Srinagar, the summer capital of the Jammu and Kashmir state, is a dream come true tourist destination. Srinagar derives a rich blend of nature, history, and culture with snow-capped mountains and beautiful lakes. Whether you advocate for natural reserves, are a history lover, or an adventure lover, this city has it all for everyone.
If you’re planning a visit in 2025, this guide highlights the top 10 must-visit places in Srinagar that promise unforgettable experiences. These are some of the beautiful places with famous gardens and markets that describe the beauty of this place.
List of the Best Places to Visit in Srinagar for 2025
1. Shankaracharya Temple
People from all over the world come to see the Shankaracharya Temple, which is a significant Hindu temple. In honor of Lord Shiva, it is one of the oldest churches in Kashmir. It was built in the 9th century. There is always this temple on the schedule of Srinagar tour trips.
The temple is popular with both locals and tourists because of its spiritual importance and stunning views of the city and mountains nearby. It is one of the most beautiful places in Srinagar because of its old buildings and calm atmosphere.
- Famous for: One of Srinagar’s most popular tourist destinations, affording panoramic views of the Dal Lake.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round; however, spring and summer are optimal.
- Tourist attractions include temples, hiking routes, vistas of Srinagar, and Dal Lake.
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- Entry Fee: Free.
- Location: On top of Shankaracharya Hill in Srinagar
2. Dal Lake
Dal Lake is Srinagar’s most famous attraction. It is a calm body of water known for its colorful houseboats and floating gardens. With its beautiful views of the Himalayas, it is one of the must-visit places in Srinagar. People can take relaxing shikara rides and enjoy the stunning mountain views reflected in the lake’s clear water.
The otherworldly beauty of the lake enchants tourists, pulling them into a world of peace and charm. A shikara ride is popular with most people, especially couples, and is usually part of Indian honeymoon packages. In the winter, Srinagar is one of the best snowfall places in India, and you must visit it.
- Famous For: The iconic and picturesque lake, known for its houseboats and shikaras, is one of Srinagar’s best sites to visit.
- The best seasons to visit spring and summer.
- Tourist attractions: Shikara rides, houseboats, and local Srinagar sightseeing.
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Entry cost: There is no entry cost, although there are shikara rides and houseboat charges.
- Location: Srinagar.
3. Shalimar Bagh Mughal Garden
Emperor Jahangir had the Shalimar Bagh Mughal Garden built for his wife, Nur Jahan. It is one of the most popular places to visit in Srinagar. It has terraced gardens, waterfall fountains, and beautiful Pir Panjal mountain range views. The garden is peaceful and beautiful, with bright flower beds and lots of grass.
Shalimar Bagh is a tranquil retreat that is a must-see for tourists looking to discover the top locations to visit in Srinagar.
- Famous For: One of the prominent Mughal-era gardens in Srinagar, famed for the Chinar trees and fountains.
- The best time to visit is in the spring.
- Tourist Attractions: One of the finest historical sites in Srinagar
- Timings: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
- Entry Fee: Rs. 20.
- Location: Srinagar.
4. Nigeen Lake
Nigeen Lake, located near the famed Dal Lake, is one of the best spots in Srinagar. Visitors can take leisurely boat trips or simply lounge on the banks, enjoying the natural beauty around them. Nigeen Lake, with its floating gardens and lovely houseboats, offers a more isolated and intimate experience than its busier counterpart, making it a popular destination for people seeking peace amidst Kashmir’s breathtaking surroundings.
Srinagar is traditionally regarded as one of the best destinations to visit in India during the summer.
- Famous For: The quieter sibling of Dal Lake provides a calm lake experience to tourists looking for the top Srinagar sites.
- The best time to visit is in the spring.
- Tourist Attractions: Boating and vistas of Srinagar.
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Entry Fee: Boating charges.
- Location: Near Dal Lake, Srinagar
5. Hari Parbat
Hari Parbat, capped by the historic Hari Parbat Fort, is one of India’s top places to visit before you turn 30. The Mughal emperor Akbar built the fort, a notable historical site in Kashmir that reflects the region’s rich cultural heritage. Hindus, Muslims, and Sikhs all venerate the hill, with several temples, mosques, and gurdwaras on its slopes.
Hari Parbat is not only a tribute to the region’s architectural prowess but also a symbol of religious unity, making it one of the most popular tourist attractions in Srinagar.
- Famous For: One of the most visited sites in India, the medieval fort with Mughal and Durrani architecture overlooking Srinagar
- Best Time to Visit: The summer months are ideal for visiting the location.
- Tourist Attractions: Srinagar vistas and the fort
- Timings: 900 AM to 6:00 PM
- Entry Cost: Rs. 20
- Location: Srinagar’s downtown
6. Chashme Shahi
Looking for the top places to visit in Srinagar? Chashme Shahi, which means “Royal Spring,” is a Mughal-era garden in Srinagar that overlooks Nigeen Lake. It is known for its natural spring and lovely tiered arrangement, providing a tranquil escape amidst Kashmir’s stunning terrain.
