Renowned as a land of lakes and gardens, Srinagar is the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir. Located amidst the Pir Panjal mountain ranges, Srinagar is an ideal place for tourists who are seeking a relaxing vacation in the heart of nature. The city is blessed with a plethora of activities to do, from sightseeing locations to historical monuments, pilgrimage to lush orchards, from shopping in floating markets to admiring nature amidst the mountains. Mughal era gardens, exquisite Dal Lake, and Nagin Lake are major tourist attractions in the city.
1. Visit the famous Jamia masjid
Nestled at the heart of the old city Nowhatta, Jamia Masjid is one of the major tourist attractions in Srinagar. The Jamia Masjid is famous for its unique architecture that is inspired by the Indo-Saracenic style with similarities to Buddhist Pagodas. Located at a distance of 3 Km from Srinagar, This spectacular Masjid is designed with above 370 wooden deodar pillars, surrounded by broad lanes, a courtyard, garden, and fountain.
The mosque is a 600-year-old mosque, built by Sultan Sikandar Shah in 1402 AD. Later his son Zain-ul-Abideen expanded and renovated the Masjid. On Fridays, the Masjid becomes very crowded with Islamic followers. A total of 33,333 People can pray in the Jamia Masjid at the same time.
Tourists visit the Jamia Masjid to pray and indulge in peace and tranquillity inside the Masjid. You can visit Jamia Masjid throughout the year from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
2. Enjoy a Shikara ride on Dal Lake
Shikara ride on Dal Lake is one of the most famous things to do in Srinagar. Enjoying the spectacular visuals of Zabarwan mountain ranges in the clam water of Dal lake, the Shikara ride on Dal Lake is thrilling as well as a fun adventure. Shikara is a traditional gondola-type wooden boat, you will get to witness Kashmiri culture on the Shikaras. Experience shopping all sorts of Kashmir specialties from the floating lake market is an incredible thing to try on Shikaras.
Floating in the clear blue water amidst the captivating beauty of mountains is indeed a surreal experience.
You can reach some famous tourist attractions Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, Hazratbal mosque on a Shikara ride.
A Shikara ride is an incredible and relaxing aspect of Srinagar holiday packages. Sunrise and Sunset are the best time for a Shikara ride on Dal lake.
Also, some of the best adventurous activities to try in Srinagar are mountain biking, golfing, gondola rides, skiing, paragliding, river rafting, Shikara rides, and trekking. If you are an avid trekker, do not miss out on Kashmir great lakes trek that is the best trek in Kashmir starting from Srinagar.
Srinagar is an all-year-round destination, however, April to October months are the best time to visit the city. We have put together a list of some most surreal activities for your bucket list of things to do in Srinagar.
3. Explore the lush green Mughal garden
Strolling amidst the Lush green lawns of the Mughal garden and enjoying views of the surroundings is a mesmerizing experience. The city of Srinagar is home to some lush green Mughal era gardens that add even more charm to the beauty.
The beauty of these gardens is exceptionally attractive and unparalleled.
Surrounded by breathtaking mountains, the Mughal Gardens of Srinagar are famous for their blooming flowers, fountains, and green grass carpet. Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, and Chashme Shahi, Verinag, Achabal, and Pari Mahal are Mughal gardens in Srinagar. These gardens are quite popular among tourists all over the country. All gardens boast unique architecture and stunning landscapes. March to June and September – October are the best months to visit these mesmerizing gardens.
4. Go for paragliding
Paragliding is one of the most thrilling and exciting activities that you can experience in Srinagar. If you are an adventure Junkie then you should go for it to feel the immense adrenaline rush.
In the 15 minutes of the Paragliding session, You will witness spectacular views of snowy mountain peaks, captivating landscapes, clear skies, lush apple orchards, Mughal Gardens, exquisite Dal Lake, and calm rivers. Bird’s eye view of Zabarwan mountain ranges at an altitude of approx 5200 Ft will mesmerize you.
Professional instructors will train basic things in a small training session before the activity. The instructor will provide all the safety equipment to ensure your safety.
Harwan, Ashtang Marg, and Pari Mahal are some famous paragliding spots in Srinagar. You can enjoy this adrenaline-pumping activity between 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM on all weekdays. Try out this activity in pleasant and clear weather. Summer months are recommended for paragliding in Srinagar. Weight above 100 Kg is not allowed for paragliding. Age 14 – 60 years can enjoy the activity.
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5. Stay in a gorgeous houseboat
Staying in a houseboat is the most popular thing and you can not afford to miss this when you are in Srinagar. Imagine a stay in traditional houseboats with modern facilities and the surroundings of the spectacular mountain in sparkling blue water. Is it not fascinating? The houseboats are kind of mini-hotels offering leisure and a luxurious experience amidst the splendid scenery.
From interior to hospitality facilities to delightful food, the houseboats of Srinagar are beyond words. Spending a night in one of the best houseboats whether, with family, loved ones, a group of friends, or Solo will be an unforgettable experience of your life. You can experience your unique stay in houseboats on the banks of Dal Lake and Nagin Lake. You can enjoy shopping in floating markets from the houseboats. Relax and rejuvenate admiring nature in a luxurious houseboat throughout the year.
