Top 25 Places to Visit in Srinagar

“Socho ke jheelon ka shehar ho

Leharo pe apna ek ghar ho”

If the charming romance between Hrithik Roshan and Preeti Zinta on this song got you grooving on the fantasy of finding a home on the tides of the city of lakes, then Srinagar is definitely your wildest fantasies come true. For the love story that Kashmir is, Srinagar is definitely the part where time stops still, the world pauses, and romance blooms at full spring in the eternity of nature.

The heart and the summer capital of the ever beautiful Kashmir, Srinagar is nestled on the shores of the pristine Jhelum River. Dotted with apple orchards, gardens blooming on the rhythms of dangling peaches, snow-clad mountains, crystal lakes, holy shrines, meadows, and lush green valleys, Srinagar is not merely a place but an array of sublime emotions.

From enjoying the unreal sunset view on a Shikara ride through the mirror sheet lakes to strolling through gardens blossoming with tulips to losing yourself in the emerald green valleys, Srinagar will enrapture your soul, pump your heart, and make you alive to an unimaginable beauty hidden from you. Perhaps then you’ll finally understand why Jahangir, the famous Mughal Emperor, said- “if there is a heaven on earth, it is here… it is here… it is here” (Agar Firdaus bar roo-e zameen ast, Hameen ast-o hameen ast-o hameen ast).

Best Time to Visit Srinagar

Every season brings out a unique shade of beauty that paints the city into different colours. While it is most visited during the summer season as a pleasant retreat away from the scorching heat in cities, it is also equally enjoyed in various other seasons for different reasons. A treasure to cherish throughout the year, here is what Srinagar is like in different seasons:

Summer Season (March to June): The Best Time to Visit Srinagar

With the temperature ranging from 14 to 30 degrees Celsius in the day, there is no better climate to enjoy the city of lakes and its lush green valleys than in the warmth of the summer. With festivals such as Baisakhi and Badam Wari, as well as with blossoming tulips, orchards, and almond white blooms, the place looks like ethereal heaven on earth and is a sight to behold. Summer also is best suited for Srinagar sightseeing and thus is the best time to visit Srinagar.

Monsoon Season (July to September):

From the blossoming almond blooms to the red and orange Chinar trees, nature comes full circle from spring to autumn bringing out the best in Srinagar. With a pleasant climate and low rainfall and the knock of autumn, the place is wrapped in a cool climate anticipating the approaching winters. Monsoon is the best time to visit Srinagar if you want to escape the radiating heat and the chilly winters in the valleys at the same time. The moderate climate stands perfect for Srinagar sightseeing.

Winter Season (October to February):

Winter is the best time to visit Srinagar if you are an adventure enthusiast as the season makes possible various activities such as skiing, hiking, as well as trekking in Srinagar. With temperatures varying from 0 to 15 degrees Celsius, the snow-capped city presents a sublime sight to cherish. The Shikara ride in the frozen Dal Lake is an unparalleled experience that you will cherish for life.

Places to Visit in Srinagar

From the ethereal heaven on earth, HikerWolf has handpicked the top 25 divine places to visit in Srinagar for you:

1. Dal Lake

You cannot get a better glimpse of Srinagar than from a Shikara ride on Dal Lake. In the shadow of lofty mountains, imagine riding on a wooden boat in a mirror sheet lake glistening with floating vibrant gondola flowers and unparalleled tranquillity. This is what a boat ride on the surreal Dal Lake feels like, like being alone in an abundance of water with nothing around other than your solitude to gaze upon.

Renowned as the Jewel of Srinagar, this mesmerizing lake is spread across a vast area of 26 square kilometers. The lake bustles with floating markets that form an authentic specialty of Kashmir. Furthermore, the Shikaras or the houseboats are intricately carved and often decorated with vibrant flowers making them appear as floating gardens in the majestic lake.

Dal Lake, the second largest lake in Jammu and Kashmir, also gives an enamoring view of the Mughal gardens and thus is a perfect spot for Srinagar sightseeing. Frozen during winters, it becomes a site for ice skating. With its picturesque sight, Dal Lake is one of the best places to visit in Srinagar.

Highlights:

• Shikara rides and floating markets.
• Staying on houseboats floating through Dal Lake s is an exquisite experience that you cannot afford to miss.

