Probably the most common questions when planning your trip are where to go, what to see, and how to prepare for the entire journey.
As it happens, we are taking up Srinagar in this write-up, and we know that Srinagar has become one of the best family destinations in the last few decades and the best place to go for a honeymoon in Kashmir valley.
Srinagar is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, serene lakes, magnificent Mughal gardens, and ancient religious sites.
This scenic town is a treasure trove of natural bounties and architectural marvels, which you should explore to make your trip memorable.
Srinagar is a paradise for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and history buffs. However, if you are looking for the best places to visit in Srinagar, we have mentioned the list of popular attractions of the city that can save you from hassles.
18 Famous Tourist Places to Visit in Srinagar For Incredible Vacations
Famous Lakes in Srinagar
1. Dal Lake
Dal Lake is the prime attraction of Srinagar; that is why Dal Lake deserves the top position in the list of tourist places in Srinagar. The best view of Dal Lake can be enjoyed from boulevard road.
It is one of the best and most picturesque lakes in Kashmir valley, surrounded by zabarban hills from three sides and embraced by numerous gardens and orchids along with its outer rings.
This serene lake is fondly referred to as the “Jewel in the Crown of Kashmir” and Srinagar’s Jewel, every tourist who has visited Kashmir, has come to this lake.
It is the second-largest lake in the state and is also a source for commercial functions in fishery and water plant harvesting.
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The lake is about 18 sq. km (9.6 mi) long and encompassed by a line of Mughal-era gardens, parks, and the famous houseboats, and it has an average of 5 ft and a maximum of 20 ft. depth.
The Dal lake is a part of a natural wetland that covers an area of about 21 sq. km; it includes ‘Rad’ or floating gardens.
During the middle of the year, lotus blossoms through the floating gardens, which lights up the whole area.
It is a popular place to visit in Srinagar with family and kids. You can enjoy the Shikara ride and houseboat stays here to make your trip memorable.
It is divided into four basins, Bod Dal, Nagin, Gagribal, and Lakut Dal, and some even have their island in the center.
The lake’s splendor has attracted not only the tourists but also the filmmakers who think it to be the perfect place to shoot.
Location: Boulevard Road, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir
Timings: 24-hours
How to reach Dal Lake: Srinagar International Airport is the nearest airport to Dal Lake, which is at 21 km. The cabs and taxis are easily available from the airport and bus stand. From Lal Chowk, it will take only 20 minutes to reach the lake.
Suggested Itinerary: Vaishno Devi Srinagar Tour Package
2. Nigeen Lake
Nigeen Lake is located on the east side of the city, at the foothills of the Zabarwan Mountains. Though the thought of as a separate lake, the Nigeen Lake is an offshoot of the Dal Lake.
They are only divided by narrow causeways, which allow only bikers and walkers; it also carries the water supply pipeline to the Srinagar city.
The water of this lake is crystal clear that the reflection of the edging trees and hills of Shankaracharya (Takht-e-Suleiman) on the south and Hari Parbat on the west can be mirrored. The surrounding trees are mainly willow and poplar trees.
The water in Nigeen Lake is good for swimming and there are fiberglass boats available. This lake gives a wholesome view of the ranges and the hills, and the pretty shikaras and houseboats flatter the sight even more.
Location: Near Nigeen Lake, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir
Timings: 24-hours
How to reach Nigeen Lake: The nearest airport from Nigeen Lake is Srinagar International Airport, which is situated at 17 km. The cabs and buses are easily available from the airport and bus stand.
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3. Manasbal Lake
About 20 km north of Srinagar lies the deepest lake in the Kashmir Valley, Manasbal Lake. The name of the lake is in relation to the sacred lake of Mansarovar and is enclosed by three villages of Kondabal, Jakorbal, and Gratbal.
Manasbal is considered the ‘Gem of all Kashmir Lakes’ and is developing stable summer stratification. On the lake’s borders, you can find the lotus fringe in abundance.
It is a paradise for peace seekers, bird watchers, and nature lovers. From the lake towards the north, you have the view of the ruins of an old Mughal fort, and towards the south is the view of Hillock-Achtung.
