Amidst the majestic Himalayan peaks, the northernmost state of India, Kashmir has splendid beauty and landscapes that captivate the senses and enchant the soul. And so, a trip to Kashmir is often on the list of many tourist places in India. Srinagar, J&K’s summer capital is a picturesque destination that presents cultural richness, architectural marvels, and natural splendour for discerning travellers. Places to visit in Srinagar include its serene lakes, verdant gardens, and the timeless charm of its historic landmarks. From the iconic Mughal-era gardens to the tranquil Dal Lake, where colourful shikaras (traditional wooden boats) glide, the city presents a visual feast for an explorer of every kind.
If you have a Kashmir trip coming up, we give you the best tourist spots in Srinagar to experience the richness of the state altogether. The vibrant heritage stunning architecture, or the panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains Srinagar is a true gem in the crown of Kashmir.
List of Best Tourist Places in Srinagar
Nigeen Lake
A tranquil lake surrounded by willow and poplar trees, Nigeen Lake is locally called a ‘jewel in the ring’. Comparatively less crowded than the Dal Lake, it should be one of the places to visit in Srinagar if you prefer peaceful spots over popular ones. Enjoy a beautiful rendezvous of both sunrise and sunset from the banks of the lake.
To immerse in its beauty day to night, while enjoying a traditional feast, we recommend booking a houseboat stay in Kashmir at Harmukh Houseboats in Srinagar. It is not just any other houseboat but a very luxurious stay which beautifully encapsulates the traditions of the region. Be it lush hand-woven carpets, intricately carved details or a cup of hot Kashmiri Kahwa as you enter, you will be staying on the banks of Nigeen Lake.
Pari Mahal
Believed to be the Palace of Fairies as per local folklore, this is an impressive garden with seven terraces, at the top of Zabarwan mountain range. A depiction of Islamic architecture and art patronage, built in the mid-1600s, it offers a panoramic view of Srinagar city. Back then it was also used as an observatory for teaching astrology and astronomy.
Dal Lake
Even a first-time traveller to Kashmir knows about Dal Lake—it’s so iconic as best tourist places in Srinagar. Other than being an important source of commerce in the city, it is also famous for the shikara rides. No matter which season you visit, the beauty of the lake only amplifies. It is the most visited spot in all of Kashmir, by tourists and is equally loved by locals.
Noor, our luxury villa in Srinagar is a stone’s throw from Dal Lake. And trust us, when we call it a dream home in Kashmir. With 9 spacious bedrooms, breathtaking views of the Dal Lake, a breathtaking glass house with a library, a dedicated Hammam room and lush lawns out front, staying here is an experience in itself.
Char Chinar
A highlight within the tranquil waters of Dal Lake, this is a small island. It gets its name from the four chinar trees growing in the corners of the structure. When you take a boat ride of Dal Lake while exploring tourist spots in Srinagar, stop by here and frame this perfect structure.
Hari Parbat Fort
Hari Parbat is a commendable structure to document the secular nature of our nation. It’s a fort built by the Durrani Empire in the early 19th century. The fortification atop a hill features a Hindu temple, a Sikh gurudwara and several mosques. This tourist spot in Srinagar is another vantage point overlooking the city.
Mughal Gardens
Srinagar has a total of four Mughal Gardens, each of them paradisiacal in their own way. Influenced by the Persian Garden structures, these are the best places to visit in Srinagar during the autumn and spring seasons (April to June). The gardens are in full bloom and the lush verdure is a sight to behold. Take long walks and admire nature showing off its best.
Tulip Garden
Plan a trip to Kashmir during March-April if you want to visit Asia’s largest tulip gardens. The Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden near Dal Lake blooms with about 60 varieties of colourful tulips during summer. The stunning display of vibrant tulips in full bloom can be captured countless times in photos, but the true unforgettable impression is when you observe them all right in front of your eyes.
It is advisable to book accommodations near Dal Lake, to reach the opening hours when there are fewer crowds. If you are visiting with your partner, check out The Red Cottage at Zaznar, our luxury stay in Srinagar. This 1 bedroom holiday home has scenic garden views from the windows. You can have a cosy bonfire out here.
Dachigam National Park
Located 22 km from the city, the national park in Kashmir is a part of the western Himalayas consisting of varying topography. It has a beautiful cover of coniferous trees interspersed with alpine pastures. It is famous for sighting the Kashmir stag (Hangul). Musk deer, jackals, hill foxes, jungle cats, and Himalayan weasels are some of the wildlife you can spot here. If you are lucky, you may even spot the elusive snow leopards from a distance.
These are some of the best places to visit in Srinagar. It is possible to explore these within a couple of days. Don’t forget to return with a piece of tradition, shop at the bazaars in Srinagar for hand-woven rugs, Kahwa tea packets or soft Pashmina shawls. For immersing in more picturesque beauty of Kashmir, plan your journey towards Sonmarg, Gulmarg and Pahalgam or further into the valley.
Lohono Stays’ has beautiful private villas in Pahalgam which let you embrace the pristine beauty while enjoying an impressive best-catered stay. Even if you have a tight itinerary for Kashmir, plan a day to unwind with us. We assure you of local experiences laden with modern comforts.
