Srinagar
Where the Zabarwan Mountains mirror in the Dal Lake, and Mughal history whispers through the Chinar leaves.
Elevation
1,585 m
Best Time
Apr - Oct
Airport Code
SXR
Founded
6th Century
The Venice of the East
Srinagar is more than just a destination; it's a mood. Located on the banks of the Jhelum River, it is famous for its Dal Lake houseboats, historic Mughal Gardens, and vibrant handicrafts. Whether you are gliding on a Shikara at sunset, shopping for Pashmina shawls in Lal Chowk, or offering prayers at the pristine Hazratbal Shrine, Srinagar offers a blend of nature, culture, and spirituality.
Travel Essentials
Everything you need to know before you go.
How to Reach
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By Air:
Sheikh Ul-Alam International Airport (SXR) is well connected to Delhi, Mumbai, and Chandigarh. It is just 12km from Dal Lake.
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By Train:
Nearest major station is Srinagar take a train from your hometown to Jammu Tawi/Katra Then Vanday Baharta train to to reach Srinagar.
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By Road:
NH-44 connects Srinagar to the rest of India. The journey involves crossing the Banihal Tunnel. Roads are scenic but can close due to snow in winter.
Seasonal Breakdown
Tourist Attractions
Explore the historical, natural, and spiritual landmarks.
Dal Lake
The heartbeat of Srinagar. Spanning 18 sq km, it is home to floating gardens, markets, and the famous wooden houseboats. Visit Char Chinar island in the middle of the lake for a perfect photo op.
Nigeen Lake
Known as the "Jewel in the Ring," Nigeen is quieter and cleaner than Dal Lake. Connected to Dal via a narrow strait, it is ideal for those seeking solitude, swimming, and luxury houseboat stays away from the crowds.
Nishat Bagh
The "Garden of Bliss." Built in 1633 by Asif Khan, it is the largest Mughal garden with 12 terraces representing the zodiac signs. It offers the most spectacular view of the Dal Lake against the Zabarwan Mountains.
Shalimar Bagh
The "Abode of Love," built by Emperor Jahangir for his wife Nur Jahan. It features the famous black marble pavilion (Diwan-i-Khas) and stunning fountains that are illuminated in the evenings during peak season.
Chashme Shahi
The smallest but most charming of the Mughal gardens. Famous for its natural spring ("Royal Spring"), the water of which is believed to have medicinal properties. It was built by Shah Jahan in 1632.
Shankaracharya Temple
An ancient temple from 200 BC dedicated to Lord Shiva, perched atop the Takht-e-Suleiman hill. After climbing 240 steps, you are rewarded with a panoramic 360-degree view of the entire Srinagar city.
Pari Mahal
"The Palace of Fairies." A seven-terraced garden located above Chashme Shahi. It was once a Buddhist monastery and later an observatory for Dara Shikoh. It offers the best sunset views of the city.
Hazratbal Shrine
The only domed mosque in Srinagar, made of pristine white marble. It sits on the banks of Dal Lake and houses a holy relic (Moi-e-Muqaddas) believed to be a hair of the Prophet Muhammad.
Jamia Masjid
Located in the heart of the Old City (Nowhatta), this 600-year-old mosque is a masterpiece of Indo-Saracenic architecture. It is famous for its 370 towering wooden pillars made from single deodar trunks.
Hari Parbat (Koh-i-Maran)
A symbol of secularism, this hill hosts the Durrani Fort, a Hindu Temple (Sharika Devi), a Muslim Shrine (Makhdoom Sahib), and a Gurudwara (Chatti Padshahi) on its slopes.
Indira Gandhi Tulip Garden
Asia's largest tulip garden. Nestled at the foothills of Zabarwan Range, it blooms with millions of tulips of various colors. It opens only for about 20 days in Spring (Late March to April).
Dachigam National Park
Located 22km from Srinagar, this park is the last home of the endangered Hangul (Kashmir Stag). It offers deep forest safaris and is beautiful during autumn and winter.
Top Things to Do in Srinagar
1. Sunset Shikara Ride on Dal Lake
No trip to Srinagar is complete without a Shikara ride. The best time is during the "Golden Hour" at sunset when the sky turns orange and the Zabarwan mountains reflect in the water. You can also visit the "Floating Post Office" and shop from floating vendors selling jewelry, flowers, and kebabs right to your boat.
2. Early Morning Floating Vegetable Market
Wake up at 5:00 AM for a unique cultural experience. Witness the chaotic and colorful trade of vegetables on boats in the interiors of Dal Lake. This market only lasts for an hour or two and offers incredible photography opportunities. It is one of the only few such markets in the world.
3. Feast on Authentic Wazwan
Taste the royal cuisine of Kashmir. Wazwan is a multi-course meat-heavy meal. Must-try dishes include Gushtaba (meatballs in yogurt gravy), Rista (meatballs in red gravy), Tabak Maaz (fried ribs), and Rogan Josh. Visit local restaurants like Ahdoos or Mughal Darbar.
4. Heritage Walk in the Old City (Shehr-e-Khaas)
Walk through the narrow lanes of Zaina Kadal and Nowhatta. Witness the stunning brick-and-wood architecture of old houses, visit the Khanqah-e-Moula (beautiful wooden shrine), and see the copper smiths working on intricate utensils. This is the soul of Srinagar.
5. Paragliding at Astanmarg
For adventure lovers, head to Astanmarg near Harwan (outskirts of Srinagar). Take a tandem paragliding flight that offers breathtaking aerial views of Dal Lake, the Mughal Gardens, and the entire city. It's a thrilling way to see the valley from above.
Shopping in Srinagar
What to Buy
- Pashmina Shawls: The finest wool in the world.
- Saffron (Kesar): World's most expensive spice.
- Walnut Wood Carvings: Souvenirs & decor.
- Papier Mache: Colorful boxes & artifacts.
Where to Buy
- Lal Chowk: Main market for dry fruits & fabrics.
- Polo View Market: Handicrafts & souvenirs.
- Boulevard Road: Touristy shops near Dal Lake.
- Floating Market: Local produce.
Shopping Tips
- Always bargain in local markets (except Govt Emporiums).
- Check for GI Tags on Saffron & Pashmina.
- Avoid buying from touts on the street.
Smart Travel Tips for Kashmir
Prepaid SIMs Don't Work
Only Postpaid SIM cards (Jio/Airtel/BSNL) from other states work in J&K. Buy a local SIM if needed.
Layer Your Clothing
Even in summer, nights can be chilly. Always carry a light jacket. Heavy woolens are a must for winter.
Carry ID Proof
Keep your Aadhaar/Passport handy. Security checks are common at the airport and highways.
Cash is King
While UPI is growing, smaller vendors and remote areas prefer cash. Keep ample change.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days are needed for Srinagar?
Ideally, 3 days are sufficient to cover Dal Lake, Mughal Gardens, Shankaracharya Temple, and Old City heritage walk. Add more days for Gulmarg/Pahalgam.
Is Srinagar safe for solo female travelers?
Yes, Srinagar is generally safe. Locals are respectful. However, standard travel precautions apply: avoid isolated areas late at night and dress modestly for religious sites.
Can I find vegetarian food in Srinagar?
Absolutely. While Kashmiri cuisine is meat-heavy, there are plenty of pure vegetarian restaurants ("Krishna Dhaba" is famous) and hotels serving North Indian veg food.
Explore Srinagar with Comfort
Book a reliable taxi for your Srinagar sightseeing.
Local Sightseeing Packages starting from ₹2,500/day.