Srinagar

Located in the heart of the Kashmir Valley which was seen by the ancients as 'Paradise on Earth', Srinagar’s landscape is interspersed with greenery, lakes and hillocks. The city is spread out along the banks of the Jhelum River and is famous for its surrounding natural beauty and postcard tourist spots. The two parts of the city are connected by nine bridges. The Hari Parbat and the Shankar Acharya hills lie on either side of the city.

Srinagar has a complex cultural fabric. The many historical constructions and places of worship are long-standing evidences of the historical unity of Srinagar despite the many diverse religious denominations and sects established in the valley since ancient times.

There are many Hindu temples that are more than a thousand years old as well as age-old mosques that are the landmarks of Srinagar. Also, numerous gurudwaras and monasteries can be found in many places throughout the city.

UNESCO has recognised some of these famous buildings of the city as heritage sites. Some of the famous temples are Shankaracharya Temple, Martand Sun Temple, Kheer Bhavani Temple, Pandrethan Temple, etc. The Hazratbal shrine, Dal Lake, Wullar Lake, etc. are some prominent attractions of the destination.

Srinagar is also a place for trekking and hiking. The most popular trekking route from Srinagar is to the sacred Amarnath cave. An excursion can be taken to Pahalgam and the Dachigam National Park.

Srinagar is also the venue for many Kashmiri artists, dancers and singers who perform in the various theatres and art houses of the city. Many troupes of the dervish and the qawwali (that have been influenced by both Sufi and Hindustani musical and artistic traditions of Srinagar) survive to this day and the musicians have their own customised musical instruments.

Rice is a dominant feature of most meals served in Srinagar and the valley is famous for its unique method of cooking by combining meat with vegetables. The food is generally sharp and spicy.

Srinagar is connected by flights to the Srinagar Airport. The nearest rail station is at Jammu which is almost 300 km away. Bus services are provided by quite a few tour operators from neighbouring regions to Srinagar.

The climate of Srinagar is pleasant throughout the year, apart from the winters; with summer temperatures staying within 35° Celsius. The proximate presence of the Hokersar wetland influences the climate of Srinagar and keeps it balanced. The best time to visit Srinagar is from April to June.