Top 8 Places to Visit in Srinagar, also known as the summer capital of India, is the largest city that is located in Jammu and Kashmir. The name of the city has been derived from two Sanskrit works namely “sri” which means sun and “Nagar” which means city. It is located near the Kashmir valley on the banks of the Jhelum River. The city is known for its flora and fauna along with the waterfronts and the beautiful houseboats it has. No wonder for it is also known as the paradise of Earth.
Further, the traditional handicrafts and dried fruits available in Srinagar are also a unique attraction. Srinagar is a city with pleasant climate, and the best time to visit Srinagar would be anytime between the months of April to October. The flowers of the city blossom during these months, making the place haven-like for all its residents, tourists and visitors. Besides, these months are when there are various amazing activities that one can do and get new experiences from.
The city being located amidst forests, mountains and lakes, there are so many places to visit in Srinagar that are astounding and can make you feel like you are in utopia. The city lies on an elevation of 5,200 feet on the banks of Jhelum River, making the weather of the city so pleasant and cool to enjoy.
Dal Lake
You cannot get a better glimpse of Srinagar than from a Shikara ride on Dal Lake. In the shadow of lofty mountains, imagine riding on a wooden boat in a mirror sheet lake glistening with floating vibrant gondola flowers and unparalleled tranquillity. This is what a boat ride on the surreal Dal Lake feels like, like being alone in an abundance of water with nothing around other than your solitude to gaze upon.
Renowned as the Jewel of Srinagar, this mesmerizing lake is spread across a vast area of 26 square kilometers. The lake bustles with floating markets that form an authentic specialty of Kashmir. Furthermore, the Shikaras or the houseboats are intricately carved and often decorated with vibrant flowers making them appear as floating gardens in the majestic lake.
Dal Lake, the second largest lake in Jammu and Kashmir, also gives an enamoring view of the Mughal gardens and thus is a perfect spot for Srinagar sightseeing. Frozen during winters, it becomes a site for ice skating. With its picturesque sight, Dal Lake is one of the best places to visit in Srinagar.
Highlights:
- Shikara rides and floating markets.
- Staying on houseboats floating through Dal Lake s is an exquisite experience that you cannot afford to miss.
Shalimar Bagh Mughal Garden
Famously known as the crown of Srinagar, Shalimar Bagh Mughal Garden was built in 1619 by the Mughal emperor Jahangir as a token of love for his beloved wife, Noor Jahan. The largest garden amongst the three Mughal gardens of Srinagar, it bears testimony to a royal history of eternal love. Its name, Shalimar is a Sanskrit word, which literally translates to an “abode of love” Top 8 Places to Visit in Srinagar.
Its architecture marvels speak stories of Mughal richness in horticulture, culture, and tradition. Adorned with walnut, almond, Chinar, and other lush green trees as well as stellar water springs and chini khanas, the garden overlooks the beautiful Dal Lake. The garden shimmers with over 410 fountains on its premises. Perfect for Srinagar sightseeing, Shalimar bagh Mughal garden is one of the most picturesque places to visit in Srinagar.
Highlights:
The beautiful Chinar trees as well as Chini Khanas behind the waterfalls in the garden.
Shankaracharya Temple
A prominent stop on the famous Hindu pilgrimage of the Amarnath Yatra, Shankaracharya Temple attracts devotees from across the world. Perched on the Shankaracharya hill, it is dedicated to the Hindu deity Lord Shiva.
As suggested by its name, it is said to have been established by the renowned Hindu saint Adi Shankaracharya who attained divine and spiritual enlightenment by worshipping Lord Shiva in this temple when he visited Srinagar 10 centuries ago Top 8 Places to Visit in Srinagar.
Built on an octagonal base on solid rock, the temple can be reached after climbing a flight of 243 stairs. The tedious route, however, will lead to an unimaginable view of a quaint and pious temple nestled amidst lofty hills. Undeniably, it is one of the best places to visit in Srinagar.
Highlights: The historic Shiv Linga
Shri Pratap Singh Museum
Built-in 1898 by Maharaja Pratap Singh, the ruler of Jammu and Kashmir during that time, it was a famous abode for the maharajas in Kashmir. Now as a museum, it displays handicrafts, historical, and archaeological articles from union territories across the nation such as Giljit, Baltistan, Jammu, and Kashmir, as well as other regions of Northern India.
