Discovering the Charms of Srinagar: A Guide to Must-Visit Places
Srinagar, the pride of the Kashmir Valley and the Himalayas, is a heaven on earth, literally. Its tranquil lakes, lush gardens, and mesmerising Mughal architecture attract people from all over the world, who come to experience its beauty.
However, a Srinagar trip would not be complete without a leisurely shikara ride on Dal Lake. It is also mandatory to visit the historic monuments which are abundant in the city. We will start a journey to discover the Places to Visit in Srinagar that make Srinagar more popular.
Here is the list of Best Places to Visit in Srinagar:
- Dal Lake
- Indira Gandhi Tulip Garden Memorial
- Shalimar Bagh
- Nishat Bagh
- Hazratbal Shrine
- Chasme Shahi Garden
- Pari Mahal
- Shankaracharya Temple
- Nigeen Lake
- Char Chinar
- Wular Lake
- Hari Parbat
Table of Contents
Places to Visit in Srinagar
Dal Lake
The city’s most beautiful lake in the foreground is surrounded by the Pir Panjal mountain range, which is covered with clouds. Dal Lake has been one of the favourite places to visit in Srinagar over the years. It is a huge water body with an area of 18 square kilometres and is located at 1,583 metres high altitude. We call it the second-largest lake in Jammu and Kashmir.
Furthermore, not to mention that in summer, the lake is a perfect mirror of nature; whereas in winter it becomes an ice paradise. On a sunny day with a clear blue sky, the lake mirrors the sky.
Additionally, in winter, when the temperature is -11 degrees centigrade, Dal Lake’s beauty is no less than a work of art. This is what makes the lake so special.
Indira Gandhi Tulip Garden Memorial
The Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden, the largest tulip garden in Asia, is one of the favourites places to visit in Srinagar in the summer season. Initially, the garden was known as Siraj Bagh. It was opened in 2007 to attract tourists and promote flower cultivation in Kashmir.
The garden has more than 60 varieties of tulips and is planted with around 15 lakh tulips. It opens in spring (around March) every year, and thousands of visitors visit the place around the globe.
Moreover, the tulip garden is set on level ground at the foot of the Zabarwan Mountain range. Besides, its stunning view of Dal Lake is a sight for sore eyes. It is a terraced architecture with seven levels. Beyond the star of the show, tulips, visitors will also be able to see other flowers like daffodils, ranunculus, and hyacinths.
Nonetheless, the beginning date may change annually. Therefore, it is advisable to check the website and news before visiting the garden. The incredible world of colorful blooms will make your day a lovely one.
Also Read: Tourist Places to Visit in Ladakh
Shalimar Bagh
Emperor Jahangir constructed a garden for his queen, Shalimar Bagh. Moreover, this has remained the most popular honeymoon destination for many years. Architecture is in the form of Persian gardens. It is known as the Islamic garden layout. The garden is famous for being the largest one among all Mughal gardens in Srinagar.
Additionally, the terraces are divided into three tiers, each designed for a specific function. On the top, there was a harem for the women of the royal family. Furthermore, in the centre, there was a chamber called ‘Diwan-i-Khas’ for the emperor. The outer part of the ‘Diwan-i-Aam’ was the garden, which was open to the public.
Shalimar Bagh was built in 1619 by Mughal Emperor Jahangir for his wife, Nur Jahan. It was the Royal Court and the summer residence of the Kings and Queens.
Furthermore, the main feature of this garden is Chini Khanas. It was behind the waterfalls and remained decorated with flowers. To date, it gives a stunning visual effect. The place operates every day except Friday, and in the peak tourist season from May to October, the management organizes a light and sound show in the evenings.
Nishat Bagh
Another popular place to visit in Srinagar is Nishat Bagh. It is situated on the eastern bank of the pure Dal Lake, with the beautiful Zabarwan Mountains as a backdrop. This place is ranked second in the Kashmir valley. On one side, the garden is bordered by beautiful Chinar trees, and a water channel runs through the middle of it.
