Srinagar

Popularly known as the"Venice of the east ." Srinagar is a true paradise on earth. 

            Ringed by n arc of green mountains, Srinagar's greatest drawcard is mesmerisingly Placid Dal Lake  , on which a bright array of stationary houseboats and shikar ( gondola - like boats ) add a splash of colour and a unique opportunity for a romantic chill-out.

    Srinagar is the largest city and the summer capital of the Indian union territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

Best time to visit: April to October.

Places to visit in Srinagar : 

1. Dal lake : 

The jewel of Srinagar , the Dal Lake is synonymous to a visit to Srinagar and almost a visual definition to the town . Spread over a straggling 26 sq.km , it is the most photogenic stretch of this instance  of paradise on earth and undoutedly also the most sought after of attractions .

2.Mughal Gardens : 

Mughal Gardens which have truly changed  the face of the the Mughal Empire is one of the most popular and the most visited tourist attractions of Srinagar . During their rule, the Mughals began to build several types of gardens in Persial architecture , and the combinations of these gardens is reffered to as the Mughal Gardens. 

3.Nishat Bagh :

Laid out in 1633, The Nishant Bagh fondly known as the Gardens of Joy . Its beauty is enhanced by the well - manicured landscapes . Long alenues of Chinar & Cypress & several bubbling fountains that's cover the whole expanse of the garden.

4.Shalimar Bagh :

Shalimar Bagh is one of a beautifully laid garden by Mughal Jahangir. Exhibiting the exemplory craftsmanship of Mughals in horticulture , the place is quite popular with tourists from all over the world.

5.Shikara Ride : 

The Paramount reason why people come to Srinagar is for relaxing and memorable Shikara rides . Taking the ride across the scenic Dal Lake at the backdrop of the majestic slow clad Himalayas is indeed an experience in itself both enjoyable and parallel .

6.Hazratbal Shrine :

Hazratbal Mosque , situated on the western shore of the pristine Dal Lake , is a very sacred Muslim Shrine in Hazratbal. Hazratbal special significance is derived from the fact that it houses a heir of the Prophet Muhammad , a relic , titled Moi-e-Muqqadas . The relic is only displayed to the public on religious occasions , usually accompanied by colourful fairs afterwards .

7.Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden:

Lines of Tulip cultivation in every possible colour with a backdrop of the majestic Zabarwan Hills , is the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden and a view which one must not miss while in Srinagar.

8.Char Chinar: 

Dal Lake is marked by an island which houses ancient and beautiful Chinar trees . Don't forget to ask your Shikara to stered in this direction to catch a view of this island .

9.Shankaracharya Temple : 

Visit this effulgent , age old temple in Srinagar to feel closer to the gods. Situated at a height of about 1100 feet on the south-east of the city , this sacred temple offers splendid views of the valley and the snow clad mountains of the Pir Panjal range.

10.Wular Lake :

The famed Wular Lake is India's largest freshwater lake and serves as a natural reservoir by drawing the excess water from the River Jhelum. An experience unparalleled , this unexplored and untouched lake is home to several species of birds and thus heaven for bird watchers.

11.Baramulla :

A famous tourist destination, Baramullas charm lies in its untouched beauty. Having close proximity to Srinagar , Baramulla derives towards itself hordes of tourists each year.

12.Yusmarg: 

Considered by some as the best place in Jammu and Kashmir, mostly because of its undisturbed landscape, a less frequented but extremely beautiful hill station. Yusmarg is now connected by a very good motorable road.

13.Shopping in Srinagar:

Srinagar is the place to shop for all that the state is famous for Cashmere Shawls , leather products, carpets, rugs, mats,dry fruits, more.

14.Jamia Masjid , Srinagar:

The calm serinity of this Masjid makes you feel more connected and closer to the Almighty. Jama masjid is one of the oldest and the biggest mosques in Kashmir.

15.Tarsar Marsar Trek: 

A Trek that not only gives you a thrill of adventure but also a glimpse of natures beauty so spell bounding is one of the most memorable trips of Tarsar Marsar Trek. Nestled in the lap of Aru valley of Kashmir , the trail is of quite a magnificence adorned with variety of landscapes.

