Srinagar, is the summer capital of the Jammu and Kashmir state, lying in the Valley of Kashmir. The ethereal beauty and picturesque view of this city is an ambience to live and die for.

The glory of the nature, the serenity of the surroundings and the mellifluous ripples in the rivers and lakes, are music to the ear and a landscape most elegantly painted by the Creator himself!

History-  The name Srinagar is composed of two Sanskrit words; Sri-meaning Goddess Laxmi and Nagar- meaning city. Srinagar had a rich history of Hinduism, Buddhism and Islam and Sikkhism. Followers of all the religions still live here in perfect harmony.

From Pandav, to Mauryan emperor Ashoka, to Kushan dynasty and Vikramaditya have all ruled Srinagar in its glorious past, contributing to its culture and spirit.

Fascinations-  Srinagar is one of the several places that celebrates the brand of being the “Venice of the East”  or “Kashmiri Venice”.

Lakes- 

The city has many beautiful lakes that enhance its natural connection and soothing ambience. Some of the lakes that are a delight to look and admire are Dal Lake, Nigeen Lake, Wular Lake and Mansabal Lake.

Shikaras or boats that ferry people across these lakes are enjoyed more as a luxury than a mere necessity. A shikara-ride is a must-do thing in a Kashmiri visit. Recollecting from “Ye chaand sa roshan chehra”, the shikaras are still as dreamy and exciting, as can ever be.

Gardens-

Due to its natural beauty, Srinagar has always been a preferred destination for people since time immemorial. And the Mughal rulers were none different. Many a gardens in Srinagar were built by Mughals, which are still among the prized possessions on this city.

The gardens in Srinagar and its vicinity include Chashma Shahi, Pari Mahal, Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh and Jawahar lal Nehru Botanical Garden.

Art and Crafts-

Kashmiri Cashmere wool and the most intricately designed Pashmina shawls are a thing to fancy in Srinagar.

Handmade exquisite pottery, carpets and cloth work are admirable. The rich artistic history of this city is also evident from the monuments and temples present in this city.

Cuisine-

 Kashmiri Wazwan with staple rice is relished in Srinagar as well. The delicacies made of lamb, different meat balls, kehwa, noon-chai and other delicacies of Kasmiri culture are thoroughly enjoyed in its capital Srinagar.

Landmarks to Visit, Admire and Adore-

• The Dal Lake- Mostly popular for its houseboats or Shikaras, Dal lake is a picture-perfect location. The soothing aroma fills the air and tranquilizes the soul.

Except shikaras, Dal lake is also best location for Kayaking, Swimming, Angling, Canoeing, Water surfing and Fishing.The lake showcases beautiful islands of vegetation that look like floating gardens.

• Hazratbal Mosque-  This mosque treasures a relic- a hair of  Islamic Prophet Mohammad. This  beautifully carved Mosque, was built during the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb’s rule. It is also called Dargah Sharif, Asrar-e-Sharif and Madinat-us-Sani.

Defered destination for the believers of Islam, this place has also attracted people of other religions because of its exquisite design and admirable beauty.

• Shankaracharya Temple-  Located at a height of 1100 ft, this temple is ensconced atop Shankaracharya Hill. According to popular belief Adi Shankaracharya had established the Shivlingam in this temple.

From the hill top, near this temple, a spectacular view of snow clad mountains of Pir-Panjal mountain range mesmerizes the visitors.

• Indira Gandhi Tulip Garden-  Located in the foothills of Zabarwan mountains near Dal lake, it is a spacious garden and has more than 70 varieties of Tulip flowers.

It is a mesmerizing view, beautifully adorned by nature, exhibiting its genius and dexterity.

Other places that are worth visiting in Srinagar and its vicinity are the Nishat Bagh, Dachigam Wildlife Sanctuary,Jama Masjid, Sri Pratap singh Museum,  Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonmarg,

The city of Srinagar is like a blessed land of nature, carrying its bounties and fusing enthusiasm and life with every breath of its fresh air.

The city of Srinagar is like a blessed devotee of Nature, overwhelmed at her mercy, singing hymns in her glory. Such is the divine ambience of this place. Developed, modernized and westernized and yet very crude, rudimentary and connected to the spirit of nature and life.