Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu Kashmir, India’s union territory, is visited by most people in summer to relieve the scorching sun. Along with beautiful sights, hills, and greenery, it has many historical monuments and religious places to visit.
And if we talk about green beauty and lovely flowers, it has Mughal gardens, tulip gardens, and many others. Nature has blessed Srinagar with calming lakes too. This all makes Srinagar a beautiful place to visit.
Check Out the List of Popular 10 Places to Visit in Srinagar:
1. Dal Lake
The jewel of Srinagar, Dal Lake, is the most beautiful and fascinating place to visit in Srinagar. And the most beautiful part of this lake is its being on hillside, floating markets, and its colourful Shikaras (a type of wooden boat).
Riding in this beautifully decorated Shikara is one of the most famous things to do among visitors. The lake market is the best place to buy authentic Kashmiri items. The best time to visit Srinagar is from May to November.
- Why Visit: Dal Lake is Srinagar’s most famous attraction, known for its serene beauty, houseboats, and Shikara rides. It’s a cultural and scenic hub of the city.
- Top Experiences: Take a Shikara ride, stay in a houseboat, visit the floating market, and explore the Mughal gardens along the shore.
- Best Time to Visit: April to October for boating, and December to February for winter views.
- How to Reach: Located in the heart of Srinagar, easily accessible by road.
2. Nishat Bagh
Full of sweet-smelling flowers, exquisite fountains, and green trees, this enchanting garden is twelve terraced. This garden was constructed by Asif Khan, Noor Jahan’s elder brother in 1633. This is the second biggest Mughal garden.
In its background, the Zabarwan Mountains form scenic views, which attract tourists as well as photographers. The visiting time here is From 9 AM to 10.30 PM. And the best time to visit here is March to June.
- Why Visit: This Mughal garden, with stunning terraces and flower beds, offers beautiful views of Dal Lake and the surrounding mountains. It’s a perfect spot for a peaceful stroll.
- Top Experiences: Enjoy the lush greenery, explore the terraced gardens, and relax by the fountains.
- Best Time to Visit: April to October.
- How to Reach: Located 11 km from Srinagar city center, easily accessible by road.
3. Shalimar Bagh Mughal Garden
The largest of the exquisite Mughal Gardens, Shalimar Bagh is an awe-inspiring place to visit in Srinagar. The beautiful architecture and craftsmanship of the Mughal time and a combination of natural marvels and artificial structures make this garden one of the unique places in Srinagar.
As recorded in history, this garden was constructed for Noor Jahan by Jahangir in 1619. The park has a large variety of beautiful and colourful flowers and trees of almonds and walnuts. The visiting time here is 9.30 AM to 6.30 PM. The best time to visit this garden is mid-February to mid-April and September-October.
- Why Visit: One of the most famous Mughal gardens in Srinagar, Shalimar Bagh was built by Emperor Jahangir for his wife. It is known for its beautiful layout, fountains, and lush gardens.
- Top Experiences: Walk through the terraced gardens, admire the Mughal architecture, and enjoy the views of Dal Lake.
- Best Time to Visit: April to October.
- How to Reach: Located 15 km from the city center, easily accessible by road.
4. Nigeen Lake
Nigeen Lake is believed to be a part of the exquisite Dal Lake and is separated by a narrow causeway from Dal Lake. The beautiful green trees encircling the calm blue water get their name The Jewel in the Ring.
This place is perfect when you want beautiful relaxation from this rushing world. There are many water activities to be done here too. The visiting time here is 7 AM to 8 PM. And the best time to go here is June to August. Read Also: 10 Famous Things To Do In Srinagar.
- Why Visit: Nigeen Lake, a quieter and more peaceful alternative to Dal Lake, is perfect for those looking for solitude amidst nature. It’s also known for its houseboats and Shikara rides.
- Top Experiences: Take a Shikara ride, stay in a houseboat, and enjoy sunset views.
- Best Time to Visit: April to October.
- How to Reach: Located on the western side of Dal Lake, about 10 km from Srinagar city center.
Read also: Top October Destinations in Kashmir for Nature Lovers
5. India Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden
The aim of making this garden was an improvement of floriculture and increment in tourism in this area. This was made public for this purpose in 2007. And this was a huge success. And in 2017, it was included in the world’s best five tulip gardens. It has some of the rarest tulips, like “Queen of the Night”.
The significant highlight of this garden is the most mesmerizing annual festival, held in the time of spring. The visiting time of this garden is From 7 AM to 7.30 PM. The best time to visit this garden is in March, April, and May. Read Also: Kashmir is all set to Celebrate a 6-day Tulip Festival.