With magnificent views of the surrounding mountains and the Nigeen Lake below, Chashme Shahi is a popular destination for tourists looking for unique spots to visit in Srinagar.
- Famous For: A natural spring in one of Srinagar’s Mughal-era gardens
- Best Time to explore: The monsoon season, particularly July, is the ideal Time of year to explore this location.
- Tourist attractions include views, natural springs, and Mughal architecture.
- Timings: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Entry Cost: Rs. 20
- Location: Srinagar, close to Tulip Garden
7. Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden
The Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden, located at the base of the Zabarwan Hills, is one of Srinagar’s most renowned tourist attractions. The sight of flowering flowers against the Himalayas backdrop is breathtaking.
Looking for something to do in Kashmir? You can walk through the well-maintained flower beds here. The garden’s tranquil atmosphere and stunning views attract both nature lovers and photographers.
- Famous For: Asia’s largest tulip garden, comprising over 15 lakh tulips in 60+ kinds.
- The best time to visit is Spring (March-April), during the Tulip Festival.
- Tourist Attractions: Tulips, Daffodils, Hyacinths, and Tourist Locations Near Srinagar
- Timings: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
- Entry Fee: Rs 50 for adults and Rs 25 for children.
- Location: Foothills of the Zabarwan Range, Srinagar
8. Pari Mahal
The Pari Mahal, whose name means “House of Fairies,” is one of the best places in the world to take a holiday. It used to be a Buddhist temple, but the Mughal prince Dara Shikoh turned it into a library. The architecture is a mix of Mughal and Persian styles. One of the best things to do in Srinagar is to visit Pari Mahal, which is on top of Zabarwan Hills and has stunning city views.
- Famous For: Terraced garden and castle erected by Mughal prince Dara Shikoh, which offers magnificent views
- The best time to visit Pari Mahal is during the summer. For tourists, Srinagar is one of the top spots in India to visit in May.
- Tourist attractions include Mughal architecture, views of Srinagar, and Dal Lake.
- Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- Entry Fee: Rs. 20.
- Location: Atop Zabarwan Range near Srinagar.
9. Lal Chowk, Srinagar
Lal Chowk, Srinagar’s busy market center, is full of life and energy and gives you a great look into the city’s culture. With so many local markets, shops, and cheap hotels in Srinagar, this busy neighborhood is a treat for the senses. Lal Chowk is not only a place where a lot of business happens, but it is also a place where people from all over the world come together to experience what life is really like in Kashmir.
- Famous For: The central economic core of Srinagar, famed for its busy marketplaces and street life
- The best time to visit: year-round.
- Tourist Attractions: Markets, Street Food, and Local Culture
- Shops are open from 9 AM to 8 PM.
- No entrance fee.
- Location: Central Srinagar.
10. Pathar Mosque
Looking for the top spots in Srinagar to visit? Pathar Mosque, also known as the Shahi Masjid, is a historic mosque recognized for its distinct architectural style, which combines Mughal and Persian influences. It is one of the most well-known places in Srinagar.
It is located in Srinagar, Kashmir, and symbolizes the region’s rich cultural and religious diversity. Built with locally obtained stones, the mosque’s robust structure has weathered the test of time, symbolizing fortitude and strength.
- Famous for: One of the oldest mosques in Srinagar, with unique architecture.
- Greatest Time to Travel: You may travel here all year. However, September is one of the greatest months to visit in India.
- Tourist Attractions: Mosque architecture and courtyards
- Timings: 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
- Entry Fee: Free.
- Location: Old Srinagar.
The Bottom Line
Srinagar is indeed a place with a treasury of beauty, culture, and history. This city has been a passageway through which every eye gets majored with beauty, from the famous Dal Lake to the colorful Tulip Garden. For those looking for serenity, thrill, history, or all-in-one places, the top 10 places to visit in Srinagar are exciting and offer a thrilling experience. So, envision yourself in this magical place in 2025. Planning for the visit is easy, simply visit the parks.
Srinagar’s most famous attraction is the magnificent Dal Lake, which is famed for its tranquil beauty, houseboats, and colorful floating markets.
Mughal Gardens, Shankaracharya Temple, Dal Lake, and Nishat Bagh are among the many tourist attractions in Srinagar.
The best time to visit Srinagar is between March and October. During this time, the weather is lovely, and the gardens are full of flowers.
Kashmir is famous for its excellent handicrafts, including Pashmina shawls, Kashmiri carpets, paper-mâché products, and saffron.
Srinagar is noted for its excellent Wazwan cuisine, including Rogan Josh, Dum Aloo, and Yakhni dishes.
