Located in the heart of the Kashmir Valley, which is called 'Paradise on
Earth', Srinagar’s landscape is interspersed with greenery, lakes and
hillocks. The city is spread out along the banks of the Jhelum River and
is famous for its surrounding natural beauty and postcard tourist
spots.
The two parts of the city are connected by nine bridges. The Hari Parbat and the Shankar Acharya hills lie on either side of the city.
Srinagar is the summer capital of the state of Jammu and Kashmir. It is land of exquisite beauty. With beautiful gardens, placid lakes and the breathtaking Himalayas, Srinagar is an abiding lure.
Indian Tours And Travels brings you complete information on how to reach Srinagar:
By Air:
The Srinagar Airport serves both as the domestic as well as international airport of the region. The domestic airport is serviced regularly by several private and public airlines, which connect the city to important cities in India, such as Delhi and Mumbai and the International flights terminal connects the region to world destinations.
By Road:
An extensive road network joins Srinagar to important cities in J&K and the major cities of North India, including Chandigarh, Delhi, Jammu, Leh, Gulmarg, Sonamarg, and Pahalgam. Public buses and taxis are the easiest ways to travel around in Srinagar.
By Rail:
The nearest Railway Station to Srinagar is in Jammu, central to the entire region. All the major Indian cities are linked to Jammu by trains. The Srinagar Railway Station is a part of the Kashmir Railway project, which once completed will connect the city to the rest of the country.
By Cable Car :
Srinagar uses Cable cars or the Gondolas as a local form of transport. After the Gulmarg Gondola, a 594m cable car was inaugurated in December 2013 for people to travel to the Sufi saint Makhdum Sahib-s shrine on Hari Parbat. Best Time to Visit
By Boat:
The most famous boats, the shikara of is a local mode of transport as well as a form of tourism for the natives.
Basically, Srinagar is a cooler city as compared to the rest of India, as it-s located at high levels of elevation and is also surrounded by the Himalayas on all sides. Srinagar has cold winters, during which it experiences snowfall, while its summers are warmer. The temperatures may vary from the lowest -19.9°C (below freezing levels) up to a maximum of 24°C. Tourists are advised to plan their holiday accordingly. You must visit during winters if you wish to enjoy the snowfall in the valley and the snow-covered mountains. But, to enjoy the beauty of the valley in full bloom, avoid the peak winters and plan a visit in between extreme summer and winter time. The best time to visit Srinagar is from May to November.
It is the most popular for its houseboats and Shikaras and remains crowded throughout the year. The lake covers an area of approximately 26 sq km and is divided intro four sections.
It provides a perfect site to enjoying kayaking, swimming, angling, canoeing, water surfing, houseboats and Shikara riding. Fishing activities and water plant harvesting is also done at the lake. During winters, the temperature falls so low that it sometimes freezes the Lake.
Nagin Lake
Category : Nature
Situated in the backdrop of the Dal Lake, the Nagin Lake is entitled as the 'Jewel in the Ring'. A narrow causeway is what separates the two lakes.
Tourists can spot many Shikaras and houseboats. Water skiing, boat sailing facilities are available at this lake. The lake is a little isolated and much cleaner than the Dal lake.
Jama Masjid
Category : Religious
It is among the oldest mosques in Srinagar and displays a monument of Islamic architecture. It was built in 1674 with four spires tower, 370 pillars, prayer halls, etc.
Each pillar is made from a single piece of deodar trunk. The temple was destroyed and restored many times. It is also known as the Friday Mosque.
Hazratbal Mosque
Category : Religious
Located on the banks of Dal Lake, the Mosque is made from white marble and a fusion of Kashmiri and Mughal styles of architecture can be noticed in its construction.
The Mosque is also called Dargah Sharif, Asar-e-Sharif, and Madinat-us-Sani. There is a shrine in the Mosque which is believed to contain a relic-a hair of the Islamic Prophet Muhammad.
Shankaracharya Temple
Category : Religious
Located at a height of 1,100 ft, the temple is on top of Shankaracharya Hill. It is believed to be built around 200 BC by Jaluka, the son of Emperor Ashoka.
From the hill top visitors can get a spectacular view of the snow clad mountains of Pir Panjal mountain range.
Sri Pratap Singh Museum
Category : History & Culture
Established in 1898, the museum exhibits some of the rare terracotta heads of 3rd century, various molded terracotta plaques from 4th & 5th century, ancient brass model of Lokeshvara and a green stone figure of Lord Vishnu sitting on a Garuda.
The museum also displays a 5th century copper image of Buddha carved in Gandhara architectural style and some paintings, ancient coins, handicrafts and arms.
Indira Gandhi Tulip Garden
Category : Garden
The Garden is located at the foothills of Zabarwan Mountains near Dal Lake. The garden is famous for its annual Tulip Festival that last for seven days.