- Why Visit: Known as Asia’s largest tulip garden, this place bursts with color during the blooming season, offering spectacular views of rows of tulips against the backdrop of Dal Lake and Zabarwan Hills.
- Top Experiences: Visit during the Tulip Festival (March-April), enjoy the vibrant flowers, and take photographs with scenic views.
- Best Time to Visit: March to April.
- How to Reach: Located 9 km from Srinagar city center, near Dal Lake.
6. Chasme Shahi
It is a part of the Mughal Gardens of Srinagar. It is famous for its enchanting natural spring. This garden was constructed in 1632, commissioned by Shah Jahan, and dedicated to Darah Sikh, his son. It is popularly believed that the place was discovered by Kashmir’s female saint, Rupa Bhawani.
It gets its name from the clan of the female saint. Made in Persian-style architecture, this has three terraces. A two-storeyed hut is at the top deck of the garden which is believed to be the source of the natural spring’s origin. Read Also: Top 10 Restaurants Near Dal Lake, Srinagar.
- Why Visit: Chashme Shahi is a small yet beautifully laid-out Mughal garden known for its natural spring, which is believed to have medicinal properties. It offers stunning views of Dal Lake and the surrounding mountains.
- Top Experiences: Enjoy the spring water, explore the terraced gardens, and relax in the peaceful surroundings.
- Best Time to Visit: April to October.
- How to Reach: Located 9 km from Srinagar city center.
7. Aru Valley
This world-famous valley has a beautiful charm, making it one of the most beautiful places in Srinagar. This valley offers a large number of exciting activities to do, including fishing, horse riding, and camping.
- Why Visit: A beautiful valley located near Pahalgam, Aru Valley is known for its lush green meadows, forests, and snow-capped peaks. It’s a great spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
- Top Experiences: Trekking, horse riding, and camping in the valley. Explore the scenic views and connect with nature.
- Best Time to Visit: March to November.
- How to Reach: Located 12 km from Pahalgam and around 107 km from Srinagar, accessible by road.
8. Hari Parbat
This mountain is famous for its religious and historical importance. It has many shrines dedicated to many deities. Along with a Hindu temple, it also has a mosque and gurudwara, showing the secularism of India.
Hari Prabhat Fort, constructed in the 19th century under the Durrani Empire, is one of the major attractions. The visiting time here is From 9.30 AM to 5.30 PM, on all days of the week. The best time to visit here is in March and April. Also, read Famous Destinations to Visit Srinagar, Kashmir in May.
- Why Visit: Hari Parbat is a historic hill that houses several religious sites, including a temple, mosque, and gurdwara. It offers panoramic views of Srinagar city and Dal Lake.
- Top Experiences: Visit the Sharika Devi Temple, explore the Hari Parbat Fort, and enjoy the views from the hilltop.
- Best Time to Visit: April to October.
- How to Reach: Located 5 km from the city center, accessible by road.
9. Anchar Lake
Connected to the Dal Lake through the channel, “Amir Khan Nallah”, Anchar Lake is one of the most calming and beautiful places to visit.
Its birdwatching and picture-perfect view make it famous among nature lovers. Shikara ride can be enjoyed here too.
- Why Visit: Anchar Lake offers a peaceful environment, perfect for birdwatching and boating. It is lesser-known compared to Dal Lake, making it an ideal spot for those seeking tranquility.
- Top Experiences: Boating, bird watching, and enjoying the views of the distant mountains.
- Best Time to Visit: April to October.
- How to Reach: Located around 12 km from Srinagar city, accessible by road.
10. Jama Masjid, Sri Nagar
It is one of the most ancient places to visit in Srinagar and is in the center of the city. Under the commands of the Said-ul-Auliya Mir Sayyid Ali Hamadani’s son, Mir Mohammad Hamadani, in the year 1394, this mosque was constructed by, Sultan Sikandar Shah Kashmiri Shahmiri.
Later, the construction of the shrine was extended by Zain-ul-Abidin, the son of Sultan Sikandar. Its architecture has similarities with both Indo-Saracenic architectural style as well as to the traditional Buddhist pagodas. It is Kashmir’s largest mosque. The visiting hours here are From 3 PM to 7 PM, on all days of the week.
- Why Visit: One of the largest mosques in Kashmir, the Jama Masjid is known for its Indo-Saracenic architecture, featuring 378 wooden pillars. It’s a peaceful place for reflection and a key spiritual site in Srinagar.
- Top Experiences: Visit during Friday prayers to experience the local culture, admire the unique wooden architecture, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
- Best Time to Visit: April to October.
- How to Reach: Located in the Nowhatta area of Srinagar.