Moreover, this gives nature lovers, holidaygoers, and even romantic couples a surreal experience. Famously called the Garden of Bliss, this wonderful Srinagar tourist place has a Persian touch in its architecture. Asaf Khan, the elder brother of Nur Jahan, founded this establishment. It came into existence in 1633.
Hazratbal Shrine
Considered one of the holiest Islamic places to visit in Srinagar, the Hazratbal Shrine is on the banks of the Dal Lake. You should not miss this place if you are on your best Kashmir tour. The name of the shrine is derived from two Kashmiri terms: “Hazrat, ” meaning “Sacred”, and “Bal” meaning” Place.” Hence, it is evident how significant the place is.
Furthermore, the hair inside the structure is in good condition. It is displayed only on major Islamic celebrations. However, The Hazratbal Shrine, known as a pleasure house, was built by Sadiq Khan, as mentioned in history. In the previous era, it was used for prayers. However, after several modifications, it finally converted into a shrine. Now, it is known by many names, such as Dargah Sharif, Assar-e-Sharief, and Madinat-us-Sani. Therefore, if you are in Kashmir, do not miss the spectacular sight of this holy shrine.
Also Read: Destinations to see Snowfall in India
Chasme Shahi Garden
The Chashme Shahi, a part of the Mughal Gardens of Srinagar, is a stunning natural spring famous worldwide. It is one of the main attractions in Kashmir and you cannot afford to miss it. Moreover, Shah Jahan, the ruler of the time, commissioned this garden as a tribute to his son, Dara Sikoh. Today, hundreds of tourists spend many cherishing moments at this beautiful garden.
Furthermore, it was built in 1632 by the Shah Jahan and Ali Mardan government. According to a famous legend, Rupa Bhawani first discovered this place. She was a famous female saint of Kashmir. Therefore, the site’s name is the name of the clan to which the saint belongs, the Sahib clan of Kashmiri Pandits.
Additionally, Chashme Shahi includes a perfectly manicured triple-terraced garden with Persian-style architecture which is a prominent feature. The hut on the top terrace is two stories in height. It is believed that this structure is the source of the natural spring.
Pari Mahal
Pari Mahal, one of the top places to visit in Srinagar, is a heavenly place on earth. However, many unexplored places allow you to enjoy the beautiful nature you can expect on a Srinagar Kashmir sightseeing tour. Srinagar, the all-season destination, Pari Mahal, is accessible from any part of the city.
Additionally, the mahal was erected in the mid-17th century by Dara Shikoh, son of Shah Jahan, as a summer abode. It is located on top of the Zabarwan Mountain range, and it consists of a palace and a garden on the terraces.
The garden hosts a diversity of plants. The building was then changed into an observatory and classroom for astronomy and astrology students and is now considered one of the best sightseeing places in Srinagar.
Shankaracharya Temple
The oldest Hindu temple in Kashmir, the Shankaracharya Temple, is the prime tourist attraction in Srinagar. Jagadguru Adi Shankaracharya stayed in the temple during his visit to the Kashmir Valley in the 8th century. Since then, it has become a popular Hindu pilgrimage site.
Moreover, the temple is now included in the national monuments protected by the Archaeological Survey of India.
However, the temple is also the most popular among Hindus as it is a part of the Amarnath Yatra. A large number of yatris visit this Shivalaya during their Amarnath Jatra.
It is the city’s tallest tower and is at a height of 335 metres at the top of Shankaracharya Hill on the Zabarwan Mountain range. The aerial view of Srinagar City and Jhelum Valley from the temple are other highlights.
Also Read: Best Places in India to Escape Heat
Nigeen Lake
Nigeen Lake, a slightly eutrophic water body, connected with Dal Lake by a narrow strait, is one of the most beautiful attractions in Srinagar. Unlike Dal Lake, Nigeen Lake is a bit more isolated and is located next to a hillock, Hari Parbat, which is at a height of 1,582 metres.
The poplar and willow trees that stand in a row all around the beautiful lake, nageena, are welcome and give the lake its name. Nigeen Lake which is a place of peace and serenity has been a place of choice for travellers who want to have a Shikara ride away from the crowd in a relaxed manner.