The garden is very spacious and has more than 70 varieties of colored tulip flowers. About 90 acres of land nurture 1.3 million tulip bulbs. Among its vicinity are other gardens like Nishat Garden, Shalimar Garden, Achabal Bagh, Chashma Shahi Garden, Pari Mahal and other Mughal Gardens.
Nishat Bagh
Category : Garden
Located on the banks of Dal Lake, the garden was built by Abdul Hasan Asaf Khan in 1633 and is one of the largest Mughal Gardens built here.
The garden has some of the rare species of flowers, 12 terraces, flowerbeds, fountains and huge lawns that draw many tourists and travelers.
Dachigam Wildlife Sanctuary
Category : Wild Life
The sanctuary is recognized for housing the rare Kashmir stag Hangul and black & brown bears. It is encircled by beautiful mountains and greenery. The sanctuary is spread out across an area of approx 141 sq km. In 1951, the sanctuary was acknowledged as a National Park.
A wide variety of flora and fauna is present in the sanctuary. The sanctuary also provides a habitat for various avifauna species too. Special permit is necessary to enter the park.
Shalimar Garden
Shalimar Bagh is one of the beautiful gardens in Srinagar, which is regarded as the monument of love. This bagh is also called as Garden of Char Minar, Faiz Baksh and Farah Baksh.
It is further 300 km from the closest railhead in Jammu and is connected by road with both Jammu and Srinagar.
Pari Mahal or Quntilon
Pari Mahal refers to the 'House of Fairies', which is also popularly known as 'Quntilon'. This monument is located above the Chashm-e-Shahi Gardens and was once a Buddhist monastery.
There is a lawn along with a spring at this site that has different varieties of fruits and flowers and is located around 10 km from the city centre.
Wullar Lake is considered to be the largest fresh water lake in India, which also serves as a natural reservoir in the region.
This lake draws water from Jhelum River and is home to different species of birds. Situated amidst this lake are the remains of an island built by the king Zain-ul-abidin that attracts number of travellers.
Gulmarg- the meadow of flowers is an astonishing mountain resort. It is a spectacular place with picturesque surroundings, dazzling landscapes, serene lakes and beautiful flowers.
In winter the snow transforms Gulmarg into India's premier ski resort.
Pahalgam
Pahalgam is a humble village and the base camp for the renowned Amarnath Yatra.
Pahalgam offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan Ranges and is appropriate for adventurous activities.
Sonamarg
Sonamarg- the meadow of gold is a picturesque town surrounded by natural beauty, breathtaking glaciers, serene lakes and flower-laden meadows in the Kashmir valley.
Some of Srinagar-s best shopping areas are the Lal Chowk, Badshah Chowk and Polo View. You can check for the best bargains at the Government emporiums as well as some of the private shops.
Lal Chowk, the crowded market place also has a few places to eat where you can sample their local cuisine. Most of the big hotels have restaurants attached to them and you can get Chinese, continental or other north Indian dishes.
Some of the most popular restaurants in Srinagar are Ahdoos Restaurant (Kashmiri food), Tafree Restaurant (multi cuisine), and Mughal Darbar (multi cuisine) Restaurant.
Tourist Helpline Numbers
Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Helpline no. - 1-800-103-1060 or 9560788884
Tourist Reception Centre Srinagar - 0194-2452691
Jammu Kashmir Tourism Development Corporation (JKTDC) - 9560662221 or email at help@jktdc.co.in
Tourist Map of Srinagar
The two parts of the city are connected by nine bridges. The Hari Parbat and the Shankar Acharya hills lie on either side of the city.
Srinagar is the summer capital of the state of Jammu and Kashmir. It is land of exquisite beauty. With beautiful gardens, placid lakes and the breathtaking Himalayas, Srinagar is an abiding lure.
How to Reach Srinagar
After a prolonged period of disturbances, peace seems to have come to
prevail in the region. And the Heaven on Earth beacons to the travelers
of the world with its full glory. Enjoy the nature or engage inn
adventures - Srinagar offer the opportunity for whatever you want to do.
Indian Tours And Travels brings you complete information on how to reach Srinagar:
By Air:
The Srinagar Airport serves both as the domestic as well as international airport of the region. The domestic airport is serviced regularly by several private and public airlines, which connect the city to important cities in India, such as Delhi and Mumbai and the International flights terminal connects the region to world destinations.
By Road:
An extensive road network joins Srinagar to important cities in J&K and the major cities of North India, including Chandigarh, Delhi, Jammu, Leh, Gulmarg, Sonamarg, and Pahalgam. Public buses and taxis are the easiest ways to travel around in Srinagar.
By Rail:
The nearest Railway Station to Srinagar is in Jammu, central to the entire region. All the major Indian cities are linked to Jammu by trains. The Srinagar Railway Station is a part of the Kashmir Railway project, which once completed will connect the city to the rest of the country.
