Like other tourists, if you’re a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or an adventure seeker, you would love the summer capital of Jammu & Kashmir, Srinagar. It is quite sympathetic, because it is enfolded in the fulfilling Kashmir valley, giving it its gentle utter for its tourists. Srinagar is known for its breathtaking sights, intricate gardens, and a rich culture full of history. Cruising the renowned Dal Lake or exploring the Mughal gardens is an enchanting experience.
Let’s discuss the 10 best tourist places in Srinagar. The local cuisine, which is not to be missed, alongside historical landmarks and shopping spots, also adds to an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re travelling solo, as a family, or with a partner, this guide aims to help you fit this heavenly location into your journey.
1. Dal Lake: Best Places to Visit in Srinagar
Dal Lake in Srinagar is one of the best places to visit in Srinagar. Its crown jewel, further blessed with other places. It now also has a serene charm. The lake is also encapsulated by snow-capped mountains, which provide a breathtaking glimpse to tourists. The area of the lake also spans across 18 square miles.
It is essential to try a shikara ride on Dal Lake if you are a traveller to this region. The wooden boats offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes as they easily glide over the clear waters. You may also choose to stay on one of the famous houseboats that provide a glimpse of true Kashmiri warmth and hospitality.
Key Attractions:
- Shikara rides at sunset
- Houseboat stays
- Floating markets and gardens
2. Mughal Gardens: A Glimpse of Royalty
The Mughal gardens in Srinagar are a mark of the greatness and magnificence of the Mughal Empire. The meticulously designed terraced Persian-style gardens with running water channels and blooming flower beds provide an oasis of tranquility to those trying to get a break from the chaos of the city. The best-known Mughal gardens are Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, and Chashme Shahi. Each has its unique beauty and rich history that showcases the opulent lifestyle of the Mughal rulers.
Key Attractions:
- Shalimar Bagh: Built by Emperor Jahangir for his wife Nur Jahan
- Nishat Bagh: Known for its impressive water channels and scenic views of Dal Lake
- Chashme Shahi: Famous for its natural spring water, believed to have medicinal properties
3. Shankaracharya Temple: Spiritual Serenity
Also referred to as Shankaracharya Temple, it sits at the top of Shankaracharya Hill. From here, visitors can have one of the best views of the city and the valleys surrounding it. The temple is over two and a half thousand years old, is a key site of pilgrimage, and represents a vital part of the history and spirituality of the city. The Shankaracharya temple is not only famed for the spirituality it offers, but the breathtaking views of the Dal Lake and the sprawling city.
Key Attractions:
- Panoramic views of Srinagar
- Ancient Hindu temple architecture
- Peaceful surroundings for meditation
4. Hazratbal Shrine: A Place of Peace and Reverence
The Hazratbal Shrine is one of the best Srinagar tourist places and most revered religious sites in Srinagar. Located on the northern shores of Dal Lake, this white marble mosque holds a significant place in the hearts of the local Muslim community. The shrine is home to a relic believed to be a hair strand of Prophet Muhammad, making it an important pilgrimage site.
Visitors can admire the stunning architecture of the mosque, with its elegant domes and minarets, and soak in the peaceful ambience of the surrounding gardens and lake.
Key Attractions:
- Relic of Prophet Muhammad
- Beautiful mosque architecture
- Scenic views of Dal Lake
5. Pari Mahal: A Historical Marvel
Pari Mahal, located over Dal Lake, is one of the must-visit places in Srinagar as well as a historic site which was once a royal observatory. It was built during the Mughal dynasty. The palace is located in the middle of terraced gardens, which illustrate the architecture of that time. It is a site that welcomes and intrigues many lovers of history and photography. Paris Mahal, which in English means “Palace of Fairies.”
Without a doubt, the sight from the Pari Mahal is remarkable, offering a view of Dal Lake, the lush hills, and the greenery of Srinagar. It is a breathtaking sight to behold, especially during the sunset, making it one of the best tourist places in Srinagar for travellers seeking unforgettable views.
Key Attractions:
- Mughal-era architecture
- Beautiful terraced gardens
- Stunning views of Srinagar and Dal Lake
6. Nigeen Lake: A Quieter Alternative to Dal Lake
If you want the best places to visit in Srinagar, Nigeen Lake is ideal, as it is more peaceful than Dal Lake. While it is less busy, this tranquil lake, surrounded by willow and poplar trees, provides a great retreat to peaceful surroundings for those seeking some quiet. Additionally, Nigeen Lake also has houseboats, as does Dal Lake, and you can spend the night in the lap of nature.
Key Attractions:
- Peaceful houseboat stays
- Scenic views and a peaceful environment
- Great for birdwatching and relaxing
7. Chashme Shahi
Chashme Shahi, the ‘Royal Spring’, is a stunning Mughal garden in Srinagar built around a natural spring. Known for its terraced lawns, vibrant flowers, and breathtaking views of Dal Lake, it offers a peaceful escape for visitors seeking nature’s beauty and a glimpse into Kashmir’s rich Mughal heritage.