Visiting Charges:

No entry fee

Timings:

6 A.M. TO 6 P.M. (remains open throughout the week)

Best Time to Visit:

May to November

2. Shalimar Bagh Mughal Garden

Famously known as the crown of Srinagar, Shalimar Bagh Mughal Garden was built in 1619 by the Mughal emperor Jahangir as a token of love for his beloved wife, Noor Jahan. The largest garden amongst the three Mughal gardens of Srinagar, it bears testimony to a royal history of eternal love. Its name, Shalimar is a Sanskrit word, which literally translates to an “abode of love”.

Its architecture marvels speak stories of Mughal richness in horticulture, culture, and tradition. Adorned with walnut, almond, Chinar, and other lush green trees as well as stellar water springs and chini khanas, the garden overlooks the beautiful Dal Lake. The garden shimmers with over 410 fountains on its premises. Perfect for Srinagar sightseeing, Shalimar bagh Mughal garden is one of the most picturesque places to visit in Srinagar.

Highlights:

The beautiful Chinar trees as well as Chini Khanas behind the waterfalls in the garden.

Visiting Charges:

INR 10 per person

Timings:

9:30 A.M. to 6:30 A.M. (remains open throughout the week)

Best Time to Visit:

February to April as well as September to October

3. Shankaracharya Temple

A prominent stop on the famous Hindu pilgrimage of the Amarnath Yatra, Shankaracharya Temple attracts devotees from across the world. Perched on the Shankaracharya hill, it is dedicated to the Hindu deity Lord Shiva.

As suggested by its name, it is said to have been established by the renowned Hindu saint Adi Shankaracharya who attained divine and spiritual enlightenment by worshipping Lord Shiva in this temple when he visited Srinagar 10 centuries ago.

Built on an octagonal base on solid rock, the temple can be reached after climbing a flight of 243 stairs. The tedious route, however, will lead to an unimaginable view of a quaint and pious temple nestled amidst lofty hills. Undeniably, it is one of the best places to visit in Srinagar.

Highlights:

The historic Shiv Linga

Visiting Charges:

No entry fee

Timings:

8 A.M. to 5 P.M. (remains open throughout the week)

Best Time to Visit:

May to September

4. Shri Pratap Singh Museum

Built-in 1898 by Maharaja Pratap Singh, the ruler of Jammu and Kashmir during that time, it was a famous abode for the maharajas in Kashmir. Now as a museum, it displays handicrafts, historical, and archaeological articles from union territories across the nation such as Giljit, Baltistan, Jammu, and Kashmir, as well as other regions of Northern India.

The museum has a rich collection of over 80,000 such artifacts. A prominent museum that bears testimony to the rich heritage and history of India, it is amongst famous tourist places in Srinagar.

Highlights:

The Harwan Terracotta Tiles, the Gilgit Manuscripts, and the 9^th Century Vaishnava Avatar Bronze Frame.

Visiting Charges:

INR 10 for nationals and INR 50 for international tourists.

Timings:

10 A.M. to 5 P.M. (remains open throughout the week excluding Monday)

Best Time to Visit:

April to June

5. Nishat Bagh

Constructed in 1833, by the elder brother of Nur Jehan, Asif Khan, Nishat Bagh stands with pride as the largest Mughal garden in Jammu and Kashmir. Deriving its name from Urdu, Nishat Bagh literally translates to Garden of Gladness or Garden of Delight or Joy. The garden is constructed in a Persian style and thus its stellar architecture affirms the regal Mughal culture.

With splendid Chinar trees, lush greenery, and numerous fountains, this picturesque delight also gives an enigmatic view of the pristine Dal Lake and the majestic Zabarwan valleys. The garden is separated into two parts by a stagnant stream of water and its different levels are marked by 12 stairs that symbolize the 12 astrological science. A refreshing scenic beauty, Nishat Bagh is amongst the well-known tourist places in Srinagar.

Highlights:

The twelve terraces that symbolize the 12 horoscope signs

Visiting Charges:

INR 10 per person

Timings:

9 A.M. to 7 P.M. (remains open throughout the week excluding Friday)

Best Time to Visit:

June to August

6. Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden

Imagine a garden full of graciously swinging flowers on the rhythmic music of the wind. The largest tulip garden in Asia, Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden, feels like the song of nature written by the divine.  Nestled in the foothills of the Zabarwan valleys, it gives a majestic view of the astoundingly beautiful Dal Lake.

Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden is adorned with over 48 varieties of tulips such as hyacinths, iris, daffodils, roses, and many other beautiful flowers that are perched across seven terraces in a garden that is constructed in a sloping ground manner.

Opened in 2007 as Model Floriculture Center, it was later renamed as Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden as a tribute to the late former prime minister of India. The annual Tulip Festival held in the spring months presents the picturesque garden at its prime beauty. Ranked in 2017 amongst the top five tulip gardens in the world, it has been one of the most prominent tourist attractions in the state. With its blossoming beauty, it surely is one of the best places to visit in Srinagar.

Highlights:

The annual Tulip Festival. Look out for the rare species of tulips such as the “Queen of the Night”.

Visiting Charges:

INR 50 per adult and INR 20 per child

Timings:

7 A.M. to 7:30 P.M. (remains open throughout the week)

Best Time to Visit:

March to May

7. Hari Parbat

Srinagar breathes in the shadow of the magnificent mountain valleys known as Hari Parbat. An abode of famous Hindu, Sikh, as well as Muslim shrines, Hari Parbat bears testimony to the religious diversity and spirit of secularism embedded in the pious and divine city of Srinagar.

Also renowned for the Fort built in the 19^th century by the Durrani Empire, the place attracts history, culture, as well as nature lovers throughout the year in addition to being dear to devotees from across the globe. Beaming with spirituality, beauty, and peace it tells an unheard tale of Kashmir, one that deserves to be heard. A prominent place for Srinagar Sightseeing, it stands amongst some of the most prominent Srinagar tourist places.

Highlights:

Hari Parbat Fort

Visiting Charges:

Free entry. However, securing a pass from the tourism department is essential for a visit to the fort.

Timings:

9:30 A.M. to 5:30 P.M. (remains open throughout the week)

Best Time to Visit:

March and April

8. Nigeen Lake

Connected to Dal Lake through a narrow stream, Nigeen Lake is situated in the eastern region of the city and is one of the best of the best places to visit in Srinagar. Also known as the Jewel in the Ring, this lake is hidden like a precious treasure between a circle of tall trees.

A sight to devour, it will have you spellbound by its sublime beauty and thus is among the top sites of Srinagar sightseeing. It is also a paradise for adventure lovers as it hosts enthralling water sports such as water skiing, sailing, as well as swimming. In order to promote its tourism, the Nigeen Club has been established on its banks which allows visitors to enjoy an unparalleled view of enamoring beauty over delicious food in tea pavilions, bars, cafes, as well as restaurants. Nigeen Lake is thus one of the most exciting places to visit in Srinagar.

Highlights:

The Nigeen Club

Visiting Charges:

No entry fee

Timings:

7 A.M. to 8 P.M. (remains open throughout the week)

Best Time to Visit:

June to August

9. Chashme Shahi

The third Mughal garden in Srinagar after Shalimar and Nishat Bagh, Chashme Shahi was constructed in 1632 by Ali Marda Khan, the governor of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, on the ruler’s order. Shah Jahan dedicated the garden to his son, Dara Sikoh. Marked by Persian architecture, the garden tells a tale of regal Mughal history.

Originally discovered by a female Kashmiri saint, Rupa Bhawani, the garden also houses a natural spring that was unearthed by her. Blossoming with nature, history, culture, and heritage, the garden is a sight to behold and thus is amongst the most eminent Srinagar tourist places.

Highlights:

The Natural Spring

Visiting Charges:

INR 10 per person

Timings:

9 A.M. to 7 P.M. (remains open throughout the week excluding Friday)

Best Time to Visit:

October to June

10. Jamia Masjid

The largest mosque in Kashmir, Jamia Masjid was constructed in 1394 and thus stands as one of the most ancient places to visit in Srinagar. Following the orders of Mir Mohammad Hamadani, the mosque was built by Sultan Sikandar Shah Kashmiri Shahmiri.