Location: Safapora, Ganderbal, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir
Timings: 24-hours
How to reach Nigeen Lake: Located in Ganderbal, Manasbal Lake is situated 33 km from Srinagar International Airport. Therefore, cabs, buses, and taxis are easily available from the city center, airport, and bus stand.
Famous Gardens in Srinagar
4. Mughal Gardens
Mughal Gardens are a group of gardens like Nishat Garden, Shalimar Garden, Chashme Shahi, Pari Mahal, etc. All these gardens were constructed during the Mughal era in the style of Persian architecture, which is known as Mughal Gardens.
Thousand of visitors come to Srinagar to visit the the Mughal Gardens and delight in the serene aura of these scenic gardens.
Walking through the gardens brings out the essence of natural beauty. The group of Mughal Gardens included canals and fountains inside the park.
Their style is based on the koranic concepts of paradise, significant in the use of layouts.
Location: Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir
Timings: 9 AM to 6:30 PM
How to reach Mughal Gardens: Located in the heart of Srinagar, Mughal Gardens are near Srinagar International Airport. These are well-connected by roads. The cabs, buses, and taxis are easily available from the city center, airport, and bus stand.
5. Nishat Bagh
Nishat Bagh is the garden made by the father of Empress Nur Jahan. Nishat garden gives you a clear view of Dal Lake and the snow-capped range of Pir Panjal on the east side. Originally this garden had 12 terraces; at present, only 9 of them exist.
Each terrace rises higher up towards the mountainside (east) and lowers towards the lake. Furthermore, there are two main pavilions, one at the lower and another at the upper end of the garden. In the middle is a reservoir of about 14 sq ft and 3 ft deep with few fountains.
Location: Boulevard Road, Near Dal Lake, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir
Timings: 9 AM to 5:30 PM
How to reach Nishat Bagh: Located on the bank of the Dal Lake, Nishat Bagh is situated 20 km from Srinagar International Airport. These are well-connected by cabs, buses, and taxis from the city center, airport, and bus stand.
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6. Shalimar Bagh
Nestled on the bank of the Dal Lake, Shalimar Bagh is one of the most beautiful Mughal Gardens in Srinagar. This part is said to have been a village and is the abode of love.
Four terraces are rising symmetrically, one above the other. The fourth terrace was the private part of the Shalimar Garden, the females stayed there.
Mughal Emperor Jahangir built this garden for his wife, Nur Jahan. This lush and beautifully manicured garden is known as the ‘Crown of Srinagar.’ The paradisical beauty of this garden attracts nature lovers and peace seekers.
Location: Chinar Chowk, Near Dal Lake, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir
Timings: 9 AM to 6:30 PM
How to reach Shalimar Bagh: Shalimar Garden is located on the bank of the Dal Lake, 23 km from Srinagar Airport. The garden is well-connected by cabs, buses, and taxis from the city center, airport, and bus stand.
7. Chashme Shahi
Chashme Shahi Garden is primarily famous for its natural springs. Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan commissioned it for his eldest son Dara Shikoh. It was built by his governor Ali Mardan in 1632. Situated 9 km from the city and is known for its pure, calm, and sparkling springs.
This place was believed to be discovered by a great female saint of Kashmir, Rupa Bhawani. This is a popular place to visit in Srinagar for couples and rejuvenate amidst the serene environs. You can witness the Persian influence in the garden’s architectural style, which is a visual retreat for the visitors.
Location: Boulevard Road, Chashme Shahi, Rainawari, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir
Timings: 8 AM to 7:15 PM
How to reach Chashme Shahi: Situated at 19 km away from Srinagar International Airport, which is well-connected by the major cities and states of the country. The garden is easily accessible by cabs, buses, and taxis from the city center, airport, and bus stand.
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Srinagar with Sonmarg Tour8. Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Botanical Garden
Built-in, in the memory of the well-known Jawaharlal Nehru, set up in 1969. The garden is strikingly covered with a large variety of trees and shrubs, and the colorful and exotic flowers add to its beauty. It is placed at the Zabarwan mountain range’s foothills and offers visitors a fantastic experience.
