Srinagar Travel Guide 2026 – Best Places to Visit, Things to Do & Kashmir Tour Packages
If there is one destination in India that has captivated poets, emperors, and travellers for centuries, it is Srinagar — the summer capital of Jammu & Kashmir. Nestled in the heart of the Kashmir Valley, surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, Srinagar is a city unlike any other on earth.
Whether you're gliding across the glassy waters of Dal Lake in a traditional shikara, strolling through centuries-old Mughal gardens, or sipping kahwa in a warm walnut-wood houseboat — Srinagar stays with you long after you leave.
In this complete travel guide, we cover everything you need to know to plan a memorable trip to Srinagar in 2025 — from the best places to visit and when to go, to local food, shopping, and how to book an affordable Kashmir tour package.
“Srinagar is one of the few places in the world where you can wake up on a houseboat on a mountain lake, have breakfast surrounded by Himalayan peaks, walk through a Mughal garden, and shop for handcrafted Pashmina shawls — all in a single day.”
— Open India Travel”
Top 8 Places to Visit in Srinagar
Dal Lake The jewel of Srinagar. Take a shikara ride at sunrise, explore the floating vegetable market, or stay overnight in a traditional houseboat. Dal Lake is the soul of Srinagar and the one experience no visitor should miss.
Shalimar Bagh Built by Emperor Jahangir in 1619, this UNESCO-listed Mughal garden is a masterpiece of tiered terraces, ornamental fountains, and ancient chinar trees. Best visited in spring when the flowers are in full bloom.
Nishat Bagh Known as the "Garden of Bliss," Nishat Bagh has 12 terraced levels of flowers and fountains overlooking Dal Lake, with the Zabarwan mountains as a dramatic backdrop.
Shankaracharya Temple Perched 1,000 feet above the city on a hilltop, this ancient Hindu temple offers the most breathtaking panoramic view of Srinagar and the surrounding valley.
Hazratbal Shrine A stunning white marble mosque sitting on the northern shores of Dal Lake, considered the holiest Muslim shrine in Kashmir. The reflection of the mosque in the lake at dawn is truly unforgettable.
Lal Chowk & Old City The beating heart of Srinagar. Explore bustling bazaars, papier-mâché shops, and taste authentic street food in the winding lanes of the old city.
Pari Mahal A 17th-century terraced garden and the ruins of an ancient school of astrology. Stunning at sunset, with sweeping views over the entire Kashmir Valley.
Chashme Shahi The smallest of the Mughal gardens but home to a natural spring whose water is said to have healing properties — a peaceful and less-crowded gem.
Best Time to Visit Srinagar
Srinagar is a year-round destination, but each season offers a completely different experience. Srinagar is a year-round destination, but each season offers a completely different experience.
🌸 Spring (March – May) | 10°C – 20°C | BEST TIME Cherry blossoms, tulip festival, and the lush green valley at its most beautiful. Asia's largest tulip garden opens every April — book well in advance.
☀️ Summer (June – August) | 20°C – 30°C | BEST TIME Pleasant weather, all attractions open, and the most popular season for tourists. Ideal for families and first-time visitors.
🍂 Autumn (September – November) | 8°C – 22°C | GOOD Golden chinar leaves, fewer crowds, and crystal-clear skies make this a favourite among photographers and nature lovers.
❄️ Winter (December – February) | -5°C – 5°C | FOR SNOW LOVERS A magical snowy landscape and a frozen Dal Lake. Combine with a trip to Gulmarg for world-class skiing.
Pro Tip: The Tulip Garden Festival (late March – April) is one of India's most spectacular events. Book your Kashmir tour package at least 2–3 months in advance if you're visiting during this time.
How to Reach Srinagar?
✈️ By Air Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport (SXR) is well connected to Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and other major Indian cities. A flight from Delhi takes just 75 minutes, making it the fastest and most popular way to reach Srinagar. Most of our Kashmir tour packages include flights from Delhi.
🚗 By Road Srinagar is connected to Jammu via the scenic Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH44). The drive takes approximately 8–10 hours through stunning mountain terrain, passing through Patnitop and Banihal Tunnel. Note that the highway may be closed during heavy snowfall in winter.
🚌 By Bus J&K SRTC operates regular deluxe bus services between Jammu and Srinagar. Private luxury buses are also available and offer a comfortable, budget-friendly option.
Famous Kashmiri Food to Try in Srinagar
No trip to Srinagar is complete without experiencing the legendary Wazwan — a royal multi-course Kashmiri feast. Here are the must-try dishes:
→ Rogan Josh — slow-cooked aromatic lamb curry, the flagship dish of Kashmiri cuisine
→ Yakhni — delicate yoghurt-based mutton curry with whole spices
→ Dum Aloo — baby potatoes in a rich spicy gravy (perfect for vegetarians)
→ Kahwa — traditional Kashmiri green tea with saffron, cardamom, and almonds
→ Sheer Chai (Pink Tea) — a unique Kashmiri tea with a beautiful pink colour
→ Seekh Kebab — hand-minced meat kebabs, best enjoyed fresh off the grill at Lal Chowk
→ Modur Pulao — sweet saffron rice with dry fruits, a festive Kashmiri staple
Shopping in Srinagar — What to Buy
Srinagar is a shopper's paradise for authentic handcrafted goods. The city is world-famous for:
→ Pashmina Shawls — the finest cashmere in the world, hand-woven in the Kashmir Valley
→ Kashmiri Carpets — hand-knotted silk and wool carpets with intricate floral patterns
→ Papier-Mâché Items — beautifully hand-painted boxes, bowls, and decorative pieces
→ Walnut Wood Carvings — furniture and decorative items carved from Kashmiri walnut wood
→ Saffron (Kesar) — Kashmiri saffron from Pampore is among the world's finest
→ Sozni Embroidery — delicate needle-embroidered fabric, a centuries-old Kashmiri craft
Where to Shop: Head to the old city lanes near Jamia Masjid, Polo View Market, or browse the floating shops on Dal Lake. Always ask for a government-certified authenticity certificate when buying Pashmina.
Frequently Asked Questions About Srinagar
Is Srinagar safe for tourists?
Yes, Srinagar is safe for tourists. The city welcomes thousands of domestic and international visitors every year. The local hospitality industry is well-established, warm, and welcoming.
How many days are enough for Srinagar?
We recommend a minimum of 4–5 days to explore Srinagar comfortably — covering Dal Lake, the Mughal gardens, and the old city. Add day trips to Gulmarg, Pahalgam, or Sonamarg and plan for a 7–10 day trip.
Do I need a special permit to visit Srinagar?
Indian citizens do not need any special permit to visit Srinagar. Foreign nationals should check the latest visa and travel advisory requirements before planning their trip.
What is the best houseboat experience on Dal Lake?
A traditional deluxe houseboat with hand-carved walnut wood interiors, lake and mountain views, and included meals is the most memorable way to experience Dal Lake. Our Kashmir packages include curated houseboat stays — contact us for personalized recommendations.
How do I book a Kashmir tour package with Open India Travel?
Simply visit our Contact Us page or WhatsApp us directly. We will send you a free, fully customised itinerary and quote within 24 hours.
Ready to Experience Srinagar?
At Open India Travel, we specialize in crafting unforgettable Kashmir holidays — fully customised, hassle-free, and tailored to your budget. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, a family, or a corporate group, we have the perfect Kashmir package for you.
📩 Contact us today at openindiatravel.com/contact-us and let us plan your dream trip in India.