Patterns of Indo-Saracenic as well as Buddhist style can be traced in the grandiose architecture of the mosque. With the view of Hari Parbat visible from its courtyards and the ethereal spirituality and divinity reverberating in the place, Jamia Masjid will bring the long-searched tranquillity to your soul.

Highlights:

The Indo-Saracenic architecture

Visiting Charges:

No entry fee

Timings:

3 P.M. to 7 P.M. (remains open throughout the week)

Best Time to Visit:

Throughout the year

11. Pari Mahal

Literally translating to the castle of angels or the palace of fairies, Pari Mahal is perched on the top of the Zabarwan mountain ranges. Originally a Buddhist Monastery, it was Dara Shikoh, the son of the famous Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, as a school of astrology. Traced with conventional Mughal architecture, it is dotted with colorful, vibrant, and exotic flowers and fruit orchards.

Looked over by the Archaeological Survey of India, Pari Mahal justifies its title of being an abode of fairies as its enamoring beauty will lead you to a world of fantasy. Undeniably, it is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Srinagar. Come and lose yourself in this picturesque delight!

Highlights:

The Islamic style of architecture

Visiting Charges:

INR 10 per adult and INR 5 per child

Timings:

9:30 A.M. to 5:30 P.M. (remains open throughout the week excluding Friday)

Best Time to Visit:

April to September

12. Char Chinar

One of the most beautiful islands in the periphery of Dal Lake, Char Chinar is also known as the Silver Island or Rupa Lank. It gets its name from the lush green Chinar trees that surround it from all the ends. It was built by Murad Baksh, brother of the renowned Mughal ruler Aurangzeb.

A Shikara ride on the pristine Dal Lake cannot be completed before making a stop at this scenic island. A hub of unblemished beauty, it attracts nature lovers from across the globe and thus is amongst eminent Srinagar tourist places.

Highlights:

The tall Chinar trees

Visiting Charges:

INR 50 per adult and INR 25 per child

Timings:

6 A.M. to 6 P.M. (remains open throughout the week)

Best Time to Visit:

April to October

13. Wular Lake

Most prominent amongst the 26 wetlands in India as well as the nation’s largest freshwater lake, Wular Lake is situated in Srinagar’s Bandipora district and covers an area of 200 square kilometers of land. Renowned for water skiing, boating, and other water sports, the lake also attracts tourists due to its unique tectonic location that makes it alter its area throughout the year.

With a stellar sunset view, it stands as a famous picnic spot for nature lovers. It also is a haven for bird watchers as many terrestrial birds house near the lake. These include the Himalayan Monal, Koklass Pheasant, Himalayan Woodpecker, Eurasian Sparrowhawk, Golden Oriole, Himalayan Monal, Barn Swallow, Eurasian Sparrowhawk, Alpine Swift, and Chukar Partridge. Alpine Swift, Koklass Pheasant, and Chukar Partridge.  With its charming beauty, Wular Lake has captured the hearts of tourists and is well renowned as one of the most picturesque places when it comes to Srinagar sightseeing.

Highlights:

The enthralling water sports such as water skiing and boating

Visiting Charges:

No entry fee

Timings:

Remains open throughout the day

Best Time to Visit:

June and August

14. Makhdoom Sahib

One of the holiest shrines in the Kashmir Valley, Makhdoom Sahib is perched in the southern region of the grandiose fort of Hari Parbat. It gets its name from the renowned Sufi saint and spiritual teacher Sheikh Hamza Makhdoom who was also known as Harzat Sultan, Mehboob-ul-Alam, Makhdoom Sahib, as well as Sultan-ul-Arifeen.

Resembling the rich Islamic and Mughal architecture, it is constructed as a 2 story mosque supported by beautifully carved pillars. Apart from its religious value, its favorable location also makes it one of the most treasured destinations for Srinagar sightseeing. It stands as a spiritual retreat for devotees from all geographies. Only men are allowed on the premises of this holy shrine.

Highlights:

The ruined stone of Akhund Mulla Shah Mosque

Visiting Charges:

No entry fee

Timings:

10 A.M. to 5 P.M. (remains open throughout the week)

Best Time to Visit:

Throughout the year

15. Dachigam National Park

Literally translating to ten villages, Dachigam National Park was built in 1910 by the Maharaja of Kashmir by displacing 10 villages to construct a hunting reserve for the royalties of the place. Located about 20 km away from Srinagar, it was declared as a national park only in 1981.