By Cable Car :
Srinagar uses Cable cars or the Gondolas as a local form of transport. After the Gulmarg Gondola, a 594m cable car was inaugurated in December 2013 for people to travel to the Sufi saint Makhdum Sahib-s shrine on Hari Parbat. Best Time to Visit
By Boat:
The most famous boats, the shikara of is a local mode of transport as well as a form of tourism for the natives.
Basically, Srinagar is a cooler city as compared to the rest of India, as it-s located at high levels of elevation and is also surrounded by the Himalayas on all sides. Srinagar has cold winters, during which it experiences snowfall, while its summers are warmer. The temperatures may vary from the lowest -19.9°C (below freezing levels) up to a maximum of 24°C. Tourists are advised to plan their holiday accordingly. You must visit during winters if you wish to enjoy the snowfall in the valley and the snow-covered mountains. But, to enjoy the beauty of the valley in full bloom, avoid the peak winters and plan a visit in between extreme summer and winter time. The best time to visit Srinagar is from May to November.
Travel Tips
- The state is cold throughout the year, so carrying woolens is a must. And, try to pack some extra warm stuff like socks and gloves.
- The valley experiences harsh winters, so be prepared if travelling to higher altitudes.
- Try not to go to tourist spots on weekends, as you might end up waiting in long queues.
- With threats of terrorism and political insurgency looming large, tourists should be extra careful and take help from government officials.
- Be prepared for a multi-level security check at the Srinagar Airport, so keep extra time in hand to board your flight.
- Do check out one of the lakes at the time of sunrise.
Places to Visit in Srinagar
Dal Lake
Category : NatureIt is the most popular for its houseboats and Shikaras and remains crowded throughout the year. The lake covers an area of approximately 26 sq km and is divided intro four sections.
It provides a perfect site to enjoying kayaking, swimming, angling, canoeing, water surfing, houseboats and Shikara riding. Fishing activities and water plant harvesting is also done at the lake. During winters, the temperature falls so low that it sometimes freezes the Lake.
Category : Nature
Situated in the backdrop of the Dal Lake, the Nagin Lake is entitled as the 'Jewel in the Ring'. A narrow causeway is what separates the two lakes.
Tourists can spot many Shikaras and houseboats. Water skiing, boat sailing facilities are available at this lake. The lake is a little isolated and much cleaner than the Dal lake.
Jama Masjid
Category : Religious
It is among the oldest mosques in Srinagar and displays a monument of Islamic architecture. It was built in 1674 with four spires tower, 370 pillars, prayer halls, etc.
Each pillar is made from a single piece of deodar trunk. The temple was destroyed and restored many times. It is also known as the Friday Mosque.
Hazratbal Mosque
Category : Religious
Located on the banks of Dal Lake, the Mosque is made from white marble and a fusion of Kashmiri and Mughal styles of architecture can be noticed in its construction.
The Mosque is also called Dargah Sharif, Asar-e-Sharif, and Madinat-us-Sani. There is a shrine in the Mosque which is believed to contain a relic-a hair of the Islamic Prophet Muhammad.
Shankaracharya Temple
Category : Religious
Located at a height of 1,100 ft, the temple is on top of Shankaracharya Hill. It is believed to be built around 200 BC by Jaluka, the son of Emperor Ashoka.
From the hill top visitors can get a spectacular view of the snow clad mountains of Pir Panjal mountain range.
Sri Pratap Singh Museum
Category : History & Culture
Established in 1898, the museum exhibits some of the rare terracotta heads of 3rd century, various molded terracotta plaques from 4th & 5th century, ancient brass model of Lokeshvara and a green stone figure of Lord Vishnu sitting on a Garuda.
The museum also displays a 5th century copper image of Buddha carved in Gandhara architectural style and some paintings, ancient coins, handicrafts and arms.
Indira Gandhi Tulip Garden
Category : Garden
The Garden is located at the foothills of Zabarwan Mountains near Dal Lake. The garden is famous for its annual Tulip Festival that last for seven days.
The garden is very spacious and has more than 70 varieties of colored tulip flowers. About 90 acres of land nurture 1.3 million tulip bulbs. Among its vicinity are other gardens like Nishat Garden, Shalimar Garden, Achabal Bagh, Chashma Shahi Garden, Pari Mahal and other Mughal Gardens.
Nishat Bagh
Category : Garden
Located on the banks of Dal Lake, the garden was built by Abdul Hasan Asaf Khan in 1633 and is one of the largest Mughal Gardens built here.
The garden has some of the rare species of flowers, 12 terraces, flowerbeds, fountains and huge lawns that draw many tourists and travelers.
