Srinagar, the capital city of Jammu and Kashmir in India, is a beautiful and historic city known for its scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage. Located on the banks of the Jhelum River, Srinagar is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, lush green forests, and sparkling lakes, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in India.
I visited Srinagar with my family during spring season, in April, and it turned out to be one of our best family vacation. In this blog, I am going to share with you some of the best experiences we had in Srinagar to help you plan your own awesome vacation.
A trip to Kashmir involve a lot of planning and also knowing the safety and regulatory measures applicable to the place. Check out my comprehensive guide on how to plan a Kashmir trip.
Table of Contents
Srinagar is a haven for tourists with beautiful gardens, historical forts, and culturally significant religious sites. Here is a list of my top picks of the places to visit in Srinagar:
Srinagar is home to four Mughal gardens, which are Shalimar Bagh, Nishat garden, Chashma Shahi, and Pari Mahal. These gardens not only offer a glimpse into India’s rich history and culture but also provide a peaceful and serene environment for you to relax and unwind. Each garden is unique in its own way, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains, lakes, and gardens. We visited all four Mughal Gardens, and a couple of others as well. Let me share the specialties of them all, but before that here are some general information:
Here are some general information about the Mughal gardens in Srinagar that will help you plan your trip:
Shalimar Garden is one of the most beautiful, and iconic Mughal gardens in Srinagar. The garden is located on the banks of Dal Lake and was built by Emperor Jahangir in 1619 for his beloved wife Nur Jahan. The garden is spread over 31 acres and is divided into three terraces, each with a unique theme and design.
One of the most unique features of Shalimar Garden is its water supply system. The garden is irrigated by a canal that runs through the center of the garden. The water flows through the canal and cascades down into the fountains and pools, creating a soothing and tranquil atmosphere.
While it is the largest and the most famous of Srinagar’s gardens, we felt that it was not the best maintained. We found some parts of it under renovation. When we checked with our driver-cum-guide, he told us that there is always some repair work at Shalimar Garden. Anyhow, since we visited in April, the garden was vibrant with colorful blooms. In spite of it being under renovation, we felt the tall flowering trees added a certain charm to it.
Nishat Garden, also known as the “Garden of Joy,” is one of the most beautiful Mughal gardens in Srinagar. It is located on the banks of Dal Lake and was built by Asif Khan, the brother-in-law of Emperor Jahangir, in 1633. The garden is spread over 47 acres and is known for its stunning landscapes, beautiful flowerbeds, and serene atmosphere.
We absolutely loved Nishat Garden! We found more flowerbeds in Nishat Garden than in Shalimar Garden. But if we were to compare blooming trees, Shalimar Garden beats it.
Chashma Shahi is a beautiful Mughal Garden located on the foothills of the Zabarwan Mountains in Srinagar. It was built in 1632 by Ali Mardan Khan, a Mughal governor of Kashmir during the reign of Emperor Shah Jahan. The garden is known for its natural spring, which is believed to have medicinal properties and is a major tourist attraction in Srinagar.
Chashma Shahi is one of the smallest Mughal gardens in Srinagar, but it is also one of the most serene and peaceful. The garden is spread over 1.5 acres and is divided into three terraces, each with a unique theme and design.
After we got in, we came to know that the park has a natural hot spring. The water here is thought to have medicinal and healing properties. We saw a lot of people filling water bottles with the spring water. We didn’t have any so we just drank some water directly from the spring. I would recommend you carry a water bottle while visiting Chashma Shahi.
Pari Mahal, which means the “Fairy Palace”, is a beautiful historical monument with gardens around it, in the typical Mugal style.
Here is something interesting I read about Pari Mahal. It was built by Dara Shikoh, the eldest son of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, in the 17th century. The primary purpose behind the construction of Pari Mahal was to serve as an observatory and a residence for Dara Shikoh.
Prince Dara Shikoh had a deep interest in astrology, Sufism, and various philosophical pursuits. Pari Mahal was designed to be a place where he could study astronomy and astrology. The location on the Zabarwan Range provided an elevated position with clear views of the sky, facilitating celestial observations.
Pari Mahal is also known for its unique blend of Islamic and Buddhist architecture. The palace has several arched doorways and windows, which are adorned with intricate carvings and designs. Our driver told that there is a local say that Pari Mahal is haunted. While we did not find any ghosts or fairies, the monument did look spooky to us!
We could visit Pari Mahal only because we had an open itinerary and we were not part of any tour package. Most tour packages don’t take you there. But if you asked me, Pari Mahal is worth a visit. It is just 2.5 kilometers from Chashma Shahi and so you can demand your operator to take you anyhow.