16.Challi Point:

Challi Point is one of the most trendy and popular places in Srinagar. With the Dal Lake in the backdrop, this place bustles with both tourists and locals spending some enjoyable time amidst breathtaking sceneries.

17.Nehru Garden, Srinagar: 

Providing you the best view of the Dal Lake is Nehru Garden. With its well maintained landscape, you can head out to this garden on a lazy Sunday for a picnic or simply relaxing.

18.Pari Mahal:

The famous of fairies or Pari Mahal is a historic monument placed above the beautiful Chashma Shahi Gardens near Srinagar. A well laid spacious garden surrounds this structure, which was once a Buddhist monastery and later served as a school of astrology promoted by the eldest son of Shah Jahan, Dara Shikon.

19.Chasm-E-Shahi:

With spellbinding beauty and aesthetic fountains, The Chashmeshahi Garden is a famous tourist destination. The gardens consist of a pavilion and three terraces and is famous for the natural spring that flows from it.

20.Nagin Lake:

Engulfing you in its blue serene waters is the Nagin Lake located on the eastern side of Srinagar City (6k.m. reachable within 11 mins by taxi.) Also known as the "Jewel in the ring", it is separated from the Dal Lake by a thin causeway.

21.Chinar Park:

Chinar Park is a recent additions to the tourism scene in Srinagar. Housing three island, old Chinar trees, flowers, musical fountains, kiosks, an open air theatre for cultural programs and swings , the park is quickly making its way to the list of favourites of the town.

22.Dachigam National Park:

Literally translating into the 'ten villages',a possible refrence to the ten settlements that were reloacted to have the National Park here , which was initially constructed to take care of the drinking water supply of the town , is today a habitat to a number of species of wildlife.

23.Khanqah of Shah Hamdan:

Built on the sandy banks of the Jhelum river in Srinagar, is the Khanqah of Shah Hamdan. It is bustling with activity and people on the sixth day of Dul-Haj ( the last month of the Islamic Lunar Calendar ), on the death anniversary of Mir. Sayed Ali Humdani.

24.Anantnag:

The Capital of commerce of J&K , Anantnag is filled with hot springs, lakes , temples and shrines. The place is known for its religious tolerance and there are shrines that belong to hindus hin Muslims.

25.Shri Pratap Singh Museum:

The Pratap Singh Museum is home to ancient terracotta heads dating back to the 3rd century & 4th century, found at Buddhist site at Ushkar & molded terracotta plaques of the 4th & 5th century from Harwan.

26.Sinthan Top:

Sinthan top is a mountain pass in the Pir Panjal Mountain Ranges enroute the National Highway of Kokernag-Sinthan Top-Kishtwar Road that connects Jammu and Kashmir. The snow laden hilltop is lately emerging as a new tourist destination owing to the beautiful views and the idyllic setting. It is also popular for mountaineering, trekking and skiing.

27.Charnar-i-Sharif:

Charnar-i-Sharif is a Muslim Shrine dedicated to Hazrat Sheikh Noor-ud-din wali, situated around 30kms. From Srinagar and built around 600 years ago. Sheikh Wali was the first person to preach Rishism in the valley and propagated non-violence, vegetarianism, communal harmony and tolerance. His remains were buried at this shrine and ever since it holds significant religious importance.

28.Kheer Bhawani Temple:

Situated in Tul Mulla village near Srinagar, Kheer Bhavani Temple is dedicated to Hindu goddess Bhavani-incarnation of goddess Parvathy. The temple was originally named Bhawani Mandir but , eventually came to be known as Kheer Bhavani due to the delicious rice pudding offered as prasad. It is built over a holy water spring in between tall Chinar trees.

29.Padmawari Garden:

Believed to have been built during 14th century, Badmawari Garden is a piece of heaven tucked away in Srinagar. Sprawling over the hills of Koh-e-Muran, the enchanting garden is replate with vibrantly blooming bushes and shrubbery. It is houses a magnificent dome at the centre and has trails carved for tourists to walk on.