Like Mughal Gardens, this one is also surrounded by the great Dal Lake, which enhances the location. The forest department has kept in mind to keep the garden maintained.
On reaching the Botanical garden, you can see four more sections: the sporting garden, the research section garden, the botanical garden, and the center of plant introduction.
You can enjoy the boat ride and admire the garden for the variety of flora it offers.
Location: Boulevard Road, Chashme Shahi, Muja Gund Ghat, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir
Timings: 7 AM to 7 PM
How to reach Botanical Garden: Situated near Chashme Shahi, 19 km from Srinagar International Airport, which is well-connected to the rest of the country.
The garden is easily accessible by cabs, buses, and taxis from the city center, airport, and bus stand.
Religious Places in Srinagar
9. Shankaracharya Temple
Shankaracharya Temple in Srinagar is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It stands at the height of about 1852 m above sea level on the land on the top of Shankaracharya Hill. This temple is also famous for other names like Jyesteshwara temple or Pas-Pahar.
The temple got its name after the saint Shankaracharya, who visited the valley around the 10th century to spread his philosophy of Vedanta. He was well known for popularizing the worship of Lord Shiva in Kashmir.
The architectural beauty of this abode is noteworthy; the support of this temple is an octagonal platform. You have to climb a flight of around 100 stairs to enter the temple.
Shankaracharya Temple is also famous sight in Srinagar to add to the list of favorite places of Srinagar to visit during the Kashmir trip.
It is among the best places to visit in Srinagar with family. The Shankaracharya Temple has undergone several changes and renovations. However, the tranquil atmosphere of the temple fills you with great peace of mind.
Location: Durgjan, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir
Timings: 7 AM to 8 PM
How to reach Shankracharya Temple: The temple is situated 18 km away from Srinagar Airport. The temple is 11 km away from the city center and well-connected with the road network. You can hire a taxi and cab from the airport and bus stand to reach the temple.
10. Kheer Bhawani Temple
Kheer Bhawani Temple is one of the most famous Hindu temples in Kashmir Valley and the best place to visit in Srinagar with family.
This temple is situated just 14 miles from Srinagar near the village of Tula Mula and is dedicated to the goddess Kheer Bhawani.
The term kheer refers to rice pudding offered in the spring by the devotees. The exciting thing about kheer Bhawani Temple is that it is believed that the color of the spring turns black, which indicates disaster.
The associated legend says that Lord Rama, during his 14 years of exile, was a devotee of Ragnya Devi. Later, when his exile got over, Lord Hanuman shifted the seat of the goddess and brought him to this place.
Her wish was to be placed in the temple covered with smooth and beautiful stones, with old grown chinar trees (under this, the pilgrims reside). Maharaja Pratap Singh constructed the temple in 1912.
The eighth day of the full moon in May is considered significant, so the devotees fast on this particular day and gather at the temple as it is believed that the goddess changes the color of the spring water.
The Kheer Bhawani temple hosts an annual festival with countless followers and tourists. This temple is significant to the Kashmiri pundits.
Location: Tulmul, Ganderbal, Jammu & Kashmir
Timings: 6 AM to 8 PM
How to reach Kheer Bhawani Temple: The temple is situated 34 km away from Srinagar International Airport.
From the city center, the Kheer Bhawani Temple is 22 km away and is well-connected with the road network. You can reach here by local transport and taxi.
11. Hazratbal Shrine
On the left bank of the famous Dal Lake is the Hazratbal Shrine, one of the best places to visit in Srinagar. It is home to the most sacred relic for Muslims, which is the hair of Prophet Muhammad.
The public display of the relic takes place on certain occasions. Hazrat means respected in Urdu, and Bal in Kashmiri means place, which gives the place the reverence it deserves.
Considered one of the most sacred Muslim pilgrimage sites in India, the mosque offers a spectacular view of the lake and the mountains, and the white marble structure of the shrine reflects on the lake displaying a picture of beauty.
