Explore Srinagar with this two-day itinerary, from the serene Dal Lake and Mughal Gardens to the bustling Lal Chowk and unique floating market. Find out how to reach Srinagar and make the most of your short trip, experiencing the best of this beautiful city.
From November to February, popular tourist spots in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh attract visitors to experience the snowfall. If you're looking to experience this winter wonderland, why not plan a trip to Kashmir this year? While it's best to have plenty of time to explore all of Kashmir, if you're short on vacation days, you can focus on Srinagar instead. Here’s a delightful two-day itinerary for you. Let’s discover how you can make the most of your time in this beautiful city!
Getting to Srinagar is easy, with several travel options available, including buses, flights, and trains. The distance from Delhi to Srinagar is approximately 844 kilometres. If you choose to travel by road, you’ll need to take the route through Jammu, where the scenic high and low roads will offer an exciting adventure.
There is no direct train from Delhi to Srinagar, but you can take a train to Udhampur. From Udhampur, you can catch a local bus or taxi to reach Srinagar.
If you prefer flying, there are direct non-stop flights to Srinagar from Delhi, Mumbai, and Lucknow. The flight offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks, although it might be a bit pricier. Whichever mode of transport you choose, the journey to Srinagar promises to be memorable!
Once you arrive in Srinagar, you’ll find plenty of homestays and hostels that fit your budget. After settling in and resting a bit, head out to explore the city. Start your day with a delicious Kashmiri breakfast to fuel up for your adventures.
Next, make your way to the iconic Dal Lake. Here, you can enjoy a scenic Shikara ride, which is a must-do experience. As you glide across the tranquil waters, take in the breathtaking views of the Zabarwan mountains in the background. The beauty of the lake and its surroundings will surely set the tone for an unforgettable trip!
In the afternoon, head to the stunning Mughal Gardens, starting with Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh, both located in Srinagar. These gardens are celebrated for their beautiful Mughal architecture and lush landscapes. As you stroll through the vibrant flowers and neatly manicured lawns, you’ll be captivated by their charm.
After exploring the gardens, make your way to the Hazratbal Shrine, one of the most revered religious sites in Kashmir. This peaceful spot offers a serene atmosphere, perfect for reflection and enjoying nature.
If you’re a sunset enthusiast, don’t miss watching the sun dip below the horizon from Pari Mahal, a beautiful palace on the Zabarwan mountains. Built in a Persian style, this enchanting place looks like a slice of paradise in the mountains.
To wrap up your day, indulge in some delicious street food. The local flavours will surely be the perfect ending to an exciting first day in Srinagar!
On your second day in Srinagar, wake up early to make the most of your time. Start your day with a taxi ride to Dachigam National Park, located about 22 kilometres from the city. This beautiful park is home to the rare Hangul deer, along with other unique wildlife that you can only find in Srinagar. The natural beauty of the park will leave you in awe!
After exploring the park, head back to the city and visit Lal Chowk, a bustling hub known for its vibrant shopping scene. Here, you can pick up exquisite Kashmiri Pashmina shawls, fresh apples, and beautiful carpets. Don’t forget to check out the nearby spice market, where you’ll find a variety of hand-prepared spices that add a special touch to your culinary adventures.
While many travellers head to Vietnam and Bangkok for their famous floating markets, did you know that Kashmir has its very own floating vegetable market? Located on Dal Lake, this market is a stunning sight, especially when illuminated by night lights. Be sure to visit the floating market to witness the unique experience of vendors selling fresh produce right from their boats.
If time permits, you can also visit the Shankaracharya Temple. Keep in mind that it’s situated at a higher altitude, so you’ll need to climb about 250 steps to reach it. The view from the temple is absolutely worth the effort!
By the time you return from the temple, it will likely be evening. To wrap up your trip on a delicious note, treat yourself to some traditional Kashmiri cuisine. The rich flavours and unique dishes will be the perfect finale to your memorable journey in Srinagar!
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