Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir

Srinagar

Nestled on the banks of the river Jhelum, surrounded by lofty mountains and lush green fields, Srinagar is one of the most dazzling locations anywhere in the world. The literal meaning of Srinagar is ''the city of wealth & abundance''. This, beautiful city is gifted with magnificent lakes such as Dal, Nagin and Anchar. A number of travellers from different parts of the world come here to capture the magic of nature. Srinagar is renowned as a dream destination for tourists and hence referred to as paradise on earth and hence this city attracts many people traveling on Srinagar tour packages. It was founded by King Pravarasen II in 150 AD. The best time to visit Srinagar would be in the winter when the whole city gets a special reason to celebrate as the city witnesses' heavy snow fall. A large number of tourists' heads to Gulmarg to Ski.

KEY ATTRACTION AT Srinagar

Shankaracharya Temple - Jaluka, the son of Emperor Ashoka had built this Shankaracharya Temple around 200 BC. Nestled at an elevation of 1100 feet, the temple is one of the famous sacred sites in Srinagar. The tranquil atmosphere of this temple fills one with great peace of mind.

Wular Lake near Srinagar - Situated at a distance of approximately 60 km away from Srinagar, this magnificent and sensational lake is considered to be the largest fresh-water lake in the country. The Kashmiri sultan Zain-ul-Abidin is reputed to have ordered the construction of the artificial island of Zaina Lank in the middle of the lake in 1444. The fish from here form an important part of the diet of people living here. It is the lifeline of almost eight thousand fishermen.

Shri Pratap Singh Museum - In the Lal Mandi area, this museum was established in 1898. One can find precious ancient terracotta heads from the 3rd century to the 5th century. On the other hand, Srinagar has a huge variety of shawls, arms & armoury, paintings, ancient coins and handicrafts from Ladakh at the Pratap Singh Museum.

Dal Lake - Dal Lake is an alluring place quickly becomes an incomparable part of your holiday. Surrounded by the mighty Himalayas, the lake makes a pleasant picture indeed. The lake is spread over an area of 26 sq. km and is known as ''Srinagar''s jewel''. The place is also quite popular for its house boats as well as Shikara boat rides, angling and canoeing. Poets have written many words on the beauty of this place and many Bollywood movies have been shot in Srinagar.

Awantipura - 29 km from Srinagar, Awantipura is one the ancient places in the state. King Avanti Varman was the one who built this place during the 9th century and Awantipura has temples mainly dedicated to Lord Shiva and Vishnu.

Mughal Gardens - Built in the era of the Mughal rulers of India, the Mughal Gardens is one of the splendid places in this city. Moving around in the garden, you will experience the magic of the Mughal style of architecture & design which is based on Koranic concepts of paradise such as the Charbaug. Due its magnificent charm, the garden lures the attention of a number of travellers from different corners of the world and makes a visit to Srinagar. One will find that the garden is a combination of three prominent gardens namely the Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Gardens and Chashm-e-shahi.

Nagin Lake - Nagin Lake, a part of the famous Dal Lake, is one of the most beautiful lakes in the naturally mesmerizing Srinagar. Popularly known as ''Jewel in the ring''; its blue waters looks stunning against the backdrop of swaying green Poplar trees. Nagin Lake is separated from Dal Lake by a causeway which carries water supply to the eastern part of Srinagar. This causeway is only accessible to visitors on foot or two wheelers. The lake is surrounded by hills all around, Shankaracharya Hill to its south and Hari Parbat to the west. The scenic beauty about this place is famous all over the country. Houseboats are also available here that can be hired to experience the surreal atmosphere of the lake. Various water activities like swimming, water skiing and boat rowing can also be enjoyed here. The place offers both aesthetic and adventurous pleasures.

HOW TO REACH Srinagar

Srinagar Airport is an international airport. This airport is well connected and airlines offer regular flights from Srinagar to Delhi, Mumbai and Chandigarh. The airport is placed just 15 km away from the centre of the city. To reach Srinagar by train, one has to reach either Jammu Tawi or Udhampur railway station. The stations are well connected with different parts of India. From these stations, you can hire taxis, private as well as the state government buses to reach this magnificent place.

WEATHER AT Srinagar

Srinagar has a pleasant climate and therefore, travelers love to visit the city all through the year. However, the best time to visit Srinagar is from April to October. During this period, people can admire the real beauty of this city as the whole valley gets covered with blossoms. The summer season is from April to September. The temperature ranges between 14°C to 30°C. Though, the days might be slightly on the hotter side but during the evening, the climate becomes quite pleasant. Due to its natural location, Srinagar does not witness a proper monsoon season. But, people enjoy the colours of autumn which usually arrives in the month of October. The cool breeze during the evening makes the weather a bit chilly. This magnificent city offers a cool and pleasurable winter. During this period, the minimum and maximum temperature range between 0°C and 15°C respectively. Winter begins in October and continues through till the month of March.

 

Hotels @ Srinagar

 

OTHER Destinations IN Jammu and Kashmir