Initially, Hazratbal Shrine was constructed as a pleasure house; when Shah Jahan visited the place in 1634, he turned it into a prayer house. To date, the place offers Friday prayers which attract Muslim residents in large numbers.
It is the only domed mosque in Srinagar. Other names of this shrine are Assar-e-Sharief, Madinat-us-Sani, and Darga Sharif; it is one of India’s most respected Muslim shrines.
Location: Near Fire Brigade Station, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir
Timings: 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM
How to reach Hazratbal Shrine: The mosque is situated 19 km away from Srinagar International Airport.
From the city center, the shrine is 9 km away and is well-connected with the road network. You can reach here by local transport and taxi.
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It is yet another example of the old Islamic architecture, located at Nowhatta, in the middle of the ancient city. The place is not only a religious site for Muslims but also a spot for history buffs and architecture lovers.
It is believed that this mosque has been renovated thrice, and even after this, its magnificence remains the same. The serene environs of the mosque are opposed by the busy and noisy market right outside. However, each Friday the followers assemble here to offer their prayers.
Location: Nowhatta, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir
Timings: 3 PM to 7 PM
How to reach Jama Masjid: Situated in the heart of the city, Jama Masjid is located just 2 km away from the city center. From the airport, it is located 13 km away is easily accessible by taxi and local transports.
13. Chatti Padshahi Gurudwara
Chatti Padshahi Gurudwara In The Memory of 6th Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji. The city of Srinagar offers a pilgrimage for almost all the religions of India.
Chatti Padshahi Gurudwara marks an important center for the Sikh religion. This Gurudwara is situated quite in the middle of the city, outside the Hari Parbat Fort ( South Gate).
The legend of this shrine dates back to the 6th Sikh guru who came to Kashmir and preached ardently in this spot.
This Gurudwara emits spiritual vibes, bringing tranquility and a line of history for all Sikhs. Though not an elaborate place, it still has appeal and simplicity.
Location: Nowhatta, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir
Timings: 24-hours
How to reach Chatti Patshahi: The gurudwara is located just 4 km away from the city center. From the airport, it is located 14 km away and is easily accessible by taxi and local transport.
Also Read: Famous Religious Places in Srinagar
Famous Wildlife Sanctuary in Srinagar
14. Dachigam National Park
Situated amongst Himalayan mountains, 22 km from Srinagar and spread over an area of 141 sq km, is the Dachigam National Park. Although it is home to the endangered Hangul or Kashmiri stag, the area was previously a game preserve of the Maharaja of Jammu and Kashmir.
Since 1910 the Park has become a protected area; it has the catchment area for the Harwan reservoir that supplies clean drinking water to the city. “Ten villages” is the literal meaning of Dachigam.
To create the game preserve and the catchment area, about 10 villages had to be repositioned. In particular, the park possesses over 500 species of herbs, 20 shrubs, and 50 different trees.
The park varies in altitude, and because of this, it is distinguished into upper and lower regions, and so has the vegetation.
This national park is home to Leopards, Himalayan black bears, musk deer, Himalayan Grey Langur, and many more. There are various birds too like Pygmy owlet, Himalayan Monal, koalas pheasant, Oriole, etc.
Because of its extreme height, the park can be seen covered in snow during the winter, and during the summer is filled with flowers, especially blue poppy and grasslands. This significant reserve has so much to hold and to give at the same time.
Location: Near Harwan, Dachigam Road, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir
Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM
How to reach Dachigam National Park: The national park is located 20 km away from the city center. From the airport, it is located 27 km away and you can reach here by taxi and local transports.
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15. Yousmarg
Yousmarg is among the beautiful places to visit in Srinagar by couples and honeymooners. It is located in Budgam district, about 47 km from Srinagar. This scenic hill station of Yousmarg is a paradise for nature lovers and peace seekers.
The place’s pleasure starts right from the beginning of your journey up the hills. The view on the way seems like photo-shopped posters, the long stretching grassland and the hills covered with dense forests.
