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Places to Visit in Srinagar in Winter

Wular Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Asia, is famous for its breathtaking sunsets. One of the top attractions among tourists enjoying a vacation in Kashmir, its scenic banks make for a perfect picnic spot. The surrounding trees are alive with birds, especially at sunset, creating a mesmerizing view.

The lake’s shores are often lined with fishing boats, as fishing is a major livelihood here. Adventure seekers can also enjoy activities like kayaking, canoeing, and boating, making Wular Lake not just a serene retreat but also a hub for thrilling water sports in the heart of Kashmir.

Location: Bandipora District, Jammu and Kashmir

Best Time: December to February

Nestled in the northern end of the Dal Lake, Shalimar Bagh epitomizes the brilliance of Mughal horticulture. Like the Taj Mahal, these gardens were built by Shah Jahan for his eternal love, Noor Jahan, and remain one of the best places to visit in Srinagar in winter.

The gardens are styled after the typical Persian gardens, with four separating arms connecting at a water source at the centre. Strolling through, one comes across elaborately carved arches and waterfalls, which add to the elegance of the place. 

Another unique feature of Shalimar Bagh is the Baradaris or massive gates supported by pillars, which are said to be the remnants of an ancient temple that had been demolished by Shah Jahan. The garden becomes even more enchanting in winter, as it is covered in mist and occasionally dusted with snow, making it a must-visit destination for those exploring Kashmir in December.

Location: Nishat Harwan Road, Shalimar, Rainawari, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir (State) 190025

Best Time: November to early December

Manasbal Lake is regarded as one of Kashmir's most beautiful lakes. However, only a few people are aware of this lake, which appears to be straight out of a postcard.

It is recognised as Kashmir's "Supreme Gem of All Lakes." The name Manasbal is derived from the Tibetan Mansarovar Lake, perhaps this is one of the reasons the lake appears to be so tranquil. 

Despite being only 30 kilometres from Srinagar, the lake is not as busy as the other lakes. Manasbal is one of the lesser-explored lakes in Jammu and Kashmir, offering a serene and picturesque retreat.

Location: Safapora Ganderbal, Kashmir

Best Time: December to February

An offshoot of the main Dal, Nigeen Lake is a clear, eutrophic lake in the heart of Srinagar. Its name is a local version of the word ‘Nageena’ and literally translates to “a jewel in the ring.” Being comparatively cleaner and less crowded than Dal, Nigeen is often sought after for its tranquility.

Tourists often enjoy swimming here, thanks to the lake’s greater depth and pristine waters. Surrounded by graceful willow and poplar trees, this charming lake offers a scenic promenade, making it one of the most romantic spots in Srinagar, especially in winter. For those planning a short getaway, this serene destination is a perfect addition to the list of places to visit in Srinagar in 2 days.

Location: Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India

Best Time: January - February

The largest tulip garden in all of Asia, the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden is indubitably among the most beautiful places to visit in Srinagar. Set on terraced slopes by the Dal Lake, the flower gardens, accompanied by the Himalayas on one end and the lake on the other, form a mesmerizing sight.

Beyond its vast acres of vibrant tulips, the garden also features a stunning variety of coloured hyacinths, daffodils, and ranunculus plants. Those visiting Kashmir in winter and extending their stay into early spring can witness the breathtaking bloom and even experience the annual Tulip Festival, a grand celebration that welcomes the season with a mesmerizing display of flowers.

Location: Cheshma Shahi Road, Rainawari, Anchar, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir (State) 190001

Best Time: Late March – Early April

A small hill overlooking the capital city, Hari Parbat is one of the most interesting places to visit in Srinagar in winter. The Parbat is a melting pot of history and culture. The most impressive structure on the hill is the Durrani Fort, established by Mughal Emperor Akbar in the 16th century.

Now occupied by the Indian military, the fort is open to the public for tours as well. The Shakti Temple is another prominent site here and is regarded as sacred by Kashmiri Pandits. 

The hill is also home to some prominent mosques and gurudwara, each boasting a rich history of their own. For those seeking offbeat places in Kashmir, Hari Parbat offers a unique blend of heritage, spirituality, and breathtaking views.

Location: Zabarwan Mountain range, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India

Best Time: December – February

Also known as the Dargah Sharif, the Hazratbal Masjid is considered to be Kashmir's holiest Muslim shrine. This historic mosque is situated at the edge of Dal Lake. The Mosque is widely regarded for its unique architecture and is one of the most visited places in Kashmir.

The mosque reflects a blend of local Kashmiri and Islamic designs and is the only domed mosque in the state. This mosque gets its name from the Persian term 'Hazrat,' which means 'revered,' and the Kashmiri word 'bal', which means 'place.' This monument has a fascinating history dating back to the seventeenth century, and houses the relic Moi-e-Muqqadas, which is the Prophet Muhammad's sanctified beard hair, making it one of the best religious places to visit in Srinagar in winter.

Location: Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir (State)

Best Time: December – February 

Kashmir’s biggest botanical garden, the Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Gardens sits snugly in the centre of the city. Nestled just beside the Dal Lake, the Nehru Gardens form a spectacular sight when the flowers here are in bloom.

The gardens are home to a stunning variety of plants, including about 15,000 ornamental varieties and a few rare Kashmiri species as well. Well-paved pedestrian walkways snake their way across the botanical gardens, and while the Gardens are best witnessed in Spring, it is unarguably one of the most visited places to visit in Kashmir as well.

Location: Cheshma Shahi Rd, Muja Gund Ghat, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir (State) 190001

Best Time: October

Nestled atop a hill by the same name, the Shankaracharya Temple is one of Srinagar’s biggest Hindu temples. The edifice is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is regarded as a monument of national importance. Shankaracharya Temple is the oldest temple in Kashmir and is associated with multiple faiths. A few ancient Persian inscriptions on the inner walls of the temple reflect the Islamic past.

Today, the temple serves as a prominent Hindu pilgrimage, especially during the Amarnath Yatra and Mahashivaratri. Many devotees visiting the temple also opt for an Amarnath Yatra package, making their journey more convenient and spiritually fulfilling. The fantastic location of Shankaracharya Temple, however, forms half the allure. Perched right above the Srinagar valley, the temple offers resplendent views of the beauty below.

Location: Temple Path, Durgjan, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir (State) 190001

Best Time: December – February