. Trek enthusiasts would love it here! If you want to enjoy some greenery and peace.
21. Paragliding in Srinagar
Paragliding is one of the most exciting activities that you can experience in Srinagar. Most of the adventure clubs let you experience the thrills of paragliding. it also lets you have a gorgeous bird’s eye view of the valley below. If you are an adventure junkee you should especially try this one out.
22. Badamwari Garden
Situated at the foothills of Hari Parbat in Srinagar, the Badamwari Gardens are known for their bloom of stunning almond flowers. These flowers bloom around March, marking the arrival of the spring season. Believed to have been built during the 14th century, Badamwari Garden is a piece of heaven tucked away in Srinagar.
23. Challi Point
Challi Point is one of the most trendy places in Srinagar. There are small stalls dotted in the area selling seek kababs and corn that you can relish while you spend a pleasurable and balmy evening.
24. Burzhama Ruins
Burzhama Ruins is situated in Burzahom in Srinagar. The excavations include skeletons, pottery, dwelling pits, mud brick houses and bone and stone tools.
25. Tarsar Marsar Trek
A trek that not only gives you a thrill of adventure but also a glimpse of nature’s beauty so spellbound is one of the most memorable trips of Tarsar Marsar Trek. The mighty mountains standing tall all around adds to the charm of the landscape along with verdant meadows, pristine blue lakes and lovely valleys are simply splendid. The place is perfect for those who are nature lovers and always bound for some adventure.
26. Apple Orchards in Srinagar
Srinagar is counted among the most beautiful places of India owing to its lush green orchards, free flowing rivers and paradisal locales. Also, 80% of the country’s apple supplies are managed from here.
27. Dachigam National Park
With lush green environs, beautiful flora and some of the rarest fauna, Dachigam National Park, in Jammu and Kashmir is a natural treasure. the Himalayan grey langur that feeds on the barks of trees to the rare Himalayan brown bear to Pygmy Owlets to the predators, the leopards. You shall not be disappointed one bit because Dachigam is always prepared to show you all of its beauty.
28. Tulip Festival in Srinagar
The Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden in Srinagar holds South Asia’s largest Tulip Festival in the months of April – May near the Dal Lake. the Tulip Festival celebrates the blooming season of the lovely Tulips that adorn the garden. Named after the former Prime Minister of India, Late Indira Gandhi, The festival is celebrated in the garden every year, at the onset of spring.
29. Wular Lake
Wular Lake is the largest freshwater lake in India, spread across 200 sq. km. Located in the Bandipora district of Srinagar, Wular Lake is popular for boating, water sports and water skiing and is a popular sunset point. Wular Lake is replenished by the water of the mighty Jhelum river and is one of the 26 wetlands of India. There is a small island located in the center of Wular Lake known as ‘Zaina Lank.
30. Baramulla
Baramulla is a small city in Jammu and Kashmir that is blessed with uninhibited natural beauty. This city has many scenic attractions like Gulmarg, Khilanmarg, Wular Lake, and the city also houses historical monuments like Buddhist stupas and religious establishments like monasteries, temples and mosques that draw the attention of the tourists from far and wide. its breathtaking natural beauty has been a constant source of inspiration for religious priests and eminent scholars.
31. Zero Bridge
Zero Bridge is a tourist attraction in the southeastern part of Srinagar city. It is a bridge over the Jhelum river that holds aesthetic and cultural value, hence its place as a crucial tourist spot. It is a popular place to hang out, take good photographs, and mingle with locals or other tourists. The central location of the bridge even places you in the Church Lane area, from where you can travel to settlements on either side of the river.
32. Anchar Lake
Anchar Lake is a natural lake situated north of Srinagar city in Jammu & Kashmir. Due to its natural beauty and remarkable views, you must visit the location as soon as possible. It is the most beautiful around the winter months due to the many bird species that come here.