30.Apple Orchards:

Srinagar is counted among the most beautiful places of India owing to its lush green orchards, free flowing rivers rivers and paradisal locales. Also, 80% of the country's apple supplies are managed from here. So visit the emerald carpeted meadows full of green trees sprinkled with shiny red apples and let the picture perfect scene be etched in your memory forever.

31.Chatti Padshahi Gurudwara:

Situated right out the Hari Parbates southern gate in Srinagar, Chatti Padshahi Gurudwara is the most important and probably the largest Sikh Gurudwara in all of Kashmir valley. The shrine has a sanctum sanctorum in the middle of a large rectangular hall. It also has accomodation facilities and longer food is offered to all visitors every day of the year.

32.Burzhma Ruins:

Burzhma Ruins is situated in Burzahom in Srinagar. It is archeological excavation site where numerous relics and remnants have been discovered suggesting the existence of an ancient settlement hundreds of years before. The excavations include skeletons, pottery, dweeling pits, mud brick houses and bone and stone tools.

33.Makhdoom Sahib Shrine:

Located towards the south of Hari Parbat in Srinagar, Makhdoom Sahib Shrine is an Islamic Shrine dedicated to Sufi Saint Sheikh Hamja Makhdoom Aka Makhdoom Saheb Aka Hajrat Sultan Aka Mehboob-Ul-Alam Aka Sultan-Ul-Arifeen. Built in Mughal style architecture , the sturdy shrine rests on innumerous pillars and is thronged by pilgrims all through the year.

34.Kathi Darwaja:

Kathi Darwaja is the main entrance gate of the famous monument Hari Parbat fort in Srinagar. A rare specimens of Mughal architecture, the high domed gate is Mughal and Persian inscriptions etched on the interior walls and ceilings, The gate , no doubt, accentuates the grandeur and splendour of the fort.

35.Jyestheswara Temple:

Jyestheshwara temple is a popular Hindu temple in Srinagar. It is believed that the temple was built by Pandavas in the 5th century and was later revamped and renovated in 8th century by King Lalitaditya Muktapida.

36.Hari Parbat:

The majestic mountain overlooking the city of Srinagar is called Hari Parbat. Besides the famous Hari Parbat fort, the mountain also has various shrines dedicated to several deities, the most prominent of which is Sharika Devi temple enshrined by Goddess Jagdamba Sharika Bhagwati. 

37.SPS Museum:

SPS Museum is situated at Lal Mandi in Srinagar and is popular for its had crafted products and notable archaeological artefacts collected from across the state. The museum has been divided into separate sections including archaeology, manuscripts, enamel ware, decorative art, natural history, paper mache and the like.

38.Tulip Festival in Srinagar:

The Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden in Srinagar holds South Asia's largest Tulip Festival in the months of April-May near the Dal Lake. It is nestled at foothills of Zabarwan Range in Srinagar which provides the grandeur of the Dal Lake.

39.Salim Ali National Park:

Salim Ali National Park is a beautiful mangrove shrubbery habitat for several endangered animals and birds alike. Named in commemoration of ornithologist Salim Ali, it is located in Srinagar with an area of 9 km. Tourists can sight animals such as leopard, flying fox, the Kashmiri stag and birds such as the kingfisher , ringdove, swamp francolin among others.

40.Stay in Houseboats:

Staying in a houseboat amidst pristine waters of the Dal Lake, is one of the most essential things to do in Srinagar. Made in wood and adorned in a typical kashmir style decor, the houseboats are a perfect way to experience the quintessential local life in the luxurious way.

41.Floating Vegetable Market:

Srinagar is also popular for its floating vegetable markets where vegetable and fruits are sold around in the waters on the Shikara. More than a sell-purchase transaction, it is an interesting place to visit for sightseeing.

42.Paragliding:

Paragliding is one of the most exciting activities that you experience in Srinagar. Most of the adventure clubs let you experience the thrills of paragliding. If you are a adventure Junkee, you should especially try this one out.

8 Best Restaurants in Srinagar to treat your taste buds to authentic Kashmiri Cuisine:

1.Mughal Darbar:

The Mughal Darbar is one of the best restaurants in Srinagar known for offering some great Mughlai dishes along with Kashmiri Cuisine.