Badamwari, also known as the Almond Garden, is a beautiful garden located in the heart of Srinagar. The garden is known for its stunning almond trees, which bloom during the spring season. In my opinion, Badamwari is the most beautiful garden in Srinagar!
The Badamwari was built by the Mughal Emperor Jahangir in the 17th century and was originally used as a hunting ground for the royal family. The garden is spread over 37 acres of land and has over 2000 almond trees, which bloom in shades of pink and white during the spring season.
We had never heard of Badamwari before visiting Srinagar. When our driver suggested we visit it, we were not very excited as we had seen so many gardens in Srinagar already. But when we got there, we were complete mind-blown.
Ashley’s Tip: Badamwari is open only for a limited time of the year from late March to early May or only when the almond flowers are in bloom. Check the dates before planning your trip here.
The Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden, also known as the Tulip Garden, is one of the most beautiful and popular tourist attractions in Srinagar. It is located at the foothills of the Zabarwan Mountains and is spread over 30 hectares (74 acres) of land. We were absolutely thrilled to find this garden with multi-colored tulip bloom when we visited.
tulips in Tulips garden, Srinagar must visit attraction in Kashmir." width="" />
The Tulip Garden was inaugurated in 2007 and is the largest tulip garden in Asia. The garden was built to promote tourism in the region and to showcase the beauty of Kashmiri flowers. Tulip garden is open to the public in April every year, which is the prime blooming season for the tulips.
The garden is divided into several sections, each with a unique color scheme and design. The tulips are planted in different patterns and designs, giving you a mesmerizing sight. The garden has over 1.5 million tulips of different colors, including red, yellow, orange, pink, and white.
tulips in Tulip Garde, Srinagar, a place to visit in Kashmir." width="" />
Hari Parbat is a hill located in the heart of Srinagar. It is an important historical and cultural landmark in the city and is a must-visit place for anyone interested in the history and culture of Kashmir. The hill is home to an ancient temple, a Gurudwara and other structures, and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and Dal Lake.
The first fortification of Hari Parbat was started by the Mughal Emperor Akbar in 1590. He built an outer wall for the fort and a grand gate, called Kathi Darwaza. However, he could never complete the construction of a fort on Hari Parbat.
The construction of the Hari Parbat Fort, also known as Durrani Fort, took place in the 18th century under the rule of Atta Mohammad Khan, an Afghan governor. The fort is a testament to the historical military architecture of the time and has played a role in various periods of conflict and political changes in the region.
Apart from the historical and cultural significance of the hill, we also enjoyed the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the Dal Lake from atop. We could also spot several walking trails and picnic spots on the hill. Visiting Hari Part involves a lot of walking and climbing stairs. I would suggest comfortable shoes, sunscreen, hats and plenty of water if you are planning to go up the hill.
Hazratbal Shrine is one of the most famous religious landmarks in Srinagar. It is a revered shrine for Muslims and is known for its historical and religious significance. We found this beautiful white marble, dome-shaped shrine to bee one of the most serene monuments in Srinagar.
The shrine is home to a relic that is believed to be a hair from the beard of the Prophet Muhammad. The relic is displayed to the public on certain special occasions, and it is said to have miraculous powers. The shrine is also famous for its beautiful architecture, which combines traditional Islamic and Kashmiri styles.
Jamia Masjid is another historic mosque we visited in the heart of Srinagar. The mosque is a stunning example of Islamic architecture and is one of the most prominent landmarks of the city. Jamia masjid has a rich history and is an important religious and cultural center for Muslims in the region.
The mosque was built in 1394 CE by Sultan Sikandar Shah, the ruler of Kashmir at the time. The mosque has a spacious courtyard that can accommodate thousands of worshippers at a time. The architecture of the mosque is a blend of traditional Islamic and Kashmiri styles, with beautiful arches and ornate minarets.
Unlike the dome-structured mosques you will usually find, the architecture of Jamia Masjid is Persian-inspired and shows similarities to Buddhist pagodas. This makes Jamia masjid is a unique architectural marvel.
Apart from that, Jamia masjid is a great place for you to shop for clothes and footwear at cheap prices. The mosque is surrounded by a line of shops that sell clothing, footwear, and trinkets of reasonable quality. We bought Kashmiri embroidered clothing, carpets, and some local spices here at a throw away price. This is were the locals shop, so we were sure of the quality of the goods we bought.
Shankaracharya Temple is a revered Hindu shrine located on the top of a hill in Srinagar. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the oldest and most important religious landmarks in the region.
