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Srinagar, during the peak winter months, transforms into a mesmerising winter wonderland. Besides the bone-chilling cold, there is a wide range of activities awaiting your presence. The vibrancy of the city peaks through the white blanket of snow. However, as you plan your trip, the key factor is to make notes of the best places to visit in Srinagar in winter. Srinagar is a treasure trove of experiences during winter. For instance, the Mughal Gardens, dusted in a thin blanket of snow, turn into a paradise in winter.
Top 14 Places To Visit In And Around Srinagar In Winter
From lake cruises to majestic Mughal gardens, Srinagar promises an unforgettable winter sojourn. Adding these famous places to visit in Srinagar should bring together your experience.
1. Dal Lake
Dal Lake is known as the crown jewel of Srinagar. The kind of ethereal beauty that it takes during the winter months further explains why it’s one of the most famous tourist attractions in Srinagar in winter. The houseboats, docked on the water, rest on a frozen surface, creating a magical scene. You can take a shikara ride across the semi-frozen lake, which will feel surreal. However, the best part of the ride is getting to witness the reflection of the majestic and pristine white mountains against the lake’s icy surface.
Location: Dal Lake, Srinagar – 190001
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Top Experiences: Shikara Rides
Suggested Read: Explore Dal Lake In December
2. Mughal Gardens
Photo: Farhaan Mushtaq Parimoo / Pexels
What else will be more fascinating than to witness gardens and the adjoining architecture covered in snow? A visit down to Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh will answer that question for you. While the vibrant flora is usually subdued in winter, the snow-laden gardens usually have a unique charm to them. The cascading fountains, which are a highlight during summer, are adorned in icicles during this time. Also, the snow-dusted pathways make for a perfect backdrop for a dreamy Srinagar tourist place in winter, perfect for photoshoots.
Location: Located on the eastern shore of Dal Lake
Timings: Nishat Bagh: 9 AM – 7 PM; Shalimar Bagh: 9 AM – 7 PM
Cost/Person: Nishat Bagh: ₹30 per person; Shalimar Bagh: ₹20 per adult and ₹10 per child
3. Nigeen Lake
Up next on the list of the best places to visit in Srinagar in winter vacation is Nigeen Lake. It’s a quieter and less crowded tourist place in Srinagar in winter, an alternative to Dal Lake. This heart-shaped lake offers a serene experience, perfect for nature lovers. During the winter season, you can witness the snow-laden lotus flowers that often cover the surface of the lake. Shikara rides are available here as well, offering a glimpse into the breathtaking scenery around you while travelling on a frozen lake.
Location: 116, Nigeen, Mirza Bagh, Srinagar – 190006
Timings: 7 AM – 8 PM
Suggested Read: Famous Lakes In Jammu And Kashmir
4. Shankaracharya Temple
Photo: Shashank Kumawat / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
For spiritual and religious tourists, a trip to the Shankaracharya Temple in Srinagar is a must. This ancient Hindu temple attracts thousands of devotees of Lord Shiva each year and is one of the top places to visit in winter season in Srinagar. As you make your way to the top, the ascent can be challenging but the panoramic views of the snow-clad city make up for it. The exhilarating ropeway ride to the top adds to the adventure, providing glimpses of the serene Dal Lake and the snow-capped mountains.
Location: Kothi Bagh / Durganag, Srinagar
Timings: 7:30 AM – 8 PM
5. Dachigam National Park
Photo: Jyoti Chaurasia / Wikimedia Commons
Exploring a national park during the winter months needs to be part of your Srinagar winter tourist places list. The reason why Dachigam is one of the top places to visit in Srinagar during winter is because of its exhilarating wildlife safaris. If luck is on your side, you might get to witness rare Himalayan animals like the hangul deer or red fox. Besides animals, this national park is also home to unique plants and migratory birds. Getting to witness unique species of birds finding refuge there during the colder months is quite fascinating.
Location: Dachigam Road, near Harwan Mughal Garden, Jammu and Kashmir 191202
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: ₹25 for adults
Suggested Read: Dachigam National Park
6. Hazratbal Shrine
Photo: Adeelyousuf00 / Wikimedia Commons
Srinagar’s holiest shrine, Hazratbal, is a revered pilgrimage site for Muslims and is one of the places for a Srinagar trip in winter. Being one of the few white marble mosques, it stands out with its serene architecture. Adding this destination to visit in Srinagar in winter gives you a chance to witness the grandeur of this place, which feels like an unreal view in person. Also, the shrine houses the holy relic of Prophet Muhammad’s hair, displayed for public veneration on specific occasions.
Location: Dargah Hazratbal Mosque, University Main Road, Hazratbal, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190006
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
7. Pari Mahal
Photo: Vinay Parepalli / Wikimedia Commons
Pari Mahal is located on a hillock overlooking the Dal Lake and is one of the most revered places to travel in Srinagar in winter. This Mughal palace’s beauty lies in its terraced gardens and architectural intricacies. It was built back in the 1600s by the emperor Shah Jahan. Most of the palace and its surroundings are dusted with snow, which adds to its beauty. A walk through the palace familiarises you with the beauty of the intricate carvings on the walls. Lastly, you can’t miss the panoramic views of the city from the top of the palace.
