Srinagar is the heart of any Kashmir trip, built around the famous Dal Lake. Here is how to enjoy the city like a local.

Stay in a Dal Lake houseboat

A night in a traditional wooden houseboat is a Kashmir must do. These carved cedar boats have cosy rooms, a lounge and a sundeck right on the water. Waking up to mist over the lake and a Shikara bringing morning tea is an experience travellers remember for years.

Shikara rides and the floating market

A Shikara is the graceful canoe that glides across Dal Lake. Take a sunset ride past floating gardens, lotus beds and lakeside life. Early risers can visit the famous floating vegetable market at dawn, where traders sell produce from boat to boat.

Mughal Gardens

Srinagar is home to the beautiful Mughal Gardens: Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh and Chashme Shahi, laid out in terraces with fountains and chinar trees against the lake and mountains. Spring and autumn are especially photogenic.

More to see in the city

Visit the historic Jamia Masjid and Hazratbal shrine, walk the old city and its craft workshops, ride the Chandigarh style boulevard along the lake, and shop for Pashmina shawls, papier mache and saffron. The Shankaracharya hill gives a fine view over Srinagar.

Plan your Srinagar stay

Happy Jacks Tours and Travels arranges genuine Dal Lake houseboats and city hotels along with Shikara rides and a private cab for sightseeing. Reach us on +91 94192 44962 or info@happyjacks.co.in.