5 popular tourist destinations in Srinagar
Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, is a popular destination among travel enthusiasts for its picturesque and breathtaking surroundings. Located at an altitude of 1,585 meters, Srinagar is surrounded by lush green pastures, stunning lakes with houseboats, beautiful snow-capped mountains, and blooming gardens. From the famous Dal Lake to the stunning Mughal Gardens, Srinagar will not disappoint you.
Your trip to Srinagar is incomplete without visiting the famous Dal Lake that is also known as "The Jewel of Srinagar." Covering an area of 26 square kilometers, the beautiful hillside lake offers the popular Shikara rides which are basically carved wooden boats decorated with canopies on top. There is also a floating market on the lake where you can buy authentic Kashmiri handicrafts.
Built in 1394 by Sultan Sikandar Shah Kashmiri Shahmiri, Jamia Masjid is one of the most ancient and holiest mosques in Jammu and Kashmir. Located in Srinagar's Nowhatta area, the majestic mosque is built in Indo-Saracenic-style architecture and is also partially inspired by the Buddhist pagodas. It has almost 370 intricately carved wooden pillars and can accommodate around 33,333 people.
If you want to spend some peaceful time amidst nature, then you must visit the Mughal Gardens when in Srinagar. Mughal Gardens are a beautiful combination of several gardens including Chashma Shahi, Nishant Garden, Shalimar Garden, etc. built during the Mughal era. The scenic gardens were planned by Mughal Emperor Akbar and it reflects the unique Persian style architecture.
If you want to seek some spiritual blessings on your trip to Srinagar, then the sacred temple of Kheer Bhawani is a must-visit. Dedicated to Goddess Kheer Bhawani, the temple is frequently visited by Kashmiri pandits. Constructed in 1912 by Maharaja Pratap Singh, the temple also houses an auspicious water spring which is believed to turn black with an impending unfortunate incident.
Hazratbal Shrine is considered the most sacred Muslim shrine to visit when in Srinagar. Situated on the banks of the picturesque Dal Lake, the mosque houses a relic called Moi-e-Muqqadas of Prophet Mohammad which is basically a sacred hair from his beard. The dome-structured mosque is made with white marble and supposedly was a pleasure house initially and was later used for offering prayers.
