Whenever you think of or read about Srinagar, you will instantly draw up a picture of the place. Himalayan mountains, shikaras in the Dal Lake, blankets of colourful tulips or lush meadows, are enough to enchant every kind of traveller. The best part about visiting Kashmir is, it is a year-long destination unveiling a different scenery every few months. If you’re short on time and want to get the best of the Kashmir holiday experience, here’s a detailed guide on places to see in and around Srinagar in 2 days.
A brief way to describe Srinagar would be the land of lakes and beautiful gardens. If you have less time on your trip schedule, here are some places to go in Srinagar in 2 days:
Gardens in Srinagar built in the Mughal era impress with their detailed layout, layered displays, blending canals, fountains and small pools, blooming with flowers, fruits and aromatic plants. Even a little walk around these lush areas will fill you with bliss, while you explore the beautiful variety of flora and fauna around.
Isn’t it interesting that the layout of Nishat Bagh symbolizes the 12 zodiac signs? Stretching over 100 acres these are among the must-visit gardens in Srinagar. The terraced layout with cascading waters and remarkable views of Dal Lake is one of the most prominent gardens in Kashmir. A must visit if covering Srinagar in 2 days.
Among the largest Mughal gardens in India, this is in very close vicinity of Nishat Bagh. Built back in 1619 by Emperor Jehangir it is also referred to as “Crown of Srinagar”. Inspired by the Persian gardens, it has three terraces that resemble palace structures like Diwan-e-Aam and Diwan-e-Khas. It is among the top attractions in Srinagar.
One of the fun things to do in Srinagar is to go apple-picking. So, include a trip to apple orchards on your Srinagar local sightseeing. The best time to visit Kashmir for this activity is mid-August to late-September. Growing about 80% produce of the country’s apple supplies, you can walk through apple orchards, pick some ripe red apples and make the best memories. It is ideal if you’re taking a 2-day family trip to Srinagar.
Every list of attractions in Srinagar will have Dal Lake on top of it. It could infact be one of the first places that come to your mind when you plan a Srinagar itinerary. The reflection of snow-capped mountains in the clear waters, a ride in the shikaras, or staying in a houseboat are all part of the Kashmir travel experience.
Nigeen Lake is another of the peaceful places to go in Srinagar. Located at the foothills of Zabarwan Mountain, it is surrounded by tall willow and poplar trees. If you’re wondering Dal Lake or Nigeen Lake which is better, if you enjoy a bit of privacy and being away from tourist crowds, then the latter might be perfect. You can also stay in a houseboat, take a shikara ride and in summer enjoy a few water sports here too.
Kashmir is also a shopper’s paradise. Walk past shops with whiffs of saffron, bargain your way to get soft pashmina garments or handcrafted souvenirs, here are some places for shopping in Srinagar:
When you take a shikara ride in the Dal Lake, you will be tempted to shop from the local vendors who ride in the boats. Shopping in the floating vegetable market is quite an experience. If not veggies, you can pick up fresh lilies or take fruits back home. If you’re staying at a private villa in Srinagar, you can always buy the local produce and go home and cook it in your kitchen.
This is the city square of Srinagar which is also a central market for shopping in Srinagar. You will see a bustling ambience with colourful displays of clothes, locals enjoying some street food stalls and restaurants serving authentic Kashmiri Wazwan.
This is one of the best places to shop in Kashmir as it gives you everything from dry fruits, handicraft items, and bakery delights to authentic saffron and spices.
If you’re exclusively looking for handicrafts, this is the place to visit. You will come across a great collection of Pashmina shawls, embroidered dresses and wooden works of arts and crafts from the skilled artisans of the state. If you’re an art enthusiast, you can find paintings that bring out the culture and skills of the region.
For a leisurely evening stroll, Polo View Market is a must-visit during your Srinagar local sightseeing. The market street shaded by a canopy of majestic Chinar trees, comes alive at dusk as lights illuminate these pathways.
If you’re in Srinagar for 2 days, spend your evenings wandering through the bustling markets, chatting with friendly locals, savouring authentic Kashmiri delicacies, and warming up with a steaming cup of fragrant Kahwa.
Kashmir, with its year-round charm, offers a wide range of hotels for every traveller. However, the steady flow of tourists often means crowded hotels with chattering lobbies. For a more peaceful and personalized experience, why not opt for a private villa? Here’s where you can stay on your 2-day trip to Srinagar:
Stay with the backdrop of snowy-top mountains surrounded by pristine nature while enjoying maximum luxury. This is a 6-bedroom villa but you can also book it as a 3/4/5-bedroom home. This villa in Srinagar is close to both Dal Lake and Nigeen Lake.
If you’re particularly keen on a villa near Dal Lake, you should consider Noor, an extravagant holiday home in Srinagar. Perfect for large groups, it has a glass house with a library, a bedroom with a bathtub and a special Hammam Room to indulge in a refreshing spa session after a day full of Srinagar local sightseeing.
There are several options for a houseboat stay in Kashmir around Dal Lake. For a more exclusive and private stay, you can book The Harmukh Houseboat on the banks of Nigeen Lake. This is a luxury houseboat with wood-panelled interiors, opulent ceilings, intricately carved details and plush hand-woven carpets that give you a glimpse of Kashmir’s rich heritage. Wake up to splendid views and shop for local goods from passing shikaras.
Srinagar offers a great variety of experiences that intermingle local culture, natural beauty and warm hospitality at Lohono. Even if you are for 2 days in Srinagar, the charm of the place with this itinerary will etch an impression on your mind.
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