Things To Do in Srinagar

Located at an elevation of around 1600 metres (5200 feet), Srinagar is a city surrounded by clear lakes and soaring trees. The city is a favoured attraction for many people and contributes a lot to the tourism economy thanks to the tourists who visit Kashmir. Sightseeing in Srinagar is an integral part of every Jammu and Kashmir trip. This was a place loved even by the erstwhile Mughal dynasty during the historical era.

Here are some places that you must visit during local sightseeing in Srinagar: -

1. Shankaracharya Temple

The Shankaracharya Temple, also known as the Jyesteshwara Temple is located on the top of a hill. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it has been named in honour of the great religious philosopher Shankaracharya who visited Kashmir. Reaching the temple is not an easy task as it is preceded by a set of 243 steps. Apart from tourists visiting the temple, many people also visit the temple during Amarnath Yatra. The best time to visit the Shankaracharya Temple is between the months of May to September due to the pleasant weather.

2. Dal Lake

Dal Lake is considered the “Jewel of Srinagar” and is spread across 26 square kilometres. All over the lake, there are shikaras on which you can take a ride and explore the expanse. Wooden houseboats are a good idea if you are planning to spend some time on the lake and experience traditional Kashmiri culture. The floating markets on Dal Lake are also a great way to get some collectibles and mementoes that you can take for your friends and family or decorate your home with.

3. Shalimar Bagh

The largest of all the Mughal gardens, Shalimar Bagh is located near Dal Lake. It was created for Nur Jahan the wife of Mughal Emperor Jahangir in 1619. The three parts of this garden are lined with Chinar trees and flower beds with brightly coloured flowers. The highlight of these gardens is the arched niches called chini khanas which are a unique feature of the Bagh.

4. Nishat Bagh

Nishat Bagh is another one of the places to visit in Srinagar that is also located near Dal Lake. Designed and built by Asif Khan, the elder brother of Nur Jahan in 1633, there are four sections in a square pattern. The central canal runs from the very top and is 4 meters wide and 20 cm deep. With twelve different terraces that serve different purposes and the second terrace provides the best view. The presence of Persian lilacs and pansies is a beautiful addition to the flowing water over chutes.

5. Dachigam National Park

Dachigam National Park is named after the ten villages that were relocated for the creation of the park. The park covers an area of around 141 sq. km and was initially created to provide clean drinking water to the city. Dachigam was declared a protected area in 1910 and transformed into a national park in 1981. Home to the Kashmir stag, also known as Hangul, the park can be visited between the months of April to August.

6. Hari Parbat Fort

The fort is located on the western side of Dal Lake in Srinagar and was built by an Afghan governor Atta Mohammed Khan in the 18^th Century. Surrounded by imposing structures, the fort is maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India. It also provides a beautiful bird’s eye view of the Makhdoom Sahib shrine.

7. Shopping for mementos and gifts

Among the places to visit in Srinagar, you should definitely check out the local shops that store beautiful art and handicrafts. Silver jewellery for the fashionable friends, spices for the foodies, pashmina, wicker baskets, papier-mache bangles and carved wooden boxes are some of the best things that you can gift to your friends and family. The best locations to shop at are Raghunath Bazaar, Lal Chowk, Residency Road, Badshah Chowk and Polo View Market.

8. Taste the local cuisines

Srinagar has many things to do, which include being acquainted with the local food and cuisine that Kashmir food has to offer. The food provides an interesting mix of vegetables, spices, pepper and colour, which gives them the appearance of culinary art. Some of the most popular dishes that you should definitely treat your taste buds to include Kashmiri pulao, Goshtaba, Kashmiri saag and paneer-based dishes.

Best Time to Visit Srinagar

It is important to take into account the best time to take advantage of the weather and visit Srinagar tourist attractions. The best time to take Srinagar packages is: -

Summer season

Within the months of March to June, the weather is enjoyable with the temperature ranging from 15 to 30 degrees Celsius. For any tourist, it is the best time to engage in activities to do in Srinagar.

Monsoon season

Srinagar, due to its location, receives a minimal amount of rainfall. Therefore, due to the absence of a full monsoon season, tourists intending to go for a Srinagar sightseeing tour can do so during this season.

Winter season

The extreme temperatures range from -2 to 12 degrees Celsius which means that the climate is quite cold. For those who are looking to involve in activities to do in Srinagar, they can enjoy the snowfall.

A piece of heaven that ought to be experienced at least once within your lifetime, Srinagar is highly recommended on your next vacay. Plan a customized holiday to this beautiful city with Veena World.