Srinagar is also reckoned as the Paradise on Earth for its stunning backdrop. With the mesmerizing mountains and the gorgeous Dal Lake, Srinagar offers the best views of nature. This place is the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir in North India. Indeed, it will be an excellent experience to explore this city.
However, there is a Muslim population mainly in this city; still, you can see Hindus. As Srinagar is situated around the shores of Dal Lake with a stunning backdrop, here you can get a breathtaking view of the beautiful lake. In this post, we will discuss the best things you can do in Srinagar.
Top 10 Must-Do Experiences in Srinagar
1. Enjoy trekking to the Famous Points
Srinagar is not all about temples and gardens, and therefore, this city is more worth visiting all across the year. Here you can experience trekking, paragliding, skiing, horse riding, etc.
When you come to this city, you can enjoy trekking through the lush green hills, and the tranquil ambiance of nature will surely captivate you. Hari Parbat and Shankaracharya Hill are unique trekking destinations.
- Things to Do: Trekking is popular in the beautiful valleys around Srinagar, including trails in Sonmarg, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam. These areas offer scenic views, alpine meadows, and mountain landscapes.
- Best Time to Visit: April to October for pleasant weather and clearer trails.
- Nearby Attractions: Betaab Valley, Thajiwas Glacier, Lidder Valley.
2. Experience Birdwatching at Manasbal Lake
This beautiful lake is blessed with scenic beauty. It lies on the north side of Srinagar, and Lotus flowers add more beauty to this lake. For birdwatchers, this lake is a paradise.
Ornithologists come here to explore several types of birds on the shore of this lake. Besides bird watching here you can enjoy boating, water skiing, etc. Make sure to bring your camera to capture the beautiful views.
- Things to Do: Spot various bird species, including kingfishers, herons, and egrets, around Manasbal Lake, a peaceful spot surrounded by mountains.
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or evening for the best birdwatching experience.
- Nearby Attractions: Kheer Bhawani Temple, Wular Lake.
3. Enjoy Rafting at Sonmarg
Sonmarg is known as the Meadow of Gold. For adventure lovers, this place is a perfect destination. Here you can enjoy the thrill of whitewater rafting. From first-timers to experienced rafters, everyone can enjoy rafting here.
The Indus River offers grade 4 rapid, which is exciting for the experienced rafters. Therefore, it is one of the best things to do in Srinagar. If you want to get an adrenaline-rushing experience, you must enjoy rafting here. Read More: Top Tourist Places to See in Sonmarg, Kashmir
- Things to Do: River rafting on the Sindh River offers thrilling rapids set against a stunning mountain backdrop. It’s a popular activity for adventure lovers.
- Best Time to Visit: May to September, when the water levels are optimal.
- Nearby Attractions: Thajiwas Glacier, Baltal Base Camp.
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4. Explore the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden
This garden is named after the respected former prime minister of India. The beautiful scenery of this garden will surely keep you spellbound. This garden is covered in various rows of many different shades of Tulips. Tulip garden truly feels like heaven.
The spectacular backdrop of the Zabarwan hills makes this place more beautiful. Here you will be surrounded by the mesmerizing scent of the hundreds of Tulips. The experience will be surreal. It remains open from 9 am to 7 pm, and the entry fee is Rs 50/-.
- Things to Do: Wander through Asia’s largest tulip garden, with thousands of colorful tulips in bloom against the Zabarwan Hills.
- Best Time to Visit: March to April, during the annual Tulip Festival.
- Nearby Attractions: Dal Lake, Nishat Bagh, Chashme Shahi.
5. Spend time on a Houseboat on Dal Lake
Dal Lake is the biggest attraction of Srinagar. This lake plays a significant role in shaping the culture of this city. The British made lavish houseboats on this beautiful lake, and for several years these houseboats have been maintained and expanded since independence.
The Dal Lake plays a significant role in the city’s economy, with many locals who rely on harvesting floating gardens, fishing, and tourism. Srinagar’s trip will be incomplete without spending time on a houseboat on Dal Lake. Here you will get several budget choices as per your preference. Also, check the 10 Most Famous Restaurants Near Dal Lake, Srinagar.
- Things to Do: Relax on a traditional houseboat, enjoy local Kashmiri meals, and take in the serene surroundings of Dal Lake.
- Best Time to Visit: April to October for ideal weather and lake views.
- Nearby Attractions: Nigeen Lake, Hazratbal Shrine, Shalimar Bagh.
6. Head to the Hari Parbat Fort
From any part of the city, the Hari Parbat Fort is visible. From Dal Gate, this fort is located within 5 kilometers. However, from a distance, it may look like the forts of Rajasthan. The view of the entire city from the Hari Parbat Fort is genuinely remarkable.
The Indian military has set up a base inside the empty fort walls. So, there is nothing special to see inside the fort. But here, you are free to roam around the fort’s borders, and the view is worthy of exploring.
- Things to Do: Explore the historic Hari Parbat Fort and enjoy panoramic views of Srinagar and Dal Lake. The fort is known for its Mughal architecture and historical significance.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, though early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for views.
- Nearby Attractions: Makhdoom Sahib Shrine, Badamwari Garden.
7. Explore the Shankaracharya Temple
Shankaracharya Temple is an important pilgrimage site of Srinagar. Previously it was reckoned as the Throne of Solomon in the 5th century. To reach this temple, you have to drive the windy road of 5.5 kilometers up to the top.
From there, you can enter the temple on foot. At this point, you have to leave all your cameras and phone behind. The views of the city from this temple are genuinely incredible.
- Things to Do: Visit this ancient Hindu temple located on Shankaracharya Hill, offering impressive city views. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the oldest in Srinagar.
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning for a peaceful experience and sunrise views.
