Srinagar Tourism – Top Places To Visit, Things to Do

Srinagar Tourism, Nestled in the breathtaking Kashmir Valley, Srinagar is the capital of UT Jammu and Kashmir in India, and it is a popular tourist destination for its beauty and rich cultural heritage.

Srinagar Tourism is Renowned for its pristine natural beauty, famous Lakes, and Mughal-era gardens; the city's houseboats, serene Dal Lake, and magnificent Mughal gardens attract thousands of tourists yearly. Srinagar Tourism offers a delightful experience for tourists, both family and couples. Plan your visit to the city and explore the landscapes, local culture, & Historical Places to visit Like Mughal Gardes Like Nishat, Pari Mahal, and Shalimar Bagh. A Srinagar tour package offers stays in houseboats, romantic activities such as Shikara rides, and shopping, making it a popular tourist destination.

About The Srinagar Tourism

The summer capital of UT of Jammu and Kashmir, Srinagar City, is one of India's most famous tourist destinations. Surrounded by mighty Himalayan mountains and adorned with charming Mughal gardens and pristine Dal and Nigeen Lakes, it is indeed one of the most beautiful places in the Kashmir valley. The city lies at the banks of the Jhelum River and is fondly known as the 'Land of Lakes and Gardens.'

The Houseboats have some of the most beautiful places to visit in srinagar including Mughal gardens such as Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Garden, Chashma Shahi, Dal Lake, Hazratbal Dargah Shrine, and the world-famous Tulip Garden.

The city is also renowned for its picturesque Dal Lake, dotted with Shikara boats and Houseboats.

For history lovers, Srinagar Tourism also has something to offer you, such as Hari Parbat Fort and ancient Pari Mahal, which are of great historical significance.

It is also an excellent place for spirituality, with many mosques and temples such as Jamia Masjid, Dargah Hazratbal, Shankaracharya temple, etc.

Besides scenic beauty, Srinagar Tourism also provides fantastic opportunities for adventure activities like paragliding, fishing, Shikara rides, and shopping.

The Srinagar is not only for exploring sightseeing; you can also shop for traditional products like Pashmina Shawls, Paper Machine things, and wooden handicrafts and carpets in Lal Chowk and Polo View Market. 

You will find a range of accommodation options in the city suiting your choices and budget.

Know More ABout: Srinagar Honeymoon Packages & Srinagar Family Tours

Top Places To Visit in Srinagar

Nishat Bagh

Nishat Garden Also known as the 'Garden of Bliss,' Nishat Bagh is a 12-terraced garden around Srinagar’s famous Dal Lake. It is the second-largest Mughal garden in Kashmir after Shalimar Bagh. It. It has a splendid water channel with several fountains and tall Chinar trees.

Situated against the backdrop of the magnificent Zabarwan mountains, Nishat Bagh was built by Asif Khan, the elder brother of Nur Jahan, in 1633 AD.

Persian styles influence the architecture of Nishat Bagh. It has a flowing water channel and 12 terrace designs with various beautiful flowers, such as roses and lilies.

Dal Lake

 Dal Lake, referred to as the ‘Jewel of Srinagar, 'is the most popular attraction, and spectacular Pir Panjal mountains and Mughal gardens encompass it. Dal Lake is spread over 15 km and is the second largest lake in Kashmir after Wular Lake.

It offers incredible views of rolling hills, distant snow-clad mountains, Shikaras creeping, and houseboats standing still. Dal Lake is also popular for its floating market, Raad, where vendors sell handicrafts, eatables, and saffron.

Shalimar Bagh

Shalimar Garden is the largest of all Mughal gardens in Srinagar, and it is located on the shores of pristine Dal Lake. Shalimar, which means Abode of Love, was built by Mughal emperor Jahangir in 1619 for his beloved wife Noor Jahan. Several other names, like Faiz Bakhsh and Farah Bakhsh, know about this garden.