Situated at a height of 1700 meters to 4300 meters above sea level, the national park is spread across an area of 141 square kilometers. It is a paradise for nature and wildlife lovers. This beautiful abode of exotic flora and fauna will give you a ride through the untamed wilderness in the emerald green meadows of Kashmir.

An abode of exotic and endangered animals such as the yellow-throated marten, long-tailed marmot, Snow Leopard, pygmy owlets, Musk Deer, Himalayan Brown bear, Himalayan grey languor, Himalayan weasel, blue magpie trotter, as well as Red Fox. Along with rich biodiversity, the place also harbors trekking trails and thus is one of the best places to visit in Srinagar for nature enthusiasts and adventure lovers.

Highlights:

Snow Leopard

Visiting Charges:

No entry fee

Timings:

8 A.M. to 6 P.M. (remains open throughout the week)

Best Time to Visit:

April to October

16. Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden

Inspiration for writers like V.S. Naipul, this historic as well as scenic part has made its presence felt in novels and other forms of popular culture. Constructed in 1969 in the loving memory of the first prime minister of India, the park gives a regal view of India’s horticulture and heritage. Located within the ear short of Boulevard, it presents a holistic account of the city. One can see the magnificent Zabarwan ranges, the mesmerizing Dal Lake, the historic Hariparbat Fort as well as the Shiva temple perched on the Shankaracharya hill from this beautiful garden. With over 1.5 lakhs of ornamental flowers swinging on the music of the wind in its arena as well as a rare collection of exotic plants and wildflowers, the garden is dotted with vibrant and colorful orchids all around. There is also a greenhouse built in the middle of the garden with the purpose of harboring rare species of flowers. Blossoming with beauty and fervor, this scenic garden is one of the most vibrant places to visit in Srinagar.

Highlights:

Kashmiri tropical plants.

Visiting Charges:

INR 25 per Indian national and INR 300 per international tourist (free entry for children)

Timings:

9 A.M. to 3 P.M. (remains open throughout the week)

Best Time to Visit:

October to June

17. Hazratbal Shrine

Embedded on the northern shore of Dal Lake, Hazratbal Shrine is said to have been built originally as a pleasure house by Sadiq Khan. Literally translating to a holy place, Hazratbal Shrine is now revered across the globe as one of the most divine and auspicious shrines in the world. It is also famously known as Dargah Shari, Madinat-us-Sani, as well as Assar-e-Sharief.

The central attraction of the shrine is the sacred hair from the beard of Prophet Muhammad, a relic renowned as Moi-e-Muqaddas. Preserved throughout time periods, the hair strand holds immense divine value for devotees from all over the world. It stands as the only mosque with a dome structure in Srinagar and is embedded with crystal white marbles. Women are permitted to enter only the first division of the shrine. With its favorable location at the shores of Dal Lake, it gives a sublime view of beauty and reverberates with spirituality throughout the year.

Highlights:

The sacred hair from the beard of Prophet Muhammad

Visiting Charges:

No entry fee

Timings:

9:30 A.M. to 5:30 P.M. (remains open throughout the week)

Best Time to Visit:

Throughout the year

18. Challi Point

Situated on the Boulevard Road in the close proximity of the glorious Dal Lake, Challi Point is a scenic delight when it comes to Srinagar sightseeing. Along with the lake, Challi Point also offers a magnificent view of the mighty Shankaracharya Hill. The point is a storehouse of the intricately engraved as well as florally adorned Shikara boats and thus offers one a serene evening by hosting a boat ride through the majestic Dal Lake. From staring placidly at the mirror sheet lake to losing yourself in the serenity of majestic mountains, Challi Point will give you the much-needed soulful retreat. The seekh kebabs and corn sold in the place stand as the exquisite local delicacies that form a lip-smacking treat from visitors across geographies. Shimmering with unparalleled beauty, Challi point surely is one of the best places to visit in Srinagar.

