I had much heard and read that the Kashmir Valley, located in Jammu & Kashmir (India), is one of the most beautiful places in the world, more stunning than even Switzerland as the place’s pristine beauty and unmatched charm are hard to find anywhere in the world that include Switzerland. No wonder, the valley has enthralled the people since long. Though the entire valley is mesmerizing it is Srinagar--the state’s capital--which is really the pride of the valley.

Srinagar is one of the most frequently visited destinations in India and a big hit with the honeymooners who find the serene environments and the picturesque surroundings at Srinagar very enticing. There’s ‘something’ in the landscapes and the atmosphere of the place that makes the couples shed their inhibitions and express their love for each other with a gay abandon. No wonder, Srinagar is sometimes called the “Lovers’ Paradise” and the “Number One Honeymoon Destination of India”.

Srinagar is situated on both the sides of the charming Jhelum River that literally flows through the city. Called the “City of abundance of wealth” (“Sri” means abundance of wealth and “Nagar” means city), Srinagar is an ancient city with a rich cultural and historical past. Believed to have been founded by the Great Mauryan Emperor Ashoka, the destination was earlier famous as a wonderful centre of art and learning where scholars and learners came from far off places to quench their thirst for knowledge.

Also called the “Lake City” for its many beautiful lakes, Srinagar is renowned throughout the world for its languid waterways, beautiful Shikaras (houseboats), stunning gardens, invigorating dry fruits, wonderful water sport activities, and enjoyable shopping of fine hand-made handcrafts. This “Paradise on Earth” is also equally famous for its lush woods, bubbly river, and snow-capped mountain peaks.

Attractions

The Mughal Gardens, including Shalimar Garden (Abode of Love built by Jehangir), Nishant Bagh (the Garden of Spring), Chashma Shahi (the Royal Fountain), and Pari Mahal (the Place of the Fairies) are some of the renowned gardens of Srinagar and key attractions of the place. Perhaps, these well-maintained gardens have the largest species of flowers in India.

Among the many lakes of Srinagar, the Dal Lake and the Nagin Lake are worth mentioning. The Dal Lake is the most famous landmark of the place and an attractive hotspot. The many houseboats that operate on the languid waters of the Dal Lake are a big hit with the tourists who enjoy joy rides in these striking houseboats all the while enjoying the serene beauty of the shimmering lake and the surrounding areas that appear straight out of a beautiful picture card--especially on the full moon nights.

The Nagin Lake--the next famous lake of Srinagar--is situated in scenic surroundings and bordered with perfectly manicured flower beds, and groves of trees that much add to the beauty of the placid Nagin Lake making it a wonderful lake that gives tough competition to even the more popular Dal Lake in beauty and charm. In fact, I found this lake even more beautiful than the Dal Lake.

Among the nearby attractions, Gulmarg, located at a distance of 50 from Srinagar, is much famous. It is a wonderful skiing resort and much renowned for winter sports. Dachigam National Park and Pahalgam (the Valley of Shepherds) are other nearby attractions. These hotspots are a big hit with the footloose that include the fishers, hikers, and trekkers.

The Hazratbal Shrine--also called Assar-e-Sharief--is another nearby attraction and a well-known pilgrimage centre that’s worth visiting. It is revered by both the Hindus and the Muslims alike. The pride of the Hazratbal Shrine is the preserved sacred hair of the Prophet Muhammad. I visited the place and felt ‘blessed’.

When to visit

Though Srinagar could be visited throughout the year, the best time to visit it from December and February when Srinagar receives heavy snowfall. During this period, the entire area gets engulfed in a fine layer of snow and looks spectacular, to say the least.

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