           A 'not-so-expenive' eatery, and good quality of food draws a lot of foodies to this restaurant. If you are in Srinagar and don not want to miss the Kashmiri delacious, head straight to Mughal Darbar. 

Must Try:  Mutton and Kashmiri Wazwan.

Cuisines: Indian, Mughlai and Kashmiri.

Timings:all days- 9:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Location: 1st floor, Residency Road, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190001.

2.Cafe de Linz:

Often described as a non-vegetarian food heaven, Cafe de Linz is much famed for offering unusually cozy ambiance, dim lighting, and incredibly amazing food. Considered to be one of the top 10 restaurants in Srinagar, this semicircular restaurant serves typical Indian and Chinese cuisine other than the delicious clocal delacious.

Must try: Gushtaba, Kashmiri Pulao, Seek Kebab and Tabak Nawaj.

Cuisine: Indian , Chinese and Kashmiri.

Timings: All days - 12 Noon to 10:30 p.m.

Location: Residency road, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190001.

3.Ahdoos:

Ahdoos is one of the top restaurants in Srinagar, and is a popular eatery joint among the locals and travelers. Located on the Residency Road, it offers authentic Kashmiri dilicacies at decent rates. Apart from lamb dishes, travelers can also treat themselves to a good variety of Chinese and vegetarian dishes. Do not miss out on exploring the 'bakery here'.

Must try: Rogan Josh, Risto , and Kashmiri Naan.

Cuisine: Kashmiri.

Timings: All days- 9 a.m. to 11p.m.

Location: Residency Road, Regal Chowk , Raj Bagh , Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190001.

4.The Chinar at Lalit Grand Palace:

Set among the majestic maple trees, the outdoor restaurant of the Chinar at Lalit Grand Palace is one of the best restaurants in Srinagar. Their service is excellent other than the variety of delicacies which they offer to guests along with fine wine. Being a five star property, dining here is worth a try if you are a true foodie !

Must Try: Chicken cooked with Apricots and malai tika.

Cuisine: Asian and Kashmiri.

Timings:12:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.

Location:Gupkar road, Srinagar 190001, India.

5.Stream Restaurant:

Stream Restaurant is among the good restaurants in Srinagar that is known for providing lip-smaking food to its guests, from the beautiful ambience to an ideal location, and from the courteous staff to being pocket - friendly , this restaurant is a must try for all travellers when in Srinagar.

Must try: Naan, Malai Kofta, and Chicken.

Cuisine: Chinese, Indian , Kashmiri.

Timings:12 Noon to 11 p.m.

Location: Boulevard Road/Dalgate, Srinagar 190001,India.

Jade Dragon, Vivinta by Taj:

Enjoying it's much favoured location, Jade Dragon-the-in-house dining restaurant of Vivita by Taj is one of the best restaurants in Srinagar, with the huge glass window overlooking the hills, the restaurant offers a great ambience along with breathtaking views at dusk. Apart from being an ideal place for candle light dinner; it is also one of the famous non- veg restaurant in Srinagar.

Must try:Valina ice-cream with fried litchi, Dimsums, and Lamb fried rice.

Cuisine: Chinese,Asian and Oriental.

Timings: 12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.

Location:Kral Sangai, Brein , Srinagar, India.

7.Shamyana Restaurant:

Shamyana Restaurant is one of the popular places to eat in Srinagar which is famous for strategically located on the banks of famous Dal Lake to make it easily accessible. Offeri tasty food , courteous service and a great ambience, this place is ideal for friends, families, couples,and everyone alike.

Must try: Butter chicken, Rogan Josh, Kebabs and Gustaba.

Cuisine:Asian and Kashmiri.

Timings:12noon to 11:00 p.m. 

Location: Boulevard road/ Dalgate, opposite ghat no.2 , Srinagar.

8.Arabian Barbecue:

Aesthetically designed to treat both your eyes and taste buds, this is one of the top most restaurant in Srinagar for a barbecue experience . From vegetarian to non- vegetarian ones, it offers plenty of options that makes it an ideal place to visit both families and friends.

Must try: Butter chicken, Paneer tikka, kebabs .

Cuisine:multi-cuisine.

Timings:11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Location:Main Road Bemina, Near Degree College, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir.