Include Visiting These 7 Places as Part of Srinagar Tourism

Kashmir is often stated to be paradise on Earth by poets due to the mesmerising beauty of the place. Located amidst the towering Himalayan ranges, Kashmir is surrounded by lush greenery and snow-capped peaks. Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir is a quaint city that is not just surrounded by lakes and gardens, but also located on the banks of river Jhelum.  Srinagar lets you explore this wonder of nature located in India. So, plan your next mountain getaway to the breathtaking Srinagar for a memorable vacation. 

7 Places you must include in your Srinagar travel itinerary 

1. Nigeen Lake

Nigeen Lake is an offshoot of the popular Dal Lake in Srinagar. Although Dal Lake is the more popular destination in the Srinagar tourism circuit, Nigeen Lake is equally mesmerising. The two lakes are connected by a thin causeway. Nigeen Lake is located in the eastern portion of Srinagar, overlooked by the Zabarwan mountain range. This lake is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Srinagar. The deep blue and pristine lake is surrounded by willow and poplar trees. The beauty of the place is enhanced by houseboats where you can enjoy a stay. Unlike the more popular Dal Lake, Nigeen Lake is less crowded and meant for visitors who are looking for a quiet and peaceful experience. Enjoying a ‘shikara’ (local boat) ride in the lake is one of the best experiences in Srinagar.     

2. Shalimar Bagh 

Located close to Dal Lake is Shalimar Bagh, a garden built during the reign of the Mughal emperor, Jahangir. This grand garden is one of the finest architectural works of the Mughal era. One of the best things to do in Srinagar is to take a stroll in this garden and admire the beautiful trees and marble structures. There is a water body amidst the garden which adds to the serenity of the place. Apart from beautiful flowers and fountains, the garden is also adorned by arched niches and waterfalls. Visiting Mughal gardens is an integral part of Srinagar tourism. 

3. Dachigam National Park

Visiting Dachigam National Park is a great place to add to your Srinagar tourism itinerary. It is located 22 km away from the city amidst the Zabarwan mountain range. This mountain range is part of the western Himalayas which includes sloping grasslands and rocky cliffs. You can enjoy an exhilarating wildlife safari when you visit this place and explore the conserved flora and fauna of Kashmir. The Kashmir stag and the Himalayan black bear specifically dwell in this nature park.   

4. Hazratbal Mosque

The Hazratbal shrine is considered to be the holiest mosque in Kashmir. The mosque is one of the most popular places to visit in Kashmir as it houses what is considered to be the hair of Prophet Muhammad. The mosque itself is an architectural marvel sculpted out of white marble. 

5. Shankaracharya Temple

Shankaracharya temple is the oldest religious shrine in Kashmir located atop the Shankaracharya hill which is part of the Zabarwan mountain range. The temple overlooks the city of Srinagar and the views from the top are breathtakingly beautiful. The temple dedicated to Lord Shiva was built approximately around the 9th century A.D. 

6. Char Chinar 

Char Chinar is an island located in the middle of Dal Lake. Take a ‘shikara’ ride to this island and enjoy majestic views of nature. The clear blue sky blends with the deep blue waters of the lake and the mountains look like a painting on the blue canvas in front of you. Boating to the island is truly one of the best things to do in Srinagar. 

7. Yusmarg 

Yusmarg is a picturesque stretch of land located just a 2-hour drive away from Srinagar. This place cannot be simply left out when talking about Srinagar tourism. The name Yusmarg translates to the ‘meadow of Jesus’. Green pastures and the bubbling Dood Ganga stream is a scene that will mesmerise you. You can walk through the valley filled with flowers or even trek on the trails to reach various lakes around the place. Sitting in the lap of nature in Yusmarg is an enriching experience. 

Best time to visit Srinagar

Srinagar tourism lets you have an unprecedented experience that can be enjoyed year long. If you want to visit the place during snowfall, then the months between October and February would be the best time to visit Srinagar. The temperatures can be extremely low and it gets chilling cold during these months. A more pleasant time to visit Srinagar is between March and June. 

How to reach Srinagar?

• You can fly to Srinagar as it has an international airport just 15 km away from the city. Multiple flights fly to and from Srinagar to other parts of India and the world. 
• You can even take a train to Jammu railway station and drive further to Srinagar. 
• Srinagar is also accessible through roadways. You can take buses from cities like Delhi, Leh, Chandigarh and Jammu. It is also possible to drive down to Srinagar in a private car. 

Food in Srinagar

When you talk about Srinagar tourism, it is incomplete without trying out the delectable Kashmiri cuisine. There are several restaurants in Srinagar serving authentic Kashmiri food. You should try out ‘The Chinar’ and ‘Ahdoos’ which are the best-rated restaurants for Kashmiri food in the city. Do not miss out on the lip-smacking kebabs sold by street vendors near Dal Lake.  

With two Club Mahindra affiliated resorts in Srinagar - Kashmir Houseboats and Sarovar Portico, you can enjoy a hassle-free holiday. Your tour of Srinagar with us will become more magical!

About Mahindra Holidays

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