Dachigam Wildlife Sanctuary
Category : Wild Life
The sanctuary is recognized for housing the rare Kashmir stag Hangul and black & brown bears. It is encircled by beautiful mountains and greenery. The sanctuary is spread out across an area of approx 141 sq km. In 1951, the sanctuary was acknowledged as a National Park.
A wide variety of flora and fauna is present in the sanctuary. The sanctuary also provides a habitat for various avifauna species too. Special permit is necessary to enter the park.
Shalimar Garden
Shalimar Bagh is one of the beautiful gardens in Srinagar, which is regarded as the monument of love. This bagh is also called as Garden of Char Minar, Faiz Baksh and Farah Baksh.
It is further 300 km from the closest railhead in Jammu and is connected by road with both Jammu and Srinagar.
Pari Mahal or Quntilon
Pari Mahal refers to the 'House of Fairies', which is also popularly known as 'Quntilon'. This monument is located above the Chashm-e-Shahi Gardens and was once a Buddhist monastery.
There is a lawn along with a spring at this site that has different varieties of fruits and flowers and is located around 10 km from the city centre.
Wullar Lake
Wullar Lake is considered to be the largest fresh water lake in India, which also serves as a natural reservoir in the region.
This lake draws water from Jhelum River and is home to different species of birds. Situated amidst this lake are the remains of an island built by the king Zain-ul-abidin that attracts number of travellers.
Tourist Destination Near Srinagar
GulmargGulmarg- the meadow of flowers is an astonishing mountain resort. It is a spectacular place with picturesque surroundings, dazzling landscapes, serene lakes and beautiful flowers.
In winter the snow transforms Gulmarg into India's premier ski resort.
Pahalgam
Pahalgam is a humble village and the base camp for the renowned Amarnath Yatra.
Pahalgam offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan Ranges and is appropriate for adventurous activities.
Sonamarg
Sonamarg- the meadow of gold is a picturesque town surrounded by natural beauty, breathtaking glaciers, serene lakes and flower-laden meadows in the Kashmir valley.
Shopping in Srinagar
Shopping in Srinagar can be an unforgettable experience, due to the rich
handicrafts of the region. From pashmina shawls, silk fabrics,
copperware, willow baskets, papier-mache products to hand-woven carpets,
there-s something for everyone to buy and treasure. Some of Srinagar-s best shopping areas are the Lal Chowk, Badshah Chowk and Polo View. You can check for the best bargains at the Government emporiums as well as some of the private shops.
Eating Out in Srinagar
Enjoy Kashmiri cuisine at almost all the restaurants in Srinagar. Most of the restaurants are situated along Residency Road which is now called Sherwani road.
Lal Chowk, the crowded market place also has a few places to eat where you can sample their local cuisine. Most of the big hotels have restaurants attached to them and you can get Chinese, continental or other north Indian dishes.
Some of the most popular restaurants in Srinagar are Ahdoos Restaurant (Kashmiri food), Tafree Restaurant (multi cuisine), and Mughal Darbar (multi cuisine) Restaurant.
You can plan you trip covering Srinagar in maximum five days and move on
to nearby areas to explore the valley fully. Eating out Typical
Kashmiri cuisine is a delight for epicureans. Non-vegetarian options are
much more as compared to vegetarian options. Kashmiri food is spicy,
and has an excessive use of cinnamon, cloves, cardamom and saffron,
which add to the food-s deliciousness.
Some of the famous yummy delights are:
Some of the famous yummy delights are:
- Gushtabas (soft meat balls prepared in yoghurt)
- Rogan-gosht(meat cooked in red gravy)
- Kashmiri Macchi (fish)
- Tabakmaaz (deep fried ribs of a lamb)
- Seekh-tuji (barbecued meat pieces)
- Walnut tart
- Sheermal, a nuts-filled Kashmiri naan
- Bagerkhani (a sweet bread)
- Shahi-tukda (dessert)
- Kahwa tea
- Snacks made of lotus, potatoes and peas
- Mughal Durbar at Sharvani Road
- Ahdoos at Shervani Road
- Juniper at Lal Chowk
- Ruby in Lambert Lane
- Bakeries at Dal Gate and Shervani Road
Hotels in Srinagar
Srinagar offers a wide range of accommodation options, ranging from
five-star to low-budget hotels, from resorts to lodges, from rest houses
to government guesthouses. Plan your stay beforehand, especially if
you-re planning a trip during the peak season. Try not to fall for fake
travel agents and grab the right deal for your enjoyable stay. Budget Hotels
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Tourist Helpline Numbers
Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Helpline no. - 1-800-103-1060 or 9560788884
Tourist Reception Centre Srinagar - 0194-2452691
Jammu Kashmir Tourism Development Corporation (JKTDC) - 9560662221 or email at help@jktdc.co.in
Tourist Map of Srinagar