The museum has a rich collection of over 80,000 such artifacts. A prominent museum that bears testimony to the rich heritage and history of India, it is amongst famous Top 8 Places to Visit in Srinagar.
Highlights:
The Harwan Terracotta Tiles, the Gilgit Manuscripts, and the 9th Century Vaishnava Avatar Bronze Frame.
Nishat Bagh
Constructed in 1833, by the elder brother of Nur Jehan, Asif Khan, Nishat Bagh stands with pride as the largest Mughal garden in Jammu and Kashmir. Deriving its name from Urdu, Nishat Bagh literally translates to Garden of Gladness or Garden of Delight or Joy. The garden is constructed in a Persian style and thus its stellar architecture affirms the regal Mughal culture Top 8 Places to Visit in Srinagar.
With splendid Chinar trees, lush greenery, and numerous fountains, this picturesque delight also gives an enigmatic view of the pristine Dal Lake and the majestic Zabarwan valleys. The garden is separated into two parts by a stagnant stream of water and its different levels are marked by 12 stairs that symbolize the 12 astrological science. A refreshing scenic beauty, Nishat Bagh is amongst the well-known tourist places in Srinagar.
Highlights:
The twelve terraces that symbolize the 12 horoscope signs
Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden
Imagine a garden full of graciously swinging flowers on the rhythmic music of the wind. The largest tulip garden in Asia, Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden, feels like the song of nature written by the divine. Nestled in the foothills of the Zabarwan valleys, it gives a majestic view of the astoundingly beautiful Dal Lake.
Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden is adorned with over 48 varieties of tulips such as hyacinths, iris, daffodils, roses, and many other beautiful flowers that are perched across seven terraces in a garden that is constructed in a sloping ground manner.
Opened in 2007 as Model Floriculture Center, it was later renamed as Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden as a tribute to the late former prime minister of India. The annual Tulip Festival held in the spring months presents the picturesque garden at its prime beauty. Ranked in 2017 amongst the top five tulip gardens in the world, it has been one of the most prominent tourist attractions in the state. With its blossoming beauty, it surely is one of the Top 8 Places to Visit in Srinagar
Highlights:
The annual Tulip Festival. Look out for the rare species of tulips such as the “Queen of the Night”.
Nigeen Lake
Connected to Dal Lake through a narrow stream, Nigeen Lake is situated in the eastern region of the city and is one of the best of the best places to visit in Srinagar. Also known as the Jewel in the Ring, this lake is hidden like a precious treasure between a circle of tall trees.
A sight to devour, it will have you spellbound by its sublime beauty and thus is among the top sites of Srinagar sightseeing. It is also a paradise for adventure lovers as it hosts enthralling water sports such as water skiing, sailing, as well as swimming. In order to promote its tourism, the Nigeen Club has been established on its banks which allows visitors to enjoy an unparalleled view of enamoring beauty over delicious food in tea pavilions, bars, cafes, as well as restaurants. Nigeen Lake is thus one of the most exciting Top 8 Places to Visit in Srinagar
Highlights: The Nigeen Club
Dachigam National Park
Literally translating to ten villages, Dachigam National Park was built in 1910 by the Maharaja of Kashmir by displacing 10 villages to construct a hunting reserve for the royalties of the place. Located about 20 km away from Srinagar, it was declared as a national park only in 1981.
Situated at a height of 1700 meters to 4300 meters above sea level, the national park is spread across an area of 141 square kilometers. It is a paradise for nature and wildlife lovers. This beautiful abode of exotic flora and fauna will give you a ride through the untamed wilderness in the emerald green meadows of Kashmir.
An abode of exotic and endangered animals such as the yellow-throated marten, long-tailed marmot, Snow Leopard, pygmy owlets, Musk Deer, Himalayan Brown bear, Himalayan grey languor, Himalayan weasel, blue magpie trotter, as well as Red Fox. Along with rich biodiversity, the place also harbors trekking trails and thus is one of the best places to visit in Srinagar for nature enthusiasts and adventure lovers Top 8 Places to Visit in Srinagar.
Highlights: Snow Leopard