Srinagar, nestled in the heart of the picturesque Kashmir valley,
sits at an altitude of 1,730 meters above sea level. It spans both
sides of the meandering Jhelum River. The city’s allure is further
enhanced by the serene Dal and Nagin lakes. As the seasons change
and the climate remains salubrious year-round, Srinagar remains
equally captivating for visitors.
Srinagar attracts tourists who seek firsthand experiences of the
valley's unique beauty. Visitors can explore the city's waterways,
stay in charming houseboats, revel in blossoming gardens, enjoy
water sports, shop for handcrafted souvenirs, and discover nearby
resorts.
Dal Lake: A Natural Gem in Srinagar
The Dal Lake, stretching 8 kilometers in length and 4 kilometers
in width, covers a total area of 26 square kilometers. It is
divided into two smaller sections: Lokut (small) Dal and Bod (big)
Dal. The southwestern part of the lake reaches a maximum depth of
approximately 12 meters. While the Dal Lake receives water from
springs, it is also supplemented by water from the nearby mountain
lake, MarSar.
Nigeen Lake
Nagin Lake, although occasionally considered a distinct lake, is
actually an integral part of Dal Lake. It is connected via a
causeway that allows only bikers and walkers to access its
tranquil surroundings. This causeway also serves as the conduit
for the water supply pipeline to Srinagar city in the east. The
lake is bordered by the Shankaracharya hill (Takht-e-Suleiman) to
the south and Hari Parbat to the west. Nestled at the foot of the
Zabarwan hills, Nagin Lake is adorned with graceful willow and
poplar trees along its edges.
Pari Mahal
Pari Mahal, also known as The Fairies' Abode, is a seven-terraced
garden situated atop the Zabarwan mountain range, overlooking the
city of Srinagar and the southwestern shores of Dal Lake. The
architectural style reflects Islamic influences and the patronage
of art during the reign of the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. Pari
Mahal is conveniently accessible, just a five-minute drive from
Cheshmashahi in Srinagar.
Mughal Gardens
The Mughal emperors constructed gardens from Tehran to Agra, but
it is in Kashmir, where they find their true perfection,
complemented by the serene lakes and majestic mountains. Beyond
houseboats and peaks, it is these gardens that make Kashmir truly
renowned.
Hari Parbat
Hari Parbat, also known as SHARIKA PEETH, stands at the periphery
of Srinagar city—an ancient and revered site in Kashmir. It serves
as the abode of Maha Shakti. The Divine Mother, Shri Jagat Amaba
Sharika Bagwati (also known as Maha TRIPURSUNDHARI or RAJESHWARI),
is locally referred to as HARIE. This EIGHTEEN-ARMED goddess,
SHARIKA, holds the esteemed position of the presiding deity
(ISHT-DEVI) for Srinagar city.
Shah E Hamdan
Several saints visited the Kashmir
valley to propagate and preach Islam. Among them, Syed Jalal Uddin
Bukhari, Bulbul Shah, Syed Taj Uddin, Yousuf, and Syed Hussain
Samnani were highly esteemed. However, Shah-e-Hamdan stands out as
a prominent figure who emphasized monotheism. Born Ali and known
by various surnames—Amir-e-Kabir, Ali Sa'ani, Shah-e-Hamadan, and
Mir—he was a Persian Islamic scholar from Hamadan, Iran.
Shah-e-Hamdan made three significant visits to Kashmir between
1365 and 1383 AC.
Jamia Masjiq
Jama Masjid, located in Nowhatta, Srinagar, is the largest mosque
in the Kashmir Valley. Built in 1402, it reflects the
Indo-Saracenic style of architecture. The magnificent courtyard,
adorned with 370 wooden pillars, exemplifies its charm. Every
Friday, Muslims gather here for congregational prayers. Beyond its
religious significance, Jama Masjid is a prime tourist attraction,
unparalleled in every aspect within Jammu & Kashmir's tourism
landscape.
Hazratbal Shrine
The Hazratbal Mosque, with its
silvery white facade, holds a revered relic—the Prophet's hair.
Located near Dal Lake, it stands as Srinagar's sole domed mosque,
exuding serenity. While women can explore the initial part of the
mosque, the entire structure carries a historic and divine allure.
As you stroll through its corridors, you'll appreciate the
intricate Persian and Iranian architectural influences.
Badamwari
The Badamwari garden, nestled on the
foothills of Koh-e-Maran in Shahr-e-Khaas, is a captivating sight
for nature enthusiasts and tourists. The early bloom of flowers on
its almond trees adds to its allure, making it a must-visit
destination.
