Srinagar is the heart of Kashmir – a city of lakes, gardens and old wooden mosques where the Mughal emperors came to escape the summer heat. Most Kashmir tours spend two or three nights here. These are the Srinagar tourist places you shouldn’t miss.
- Must-see: Dal Lake, Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, Chashme Shahi, Pari Mahal, Shankaracharya temple, Hazratbal
- Time needed: 2 days
- Best time: April–October
- Our Kashmir package: from ₹15,500 per person
The Mughal Gardens
- Nishat Bagh: the “garden of joy”, with twelve terraces rising from Dal Lake to the Zabarwan hills.
- Shalimar Bagh: built by Emperor Jahangir for Nur Jahan, with fountains, chinar trees and a black-marble pavilion.
- Chashme Shahi: a smaller garden around a natural spring – the water is believed to have healing properties.
- Pari Mahal: a terraced garden built on the ruins of a Buddhist monastery, with the best sunset view over Dal Lake.
Most gardens have small entry fees and are open from morning to evening.
Temples, shrines and viewpoints
- Shankaracharya temple: an ancient Shiva temple on a hilltop – a long flight of steps, with city-wide views.
- Hazratbal shrine: a white marble mosque on the shore of Dal Lake.
- Jamia Masjid: a historic wooden mosque in the old city with 370 deodar pillars.
Dal Lake and the old city
- Shikara ride at sunset – read our Dal Lake houseboat guide.
- Floating vegetable market at dawn.
- Old city (Downtown): walk past traditional houses, spice shops and copper workshops along the Jhelum.
Shopping in Srinagar
Pashmina shawls, Kashmiri carpets, papier-mâché boxes, saffron, walnuts, dry fruits and kahwa. Buy from government emporiums or trusted shops for genuine pashmina.
Tulip garden in spring
From late March to April, the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden is the city’s biggest attraction – see our Tulip Festival guide.
How Srinagar fits into your Kashmir trip
Srinagar is the base for day trips to Gulmarg and Sonmarg and the starting point for Pahalgam. Our Kashmir package from Kolkata includes Srinagar sightseeing, a houseboat night and all key excursions.
Message us on WhatsApp to book.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top tourist places in Srinagar?
Dal Lake, Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, Chashme Shahi, Pari Mahal, Shankaracharya temple, Hazratbal and the old city.
How many days are enough for Srinagar?
Two days for the city, plus day trips to Gulmarg and Sonmarg.
Which Mughal garden is the best?
Nishat Bagh is the largest and most dramatic; Shalimar Bagh is the most historic; Pari Mahal has the best sunset view.
What is the best time to visit Srinagar?
April to October. Late March to April is tulip season.
Where can I buy genuine pashmina in Srinagar?
From government emporiums and trusted, established shops. Ask for certification.
How many steps are there to the Shankaracharya temple?
A long flight of a few hundred steps. Elderly travellers should take it slowly.
Is Srinagar included in your Kashmir package?
Yes, with city sightseeing, a houseboat night and day trips.
How do I book?
Tap "Book on WhatsApp" on the Kashmir package page or message +91 89102 77805.