Also, to heighten the beauty of the mountains with snow. Though it is less crowded, this place offers you to come across nature more closely. It is an excellent spot for picnics and long hikes, and you will fall in love with this place during your Srinagar trip.
Location: Yousmarg, Jammu & Kashmir
Timings: 24-hours
How to reach Yousmarg: Srinagar International Airport is the nearest international airport to Yousmarg and is situated 50 km away.
From the airport, you can hire a private taxi or board a bus to Yousmarg. It is easily accessible by road from Srinagar.
16. Sinthan top (Kokernag)
This is another hill station at an elevation of 3,784 m above sea level. Sinthan Top is gaining popularity for its view of the lowlands and its peaceful, scenic nature. The top lies on the midway of the recently opened Anantnag-Kokernag-Sinthal-Kishtwar road.
Sinthan Top is very elevated, most of the time, the area is covered with a thick blanket of snow, so the recommended time to visit would be April to September.
It is a paradise for thrill-seekers and a popular place to visit in Srinagar among adventure lovers. You can indulge in numerous activities here, including hiking, trekking, and nature walking. It is a perfect spot to explore and feel nature up close.
Location: Kokernag, Jammu and Kashmir
Timings: 24-hours
How to reach Yousmarg: Srinagar International Airport is the nearest international airport to Yousmarg and is situated 50 km away.
From the airport, you can hire a private taxi or board a bus to Yousmarg. It is easily accessible by road from Srinagar.
17. Doodhpathri
A recently known spot, Doodhpathri, is an unbelievable spot that extends endlessly with the green meadows and exotic flowers. About 50 km from Srinagar, this bowl-shaped valley will surely bring a smile to your face and make your heart full.
It is believed that shepherds from distant places used to come to this land to graze their cattle because the cattle grazed in Doodhpathri produced high quality and quantity of milk.
The name itself means “The Valley of Milk.” It is connected to another great valley, Gurez, in its North. The unending carpet of grassland is a great spot for family picnics and functions.
Location: Chil, Bras, Jammu and Kashmir
Timings: 7 AM to 9 PM
How to reach Doothpathri: Srinagar International Airport is the nearest international airport to Doodhpathri and is situated 43 km away.
The airport is well-connected with the major cities and towns of the country. From the airport, you can hire a private taxi or board a bus to Doodhpathri. It is easily accessible by road from Srinagar.
18. Hari Parbat
Overlooking the city of Srinagar stands this hill of Hari Parbat. The mountain is imposingly visible from all parts of the town; the view is spectacular from Dal Lake.
Hari Parbat is an abode to three main religions of India: bearing the famous Shakti Temple on the Western slope and the Muslim Shrines on the southern slope.
Further on the outer wall of the south is a Gurudwaras. On top of the hill is a fort built during the Mughal reign, it looks like a crown, even in a dilapidated state, and the fortification is still impressive. Hari Parbat is an essential center in this area.
Location: Nohata, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir
Timings: 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM
How to reach Hari Parbat: Srinagar International Airport is the nearest international airport to Hair Parbat and is situated 15 km away.
The airport is well-connected with the major cities and towns of the country. From the airport, you can hire a private taxi or board a bus to Hari Parbat.
It is located at just 4 km from the city center. It is easily accessible by road from Srinagar.
Now, you have the list of the best places to visit in Srinagar to help you plan your Kashmir trip. This beautiful town has something for tourists, including families, kids, couples, honeymooners, solo travelers, and friends. So, plan your Srinagar tour and ensure you have these unique places on your itinerary for a memorable experience. Also, we give an excellent point of coordination with family members. So, contact us and book 4 nights 5 days Kashmir package. With this package, you can explore all these famous destinations.
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Tusharika
A travel enthusiast and emerging from an engineering background Tusharika is a travel writer by profession. Go through her penned down travel experiences on indianholiday.com
Such a Beautiful blog !! A beautiful place to visit with family, friends and partner….”Kashmir”….aaaahhhh…just love the beauty, surroundings, nature and lot of more things that can never forget.