Shankaracharya temple is named after the great philosopher and theologian Shankaracharya, who is believed to have visited the site during the 9th century CE. The temple has a rich history and is known for its stunning architecture and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
To reach the temple, we had to climb a steep flight of stairs that lead up to the top of the hill. The climb was challenging, but the stunning views and the peaceful surroundings make it all worth it. The temple is located at an altitude of 1100 feet above sea level and offers breathtaking views of Dal Lake and the surrounding mountains.
The architecture of the temple is a blend of traditional Kashmiri and Hindu styles. The temple has a circular base and a tall octagonal structure with a dome-shaped roof. The interior of the temple is decorated with beautiful carvings and intricate artwork, which adds to the charm and beauty of the shrine.
Ashley’s Tip: The road to Shankaracharya Temple is closed after 5:00 pm, so plan your trip accordingly.
Here is my suggestion on what to do in Srinagar:
Shikara ride on Dal Lake is one of the most popular and enjoyable activities for tourists visiting Srinagar. The Dal Lake is a stunningly beautiful lake that is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and lush greenery. The Shikara ride offers you a unique opportunity to explore the lake and experience the culture and beauty of Srinagar.
Shikaras are traditional Kashmiri boats that are brightly colored and decorated. The boats are operated by local boatmen who are skilled in navigating the lake and know all the best spots to explore. The Shikara ride is a leisurely and relaxing experience that allows you to take in the breathtaking views of the lake and its surroundings.
During the Shikara ride, your guide will show you the main viewpoints on the way, including the beautiful Char Chinar Island, which is home to four majestic Chinar trees. You can also visit the floating vegetable gardens and observe the local fishermen at work.
The Shikara ride is also a great way to experience the unique culture and traditions of Kashmir. While we were floating away slowly on Dal Lake, hawkers from the floating market approached us with their boats selling us souvenirs, saffron, and Kahwa tea. We didn’t buy anything as we felt it was all too pricy, but we had the best kahwa tea in Srinagar while on the shikara. You can also get your photo taken in the Kashmiri attire while riding on a shikara, but we did it in one of the Mughal gardens, so skipped that as well!
Ashley’s Tip: The Shikara ride is best enjoyed during the early morning or late afternoon, when the sun is not too strong, and the weather is cool and pleasant. Be sure to bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water, as the sun can be strong during the day.
A houseboat stay in Srinagar is a unique and unforgettable experience that should not be missed by anyone visiting the city. Houseboats are an iconic feature of Srinagar and offer you a chance to experience the culture and beauty of Srinagar in a unique way.
Houseboats in Srinagar are typically made of cedar wood and are designed with intricate carvings and artwork. The houseboats are anchored along the banks of the Dal Lake and offer you a tranquil and serene environment to relax and enjoy the stunning views of the lake and its surroundings.
The houseboats in Srinagar are equipped with all the modern amenities to ensure that you have a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Each houseboat typically has one or more bedrooms, a living room, a dining area, and a fully equipped kitchen.
Ashley’s Tip: The houseboats in Srinagar come at varying levels of standards. You can get deluxe accommodation in a houseboat at around Rs.3000. The luxury houseboats can cost as high as Rs. 10000 per night.
Apple orchards are a must visit attraction in Srinagar. If you are visiting Srinagar in April, you will find the apple trees in full bloom. If you are visiting Srinagar in August -September, you will find apples hanging in bunches from the trees.
While you are in an orchard, you can eat as many apples from the trees as you can for FREE. If you want to buy them, you will get them for a throw away price. Since we visited in April, we could only see the apple flowers and no fruits. It was still a great experience.
One of the best experiences we had in Srinagar was relishing a platter of wazwan as a family. Wazwan is a traditional Kashmiri feast that is an integral part of the local culture and cuisine. The feast typically consists of a lavish spread of meat-based dishes, served with rice and a variety of side dishes. Wazwan is not just a meal, but a symbol of hospitality and generosity in Kashmiri culture.
The meat used in Wazwan is typically lamb, which is slow cooked over a wood fire until it is tender and succulent. The meat is then served with a variety of gravies and sauces, each with its unique flavor and aroma.
The main course of Wazwan typically includes dishes such as Rogan Josh, Gushtaba, Rista, and Tabak Maaz. Rogan Josh is a spicy lamb dish that is cooked in a tomato-based gravy. Gushtaba is a meatball dish that is made with ground lamb and is cooked in rich yogurt-based gravy. Rista is a lamb meatball dish that is served in fiery red chili gravy. Tabak Maaz is a dish made with fried lamb ribs that are cooked with a variety of spices.