Highlights:

Shikara Ride and local food

Visiting Charges:

No entry fee

Timings:

9 A.M. to 6 P.M. (remains open throughout the week)

Best Time to Visit:

Throughout the year

19. Aru Valley

One of the most picturesque valleys of Kashmir, Aru Valley is a paradise on earth and must be included in your Srinagar sightseeing. Situated at a distance of 12 kilometers from Pahalgam, it is embedded in the Anantnag district of Srinagar.  It houses a quaint hamlet at the shore of one of the main tributaries of the pristine Lidder River, the Aru River.

With over 20 alpine lakes, grasslands, and valleys, it will leave you awestruck and spellbound with its grandiose beauty and charm. From sightseeing to horse riding to skiing to trekking to fishing to photography, there is no dearth of things to do in this ethereal haven. It also stands as the starting point for the Sonamarg trek as well as the trek to Tarsar Lake and Kolahoi Glacier (the largest glacier in Kashmir). Draped in heavy snowfall in winters, it becomes suitable for activities such as skiing and heliskiing. As it comes amongst the list of top Srinagar tourist places, it is dotted with various cafes, restaurants, lodges, and hotels, which will give you the much-needed retreat in the bounty of primal nature away from the chaotic life of the city.

Highlights:

Trek to Kolahoi Glacier

Visiting Charges:

No entry fee

Timings:

Remains open throughout the day

Best Time to Visit:

July to September

20. Sinthan Top

Nestled in the Pir Panjal Mountain Ranges at a height of 3,748 metres above sea level, Sinthan Top is a beautiful mountain pass located along the National Highway of Kokernag-Sinthan Top-Kishtwar Road. Sinthan Top is rooted between Kishtwar and Breng Valley, with a majority of its part falling in the Kishtwar arena. Connecting Jammu and Kashmir, it gives a bird view of the city from the famous 360 Degree viewpoint.

A famous tourist stop for adventure enthusiasts, it is famous for mountaineering, skiing, as well as trekking trails. Away from the mayhem of city life, Sinathan Top captures the essence of rural Kashmir beaming with natural and untouched beauty. You can always spot a local shepherd with a big flock of sheep passaging through the valleys. Ideal ground for camping, it will give you the surreal view of a sky full of stars at night. A largely unexplored hilltop, it houses in its periphery various tourist hotspots such as Kokernag, Daksum, and Achabala. With pristine beauty, Sinathan Top is one of the most charming places to visit in Srinagar for a peaceful escape.

Highlights:

Trekking to Famar Valley

Visiting Charges:

No entry fee

Timings:

Remains opened throughout the day

Best Time to Visit:

May to June

21. Lal Chowk

The famous city square of Srinagar, Lal Chowk is marked by a magnificent Ghanta Ghar or Clock Tower that rings through the famous bustling and lively market of Srinagar. An hour-long walk from the mesmerizing Dal Lake, it is the ideal stop to mingle and interact with the friendly locals of the region.

Literally translating to Red Square, Lal Chowk got its name from the leftists of the region who were deeply influenced and inspired by the Russian Revolution. It has been an important epicenter for hosting prominent political meetings in the past. It thus has been marked by the frequent presence of state as well as national leaders. Famous for walnut woodcraft, handicrafts, trinkets, as well as many other local and indigenous Srinagar products, Lal Chowk is the perfect stop if you want to shop for memorable and precious souvenirs.

Highlights:

The grand clock tower

Visiting Charges:

No entry fee

Timings:

9:30 A.M. to 8:00 P.M. (remains open throughout the week)

Best Time to Visit:

May to November

22. Kheer Bhawani Temple

Carved by enamoring grey stones, Kheer Bhawani Temple is one of the most auspicious Hindu shrines nestled in the valleys of Kashmir and is greatly revered by the Kashmiri Pandits in Srinagar. Constructed between tall Chinar trees and over a water spring, it is a scenic delight when it comes to Srinagar sightseeing.

Originally named as the Bhawani Temple, it is dedicated to the Hindu Deity Goddess Bhavani who is said to be the incarnation of Goddess Parvati and is known by several names such as Maharagya Devi, Ragnya Bhagwati, Rajni, and Ragnya Devi. It later was renamed Kheer Bhawani Temple by worshippers who could not get enough of the delicious kheer or rice pudding offered as Prasad to the devotees visiting the temple. The temple is also renowned for the annual Jehst Ashtami festival organized on its premises. A religious abode brimming with divinity under the cool shade of Chinar trees, Kheer Bhawani Temple is definitely one of the most religious places to visit in Srinagar.

