Srinagar famously known as “Heaven on Earth” is a beautiful destination for those looking to find peace and tranquillity in nature. Known as one of India’s most charming cities, it is famous for its romantic atmosphere, serene views, and heavenly picturesque places attracting visitors from all over the world. Most sought-after places to visit in Srinagar will only fill you with admiration offering a mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Get ready to sort out your itinerary and make your trip a memorable one.
Top 10 Places To Visit In Srinagar
Here is a list of places to visit in Srinagar for seeking adventure in the rugged mountains or just wanting to relax by the lake.
1. Dal Lake
Photo: Poet Shankar Gurjar / Wikimedia Commons
A boat ride on the serene waters of Dal Lake, one of the places to visit in Srinagar, lets experience the spirit of the city. The second-largest lake in the capital city of Jammu and Kashmir has vibrant markets and fantastic houseboats made with excellent wood carving skills. One can visit the Lake during sunset, to witness the awe of majestic mountains, as they provide a backdrop while sunset paints the sky with hues of red and orange shading into each other. You can also buy some local snacks from vendors selling on the boats.
Location: Boulevard Rd, Srinagar 190001
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹700 onwards
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Kashmir
2. Shalimar Bagh
Photo: Adam Jones / Wikimedia Commons
One of the most beautiful testimonies to Mughal architecture is Shalimar Bagh. Jahangir, the Mughal emperor constructed it. The preciseness of its formation with fountains, channels, and buildings creates symmetry as part of the Mughal royalty making it a must-visit tourist attraction in Srinagar. Connected to Dal Lake by a serene channel, this garden offers more than just picturesque views. A walk amidst its lush greenery and vibrant blooms is an experience that transcends the ordinary with a heavenly vibe.
Location: Chinar Chowk, Shalimar, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 191121
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹24
3. Nigeen Lake
Photo: Farhaan Mushtaq Parimoo / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
For those looking for tranquillity away from the hustle and bustle of city life, Nigeen Lake is the perfect destination among the tourist places in Srinagar. Although perceived as part of Dal Lake, Nigeen Lake is indeed lovable one can walk along the lakeside or take a leisurely boat ride. It is awarded with the title of “Jewel of the Ring,” for its very name which translates to “Nageena.” The surroundings of the willows and popular trees, create a beautiful landscape for the tourists to behold. The best time to feel the lake’s calmness is during sunrise or sunset.
Location: Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India
Timings: 7 AM – 8 PM
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Kashmir In December
4. Doodhpathri
Photo: Ankur P / Wkimedia Commons
If you are an adventurer and desire an escape from a busy lifestyle to a serene heavenly destination, then Doodhpathri should be your destination. The snow-covered peaks make it look like a valley of milk; the streams too appear milky hence its name ‘Doodhpathri’. The lush meadows and thick forests that envelop this valley make it perfect for camping, trekking, and picnicking in this picturesque location. Everything together weaves a picture-perfect image of heaven making it a must in Srinagar tourist places.
Location: Khansahib tehsil of the Budgam district, Jammu and Kashmir, India
Timings: 24*7
5. Jama Masjid
Photo: Hanasikkar / Wkimedia Commons
This iconic heritage is one of the oldest mosques of Kashmir, and it is one of the most popular places to visit in Srinagar without any doubt. Sultan Sikandar of Kashmir built the masjid back in 1400 A.D. which is heavily influenced by Persian architecture. One can also witness an influence of Indo-Saracenic architecture design in 370 wooden pillars, which is the highlight of the Masjid. This place is not just an attraction for religious people but also caters to tourists in search of heritage, history, and architecture.
Location: Nowhatta Kathi Darwaza Road, Nowhatta, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190003
Timings: 3 PM – 7 PM
Suggested Read: Kashmir Mosques
6. Manasbal Lake
Photo: Soporekashmir / Wikimedia Commons
Take a break from the fast-paced city life and discover the beauty of Jammu and Kashmir’s largest freshwater lake. The lake is surrounded by lush green Baladar Mountains, making it an ideal place to relax for nature lovers. In the summer, the lake gets covered in lotus turning into the lotus paradise, and in winter, the frozen lake becomes a favourite spot of migratory birds. Manasbal Lake offers boating facilities for visitors who would like to enjoy the calm waters of the lake. No doubt why the lake is on the Srinagar tourist places list.
Location: Safapora area of Ganderbal District in Jammu and Kashmir, India
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹24
7. Pari Mahal
Photo: Subrata Rationalist / Wikimedia Commons
Built-in the mid-1600s, Pari Mahal, or The Palace of Fairies, is one of the best places to visit in Srinagar. It is a mesmerising architectural masterpiece that offers panoramic views over the Himalayas surrounding it and sits on top of a hill above Srinagar’s charming town area. A small spring, varied flower species, terraces, detailed carvings, and man-made plants arranged uniquely will make you step into a different time, where elegance and beauty reign supreme. The Mahal was known for its graceful style and stunning craftsmanship during the Mughal dynasty.
Location: Near Pari Mahal Parking, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190001
Timings: 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM
Entry Fee: ₹40,
Suggested Read: Forts In Jammu
8. Chasme Shahi Garden
Photo: ShamoonHamdani / Wikimedia Commons
Surrounded by greenery and waterfalls, Chashme Shahi Garden is a serene oasis of calm and beauty allowing the tranquil ambience to envelope you entirely. Hence, the reason why it is one of the tourist places in Srinagar. It is said that the garden was discovered by Rupa Bhawani, a female saint in Kashmir. Later, the garden got its name from her clad and was originally named “Chashme Sahibi.” Later, it was built under the rule of Shah Jahan and the governance of Governor Ali Mardan in the 16th century.
Location: 7, Boulevard Road, Chashma Shahi, Rainawari, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190001
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹10
9. Dachigam National Park
Photo: Billyakhtar / Wikimedia Commons
Embark on a wildlife adventure and explore the pristine wilderness of Dachigam National Park, one of the places for the Srinagar trip. The park is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, including the elusive Kashmir stag and the endangered Himalayan black bear. The entire park is spread over an area of 141 Km and is filled with alpine pastures, steep wooded slopes, and valleys. The park’s initial motive was to provide clean water in an area but was later converted to a protected area in 1910.
Location: Dachigam Road, near Harwan Mughal Garden, Jammu and Kashmir 191202
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)
Entry Fee: ₹25 for adults, ₹100 for carrying camera
Suggested Read: National Parks In Jammu And Kashmir
10. Indira Gandhi Tulip Garden
Photo: Pmedh / Wikimedia Commons
Indulge yourself in a burst of colours at the Indira Gandhi Tulip Garden, which is the largest tulip garden in Asia located in the heart of Srinagar. The garden spreads across acres of greenery and showcases 40 different varieties and thousands of lively tulip flowers in a myriad of shades. For instance, witness the stunning views, and take a relaxing walk along the meandering pathways. Remember to bring your camera to capture the beauty of the tulip garden. But, keep in mind that there is an additional fee for using a still camera.
Location: Cheshma Shahi Rd, Rainawari, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190001
Timings: 8 AM – 7 PM
Entry Fee: ₹75 for adults, ₹30 for children
Now that you have the list of places to visit in Srinagar, prepare the itinerary accordingly. Plan a trip with TripXL and explore this enchanting Srinagar nestled amidst the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Kashmir Valley. So, don’t think further, Srinagar offers a multitude of stunning sights, whether you’re drawn to nature’s splendour or the rich cultural tapestry, from tranquil lakes to lush gardens.
Cover Photo: Kundra95 / Wikimedia Commons