Best time to visit Srinagar
The best time to visit Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir in India, largely depends on your preferences and the type of experiences you seek. Srinagar experiences distinct seasons, each offering a unique charm. Here’s a breakdown of the seasons in Srinagar:
- Spring (March to May):
- Spring is a beautiful time to visit Srinagar as the weather is pleasant, and the blooming flowers add color to the landscapes. Temperatures range from around 5°C to 20°C. This is an excellent time for sightseeing, shikara rides on Dal Lake, and visiting the Mughal Gardens.
- Summer (June to August):
- Summer is the peak tourist season in Srinagar. The weather is warm, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C. This is an ideal time for outdoor activities, trekking, and exploring the surrounding areas. The famous Tulip Festival is held in April during this season.
- Autumn (September to November):
- Autumn is another pleasant time to visit Srinagar when the temperatures start to cool down. The vibrant autumn foliage adds a different charm to the landscape. Temperatures range from 10°C to 25°C. It’s a good time for photography and enjoying the serene surroundings.
- Winter (December to February):
- Winter in Srinagar is marked by cold temperatures, and the region experiences snowfall, especially in higher altitudes. Dal Lake may freeze during severe cold spells. Winter sports enthusiasts can enjoy activities like skiing in Gulmarg, which is not far from Srinagar.
Choosing the best time to visit depends on your interests and the type of experiences you are looking for. If you prefer milder weather and blooming gardens, spring and autumn are great choices. Summer is perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activities and want to experience the hustle and bustle of the peak tourist season. Winter is ideal for snow enthusiasts and those seeking a quieter, more serene atmosphere.
Keep in mind that weather conditions can vary, and it’s advisable to check the current weather forecast and any travel advisories before planning your trip.
Srinagar is a very well recognized tourist destination situated on the route of river Jhelum. It would not be wrong to call it the heart of the Kashmir Valley. Srinagar is known as ‘heaven on earth’.
Known for its natural parks, beautiful lakes, and regional handicrafts, Srinagar is the place where the traces of the Mughal and British periods are still embedded in their architectural wonders.
My dear friends, The city of Srinagar is also commonly known as the ‘Summer Capital of the state of Jammu and Kashmir’. The best time to visit Srinagar is winter.
Shalimar Bagh, Mughal Gardens, Hari Parbat, Chashma Sahi Gardens and Salim Ali National Park along with Nagin Lake and Nishat Bagh are major tourist destinations for tourists.
There are various shrines in Srinagar which are quite popular among both locals and tourists. Prominent among them are Shankaracharya Temple, Hazratbal Tirtha, Hari Parbat, Jama Masjid and Kheer Bhawani Temple.
Apart from these attractions in Srinagar, tourists can also enjoy shopping at the floating market at Lal Chowk, Residency Road, Badshah Chowk and Dal Lake.
Each season has its own charm at this scenic destination of Kashmir Valley. The best time to visit Srinagar is winter.
Best time to visit Srinagar
With snow-capped peaks and heavy snowfall in the background, Srinagar looks amazing during the white glow of winter. The winter weather is ideal for those who want to enjoy the breeze in the cold.
During summer, tourists can enjoy many activities like Shikara riding and horse riding. In this article today, we will give you information about the tourist places of Srinagar.
There are not one or two but many places here, which the tourist visiting here must definitely see. The best time to visit Srinagar is winter.
Srinagar is a very well recognized tourist destination situated on the route of river Jhelum. It would not be wrong to call it the heart of the Kashmir Valley. Srinagar is known as ‘heaven on earth’.
Known for its natural parks, beautiful lakes, and regional handicrafts, Srinagar is the place where the traces of the Mughal and British periods are still embedded in their architectural wonders.
My dear friends, The city of Srinagar is also commonly known as the ‘Summer Capital of the State of Jammu and Kashmir’.
Shalimar Bagh, Mughal Gardens, Hari Parbat, Chashma Sahi Gardens, and Salim Ali National Park, along with Nagin Lake and Nishat Bagh are major tourist destinations for tourists.
There are various shrines in Srinagar that are quite popular among both locals and tourists.
The best time to visit Srinagar
Prominent among them are Shankaracharya Temple, Hazratbal Shrine, Hari Parbat, Jama Masjid, and Kheer Bhawani Temple.
Apart from these attractions in Srinagar, tourists can also enjoy shopping at the floating markets at Lal Chowk, Residency Road, Badshah Chowk, and Dal Lake. Each season has its own charm at this scenic destination of Kashmir Valley.
With snow-capped peaks and heavy snowfall in the background, Srinagar looks amazing during the white glow of winter. The winter weather is ideal for those who want to enjoy the breeze in the cold.
During the summer, tourists can enjoy many activities, like shikara riding and horseback riding. In this article, we will give you information about the tourist attractions in Srinagar.
There are not one or two but many places here, which the tourist visiting here must definitely see.
Attractions Of Srinagar Tourism
Dal Lake is considered the jewel of Srinagar. Spread over 26 square kilometers, this lake is like heaven on earth. It is situated in the midst of beautiful green mountains.
Facilities like the Shikara boat ride, houseboat, and lake market make this place a favorite among tourists.
Srinagar has always been a pleasant place to visit in the summer; therefore, it is one of the favorite places of Mughals and British. Tourists can enjoy the houseboat on Dal Lake.
Explain that the concept of a houseboat on Dal Lake was the brainchild of the British, which gave a boost to tourism. The best time to visit Srinagar is in the winter.
Whenever you plan to visit Srinagar, make Dal Lake the first priority in your list, because if there is a beautiful and mind-pleasing lake here, then it is Dal Lake.
Mughal Garden in Srinagar
The Mughal Garden is one of the most popular and most visited tourist attractions of Srinagar.
During the Mughal rule, the Mughals started constructing several types of gardens in Persian architecture and the combination of these gardens is called the Mughal Garden.
The natural beauty of the place filled with lush green grass and fragrant flowers is like a stress booster.
The Mughal Gardens in Srinagar include Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, Chashme Shahi, Pari Mahal, Achabal, and Verinag Gardens.
The grandeur of the gardens is dedicated to Emperor Jahangir, who had an unwavering love for Kashmir.
The architecture of the Mughal Gardens attracts tourists immensely, as the influence of Persian architecture is seen here.
Nishat Bagh (Nishat garden)
Nishat Bagh, situated near Dal Lake in Kashmir, is a 12 step terraced garden with flowers and beautiful trees. It is the second-largest Mughal garden in the Kashmir Valley after Shalimar Bagh.
It has a magnificent Mughal central water channel with many fountains, surrounded by tall poplar trees. The garden was designed and built-in 1633 by Asif Khan, the elder brother of Jahangir’s wife Noor Jahan.
My sweet friends, the garden is very photogenic and attracts a lot of young couples and families.
Even though the layout of the Nishat garden was based on the design of Persian gardens, the actual landscaping of the garden was done according to the water pattern for the Kashmir Valley.
From here you can have a spectacular view of Dal Lake. Today Nishat garden is one of the historical and popular sites of Srinagar Valley.
Nishat Garden entry fee: – 30 INR / Head + GST all in Mughal Garden
You can have breakfast, lunch, and dinner in good restaurants built around it. Walking from here for 5 minutes, or also by an auto-rickshaw for 15 minutes, you can reach Dal Lake.
Enjoy 5 Star Hotels in a houseboat built-in Dal Lake. From here, you can shop at a 21 km distance (reach in 15 minutes) by auto or car in the famous Lal Chowk Market.
From here Shalimar garden is located 5 minutes away, Chashma Shahi and Pari Mahal can be reached in 10 to 12 minutes. From here you can view the entire Dal Lake.
Shalimar Bagh
Shalimar Bagh was built in the year 1619 by the Mughal emperor Jahangir for his beloved wife Noor Jahan.
The word ‘Shalimar’ is a Sanskrit word meaning ‘abode of love’ and is known by many other names such as Faiz Baksh and Farah Bakhsh.
This place is quite popular among tourists from all over the world. The interesting thing about this garden is that the Shalimar Garden is a mixture of natural manure and man-made structures.
The entire complex is decorated with lush green grass, where flowers bloom every moment. Not only does the garden have a variety of flowers, but it also has fruit trees such as almonds and walnuts.
The famous Shikara ride in Srinagar
Shikara is the biggest reason for people coming to Srinagar. Riding the beautiful Dal Lake in the backdrop of the Himalayas is a truly enjoyable and incredible experience.
The Shikara ride can be taken from Nehru Park to Hazratbal, Nagin, Renwari, and one of the rear circuits.
The famous of Srinagar city, Hazratbal Shrine
The most sacred Muslim temple in the Kashmir Valley, the Hazratbal shrine is located on the left bank of the magnificent Dal Lake.
Hazratbal literally means ‘royal place’ and is particularly famous because it contains a relic known as Moi-e-Muqaddas, considered by many Muslims in Kashmir to be the hair of Prophet Muhammad.
The hair is safely preserved in the temple and is brought to the general public only on specific occasions.
Thus this temple is considered sacred among Muslims and attracts thousands of tourists from across the country.
In fact, the shrine is a symbol of the love and respect that Muslims have for their Prophet Muhammad.
Famous Tourist Spot Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden in Srinagar
Don’t forget to visit the famous tulip garden here during your visit to Srinagar.
The colorful fields of tulips are seen here, in fact, this garden takes tourists to a different world of tulips.
Famous Tourist Places of Srinagar Char Chinar
Char Chinar is a beautiful island in Srinagar, where tourists can see beautiful and ancient poplar trees. If you want to see a beautiful view of this island, do not forget to ride Shikara.
Wular lake of Srinagar
One of the largest freshwater lakes in Asia, the ancient beauty of the Wular lake lies in the Bandipora district of the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir.
The majestic lake attracts tourists throughout the year. However, when water is collected in this lake, activities like water sports, water skiing are organized here.
A favorite picnic spot among locals and tourists and one of the 26 wetlands in India.
Distance from Srinagar to Walur Lake:
Asia’s largest fresh water lake is located at a distance of about 68 km from Srinagar. You can reach here by car in 2 hours and 15 minutes.
You can also go by train to Sopore. The bus also goes directly to Bandipora from Srinagar bus stand Batmaloo. That will reach you in about 3 hours.
On the way, the biggest fruit market of Kashmir is Sopore Market. On the way, you can enjoy the garden of apples. In between, you can also see the garden of silkworms.
You can enjoy the local food in small restaurants located nearby.
Tourist Place Baramulla of Srinagar
Baramulla is a small town in Jammu and Kashmir which is rich in natural beauty. The city has many scenic spots like Gulmarg, Khilnamarg, Wullar Lake, etc., which are full of natural beauty.
The city also has historical monuments such as Buddhist stupas and religious establishments such as monasteries, temples, and mosques, which attract the attention of tourists from far and wide.
Yusmarg
Yusmarg is a scenic spot in Srinagar. It is a small hill station that very few people know about.
It is also called Mini Hill Station and is one of the most romantic places. Yusmarg, located at a distance of 47 km from Srinagar, can also be called as Switzerland.
It is the quietest place among all the tourist places of Kashmir and is also an amazing trek site. You can definitely enjoy trekking among the greenery here.
Jamia Mosque in Srinagar
Located in Nauhatta in the center of Srinagar city, Jamia Masjid is a famous mosque that is more than 600 years old.
It can be said that the history of Jamia Masjid is a reflection of the history of the political uplift of Kashmir.