Wazwan is not just a meal but a social event that brings people together. The feast is traditionally served on large copper plates called trami. Make sure you eat with your hands as is the tradition in Kashmiri cuisine. Check out the Best Restaurants in Srinagar to try authentic wazwan in Srinagar.
Ashley’s Tip: Wazwan comes in a very large plate. To give you an idea, a half plate/trami is more than enough for four people. Keep this in mind when you try this so that you don’t waste your money or the food. We were four adults and one toddler and a half Wazwan fed us all.
If you are visiting Srinagar, you have to have Kahwa chai!
Kahwa tea is a traditional Kashmiri tea, a special blend of green tea leaves, saffron, cinnamon, cardamom, and other spices, along with almonds, walnuts, and saffron.
It is typically prepared in a special copper kettle called a “samovar.” The tea is brewed slowly over a low flame, allowing the flavors and aroma of the spices to infuse into the water and served hot.
Kahwa tea is not only delicious but also has several health benefits. The green tea leaves are rich in antioxidants, which help to boost the immune system and protect the body against disease. The saffron and other spices in the tea have anti-inflammatory properties and are believed to aid digestion and improve overall health.
Shopping in Srinagar is an exquisite experience that you must have on your trip to Kashmir. But before I get into the details, let me share a challenge we faced that you must be wary of. Whether you hire a taxi on your own or you are there on a packaged tour, you will be taken to the shopping emporium from where your taxi driver gets his commission. So, unless you are traveling on your own, you cannot go explore the shops you like.
If you want to buy authentic pashmina shawls, silk, or premium quality carpets, go to emporiums with long legacy. But if you are not particular about buying premium stuff, here’s what you can do to get good quality stuff at reasonable prices. We are budget shoppers. Here is how we navigated the whole situation and got out Kashmiri stuff at reasonable prices.
Kashmir is famous for its rich cultural heritage and traditional handicrafts. There are several unique and beautiful items that you can buy in Srinagar, including:
Pashmina shawls – These soft and luxurious shawls are made from the fine wool of the Kashmir goat and are renowned for their warmth and beauty.
Kashmiri carpets – These hand-knotted woolen carpets are intricately designed and are famous for their durability and elegance.
Paper mache handicrafts – Kashmiri artisans create stunning paper mache items such as vases, bowls, and jewelry boxes, which are intricately painted with colorful designs.
Kashmiri spices – Kashmiri saffron, fennel, and other spices are highly prized for their unique flavors and aroma.
Wooden handicrafts – Kashmiri artisans are skilled in creating intricate wooden carvings, such as trays, boxes, and furniture.
Embroidered textiles – Kashmiri embroidery is known for its intricate patterns and exquisite craftsmanship. You can find embroidered fabrics, scarves, and other textiles in the local markets.
Kashmiri tea sets – These beautifully crafted tea sets, with intricate designs and enamel work, make for great souvenirs to take back home.
A three-day itinerary is a great way to explore Srinagar and experience its best offerings. Here’s my suggested itinerary for a three-day trip to Srinagar:
Shalimar Garden: This is the most famous of the Mughal gardens.
Nishat Garden: If you are running out of time and weighing in leaving out one of the Mughal Gardens, then I would suggest Nishat Gardens.
Shikara Ride on Dal Lake: Plan to do shikara ride after 3:30 pm to avoid the piercing glare of the sun.
Shankracharya Temple: You will need to climb over 200 steps to reach the temple, so plan it first thing in the morning.
Chasma Shahi: Carry an empty bottle to fill in water from the natural spring with healing properties.
Pari Mahal: Pari Mahal is just 2.5 kilometers from Chashma Shahi, so you can cover them one after the other.
Tulip Garden: Open only for a limited time in the month of April. Plan your trip in the second or third week of April if you want to visit the tulip garden.
Shopping: As you will be in town on this day, you can go visit fancy emporiums in Srinagar on this day.
Hari Parbat: There will be a lot of walking, so plan Hari Parbat as the first thing in the morning.
Badamwari: Badamwari is on the way to Hari Parbat but visit this on your way down so as to cool yourself off after all that walking.
Jamia Masjid: This is where you can do shopping at cheap prices, so plan your timing accordingly.
Hazratbal Shrine: Plan to spend some time here as the view of Dal Lake from here is spectacular.
That’s all, folks. I wish you have a wonderful trip to Srinagar and you get to see its beauty on your visit to Srinagar. Plan to spend at least three days in Srinagar to visit all the major attractions in Srinagar.
I hope that my Srinagar Travel Guide gave you all the information needed to plan a trip to Srinagar. If you think I missed something, do let me know in the comments below.
Related Posts:
