About Srinagar
Srinagar is the largest city in the Kashmir Valley and the union territory's summer capital, spread along the Jhelum River and the edges of Dal Lake. Framed by the Zabarwan hills, it is famous for its houseboats, Mughal-era gardens, and centuries-old craft traditions such as pashmina weaving, papier-mache and walnut wood carving.
The old city's shrines, mosques and bazaars sit alongside quiet waterways, making Srinagar both a destination in itself and the natural base for trips deeper into Kashmir.
Visitor essentials
What to look for
- Dal Lake houseboats and shikara rides
- Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh Mughal gardens
- Jamia Masjid and the old-town bazaars
- Shankaracharya Temple hill and Hazratbal Shrine
When to go
In season now
Best months: Apr–Oct.
On the map
Nearby
Dal Lake
Srinagar's iconic urban lake, ringed by Mughal gardens and houseboats
Pahalgam
Riverside hill town on the Lidder, and the traditional start of the Amarnath Yatra
Gulmarg
Kashmir's premier ski resort and alpine meadow beneath Apharwat Peak
Distances are straight-line, not by road.