Top 10 Places to Visit in Srinagar: The Complete 2026 Checklist

Srinagar is often just a transit point for tourists heading to Gulmarg or Pahalgam, but the summer capital itself is packed with history, culture, and beauty. Here is AKTASHAF KASHMIR's curated list of the top 10 places you absolutely cannot miss in Srinagar.

1. Dal Lake (The Jewel in the Crown)

No trip is complete without it. Take a 1-hour sunset Shikara ride, visit the Floating Post Office, and shop from the floating market.

2. Nishat Bagh (Garden of Bliss)

A 12-terraced Mughal garden overlooking the Dal Lake. The Zabarwan mountains in the background make it the most photogenic garden in Srinagar.

3. Shalimar Bagh (Abode of Love)

Built by Emperor Jahangir for his wife Nur Jahan. It is the largest Mughal garden in Kashmir, famous for its "Chini Khanas" (arched niches).

4. Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden

Note: Only open in March/April. It is Asia's largest tulip garden with over 1.5 million tulips. A visual spectacle.

5. Shankaracharya Temple

Perched atop a hill, this ancient Shiva temple offers the best 360-degree panoramic view of Srinagar city. You need to climb about 240 steps.

6. Hazratbal Shrine

The white marble mosque on the banks of Dal Lake. It houses a holy relic of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and is the most revered Muslim shrine in Kashmir.

7. Jamia Masjid & Old City

Explore the architecture of the 14th-century Jamia Masjid with its 370 wooden pillars. Walk through the narrow lanes of downtown to see heritage houses.

8. Pari Mahal (Palace of Fairies)

A seven-terraced garden located just above Chashme Shahi. High altitude means great breezes and views.

9. Nigeen Lake

The calmer, cleaner sister of Dal Lake. Ideal for those who want a quiet houseboat stay away from the hustle.

10. Botanical Garden

Located near majestic Chashme Shahi, it features a beautiful lake and is a great spot for peaceful evening walks.