There are a lot of things to do in Srinagar. The summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, Srinagar is a magnificent city perfect for all kinds of travelers. From pristine lakes to snow-capped mountains and ancient homes to luxurious houseboats, Srinagar earns its place in the Kashmir Valley, rightfully known as Heaven on Earth. Read on to find out some of the best things to do in Srinagar.
1. Stay in a houseboat
A very popular activity in Kashmir is staying in a houseboat. Dal Lake and Nigeen Lake in Srinagar offer many stunning houseboats on rent. Depending on the prices, the houseboats feature lavish bedrooms and bathrooms, a kitchen, living room, and even balconies.
Try to spend at least one night in a houseboat in Kashmir – it is an experience like no other.
2. Take a shikara ride
If you are unable to stay in a houseboat, fret not. You can also opt for a shikara ride in Dal Lake or Nigeen Lake. The rides start from 6 a.m. until 6 p.m. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best time for a shikara ride, as the sun shines beautifully on the pristine lake and you can see the local life of the people in action.
3. Visit the floating market
One of the most unique activities to do in Srinagar is to visit a floating market. Located in one corner of Dal Lake, the floating vegetable market attracts many tourists. The markets start operating early in the morning, so visitors can take a shikara ride through the market, and stop where they want to shop. This is not just a tourist attraction, but a way of life for the locals living here.
4. Check out the Mughal Gardens
Srinagar has many gardens that were beautified by the Mughals. One of the most popular Mughal Gardens in Srinagar is the Shalimar Bagh, or Shalimar Gardens. It was built by Emperor Jehangir for his wife in the 17th century. Spanning 31 hectares, it is the largest garden in Kashmir.
Another garden in Srinagar is Nishat Bagh, set against the mighty Zabarwan Mountain and overlooking the beautiful Dal Lake. This popular tourist attraction is also known as Garden of Bliss and has Persian influences in its architecture.
The seven–terraced Pari Mahal is another stunning garden in Srinagar. Built on the site of the ruins of a Buddhist monastery, the garden has a range of vibrant flowers blooming all around. Also known as the “Abode of Fairies”, Pari Mahal was also used as an observatory for astronomy.
5. Enjoy the local cuisine
You have to try the local Kashmiri cuisine while you are here. Largely influenced by the local ingredients available in the region, some of the must-try dishes in Srinagar are rogan josh, Zafrani Pulao, dum aloo, gustaba, kebabs, nadru monje, yakhni, and the Kashmiri wazwan..
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6. Experience the tulip festival
The Tulip Festival takes place in March or April at the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden in Srinagar. This event celebrates the arrival of spring with the tulips in full bloom in Asia’s largest tulip garden. Apart from the vibrant flowers, the garden features water fountains and pathways for visitors to enjoy against the backdrop of the Zabarwan mountain range.
7. Visit religious shrines and temples
Kashmir is majorly populated by the Muslim community, and there are many ancient mosques and shrines in Srinagar that are worth visiting. The region also has a few iconic temples you can visit for a religious and spiritual experience.
Visit Shah-e-Hamdan, one of the first mosques in Srinagar. While non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque, they are allowed inside the mosque complex. You can also visit the Hazratbal Shrine, Jamia Masjid, Dastgeer Sahib, and Pathar Mosque.
On a hill above Dal Lake is the Shankaracharya Temple, believed to date back to the 5th century. This temple is a revered Hindu pilgrimage site and offers incredible views of the lake and city from the top. Another place you can visit is the Avantipur Temple, or Awantiswami Temple, a 500 year old religious place that is in ruins today.
8. Explore the Old City
The Old City in Srinagar takes you back in time with its wooden houses, many of which are a century-old, with beautiful balconies and Mughal-style gardens. The Jamia Masjid, built in the 15th century, and Shah Hamdan’s shrine, are architectural marvels.
You can walk along the Jhelum River, through the markets and bazaars, where the intricate handicrafts and the fragrance of spices will engulf you. Sip on Kashmiri Kahwa tea and try some traditional Wazwan cuisine in this charming part of Srinagar.
9. Go shopping
Kashmir is known for many beautiful handicrafts, textiles, and arts that are locally produced. You can buy pashmina shawls, carved-wood products, wicker baskets, spices, and silver jewelry at the many local shops in Srinagar. Some of the best places to shop for souvenirs in Srinagar are Raghunath Bazaar, Polo View Market, Lal Chowk, Badshah Chowk, and Residency Road.
Read more: Souvenir shopping in India
10. Witness wildlife and nature in Kashmir
Dachigam National Park literally translates to “ten villages” that were relocated in order to create this forest reserve. This is the highest forest reserve in India, situated at an altitude of 1700m to 4300m above sea level. The reserve is home to animals and birds like Himalayan grey langur, Himalayan brown bear, snow leopards, civet, red fox, jackal, bearded vulture, and pygmy owlets.
You can go birdwatching at Manasbal Lake in Srinagar. The pristine lake is perfect for nature lovers and ornithologists, as many varieties of birds can be found at the lake shores. The lake is also a popular spot for boating and water skiing.
So, what activities would you like to do in Srinagar? Let us know! At India Someday, we curate personalized itineraries to India for you based on your likes and requirements. Contact us and together we can plan the perfect trip to India for you!