The mosque was built in 1394 by Sultan Sikander Shah Kashmiri Shahmir under the command of Mir Mohammad Hamdani, son of Said-ul-Auliya Mir Syed Ali Hamadani.
Sultan Alexander’s son Zain-ul-Abidin later expanded the Jama Masjid by incorporating the bastion into the primary structure.
The architectural style of the Jamia Mosque is inspired by the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture.
The Jamia Masjid is also the largest mosque in Kashmir known for its peaceful atmosphere.
Challi Point to visit in Srinagar
Challi Point is one of the most trendy and popular places in Srinagar. With Dal Lake in the backdrop, this place attracts tourists and locals alike, as people can spend some time here amidst the breathtaking plains.
Famous Market of Srinagar Floating Vegetable Market
If you have not seen the floating market in Srinagar, then you have not seen anything. Because the floating market here is famous not only in India but all over the world.
The floating market is also popular for temporary vegetable markets where vegetables and fruits are sold around the water on shikhara.
More than a sale-purchase transaction, it is an interesting place for sightseeing.
These markets in Srinagar are run at the corner of Dal Lake and apart from regular traders and buyers, they attract tourists completely.
Historical palace Pari Mahal
Pari Mahal is a historical monument situated atop the beautiful royal garden near Srinagar. It is also called the abode of Par bari.
The architecture of the palace is a traditional Islamic type of architecture and is considered an important historical monument in India.
It is now managed by the Archaeological Survey of India and is open to tourists visiting Jammu and Kashmir.
It was built by Dara Shikoh, eldest son of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. If you go here, you will see that there are many colorful flowers and exotic fruit gardens in the gardens here.
It is also believed that the Pari Mahal was once a Buddhist monastery.
Famous Park Chashme Shahi
Chashme is a beautiful park situated at the royal height, which captivates the tourists. The view of the valley looks very beautiful from here.
There are waterfalls here, which attract tourists. Let us know that this place is one of the famous tourist destinations of Srinagar, so do not skip this place during your visit to Srinagar.
Tourist Spot Salim Ali National Park
Salim Ali National Park is a beautiful mangrove shrubby habitat for many endangered animals and birds.
Named in memory of ornithologist Salim Ali, it is located in Srinagar with an area of 9 km. Tourists can see the leopard, flying fox, Kashmiri stag, and birds like Kingfisher, Rungdove, Swamp Franklin, etc.
Ancient Shankaracharya Temple
Shankaracharya Temple is considered to be the oldest temple in the Kashmir Valley. Shankaracharya Temple is one of the famous scenic spots of Srinagar.
It is an architectural marvel, positioned on a hilltop 1100 feet above sea level. Shankaracharya temple is mainly known for the Persian scripture kept inside the temple.
Nagin Lake
Nagin Lake is located on the eastern shore of the city of Srinagar (6 km within 11 minutes by taxi). Being less crowded, the lake is ideal for swimming.
Water skiing and sailing on fiberglass boats can also be enjoyed here. The best time to visit is from May to September.
Chinar Park
Chinar Park is a famous tourist destination in Srinagar. While visiting, you can also enjoy three islands, a musical fountain, poplar trees, swings with cultural programs, and an open theater. The good thing is that swimming, camping can also be enjoyed here.
Dachigam National Park
Dachigam National Park is the most visited tourist destination of Srinagar. Here you can see a leopard, musk deer, hill fox, jackal, Himalayan black bear, Himalayan gray langur, otter.
Literally, Dachigam National Park was initially created to take care of the town’s drinking water supply.
SPS Museum
The SPS Museum is located in Lal Mandi in Srinagar and is popular for its craft products and archaeological artifacts.
The museum is divided into various sections including archeology, manuscripts, enamelware, decorative arts, natural history, paper mache.
Kathi Darwaza
The Kathi Darwaza is the main entrance to the famous monument Hari Parbat Fort in Srinagar. A rare specimen of Mughal architecture, the high domed gate is filled with pillars.
