SRINAGAR
Srinagar is undoubtedly one of the most prominent and eminent places to see in Kashmir as well as in India. Literally, it translates to “the city of wealth and abundance” in Sanskrit. Being the capital of Jammu and Kashmir, it lies on the banks of the Jhelum River and has a calming, pleasant climate throughout the year. As it is proudly stated to be the largest city in the state, it tends to be the first stopover for a traveler in every way. Locally this place is known to be the mirror to mountains as this place is enclosed by the verdant green mountains giving a close outlook to the Kashmir’s bounties and the state’s culture.
The main highlight is the Dal Lake being the gem of the city. Once you are here, you must do the following things – take a Shikara ride on the Dal Lake, try water sports such as kayaking and skiing, hop on to a gondola-type rowboats decked with colourful rugs and carpets, which take you to see attractions like the Floating Vegetable Market, and the Mir Bahris – a lively community of people who live on the lake itself. From boating to trekking, bird watching to water skiing, this place has it all.
It is quite a hub for all tourists looking for a vacation away from their mundane city lives. Quite often because of this, Srinagar has become crowded and a little too touristy but it remains the go-to destination for anyone who wants to explore the state. A quick vacation or expedition that involves touring the state of Jammu and Kashmir is most likely to stay incomplete without the compulsory buying of Pashmina shawls from the city. Being the commercial hub of the state, it proudly remains in the heart of Jammu and Kashmir. As picturesque as the most stunning painting to ever be painted, contributing to the perpetual influx of tourists visiting this city that offers a plethora of gorgeous scenic vistas.
