Srinagar

The summer capital of J&K, with Dal Lake, houseboats and Mughal gardens.

Srinagar

Overview

Srinagar sits in the Kashmir Valley, the summer capital of Jammu & Kashmir and the natural starting point for almost every journey into the region. Built along the Jhelum and Dal Lake, it blends Mughal-era grandeur with a living, floating culture of shikaras, water markets and carved-wood houseboats.

A stay here is about slowing down. Drift past lotus gardens at dawn, wander the terraced Mughal gardens as the chinar trees turn, and watch the Pir Panjal peaks change colour over the lake at dusk.

How to Reach

By Air

Srinagar International Airport (SXR) is ~14 km from the city, with daily direct flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru and other metros.

By Train

The nearest railheads are Jammu Tawi and Banihal, connected onward to the valley by a scenic road and the new valley rail link.

By Road

NH44 links the valley to Jammu and the rest of the country, a memorable drive through tunnels and pine valleys; cabs and coaches run daily.

Best Time to Visit

Spring · Mar-May

Almond blossom and the famous tulip garden in full bloom, with crisp, photogenic days and the freshest valley colours.

Summer · Jun-Aug

Pleasant 15-30°C weather, ideal for shikara rides, gardens and day trips to Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonmarg.

Winter · Dec-Feb

Snow blankets the valley and the lakes freeze over in the mornings. It is quieter, and the gateway to skiing in Gulmarg.

Places to Visit

Dal Lake & Shikara ride: the floating heart of the city
Mughal Gardens: Shalimar, Nishat & Chashme Shahi terraces
Shankaracharya Temple: hilltop views over the valley
Tulip Garden: Asia's largest, in bloom each spring
Dachigam National Park: Hangul deer & wildlife
Hazratbal Shrine & the old-city bazaars