Srinagar India

Srinagar, is located in the heart of the Kashmir valley at an altitude of 1,730 m above sea level. This Paradise on Earth is extended along both the banks of river Jhelum and is the capital of the state of Jammu and Kashmir. Srinagar is well known for its lakes gardens, house boats, kashmiri handicrafts and dry fruits. Fascinated by the beauty of this valley, Mughal emperor Jahangir called it the heaven on earth. There are a several tourist spots in and around Srinagar.

Getting There

By Air : Various airlines fly to Srinagar from New Delhi, Chandigarh, Amritsar, Jammu.

By Road : Srinagar is connected by road to Jammu, and thus to many parts of North India.

By Rail : Srinagar's railhead is Jammu, and is connected to all parts of the country.

Related Accommodations

In Srinagar there are hotels to match every need in terms of price, location and facilities. Tourists are provided a perfect mix of cordial and friendly feel while staying in the hotel. Staying in a houseboat can be a unique experience.

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Did You Know?

• Chakri is a major and popular form of Kashmiri folk music.
• Hafiz Nagama is a form of dance which is performed in the company of the Sufiana music.
• Water Trekking is the local name given to the four day long trip along the river Jhelum to various lakes in a Shikara.
• A legend states that Kashmir earlier was a vast lake whose water was drained out by a Hindu sage Kashyapa and came into being the beautiful valley of Kashmir.

Attractions

Dal Lake

Also called the jewel in the crown of Kashmir, the Dal Lake is divided in four parts, Gagribal, Lokut Dal, Bod Dal and Nagin consequently. Many floating hotels can be seen on the lake which provides tourists a luxurious and memorable stay. Shikara ride on Dal Lake gives visitor the oppurtunity to see the unmatched and breathtaking beauty of Srinagar.

Shalimar Bagh

This garden was built by Mughal emperor Jahangir for his beloved wife Nur Jahan. The garden includes four terraces of 539 by 182 meters connected by a water channel and fountains. Widespread flora of the garden are capitaving.

Hazaratbal Mosque

The mosque of Hazratbal, a symbol of spendid architecture, is a major tourist attraction in Kashmir. It is made up of white marble and is situated on the bank of Dal lake. This mosque is made in the honour of Prophet Mohammad and his sacred hair is preserved here. This shrine is also widely known as Dargah Sharief and Assar-e-Sharief.

Shankaracharya Temple

Popularly known as Takht-e-Suleiman, this temple is devoted to Lord Shiva and is situated at 1100ft. above sea level. It is believed that Shankaracharya stayed at this place some time in the tenth century to revive "Sanatan Dharma". This temple is of great archaeological importance. From the temple, tourists can have a splendid look of the Srinagar city.

Travel Facts

Area 2228 sq km
Population 7.08 lakhs
Climate Summer: 29.5 °C - 10.6 °C Winter: 7.3 °C - -1.9 °C
Languages Kashmiri, Urdu, Hindi, English
Best Time to Visit Throughout the year
Excursion Verinag(80 kms), Anantnag(64 km), Sonamarg(87 Kms), Pahalgam(86 Kms), Gulmarg(56 Kms)

Must Try Out

Shopping

Srinagar is renowned for Kashmiri handicrafts and dry fruits. Woolen and silk carpets are extraordinary and special. Islamic and Persian influence are reflected in the carpets having elaborate embroideries and patterns. Tourists must buy Pashmina shawls and items made of walnut wood which can be a good gift for the relatives back home.

Cuisine

In Srinagar, Wazawan, an extensive meal consisting of meat dishes, vegetables, rice, and dessert is a formal Kashmiri meal. Non vegetarian dishes include Gushtaba (meatballs), Badam Pasand (meat with almonds), Rista (meat balls), Seekh Kababs, Roganjosh, Yakhni. Dam-Aaloo, Chaman, Kashmiri Pulao with saffron must be relished. Visitor must try a cup of kahwah, or green tea flavored with spices.