Shalimar Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, 190025, India
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From mirror-still lakes and Mughal gardens to centuries-old shrines and dense wildlife sanctuaries — these six landmarks capture the soul of the valley. Pick your favourites, then send us an enquiry below to build a custom Srinagar itinerary.
Often called the "Jewel in the Crown of Kashmir", Dal Lake is a 15.5 sq-km mirror of water at the heart of Srinagar. Glide past intricately carved houseboats, floating vegetable markets and colourful Shikara boats while the Pir Panjal range looms behind. Best at sunrise, when mist drifts across the lily pads and the Mughal gardens of Shalimar and Nishat reflect on its surface.
Founded in 1394 by Sultan Sikandar, the Jamia Masjid in Nowhatta is one of the most striking examples of Indo-Saracenic and Persian architecture in Kashmir. Its vast prayer hall is held up by 378 towering deodar pillars — each carved from a single tree trunk — and four soaring minarets dominate the skyline of the old city.
Connected to Dal Lake by a narrow channel, Nigeen ("the jewel in the ring") is the quieter, deeper, and clearer of the two. Lined with willow and poplar trees, it is the favourite of travellers seeking a peaceful houseboat stay, kayak paddle or evening swim away from the bustle of the main lake.
The "Palace of the Fairies" is a seven-terraced 17th-century Mughal garden built by Prince Dara Shikoh as an observatory and Sufi school. Perched on the Zabarwan ridge above Cheshmashahi, it offers one of the most spectacular panoramic views in the valley — Dal Lake, the old city, and the snow-capped peaks all in one sweep.
Just 22 km from Srinagar, this 141 sq-km sanctuary is the last refuge of the critically endangered Hangul (Kashmir stag). Walnut groves, alpine meadows, mountain streams and pine forests host black bears, leopards, musk deer and over 150 bird species — a wild, unspoiled side of Kashmir that few tourists ever see.