Location: Pari Mahal Parking, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190001
Timings: 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM
Entry Fee: ₹40 per person
Suggested Read: Forts In Jammu
8. Chashme Shahi
Photo: Farhaan Mushtaq Parimoo / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Translated to “The Royal Spring,” Chashma Shahi is also a scenic tourist place in Srinagar in winter that you must visit. It is a captivating garden that’s adorned with a natural spring pool. The same is usually frozen during the winter. One of the reasons why tourists frequent this spot is to check the medicinal properties of the spring water. With the water freezing, it leaves behind icicles hanging from the walls.
Location: 7, Boulevard Road, Chashma Shahi, Rainawari, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190001
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹40 per person
9. Hari Parbat
Photo: Shibnaths2 / Wikimedia Commons
Hari Parbat is a popular hillock that overlooks the beautiful city of Srinagar. Besides trekking expeditions, popular tourist spots like the Shankaracharya Temple and Hazratbal Shrine are both located at the foot of the hill. So, if you are short on time and want to explore all the places to see in Srinagar in winter, include these spots in a single-day itinerary. The serene atmosphere and panoramic views of the snow-clad city make Hari Parbat a must-visit for those seeking a spiritual and scenic experience.
Location: Nohata, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190003
Timings: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Suggested Read: Hari Parbat Fort
10. Wular Lake
Photo: Soubhagya Maharana / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Witness a beautiful sunset at the Wular Lake which is one of the affordable places to visit in Srinagar in winter. It is one of the largest freshwater lakes in Asia, which remains semi-frozen during the winter. Besides breathtaking sunsets, the surroundings are thronging with birds. This calm spot also makes for the perfect place where you can unwind and enjoy a picnic with your loved ones. You can also indulge in watersports or witness the fishing boats that line the banks of the lake.
How To Reach: 62 KM from Srinagar
Timings: 24×7
11. Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Botanical Garden
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
Nestled at the foothills of the Zabarwan Range, the Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Botanical Garden offers a peaceful retreat even in winter. Though the vibrant flowers may not be in bloom, the serene snow-covered landscape and tall chinar trees create a picturesque scene. It’s a lovely spot for a leisurely walk or a quiet break from the city’s bustle. The garden also provides beautiful views of Dal Lake and the surrounding hills, making it worth a visit in colder months.
Location: Boulevard Road, near Chashme Shahi, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Top Experiences: Winter walks among tall chinar trees, views of Dal Lake, peaceful snowy landscape
Suggested Read: National Parks In Jammu And Kashmir
12. Gulmarg
Photo: Renu yadav / Wikimedia Commons
Just a short drive from Srinagar, Gulmarg transforms into a winter wonderland every year. Blanketed in snow, it becomes a hub for skiing, snowboarding, and gondola rides. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast or simply want to admire snowy vistas, Gulmarg is a must-visit. The famous Gulmarg Gondola takes visitors to breathtaking heights, offering panoramic views of the snow-clad Pir Panjal range. It’s one of the best places to experience snowfall and winter sports in Kashmir.
Location: Baramulla district, approximately 50 km from Srinagar
Top Experiences: Gondola ride, skiing, snowboarding, snow-covered mountain views
13. Doodhpathri
Photo: Ankur P / Wikimedia Commons
Known as the “Valley of Milk,” Doodhpathri is a lesser-known gem located a few hours from Srinagar. In winter, the valley turns into a snowy paradise, with pine-covered slopes and frozen streams adding to its charm. It’s quieter compared to popular spots like Gulmarg, making it ideal for those seeking solitude and scenic beauty. The snow-covered meadows and hills offer excellent opportunities for nature walks and photography, providing a peaceful winter escape amidst the mountains.
Location: Budgam district, approximately 45 km from Srinagar
Top Experiences: Snow meadows, peaceful nature walks, photography, less-crowded winter escape
Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In Doodhpathri
14. Sonamarg
Sonamarg, meaning “Meadow of Gold,” shines in its own right during winter. Though heavy snowfall can sometimes limit access, the journey itself is breathtaking when possible. Surrounded by snow-draped peaks and icy landscapes, the area is ideal for snow treks, sledding, and enjoying pristine nature. The Sindh River often freezes, creating a magical setting for visitors. It’s less crowded during this season, offering a tranquil and memorable experience for those looking to explore Kashmir’s wintry side.
Location: Ganderbal district, approximately 80 km from Srinagar
Top Experiences: Snow trekking, frozen Sindh River, sledding, panoramic snowy mountain views
The heavenly Srinagar during winter is a treasure trove of adventure. Once you have sorted out your list of places to visit in Srinagar in winter, it’s time to secure all your travel bookings with TripXL. Leave the burden of your holiday planning with us while you sort out your travel bags and prepare to embark on your next vacation.
Cover Photo: Suhail Skindar Sofi / Wikimedia Commons
