Welcome to the city where the sky romance with the mountains and the snow quenches the thirst of the rivers. Let us talk of the town, which made Shahenshah Akbar fall in love with valleys.

Everybody should visit this “paradise on Earth” at least once. The aura of the valley is such that the sights and sounds of this stunning hill station mesmerise one and all. The valley seems to be the most beautiful painting god has ever painted. Yes! We are talking about the summer capital of Jammu & Kashmir, Srinagar.

So today let us explore the enchanting destinations of Srinagar, from Dal Lake to famous Mughal Gardens.

Geography of Srinagar

Srinagar is the pride of Jammu & Kashmir and is located on the western part of the state. The alpine weather of the town is the major attraction for tourists. The perennial river Jhelum flows through this captivating town giving it a charm of its own.

History of Srinagar

The beautiful face of Srinagar holds a long-term history of bloodshed. The town has been en route the silk road, thus, has been a crucial region since ancient times. The city was the part of the mighty Mauryan Dynasty in the 3rd century BC. Later the region flourished under the Kushans in 1st century AD.

After the end of the rule of Hindu rulers in 14th century AD, the Mughals invaded India and ruled Srinagar. The princely state of Jammu & Kashmir was merged into Indian territory in 1947 under Hari Singh.

Best time to visit Srinagar

Summer (March to June)

Temperature: 15°C to 30°C

Experience: The city is at its most vibrant with colorful blooms, making it the perfect time for sightseeing and outdoor activities like shikara rides on Dal Lake and strolling through the Mughal Gardens.

Winter (November to February)

Temperature: -2°C to 12°C

Experience: Winter makes Srinagar look like a fairyland in white. The chill in the air invites people to indulge in skiing, while the frozen Dal Lake provides a magical experience.

How to reach Srinagar?

The popularity of Srinagar among visitors has given it an advantage of accessibility and connectivity to major towns and cities. Thus, the place is easily accessible for tourists.

• By air : The Sheikh-ul-Alam Airport is the international airport located just 15 km from the city centre.
• By train : There is no direct connectivity to Srinagar via rail. The nearest railway station is railhead is Jammu Tawi, which is 305 km from Srinagar.
• By road :From Jammu (270 km)Take the scenic route through Udhampur, Banihal, Anantnag, and finally reach Srinagar, which is about 6-8 hours. The scenery of Jawahar Tunnel along with the adjacent valleys adds up to the scenery around.From Delhi (850 km)You can also take the drive through Ludhiana, Pathankot, and Jammu to reach Srinagar within 16-18 hours. Overnight buses can also be availed for a comfortable journey.

Top Places to visit in Srinagar

The oozing energy of the valley enthrals every traveller’s heart. The lush pastures, tall mountains, dancing rivers, snowy trenches and tranquil suburbs of Srinagar make it a paradise on earth. Let us look at the few captivating places to visit.

1. Mughal Gardens : A Floral Delight

Are you a lover of blooming flowers? If yes then visit this marvel of Persian architecture to please your eyes and heart. Holding the Dal Lake in the background, this UNESCO site makes a great tourism destination bringing in flocks of tourists. The deodar forest hills, Tulip flowers, flourishing greenery and indigenous flower species make this place the wonderful crown of the Kashmir Valley.

 2. Dal Lake : The Heart of Srinagar

Let us talk about the soul of Srinagar. The crystal clear lake is the mirror of the sky overhead and the trees surrounding it. The beauty of gaily painted shikaras is beyond words. The carved wooden balconies of the houseboats cast there shaking reflection on the water and the Pir Panjal Mountains cast there spell on the lake with its reflection. With so much to witness, how can someone miss on a trip to Srinagar?

3. Chatpal

The Kashmir valley is so vivid and rustic that even the most avid traveller can easily miss the hidden beauty of Srinagar. Chatpal is one such unknown and unexplored part of the valley. The place is located 88km from Srinagar and seems the mirror image of Pahalgam. With verdant peaks, and gushing river streams cutting through the impregnable woods, this spellbinding place is the popular turf for nature enthusiasts.

4. Dachigam National Park

This 141 sq km Wide Park lies just 22 km from Srinagar. The wildlife conservation project here aims to save and nurture the wildlife diversity of the valley. Tourists can enjoy a wildlife safari at this place and spot rare animals like Kashmiri Stag and Himalayan black bear and numerous other flora and fauna.

5. Shankaracharya Temple: Spiritual Experience

Located on a hilltop, this ancient temple presents the breathtaking panorama of the city, Dal Lake, and the valley. It is one of the serene places to visit, giving an opportunity for peace-seeking individuals.

6. Hazratbal Shrine: Sacred and Serene

Located on the northern shore of Dal Lake, the shrine of Hazratbal is another sacred Muslim landmark, which boasts a hair strand of Prophet Muhammad. Made of pristine white marble, serene surroundings make the place a blissful retreat.

7. Tulip Garden: A Blooming Paradise

Asia’s largest tulip garden based in Srinagar comes alive in colors in the month of March – April through the Tulip Festival. People can witness millions of colours in the tulips and take some amazing photos, making it a great spot for nature lovers.

Top Kashmiri Dishes to Enjoy in Srinagar

• Rogan Josh A flavorful lamb curry cooked with a blend of Kashmiri spices and yogurt, known for its rich red color.
• Yakhni A mild yogurt-based mutton curry infused with cardamom, cinnamon, and fennel.
• Kashmiri Wazwan A grand multi-course meal featuring dishes like Gushtaba, Rista, and more.
• Modur Pulao A sweet rice dish prepared with saffron, nuts, and dry fruits – a delicacy not to miss.
• Kahwa Traditional Kashmiri green tea brewed with saffron, almonds, and cinnamon. A perfect drink for cold evenings.

Top 5 Winters Activities in Srinagar

1. Skiing at Gulmarg: Snow Sports Delight

It is just 50 kilometers from Srinagar. Gulmarg is Asia’s premier skiing destination. All sorts of skiers, beginners, and experts find their places here. It provides aerial views from the top as well in its Gulmarg Gondola.

2. Shikara Rides on Frozen Dal Lake: A Winter Wonderland

During winters, Dal Lake freezes, making it a special time for a shikara ride in an icy setting. Many enjoy the lake all covered with snow, an experience they never forget.

3. Snowball Fights & Snowmen: Fun in the Snow

The snow-filled gardens and parks of Srinagar are great playgrounds for snowball fights and building snowmen. A nostalgic and fun activity for family and friends visiting Srinagar in winter.

4. Shopping for Pashmina & Handicrafts: Shopper’s Paradise

The handicraft scene is quite a treasure trove in Srinagar, specifically the Pashmina shawl, hand-woven carpets, and walnut wood carving. One shouldn’t miss browsing through Lal Chowk and Polo View markets for shopping.

5. Clicking Snow-Frosted Sceneries: Photographic Marvel

The snow covered sceneries of Srinagar are photography friendly. Landmarks such as Pari Mahal and Nishat Bagh under blankets of snow perfectly frame stunning photographs for the season.