How to Reach Srinagar:
Reaching Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, is a journey into the heart of the Himalayas, offering breathtaking landscapes and a glimpse into the rich culture of this region. Known for its stunning natural beauty, including the iconic Dal Lake and the historic Mughal Gardens, Srinagar is a destination that captures the essence of Kashmir. Here’s how you can reach Srinagar by air, road, and rail:
By Air
Srinagar International Airport (SXR) is the main gateway for travelers flying into the city. The airport is well-connected with major cities in India such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata, with regular flights operated by various airlines including Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, and GoAir. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the city center, which is approximately 12 km away.
By Road
Srinagar is accessible by road from various parts of India. The two major highways connecting Srinagar with the rest of the country are:
- National Highway 1A (NH 1A), which connects Srinagar with Jammu, is the most popular route for those traveling by car or bus. The journey offers spectacular views of the mountains and valleys. State-run buses, as well as private operators, run regular services between Jammu and Srinagar. The distance is about 270 km and can take approximately 8-10 hours depending on road conditions and traffic.
- Mughal Road, an alternative to NH 1A, connects Srinagar with Poonch and Rajouri and is a historic route that offers scenic beauty and a glimpse into the area’s rich history.
Traveling by road to Srinagar is dependent on weather conditions, especially during the winter months when snowfall can lead to road closures. It’s advisable to check the current road status and weather forecasts before planning your trip.
By Rail
While Srinagar does not have a railway station, the nearest major railhead is Jammu Tawi Railway Station. Jammu Tawi is well-connected with major cities across India, offering trains to Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Chennai, and other cities. From Jammu, travelers can take a bus or hire a taxi to reach Srinagar, a journey that takes about 8-10 hours.
Conclusion
There are several places to visit in Srinagar. But if you are going to spend only a few days here, you must not miss a place on this list. And if you are here for an extended vacation, you must not miss a single location in Srinagar, every part of Srinagar is beautiful and worth viewing it. It is a combination of mountains, lakes, gardens, mosques, gurudwaras, and temples, only all the perfect places to visit.
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Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What are the must-visit places in Srinagar?
Some must-visit places in Srinagar include Dal Lake, Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, Mughal Gardens, Shankaracharya Temple, and Hazratbal Shrine.
2. Why is Dal Lake so famous?
Dal Lake is famous for its houseboats, Shikaras (traditional boats), and the stunning mountain views surrounding it.
3. What are the Mughal Gardens in Srinagar?
The Mughal Gardens in Srinagar include Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, and Chashme Shahi, known for their Persian-style design and beautiful flowers.
4. What can I do at Nishat Bagh?
At Nishat Bagh, you can enjoy a peaceful walk through the terraced gardens, enjoy the views of Dal Lake, and relax amidst beautiful flowers and fountains.
5. What is special about Shankaracharya Temple?
Shankaracharya Temple is a Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, offering panoramic views of Srinagar city and Dal Lake from its hilltop location.
6. What is Hazratbal Shrine known for?
The Hazratbal Shrine is one of the holiest Muslim sites in Srinagar, known for housing a relic believed to be a hair strand of Prophet Muhammad.
7. Can I take a Shikara ride on Dal Lake?
Yes, a Shikara ride on Dal Lake is one of the most popular activities in Srinagar, offering beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
8. What is the best time to visit Srinagar?
The best time to visit Srinagar is during April to October when the weather is pleasant, and the gardens are in full bloom.
9. Are there any famous markets in Srinagar?
Yes, popular markets like Lal Chowk and the Floating Market on Dal Lake are famous for Kashmiri handicrafts, Pashmina shawls, and local spices.
10. What is Chashme Shahi known for?
Chashme Shahi is a Mughal garden known for its natural spring that is believed to have medicinal properties, along with its beautiful landscape.
11. What are the houseboats on Dal Lake?
Houseboats on Dal Lake are unique accommodations where visitors can stay overnight and experience the charm of Kashmiri hospitality.
12. Is Pari Mahal worth visiting?
Pari Mahal is worth visiting for its historical architecture and its breathtaking views of Dal Lake and the Zabarwan Mountains.
13. What is the significance of Jama Masjid in Srinagar?
Jama Masjid, located in the heart of Srinagar, is an ancient mosque known for its stunning wooden architecture and historical importance.
14. Can I visit Srinagar during winter?
Yes, you can visit Srinagar during winter to experience snow-covered landscapes, especially at places like Gulmarg nearby, which is popular for skiing.
15. Is Shalimar Bagh a good place for photography?
Yes, Shalimar Bagh is perfect for photography, with its lush gardens, symmetrical fountains, and views of the Zabarwan Mountains.
