Places to visit in Srinagar

Wular Lake, one of Asia’s biggest freshwater lakes, is popular for its stunning views and rich ecosystem. It's perfect for birdwatching, boat rides, and exploring the scenic floating gardens. Visitors can also enjoy the annual Wular Sports Festival which hosts exciting sports activities and cultural performances. The lake is crucial for the local community and environment and offers scenic beauty year-round.

Hari Parbat, a majestic hill in Srinagar, is a sacred site housing the Sharika Devi Temple, the Makhdoom Sahib Shrine, and the historic Hari Parbat Fort. Overlooking Dal Lake, it offers panoramic views of Srinagar and the Zabarwan Range. At Hari Parbat, history, spirituality, and stunning views come together- ancient forts stand tall, sacred shrines invite devotion, and the panorama of Srinagar stretches before you.

Srinagar's Lal Chowk is a historic site famous for the Ghanta Ghar (Clock Tower) and its political importance. You can browse bookstores, shop for Kashmiri handicrafts, or tour busy markets. Popular tourist destinations include Polo View Market and Residency Road, which provide traditional goods and local food.

Hazratbal Shrine, located on the banks of Dal Lake, is one of Kashmir’s most revered Muslim shrines. Known for housing a relic believed to be Prophet Muhammad’s hair, it boasts stunning Mughal-era architecture and a serene atmosphere, offering breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Chashme Shahi, a stunning Mughal garden in Srinagar, is famous for its natural spring with supposed healing properties. Built in 1632 by Emperor Shah Jahan, its terraced design, cascading fountains, and lush greenery offer a serene retreat. Overlooking Dal Lake and the Zabarwan mountains, it’s a must-visit for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

Shalimar Bagh is a 17th-century Mughal garden located in Srinagar, popular for its stunning architecture, terraced gardens, unique fountains, and vibrant flowers. Built by Emperor Jahangir for his wife, it offers stunning views of Dal Lake and surrounding mountains. The garden is a historical and peaceful site, ideal for both history lovers and nature enthusiasts.

Perched on the foothills of the Zabarwan mountain range, the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden is renowned for having more than 60 varieties of tulips in different colours. Spread over an area of 30 hectares, this garden is among the best places to visit in Kashmir to see the annual tulip festival during the spring season.

Nishat Bagh, the "Garden of Bliss," is a stunning Mughal garden on the banks of Dal Lake in Srinagar. With cascading terraces, vibrant flowerbeds, and flowing fountains, it offers breathtaking views of the Zabarwan Mountains. A paradise for nature lovers, it’s perfect for a peaceful retreat and scenic photography, making its exploration one of the best things to do in Srinagar.

Pari Mahal is the smallest UNESCO-recognized Mughal Garden in Srinagar. The main features of this place are the seven stunning terraced gardens, Mughal architecture, and well-kept lawns with unique flower beds. Situated on the Zabarwan range, it offers panoramic views of Dal Lake and Srinagar. Visitors can explore its historic ruins, rich heritage, and folk legends while enjoying its Kashmiri charm.

Jamia Masjid in Srinagar is a magnificent 14th-century mosque known for its stunning Indo-Saracenic architecture. The mosque boasts 378 wooden pillars, a peaceful courtyard and a manicured garden with fountains. Located in the heart of the old city, it offers a serene retreat with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, making it a must-visit spiritual and architectural landmark.

Discover the beauty of nature at Anchar Lake, a pristine freshwater lake in the Soura area of Srinagar city in Jammu and Kashmir. Watch migratory birds fly and look for fresh produce in the floating gardens here. The alluring lake invites you for a serene escapade to enjoy photography and boating.

Discover the architectural charm of one of Srinagar's most unique historical sites, Naev Masjid, also known as Pathar Mosque. The mosque's distinctive Indo-Iranian design distinguishes it from the other traditional wooden structures in the area. It was built in 1623 by Mughal Empress Noor Jahan using only grey limestone.  

Its robust, stone-built design, which embodies Mughal elegance and innovation, makes it a remarkable monument in the heart of the old city. It is located along the placid banks of the Jhelum River. The mosque offers a tranquil setting and a fascinating glimpse into how the Mughal era impacted Kashmir's rich Islamic architectural heritage.

Zero Bridge is an iconic wooden bridge over the Jhelum River in Srinagar, combining history with scenic beauty. Closed to vehicles, it now serves as a peaceful pedestrian walkway. Offering stunning sunset views, a charming riverside ambience, and a touch of nostalgia, it’s perfect for strolls and photography. A hidden gem, it is also one of the offbeat places to visit in Kashmir, ideal for those seeking a serene time.

Located in Khanyar, Srinagar, Dastgeer Sahib is a 200-year-old Sufi shrine honouring Sheikh Syed Abdul Qadir Jelani. Sacred artefacts, including an ancient Quran, are housed within the shrine's wood construction and classic Khatamband ceilings. In addition to enjoying its rich cultural history, visitors can learn about its spiritual importance by visiting old tombs and the adjacent lively market.