The Persian Char Bagh style inspires the design of the Shalimar Bagh. The garden is divided into two central portions. The outer portion is the public garden called Diwan-i-Aam, and the central portion is called Diwan-i-Khas, reserved for the king and his courtiers.

Tulip Garden in Srinagar

Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden is Asia's most extensive tulip garden, with over 48 tulip varieties set at Zabarwan Mountain's foothills. Overlooked by mesmerizing Dal Lake, the garden is spread across seven terraces, with water channels across each terrace.

To boost its tourism, the Jammu and Kashmir government hosts a Tulip festival every year between March and April to showcase its beauty to travelers.

The garden is also home to other species of flowers, such as daffodils, hyacinths, roses, and other ornamental plants.

Pari Mahal

Pari Mahal, or Abode of Fairies, is a seven-terraced garden at the top of the Zabarwan mountain range. It was built in 1650 AD by Mughal prince Dara Shikoh, the eldest son of Mughal king Shah Jahan. Pari Mahal features exotic fruit plantations and numerous trees and shrubs, a delightful sight to enjoy.

It is believed that Pari Mahal was once a Buddhist monastery. Later on, the monastery was destroyed, and Pari Mahal was built on it. It was used as a venue for teaching astrology to Prince Dara Shikoh.

Shankaracharya Temple

The Srinagar Tourism also offers a spiritual trip. One of the oldest shrines in Kashmir valley, Shankaracharya temple is a top religious attraction in Srinagar. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is named after the great philosopher Shankaracharya, who is believed to have visited the city around ten centuries ago.

Also known as Jyeshteshwara temple, it is a 20-foot-tall octagonal base accessible by a staircase of 243 steps and is visited by many Hindu devotees during the Amarnath Yatra season.

Dargah Hazratbal shrine

 Beside the Dal Lake is a domed mosque called Hazratbal, which is considered one of the holiest Muslim shrines in Jammu and Kashmir.

The sacred shrine houses a relic known as Moi-e-Muqadas, believed to be the hair strand of Prophet Muhammad's beard. The word Hazrat means holy or respected, and Bal means place. Thus, Hazratbal, in general, means a sacred place or respected place.

Chashme Shahi – Royal Spring Garden

Another gem among Srinagar’s Mughal gardens, this site is famous for its natural spring water, believed to have medicinal properties. Chashme Shahi is the best Mughal Garden to explore the naturel beauty

Hidden Gems in Srinagar

Harwan Garden

Located near the Dachigam National Park, Harwan Garden is a less-crowded Mughal-style garden perfect for picnics and leisure walks. It features a flowing canal sourced from a pristine mountain stream.

Khanqah-e-Moula

One of the oldest Islamic shrines in Srinagar, built in 1395 AD, this mosque in the old city is a masterpiece of Kashmiri wooden architecture with intricate papier-mâché work.

Zabarwan Park

Situated opposite Dal Lake, Zabarwan Park is well-maintained and perfect for sunset views, family outings, and enjoying light music or cultural shows in the evening.

Badamwari Garden

Open during the early spring (March), this garden near Rainawari comes alive with blooming almond trees—a magical sight that’s still underappreciated by mainstream tourists.

Know More about: Places to visit Kashmir

Top Things to Do in Srinagar

Explore The Shikara Ride in Dal Lake

Shikara ride on Dal Lake: The Shikara ride is one of the best and most relaxing aspects of the Kashmir trip. For a more surreal experience of Dal Lake, consider taking a Shikara ride. Shikara is a traditional wooden rowing boat adorned with colorful canopies and intricate carvings. These shikaris are an accurate representation of the rich culture and history of Kashmir.

Gliding through the crystal clear waters, you will witness various attractions in and around Dal Lake, such as Char Chinari, floating gardens and markets, dargah Hazratbal, and Mughal gardens.

