Best Time
Apr–Oct
Altitude
1,585 m
Summer
15°C–30°C
Winter
-4°C–8°C
About Srinagar
Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu & Kashmir, is a city of extraordinary beauty and deep history. Sitting on the banks of the Jhelum river at 1,585 meters, it has been called the 'Venice of the East' for its network of waterways, floating gardens, and ornate houseboats. Founded by Emperor Ashoka over 2,000 years ago, Srinagar has been a center of art, culture, and Sufi spirituality.
The city is renowned for its magnificent Mughal Gardens — Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, and Chashme Shahi — built by Mughal emperors who considered Kashmir their paradise on earth. The old city's labyrinthine lanes, ancient mosques, Kashmiri cuisine, and the iconic Dal Lake with its shikaras create an experience found nowhere else in the world. Srinagar is also the hub of Kashmir's famous handicraft tradition — Pashmina shawls, paper-mâché, walnut wood carving, and silk carpets.
Things to Do
Dal Lake Shikara Ride
Glide on the mirror-calm waters of Dal Lake in a hand-carved shikara, visiting floating gardens and the famous floating market.
Mughal Gardens
Explore the terraced Shalimar Bagh, the panoramic Nishat Bagh, and the royal spring of Chashme Shahi.
Houseboat Stay
Spend a night on a heritage houseboat — hand-carved cedar wood interiors, gourmet Kashmiri meals, and lake views.
Old City Walking Tour
Wander through the medieval old city — Jamia Masjid, Khanqah-e-Moula, and colorful spice bazaars.
Shankaracharya Temple
A hilltop temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, offering panoramic views of Srinagar and the Dal Lake.
Handicraft Shopping
Shop for authentic Pashmina, silk carpets, walnut wood carvings, and paper-mâché at Polo View or Lal Chowk.
How to Reach Srinagar
By Air: Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport has direct flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and other major cities. The airport is 15 km from the city center.
By Road: Connected via NH-44 from Jammu (300 km, 8–10 hours). The dramatic Jawahar Tunnel marks the entry into the Kashmir Valley.
By Rail: Srinagar railway station connects to Banihal via the Banihal-Qazigund tunnel. From Jammu, train to Banihal and then cab to Srinagar.
Travel Tips
- Book houseboats through registered operators — check for J&K Tourism certification to ensure quality and safety.
- The Tulip Garden (Asia's largest) blooms in late March to mid-April — time your visit for this spectacular display.
- When shopping for Pashmina, check for the GI (Geographical Indication) tag to ensure authenticity.
- Try Wazwan — the traditional multi-course Kashmiri feast — at a local home or heritage restaurant for the most authentic experience.
- Visit the floating vegetable market on Dal Lake at sunrise (around 5–6 AM) for a unique cultural experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Srinagar safe for tourists?
Yes, Srinagar is safe for tourists. The city has a well-established tourism infrastructure, and locals are extremely hospitable. Follow standard travel precautions and check current advisories before your trip.
How many days should I spend in Srinagar?
3–4 days is recommended. Day 1: Dal Lake and shikara ride. Day 2: Mughal Gardens and Shankaracharya Temple. Day 3: Old city tour and shopping. Day 4: Day trip to Dachigam or nearby attractions.
What is the best area to stay in Srinagar?
Dal Lake houseboats and Boulevard Road hotels offer the best experience. For budget stays, Lal Chowk area is central. For luxury, properties along Nishat and Foreshore Road are excellent.
When is the best time to visit Srinagar?
April to October for pleasant weather. Late March to mid-April for the Tulip Festival. December to February for snowfall experiences. July–August can have occasional rain.
Packages Including Srinagar
Explore curated packages that include Srinagar in the itinerary.