- Nearby Attractions: Dal Lake, Nishat Bagh, Pari Mahal.
Read Also: 10 Most Beautiful Places to See in Srinagar
8. Visit the early morning floating market
If you want to witness the beauty of morning in Srinagar, you can take a Shikara ride and explore the floating market. You can rise around 5 am and bring a Shikara to the famous floating market. This market operates only in the wee hours of the morning in summer. Here you can see people who come to trade their goods. Most vegetables or goods are grown in the lake’s floating gardens.
This market is also suitable for socializing. Therefore, this place has become quite a popular tourist attraction. Most Shikara owners offer the tourists to take them to the market. However, we must say that it is worth visiting the local market in the morning. The authentic local feeling will surely captivate you. However, the Shikara ride is a bit expensive as it will cost around Rs 2000/-.
- Things to Do: Experience the unique floating market on Dal Lake, where vendors sell fresh vegetables, fruits, and flowers from their shikaras (boats).
- Best Time to Visit: Around 5:00-7:00 AM for the full experience.
- Nearby Attractions: Dal Lake, local houseboats.
9. Explore the markets near Jama Masjid
Jama Masjid is the main mosque in Srinagar. This mosque was built in the year 1672. Here you can see a quadrangle-shaped courtyard and a central fountain surrounded by a vast room. This room is for prayers.
This masjid is a peaceful place to visit. On Fridays, this place becomes very much crowded. The market around the masjid is quite lively. Here you can try several street foods as well.
- Things to Do: Walk around the bustling markets near Jama Masjid, where you can shop for traditional Kashmiri items like pashmina shawls, spices, and dry fruits.
- Best Time to Visit: Late morning or early evening when markets are active.
- Nearby Attractions: Jama Masjid, Shah-e-Hamdan Mosque, local bazaars.
Also, read Famous Places to Visit Srinagar, Kashmir in May
10. Enjoy local shopping
Srinagar is famous for pashminas, carved wooden boxes, wicker baskets, species, and Kashmiri carpets. Also, there are many other things to buy here in Srinagar.
Travelers must buy something here and enjoy the local shopping, and here you can purchase souvenirs also. Lal Chowk, Polo View Market, Raghunath Bazar, and Badshah Chowk are some popular destinations to enjoy local shopping. Check more details: Shopping in Kashmir: What Things to Buy and Where to Buy?
- Things to Do: Shop for local handicrafts, pashmina shawls, saffron, paper-mâché items, and authentic Kashmiri carpets in popular markets like Lal Chowk and Polo View Market.
- Best Time to Visit: Throughout the day, with morning being ideal to avoid crowds.
- Nearby Attractions: Lal Chowk Clock Tower, Residency Road.
Conclusion
Overall we must say that Srinagar is an entirely safe city for foreigners and tourists. This place offers you the perfect combination of culture and natural beauty, and the spectacular natural beauty will keep you spellbound. Here we have mentioned the 10 best things you can do in Srinagar. So, pack your bags ASAP and head to this beautiful city without delaying further.
More about Kashmir:
- Places to Visit Kashmir in June
- Kashmir’s Best Tourist Places to Visit in March
- Top 10 Places to See Kashmir in April
- Heritage Sites to See in Jammu & Kashmir
- Jammu and Kashmir Adventure Places
- Famous Lakes in Jammu and Kashmir
- Interesting facts about Jammu & Kashmir
- Jammu & Kashmir Wildlife National Parks
- Honeymoon Places to See in Jammu and Kashmir
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What are the top things to do in Srinagar?
Popular activities include houseboat stays on Dal Lake, Shikara rides, exploring Mughal Gardens, and visiting the Shankaracharya Temple.
2. What is Dal Lake famous for?
Dal Lake is famous for houseboats, Shikara rides, and the floating market where vendors sell fresh produce and handicrafts.
3. Where can I see the best views in Srinagar?
Shankaracharya Temple and Pari Mahal offer panoramic views of Srinagar and Dal Lake.
4. What are the popular gardens to visit?
Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, and Chashme Shahi are famous Mughal gardens with beautiful landscapes and fountains.
5. Is Shikara riding safe on Dal Lake?
Yes, Shikara rides are safe, and it’s a relaxing way to enjoy the lake scenery.
6. Can I go trekking in Srinagar?
Yes, nearby trails like Dachigam Wildlife Sanctuary and Shankaracharya Hill offer great trekking options.
7. What is a must-see historical site in Srinagar?
Hari Parbat Fort and the Jamia Masjid are popular historical sites that reflect the city’s rich culture.
8. Are there places for shopping in Srinagar?
Yes, you can shop at Lal Chowk Market and Polo View Market for local handicrafts, Kashmiri carpets, and Pashmina shawls.
9. What’s the best time to visit Srinagar?
April to October is ideal for a pleasant climate, while December to February is best if you enjoy snow and winter sports.
10. Where can I find local food in Srinagar?
Many local restaurants and street vendors offer Wazwan (traditional Kashmiri feast) and popular dishes like Rogan Josh and Yakhni.
11. Can I see snow in Srinagar?
Yes, during December to February, Srinagar experiences snowfall, especially in nearby places like Gulmarg.
12. Are there any spiritual places to visit in Srinagar?
Hazratbal Shrine and Shankaracharya Temple are notable spiritual sites in Srinagar.
13. Can I go birdwatching near Srinagar?
Yes, Manasbal Lake and Hokersar Wetland are great for birdwatching, especially in winter.
14. Is it possible to visit a floating market in Srinagar?
Yes, the floating market on Dal Lake is open in the early morning, where vendors sell fresh flowers, vegetables, and souvenirs.
15. Are there places for adventure activities in Srinagar?
Gulmarg nearby offers skiing and snowboarding in winter, and Sonmarg is ideal for trekking and camping in summer.