Houseboat Stay in Dal Lake Srinagar

Houseboat Stay: One of the best things to do in Srinagar is to stay in a beautiful houseboat. These floating boats or houses are anchored on the banks of Dal Lake. They are uniquely designed with wooden artwork and intricate carvings.

Houseboats are just like mini hotels, providing traditional stays with modern amenities. In Dal Lake, numerous houseboats are facilitated with spacious living rooms, bedrooms with attached bathrooms, laundry, room services, and other essentials. You can book any houseboat, from budget-friendly to luxurious ones, during your Kashmir trip.

Paragliding in Srinagar

Paragliding: witnessing the city of Srinagar from a height is the best-ever experience. Paragliding is a must-do activity in your Srinagar tour if you love the thrill. You will witness the glorious beauty of lakes and gardens from a certain height, giving you a completely different picture.

Photoshoot in Mughal Gardens Srinagar

Photography: blessed with spectacular beauty and landscapes, Srinagar tourism is a paradise for enthusiasts. The city has various beautiful places worth capturing through your lens. Whether you are a nature or adventure freak, you will love to capture the scenic beauty of this city, which will provide you with lifelong memories of your Kashmir trip.

Explore Mughal Gardens in Srinagar

Mughal gardens in Srinagar are beautifully adorned with flowers, water channels, and a visitor's haven. Besides, the world-famous Dal Lake, a famous lake of Srinagar Tourism, also offers enchanting views worth capturing. Not only this, but you can also capture the beauty of snow-clad mountains, temples, and shrines in the Kashmir valley.

Shopping in Srinagar

Shopping: Srinagar has several shopping hubs that offer opportunities to purchase traditional items from Kashmir Valley. On your Kashmir tour, never miss out on a chance to shop the local souvenirs of Kashmir, which will make your vacation unforgettable. There are many markets in Srinagar where you can shop for many beautiful things.

Lal Chowk, polo View, Boulevard Road, and the floating markets of Dal Lake are some famous places selling local souvenirs. You can purchase Pashmina Shawls, Carpets, paper machine things, wooden artwork, and spices from the local markets.

It is a place of unparalleled beauty and a vast shopping hub for tourists who want to take home a piece of this beautiful valley.

Srinagar Tour Guide

Whether you're visiting Srinagar for 2 days or a full week, having a well-crafted itinerary can make your journey seamless and unforgettable

Day 1: Dal Lake, Mughal Gardens & Old Srinagar

Morning

• ✅ Arrival in Srinagar – Check into a houseboat on Dal Lake or a nearby hotel
• 🛶 Shikara Ride on Dal Lake – Glide past floating gardens, local vendors, and snow-covered peaks
• 📸 Visit Char Chinar Island for scenic photography

Afternoon

• 🌺 Explore the Mughal Gardens:
• Nishat Bagh – Garden of Delight
• Shalimar Bagh – Garden of Love
• ⛲ Chashme Shahi – Famous for its spring water and serene atmosphere

Evening

• 🌅 Sunset View from Pari Mahal – Historic ruins with panoramic views of Srinagar
• 🛍️ Explore Lal Chowk for Kashmiri handicrafts and dry fruits
• 🍛 Dinner with traditional Wazwan cuisine at a local restaurant (e.g., Ahdoos or Shamyana)

🕌 Day 2: Spiritual Srinagar & Local Culture

Morning

• 🚶‍♂️ Visit Shankaracharya Temple – Trek or drive up for stunning city views
• 🕌 Pay homage at the beautiful Hazratbal Shrine on the banks of Nigeen Lake
• ☕ Try traditional Kashmiri tea (Kahwa) at a local tea stall

Afternoon

• 📷 Discover Jamia Masjid in the old city – Known for its Indo-Islamic architecture
• 🏘️ Walk through the narrow lanes of Old Srinagar – Wooden houses, spice markets, and bakeries
• 🌰 Buy local products like saffron, pashmina shawls, and handcrafted carpets

Evening

• 🧳 Final stroll along Boulevard Road
• 🚕 Transfer to Srinagar airport or your next destination

Where to Stay 

Srinagar offers a range of accommodation options, catering to all budgets and preferences. For a unique experience, stay in a traditional houseboat on Dal Lake or Nigeen Lake, complete with breathtaking views and Kashmiri hospitality.