There are small Mughal and Persian inscriptions on the inner walls and roofs. The gate, no doubt, reflects the grandeur and grandeur of the fort.
Sinthan top
Sinthan Top is a mountain pass in the Pir Panjal Mountain Range. The snow-clad hilltop is recently emerging as a new tourist destination, attracting tourists from far and wide.
You must visit this place during a trip to Srinagar, it is also popular for mountaineering, trekking, and skiing.
Badamwari Garden
The Badamwari Garden was built during the 14th century, the Badamwari Garden is nothing short of a paradise in Srinagar.
If you come to Srinagar, then definitely see the beauty of this garden. The carved pathways and lush green environment will really enchant you.
Chatti Padshahi Gurudwara
Located just outside the southern gate of Hari Parbat in Srinagar, Chatti Padshahi Gurdwara is the most important and largest Sikh Gurdwara in the Kashmir Valley.
The temple has a sanctum sanctorum in the middle of a large rectangular hall. It also has accommodation and lame food is served to all tourists every day of the year.
How To Reach Srinagar By Flight
The Srinagar International Airport is connected to major cities outside and within India.
How To Reach Srinagar By Road
Srinagar is connected by a network of roads to Chandigarh, Gulmarg, Jammu, Sonamarg, Delhi, and Pahalgam.
Regular buses are available from Jammu to Srinagar. Apart from this, there are enough options to travel to Srinagar by private vehicle.
How To Reach Srinagar By Train
The nearest railway station of Srinagar is at Jammu Tawi. It is a main railhead for the region.
Udhampur railway station is also the nearest railway station to Srinagar. Buses and private vehicles regularly travel from the railway station to the city.
Local Transport In Srinagar
Many buses and rickshaws run between the railway station and bus stop, which will leave you here for only 5 rupees.
What Can We Buy In Srinagar
You can buy hand-woven carpets, Pashmina shawls, antique silver jewelry, dry fruits, spices, traditional Kashmiri handicrafts, and more while shopping in Srinagar.
Best time to visit Srinagar
What to Eat in Srinagar, Kashmiri Food
There is a lot of food options in Srinagar. On seeing the Kashmiri Kebab, the mouth of the people gets watery. This is the reason why Kashmiri kebab here is famous all over the world.
By the way, you will not get such a taste of kebab anywhere else. Apart from this, green tea and cava are very famous here. Bread made with sesame and poppy is a popular snack.
Here tourists will get a large variety of non-veg along with veg. The taste of Gustaba here is very good. Gushtaba is a meatball, which is cooked with gravy.
Saak kebabs, Rogan josh, fried paneer, Chaman, and dum aloo are very famous here. The taste of Kashmiri is found in these dishes here.
Matamail – This is a Kashmiri Pandit home dining center where you can enjoy some traditional dishes with music.
Every dish in the restaurant is worth trying. Mutton Kanti is one of the most ordered items.
Chinar – There is an exotic food palace for food in the valleys. The food is a bit expensive, but if you want to enjoy Kashmiri food, there is no better place than this.
Some of the things you should try are Kashmiri bunch and grilled rainbow trout.
Mughal Durbar – If you want to try some mutton-based dishes, this place is great for trying these things.
The mouth-watering traditional cuisine of the city attracts tourists to this place.
Shamiana – Rogan Josh and Wazwan are two things that this place is famous for. The canopy located on Boulevard Street offers an extensive menu and superb service.
Conclusion:
The weather in Srinagar is pleasant throughout the year. You can go here in any season, but if you want to enjoy more here, then the time of April to October is great to visit here.
September to November is the best season during the month of winter. However, monsoon is also a good time to visit this place. At this time this place looks quite beautiful.
Overall, you do not have to wait for any special season to visit Srinagar, as this place attracts tourists all year round.
Best time to visit Srinagar
