Srinagar

Srinagar, the “Paradise on Earth,” boasts stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and a vibrant history. Here are some more must-visit places to add to your Srinagar itinerary:

• Mughal Gardens: Srinagar is famous for its six Mughal Gardens, reflecting the Persian concept of Paradise gardens. These include:

  • • Nishat Bagh (The Garden of Delight): Built by Mughal emperor Asaf Khan in the 17th century, Nishat Bagh is a terraced garden with cascading fountains, colorful flowers, and a beautiful backdrop of the Dal Lake.
      

      Nishat Bagh, Srinagar
  • Shalimar Bagh (The Abode of Love): Constructed by Mughal emperor Jahangir for his wife Nur Jahan, Shalimar Bagh is the largest of the Mughal gardens in Srinagar. It features a symmetrical layout with fountains, canals, and pavilions.
    

    Shalimar Bagh, Srinagar
  • Chashma Shahi (The Royal Spring): This garden, built by Shah Jahan, is known for its natural spring and the octagonal pool with a cusped archway.
    

    Chashma Shahi, Srinagar
  • Achabal Garden: Located on the banks of the Lidder River, Achabal Bagh is famous for its saffron cultivation and Mughal-era architecture.
    

    Achabal Garden, Srinagar
  • Pari Mahal (The Fairy’s Palace): Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Dal Lake, Pari Mahal was most likely a school of astrology during Mughal rule. The building offers panoramic views of the surroundings.
    

    Pari Mahal, Srinagar
  • Verinag Garden: Situated on the foothills of the Himalayas, Verinag Garden is known for its natural spring that feeds the Mughal canals.
    

    Verinag Garden, Srinagar

• Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden: Asia’s largest tulip garden, spread over 12 hectares, boasts over 50 varieties of tulips in a mesmerizing display of colors. The best time to visit is during the tulip festival held in spring (March-April).

  

  Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden, Srinagar

• Shankaracharya Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this ancient temple perched atop the Shankaracharya Hill offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the surrounding valley.

  

  Shankaracharya Temple, Srinagar

• Nigeen Lake: A quieter alternative to the Dal Lake, Nigeen Lake is a perfect spot for a tranquil shikara ride amidst lotus flowers and lush greenery.

  

  Nigeen Lake, Srinagar

• Hari Parbat: This hillock is a prominent landmark in Srinagar and is home to several religious shrines, including the revered Hazratbal Mosque.

  

  Hari Parbat, Srinagar

• Kheer Bhawani Temple: Dedicated to Mata Ragnya, also known as Kheer Bhawani, this Hindu temple is a pilgrimage site, especially for Kashmiri Pandits.

  

  Kheer Bhawani Temple, Srinagar

• • Shankaracharya Hill: A hilltop temple dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, Shankaracharya Hill offers panoramic views of Srinagar city and the surrounding valley. Visitors can hike or take a pony ride to the top of the hill.
    

    Shankaracharya Hill, Srinagar

• Pari Mahal (The Fairy’s Palace): A palace located on a hilltop overlooking the Dal Lake, Pari Mahal is believed to have been built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan for his wife. The palace is now in ruins, but it still offers stunning views of the lake and the city.
  

  Pari Mahal, Srinagar
• Hazratbal Friday Mosque: An important mosque located on the banks of the Dal Lake, Hazratbal Friday Mosque is a beautiful example of Kashmiri architecture. The mosque is a popular place for Muslims to gather for Friday prayers.
  

  Hazratbal Friday Mosque, Srinagar

These are just a few of the many sightseeing places in Srinagar. With its rich history, beautiful scenery, and cultural attractions, Srinagar is a city that is sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors.