Srinagar, the “Crown of Kashmir,” unfolds its magic in the summer months, transforming into a breathtaking paradise with vibrant landscapes and serene beauty. With the snow-capped peaks and glistening lakes, the experience in Srinagar is augmented beyond comprehension. Lush meadows burst with wildflowers, while the gentle murmur of water creates a sense of peace as you step foot in the best yet underrated places to visit in Srinagar in summer. The weather is pleasant during this season, enabling you to make the most out of your travel experience.
10 Underrated Places To Visit In Srinagar In Summer
As you explore the places to visit in Srinagar in summer, you will realise there’s something to enjoy for people of all ages.
1. Nigeen Lake
Photo: Nilesh Keshri / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Dal Lake, during summer months, experiences a surge in the influx of tourists, so you can take an escape and rather visit Nigeen Lake located just next to the Dal Lake. It got its name from the word “Nageena,” which means “jewel in the ring,” and it is rightly so. Resting at the foot of Zabarwan Mountain, the crystal clear water of Nigeen Lake offers a tranquil escape without being in an overcrowded destination. Witnessing the sunrise, indulging in Kashmiri cuisine on a houseboat, and exploring lotus gardens by Shikara are some experiences you just can’t skip.
Location: 7 km from Srinagar
Timings: 7 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: N/A
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Jammu
2. Chashme Shahi
Photo: Dvellakat / Wikimedia Commons
Chashme Shahi, meaning “Spring of the Emperor,” is a magnificent Mughal garden perched atop a hill. Overlooking the Dal Lake, it is a 3 terraced garden constructed back in 1632 AD by Ali Mardan Khan, who served as a Governor in the Mughal Dynasty during the reign of Emperor Shah Jahan. The architecture of the monument influences the Iranian touch, and the spring water flowing through creates a very soothing ambience. The vibrant flower and fruit trees all around further add to the ambience of the place.
Location: 7, Boulevard Road, Chashma Shahi, Rainawari, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190001
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹40
3. Manasbal Lake
Photo: Nsheenm / Wikimedia Commons
The second largest freshwater lake in Kashmir, Manasbal Lake is still an underrated lake which flows through the villages of Kondabal, Gratbal, and Jarorkbal. The lake is covered by verdant meadows all around, but the main highlight is the ruins of the 17th-century fort—Daroga Bagh Fort, made by a Mughal ruler. As fewer tourists visit this lake, you can enjoy the serenity, by simply booking shikara rides to watch rare Himalayan bird species frequently passing by this lake. You can also visit the old Hindu Temple resting on the Eastern shores, constructed in around 800 to 900 AD.
Location: Ganderbal district, Jammu and Kashmir
Timings: 8 AM – 9 PM
Entry Fee: N/A
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Gulmarg
4. Chatpal
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Chatpal, adorned with vibrant wildflowers, transforms into a breathtaking spectacle during the summer months. It is small and quaint, receives very few tourists and makes its place among the top tourist attractions in Srinagar in summer. There is not much to explore but so much to do when you are closer to nature. Here, you can hike through the meadows, or try Namkeen Kashmiri chai for the first time just sitting, admiring nature and hearing the birds chirping all around. It’s a serene place far away from the regular hustle and bustle of life.
Location: Chatpal, Anantnag district, 79 km from Srinagar
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: N/A
5. Shalimar Bagh
Photo: Adam Jones / Wikimedia Commons
Srinagar doesn’t limit itself to out-of-the-world scenic views and majestic mountains engulfing the city, but it also holds the charm of history and different architecture. When looking for tourist places in Srinagar in summer, you can explore one of its many architectural marvels—Shalimar Bagh. It is the largest Mughal garden in Srinagar, covering 31 acres of area. The architecture has a Persian influence, typical of Char Bagh, and is divided into three terraces. Chini Khanas is the highlight of this garden which is seen in the evening when the oil lamps are lit.
Location: Chinar Chowk, Shalimar, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 191121
Timings: 9:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Entry Fee: ₹24
Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Gulmarg
6. Challi Point
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Quite among the underrated places to visit in Srinagar in summer, Challi Point is located on top of a hill and serves as a viewpoint overlooking the entire city of Srinagar. Overlooking the Dal Lake and Shankaracharya Hills, you can simply enjoy the laid-back vibe of this place. Witnessing panoramic vistas of the valley below, capturing breathtaking photos, and experiencing the thrill of paragliding (weather permitting) happen to be the reason behind the place’s popularity. You can also try out many local snacks from the stalls lined up there.
Location: Near Boulevard, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: N/A
7. Shankaracharya Temple
Photo: Tauqee Zahid / Wikimedia Commons
Shankaracharya Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is an ancient Hindu pilgrimage site perched atop Shankaracharya Hill. The climb to the temple offers a challenging yet rewarding experience, with breathtaking views of the city and surrounding landscapes as your reward. Climbing the Hill is an adventurous experience, visiting the historic temple and seeking blessings, and enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes are a few amazing things that add to the fun.
Location: Shankaracharya Hill, Srinagar
Timings: 7 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: N/A
Suggested Read: Vaishnodevi Temple
8. Kheer Bhawani Temple
Photo: Shivansh.ganjoo / Wikimedia Commons
Another one of the places to visit in Srinagar in summer is the Kheer Bhawani temple, a Hindu temple dedicated to Mata Ragnya. The highlight of this temple is the “spiritual spring,” which is believed to have healing properties. Devotees dip their feet inside the stream for its medicinal benefits. Witnessing the traditional aarti (prayer ceremony) in the temple is a surreal experience and a must-have for religious people. You can sit idly and spend time experiencing the serenity of the place.
Location: Tulmul – Dangerpora Link Rd, Tulmul, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 191201
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: N/A
9. Chatti Padshahi Gurudwara
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Photo: Sngmsh8666 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Revered as the largest Sikh pilgrimage site in Kashmir, the Chatti Padshahi Gurudwara is a majestic spot exuding peace and calmness. It attracts thousands of visitors every day and one can spend the entire day without counting on time. Participating in prayer services (kirtan), witnessing the grandeur of the Gurudwara architecture, and enjoying a free langar meal prepared by the people taking care of Gurudwara would be an unforgettable experience for sure.
Location: 4R3C+7R7, Nowhatta, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190003
Timings: 5 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: N/A
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Sonmarg
10. Dachigam National Park
Photo: Jyoti Chaurasia / Wikimedia Commons
Concluding the list of places for Srinagar trip in summer, the last one is for nature enthusiasts. Witnessing the diverse range of flora and fauna ecosystems, and embarking on wildlife safaris is quite a rewarding experience. You can also witness the endangered hangul deer, which is native to this place. Be it wildlife spotting such as hangul deer, red fox, Himalayan black bear, etc, trekking through scenic landscapes, or birdwatching tours to witness diverse avian species, you just can’t miss out on any.
Location: 42PQ+V4C, Dachigam Road, near Harwan Mughal Garden, Jammu and Kashmir 191202
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: ₹25 (adults)
A well-rounded trip has to include all the best places to visit in Srinagar in summer including the underrated ones. While you have sorted out the spots to visit in Srinagar, you can sort out your bookings and plans with TripXL. With the best deals and rounded itinerary planning, all you have to worry about is packing and leaving for your vacation; everything else is on us!
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