Key Attractions:
- Royal Spring
- Mughal garden architecture
- Terraced lawns
- Vibrant flower beds
- Panoramic Dal Lake views
- Natural spring water
8. Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden
Located at the foothills of the Zabarwan Range, the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden is Asia’s largest tulip garden. It’s one of the best tourist places in Srinagar with stunning views and amazing fragrance all over the place. Every spring, it bursts into a colourful display of millions of tulips, with the backdrop of Dal Lake and snow-covered mountains creating a breathtaking sight for nature lovers and photographers.
Key Attractions:
- Asia’s largest tulip garden
- Millions of blooming tulips
- Seasonal flower displays
- Dal Lake backdrop
- Zabarwan mountain views
9. Jamia Masjid
Jamia Masjid in Srinagar is a grand 14th-century mosque built by Sultan Sikandar. Known for its magnificent wooden architecture, 378 wooden pillars, and a serene courtyard, it stands as a peaceful retreat amid the bustling city, reflecting Kashmir’s cultural richness and Islamic architectural brilliance.
Key Attractions:
- 14th-century wooden architecture
- 378 deodar pillars
- Serene courtyard
- Islamic calligraphy
- Cultural and historical significance
10. Hari Parbat
Hari Parbat is a historic fort and spiritual site overlooking Srinagar. Surrounded by ancient temples, mosques, and gurdwaras, it offers panoramic views of Dal Lake and the city. Steeped in history and legend, it is a must-visit for those interested in culture, heritage, and scenic beauty.
Key Attractions:
- Historic fort
- Panoramic Srinagar views
- Religious sites (temples, mosques, gurdwaras)
- Mughal-era architecture
- Spiritual importance
Bonus: Explore Srinagar Culture for the Best Experience
1. Local Cuisine: A Gastronomic Delight
A visit to Srinagar is incomplete without savouring its local mouth-watering dishes. Kashmiri cuisine is greatly influenced by Mughal and Persian cooking styles, with the local flavours being rich and aromatic. Be sure to indulge in the famous Wazwan feast featuring dishes like Rogan Josh, Gushtaba, and Yakhni.
Don’t forget to enjoy the Kahwa (traditional Kashmiri tea), Tabak Maaz, and Kashmiri Naan, some of the best fast foods in Srinagar. From exquisite local restaurants to street vendors, the taste of Srinagar is unforgettable.
Key Attractions:
- Wazwan: A traditional multi-course meal
- Kashmiri Kahwa: Saffron-infused tea
- Rogan Josh and other local delicacies
2. Shopping in Srinagar: A Paradise for Shopaholics
Kashmir is famous for the region’s carpet weaving and handloom industry. Shop in the city for wonderful Pashmina shawls, Kashmiri carpets, hand-stitched garments, and other beautifully embroidered and crafted goods. The Lal Chowk, Polo View, and Badshah Chowk markets all offer great shopping in Srinagar.
Don’t forget to take home a piece of Kashmir’s art and culture as a souvenir!
Key Attractions:
- Pashmina shawls and handwoven carpets
- Papier-mâché items and walnut wood crafts
- Traditional Kashmiri jewellery and embroidered garments
3. Adventure Activities: Thrills for the Brave
Srinagar has a lot to offer for those seeking some action, with great mountaineering and water sports in Dal Lake. Other popular adventurous activities are paragliding, river and ski at the hill station of Gulmarg in the winter.
For nature lovers, birdwatching and hiking in the stunning natural surroundings of the city are great additions.
Key Attractions:
- Trekking and hiking trails
- Water sports on Dal Lake
- Winter skiing in Gulmarg
4. Cultural Experiences: Festivals and Traditions
Srinagar is well known for its unique music, dances, and traditional crafts. The city hosts several cultural festivals, including the Tulip Festival in the spring and the Shikara Festival in the summer. The Sufiana Kalam and Rouf dance are also performed in the city and are an integral part of Kashmiri music and dance folklore.
To appreciate the local culture, one should visit the artisan workshops, attend cultural festivals, or learn the region’s unique customs and contemporary traditions.
Key Attractions:
- Tulip Festival: Celebrating the blooming of tulips in Srinagar
- Shikara Festival: Celebrating the traditional boat culture of Kashmir
- Sufiana music and Rouf dance performances
Black Taxi India: Your Travel Companion in Srinagar
Everything you want to see in Srinagar can be made more convenient and simpler. Depending on your needs, if you wish to visit multiple scenic locations, historical places, or embark on an adventure, you can hire a comfortable taxi with Black Taxi India, which also provides luxury taxi service in Chandigarh & Delhi for your convenience.