Char Chinar
If you have a plan to go on a Shikara ride around the most captivating island lake, definitely tell the Shikhara to be steered in this direction. Char Chinar is a beautiful island floating in the middle of the Dal Lake and the entire place is covered with Chinar trees that make you fall in love with the beauty of the surroundings.
Besides being one of the best tourist destinations in Srinagar, it is also a venue for taking selfies.
Wular Lake
The largest freshwater lake in India, the Wular Lake, which is situated in the Bandipora District, is surrounded by beautiful hills and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Srinagar. It is spread across an area of 200 square kilometres, which is about ten kilometres wide and 24 kilometres long.
A tiny lake with an island in the middle, which was built by King Zainul-Abi-Din is currently the nesting place for the rare and beautiful birds, a haven for bird watchers.
The lake receives water from the Jhelum River and accounts for a considerable part of the fish yields and livelihoods of people living along the banks.
Finally, the experience of watching a stunning sunset while enjoying a boat ride on the lake as well as talking to a fisherwoman from the area – is all that you can experience in Wular.
Also Read: Must Visit Places in Kashmir
Hari Parbat
A hill near the heart of Srinagar city, surrounded by a green belt, with three shrines of three different religions coexisting, Hari Parbat is a symbol of secularism that has made this country famous across the world.
A fort stands on the hilltop, a part of which was first designed by Emperor Akbar, who planned to transfer his capital to Hari Parbat but could not do so. First, Atta Mohammad Khan, the Afghan governor finished the whole fort.
Furthermore, on the southern side, there is a fort which has two famous Muslim shrines of Akhund Mullah Shah and Khwaja Makhdoom Sahib and on the western side, there is a Shakti Temple, dedicated to Goddess Jagdamba.
On the south side of the outer wall, there is a Gurdwara as well. The Hari Parbat region is one of the unexplored places in Srinagar and it is an amazing place to see the views of the city from the top. The place has been looked after and protected by the Archaeological Survey of India and the Indian Army for many years now.
Conclusion
Finally, Srinagar, the city of age-old charm and cultural wealth, is the destination that one looks for to find peace and tranquillity in nature’s glory. The city narrates its own story from the tranquil waters of Dal Lake to the majestic peaks of Zabarwan Range.
The city is adorned with a timeless elegance and beauty that is unmatched. From visiting the historic landmarks to getting lost in the gorgeous Mughal gardens or being fully immersed in the spiritual atmosphere of the sacred shrines, Srinagar offers the journey of a lifetime with moments of amazement and wonder.
Therefore, take your bags, be enchanted by the Srinagar city, and have an exciting trip of a lifetime in the Kashmir Valley.
So, if you are planning to visit any beautiful destination, then go to Srinagar at least once. Above this article, we discussed some popular Places to Visit in Srinagar. So what are you waiting for? Just pack your bags and enjoy the trip with your family or loved ones. Kashmir trip will be more beautiful as you spend some special moments at Srinagar.
Also Read: Must Visit Places in Kashmir
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Frequently Asked Question
What is the famous thing of Srinagar?
Srinagar offers a rich heritage and cultural blend, with attractions like Pari Mahal, Hari Parbat Fort, Chashma Shahi, Shalimar Garden, Jamia Masjid, Hazratbal Mosque, Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden, Nigeen Lake, Dachigam National Park.
Is Srinagar worth visiting?
Srinagar, a 17th-century Mughal emperor’s 17th-century ‘paradise on earth’, is a popular tourist destination in Kashmir, known for its stunning valleys and magical atmosphere.
Is Kashmir cheap or expensive?
Kashmir’s tour prices are comparable to those of other Indian tourist locations. Instead, food and transportation costs are less.
Why is Srinagar so famous?
The city is well-known for its houseboats, lakes, and gardens. Dried fruits and traditional Kashmiri handicrafts are also well-known. Situated on both banks of the Jhelum River, known as Vyath in Kashmir, is the city.
Which month is best to visit Srinagar?
April through June (14°C to 30°C): The summer months are ideal for travel to Srinagar because that’s when the city’s major event, the Tulip Festival, occurs. During the summer months of April to June, Srinagar transforms into a more lovely and pleasant environment.