Char Chinar, also known as Ropa Lank, is a picturesque island in the Dal Lake of Srinagar. It is famous for its four beautiful Chinar trees, symbolising Kashmir's natural beauty. Surrounded by tranquil waters and scenic mountains, the island is one of the most popular places to visit in Srinagar for tourists and nature lovers.

With more than 1.5 lakh ornamental plants, the Botanical Garden is among the best places to visit in Srinagar. It is situated on the foothills of Zabarwan mountain slopes and is a delight for all nature lovers with its winding pathways that lead to various sections. Enjoy birdwatching, paddle-boating and nature walks in this beautiful garden.  

Enjoy a refreshing retreat exploring vintage shops at the famous Polo View Market in the heart of Srinagar. Engage in retail therapy browsing for your favourite souvenirs like Kashmiri carpets, Pashmina shawls, walnut wood decor items, spices and dry fruits. Go for a casual stroll in the lively ambience in this pedestrian-friendly or savour local delicacies at the restaurants in this upscale market.

The Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Botanical Garden is one of Srinagar’s green wonders that is home to thousands of ornamental plants. From rare Kashmiri tropical plants to a dense forest of oak, the garden is the perfect place to learn about Kashmir’s diverse flora. The garden also hosts a vast range of bird species, both local and migratory, in its lush greenery.

Makhdoom Sahib Shrine is situated in Srinagar on the southern slope of Hari Parbat hill. It is devoted to the legendary Sufi saint of Kashmir, Sheikh Hamza Makhdoom who was a famous Islamic teacher and spiritual leader who was also known as Hazrat Sultan and Mehboob-ul-Alam. Supported by several wooden pillars, the shrine is constructed in the Mughal style. In addition to a separate mosque for women, it has a space for worship, and people visit the shrine for meditation, prayer, and blessings. In addition to hosting Sufi gatherings, the shrine is a significant cultural and religious destination in Srinagar that draws both locals and tourists all year long.

Charar-e-Sharif, one of Kashmir’s holiest Sufi shrines, is a spiritual haven nestled in the Pir Panjal range. Dedicated to Sheikh Noor-ud-din Noorani, it reflects peace and mysticism. With its rich history, wooden architecture, and breathtaking surroundings, it’s a must-visit for seekers of tranquillity, history, and divine blessings.

Challi Point is a well-known lakeside lookout point situated next to Dal Lake on Boulevard Road in Srinagar. It is renowned for offering a clear view of Dal Lake towards the Shankaracharya Hill. Both locals and visitors frequently visit this spot to indulge in quick breaks, light lunches, and peaceful time by the lake. Local foods like seekh kebabs and roasted corn are served at small food stands in this region.

From here, reservations for a shikara ride in Dal Lake can also be made. Due to its wide-open location and quiet environment, it is a basic yet picturesque stop on a trip to Srinagar.

One of Srinagar's cultural treasures is the Kashmir Government Arts Emporium. Handwoven carpets, elaborate wooden sculptures, and beautiful Pashmina shawls are on display here. It honours Kashmiri craftsmanship and is located in the heart of the city. Tourists can browse genuine products, observe skilled artisans in action, and bring home souvenirs of Kashmir's glorious past.

Chatpal is a hidden gem near Kashmir which is covered with breathtaking landscapes characterised by lush green meadows, wildflowers, and dense pine forests. The village features dense alpine forests and crystal-clear river streams. It is one of the best places to visit near Jammu where visitors can enjoy trekking through the orchards, strolling around verdant valleys, enjoying local dishes, and interacting with community members.

Did you know the word Badamwari’s literal Kashmiri translation is "Almond Garden"? Badamwari Park is situated on the banks of Nigeen Lake in Sher-e-Khas at Kashmir. Unlike most parks, it is famous for its pink and white blooming almond trees. This hidden gem was established in the 14th century, and the garden doubled as a site for local fairs in the 20th century. 

It is one of the best places to visit in Kashmir and spans over 300 kanals. Located a few kilometres from the bustling city centre, this place is a peaceful retreat for both locals and tourists, offering them a serene atmosphere.

Located on the banks of Dal Lake, Naseem Bagh is one of the oldest and most picturesque Mughal gardens in Jammu and Kashmir. Built in 1586 by Emperor Akbar and later expanded by Emperor Shah Jahan, the garden showcases timeless Mughal elegance. 

It is especially renowned for its towering chinar trees that create a magical canopy during autumn, turning vibrant shades of red and gold. The meticulously maintained lawns and vibrant flower beds add to its charm, offering a peaceful retreat for nature lovers, photographers, and history enthusiasts alike. Naseem Bagh beautifully blends natural beauty with rich Mughal heritage.

Nishat Market in Srinagar is a shopper’s paradise and is located near the picturesque Dal Lake. It offers exquisite Kashmiri handicrafts made of wood, authentic Pashmina shawls, and the finest Kashmir saffron. This market is a perfect blend of culture, tradition, and scenic beauty, offering stunning lake views, vibrant stalls, and mouthwatering local cuisine like Kebabs and Kahwa.