Luxury travelers can explore high-end resorts and boutique hotels offering modern amenities. Budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses are also available in areas like Raj Bagh and Lal Chowk. For a more immersive experience,

choose homestays to enjoy local culture and cuisine. No matter where you stay, the serene surroundings and warm hospitality of Srinagar will make your visit unforgettable.

Srinagar Tourism & Local Cuisine

Relish local cuisine: Srinagar city perfectly blends beauty, adventure, and shopping. During your tour to Srinagar, get a chance to enjoy the traditional regional cuisine, which is delightful to taste. Kashmir is popular for its delicious cuisine, a perfect amalgamation of spices, vegetables, and colour.

You can try Rogan Josh, a lamb curry cooked with aromatic spices and saffron. Another flavoursome dish is Goshtaba, a yoghurt-based mutton dish served with steamed rice.

Srinagar also offers various street foods, such as Golgappas and Bhelpuri. Kahwa, a special drink of Kashmir, is also famous

Cultural and Historical Significance of Srinagar

Srinagar holds a rich tapestry of cultural and historical significance that reflects the diverse influences it has absorbed over centuries. The city is home to numerous landmarks that stand as testaments to its intricate past, such as the resilient wooden architecture seen in the centuries-old Jamia Masjid, a fine example of Indo-Saracenic design that speaks volumes about the city's Islamic heritage. Moreover, the heritage of Srinagar is significantly marked by its beautiful Mughal gardens, which echo the grandeur of a bygone era, elevated by their lush landscapes and ornate water features.

The best time to visit

The best time to visit Srinagar is the summer season, from April to September. The weather remains pleasant in this season and is covered with beautiful blossoms.

The climate is neither too hot nor cold, making it an ideal time for tourists to enjoy its beauty.

One can enjoy visiting several attractions in the summer season, such as Mughal gardens, Dal Lake, local markets, etc. Also, Summer provides opportunities for participating in outdoor activities such as Shikara rides, Paragliding, photography, and houseboat stays.

The most beautiful attraction, Tulip Garden, is also open for visitors in the summer.

Know More About: Best Time to Visit Kashmir

How to reach Srinagar

Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, is easily accessible by air, road, and partially by train. Whether you're traveling from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore,

By Air – Srinagar Airport

• Srinagar International Airport (SXR) is well-connected with major Indian cities like:
• Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chandigarh, Jammu, Leh, and Amritsar
• Airlines such as IndiGo, Vistara, GoFirst, Air India operate daily flights.

Srinagar International Airport is situated 15 km away from the central city. The airport has regular flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Chandigarh and Banglore.  You can book tickets from any state of India and reach Srinagar. After landing, one can book a cab or taxi to reach Srinagar

By Road – From Jammu City

• Srinagar is connected via NH-44 (formerly NH-1A) which passes through Jammu, Patnitop, and Jawahar Tunnel.
• Popular road routes:
• Jammu to Srinagar – Approx. 270 km (8–10 hours)
• Delhi to Srinagar – Approx. 800 km (takes around 16–18 hours via Jammu)

By Train – Nearest Railway Station: Jammu Tawi

• Jammu Tawi Railway Station (JAT) is the closest major railhead, about 270 km from Srinagar.
• Connected to Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore, Ahmedabad, and more. Jammu Tawi is the nearest railway station, about 290 km from Srinagar. One can hire a taxi and enjoy a road trip from Jammu Tawi station to Srinagar

Know more about: How to reach Kashmir

Frequently asked questions

Popular Kashmir Tours