Highlights:

The Kheer Prasad

Visiting Charges:

No entry fee

Timings:

6 A.M. to 8 P.M. (remains open throughout the week)

Best Time to Visit:

May to June

23. Yusmarg

A mini Switzerland hidden in the lap of Srinagar, Yusmarg is Kashmir’s well-kept secret. Undisturbed by the mayhem of urban life, this quaint hill station remains largely unexplored and unknown. Literally translating to Meadows of Jesus, Yusmarg sure feels like the valleys of the divine.

Cuddled in the Bagdam district of Srinagar, it is a paradise for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, as well as devotees, and spiritualists. From vibrant spring flowers to the majestic Sang-e-Safed valley to the mighty high Tattakutti and Sunset Peak to the auspicious shrine of Charar-e-Sharif to the pristine river Doodh Ganga cutting through the calm of the land, Yusmarg has got something for everyone. famous for its trekking trails, it will be the perfect escape into the unblemished wonders of nature away from the chaos of city life. It thus is one of the best places to visit in Srinagar for people looking for a peaceful get-away.

Highlights:

Charar-e-Sharif

Visiting Charges:

No entry fee

Timings:

The Charar-e-Sharif remains open throughout the day

Best Time to Visit:

May to September

24. Dastgeer Sahib

A 200-year-old shrine in Srinagar, Dastageer has stood through a long passage of time. It was built in 1845 and later expanded in 1877 by Mir Husain Qadri and Khwaja Sanaullah Shawl respectively. The shrine contains many prominent relics of Sheikh Syed Abdul Qadir Jelan, which includes the handwritten Quran scripted on the skin of musk deer by Hazrat Ali. The shrine is adorned with the Islamic khatamband ceiling with dangling chandeliers. Resembling the modern form of architecture, the shrine’s walls are decorated with mache work and opulent papier.

spread across 8000 sq ft. , the shrine was damaged in a devastating fire accident that took place in 2012. However, 9 years late now it stands in all its glory again and its relics still attract tourists from across geographies. With a rich history and heritage as well as religiosity glimmering in this revered shrine, it stands amongst the most divine Srinagar tourist places.

Highlights:

Relics of Sheikh Syed Abdul Qadir Jelan

Visiting Charges:

No entry fee

Timings:

5:30 A.M. to 7:30 P.M. (remains open throughout the week)

Best Time to Visit:

Throughout the Year

25. Floating Vegetable Market

Imagine strolling through a market that runs on water. Srinagar surely houses unique wonders and dreamlike places and the Floating Vegetable Market is surely one of them. A wholesale market running on water, it begins as early as 5 A.M. in the morning and can be seen brimming with life as customers savour and shop for organic fruits and vegetables sold in the market.

Renowned as the second-largest wholesale market in the world after Mekong Delta in Vietnam, the floating vegetable market on the waters of the placid Dal Lake, first came to the limelight in the year 1960 as it was featured in Japan by a Japanese photographer who had visited this unique place. Not only famous as a hub for shopping but also as a delight when it comes to Srinagar sightseeing, it is an experience of a lifetime. An unorganized quaint bazaar beaming with the fresh productions of the wetland as well as with the sale of vibrant Kashmiri flowers, it attracts tourists from across the world and thus stands as one of the best places to visit in Srinagar.

Highlights:

Buy the famous nadru or lotus roots

Visiting Charges:

It is possible to visit the market on Shikaras or wooden boats that cost around INR 500 to INR 700.

Timings:

5 A.M. to 7 A.M. (remains open throughout the week)

Best Time to Visit:

March to October

From holy shrines to clouded valleys to crystal blue lakes, Srinagar has a million stories to share, stories of a long history of war, peace, love, and survival. An abode of kingly Mughals, the valleys still reverberate with an unseen royalty. From red apple orchards to the pink blush that adorns Kashmir and the Kashmiris, there is yet a beauty on earth, unmarked by wars, unblemished by religions, and undivided by politics. Come and live a magical dream that will calm, repose, and rejuvenate your soul like never before! The “Jheelon ka Sheher” awaits your arrival!

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