Srinagar

Srinagar is the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir and the largest city in the Kashmir Valley, set on both banks of the Jhelum River. Dal Lake, Nigeen Lake, wooden houseboats and shikaras give the city a distinctive waterside character that has drawn visitors for more than a century.

The city's history reaches back to ancient settlements near Pandrethan, with later capitals built around Hari Parbat hill. Mughal emperors left a lasting mark through terraced gardens such as Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh, while Shankaracharya Temple, Hazratbal Shrine and the Jama Masjid in Nowhatta reflect the region's layered religious and architectural heritage.

The old city is known for narrow lanes, historic bridges, bazaars and craft workshops producing Pashmina shawls, carpets and papier-mâché. Around Dal Lake, visitors can take shikara rides, visit the floating vegetable market, explore the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden and watch the evening lakefront from the Boulevard.

Srinagar's economy is centred on tourism, horticulture and handicrafts, and the city serves as a base for journeys to Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg. Kashmiri wazwan feasts, kahwa and local bakeries add to the food experience, while houseboat stays offer a lodging tradition found in few other places.

For both leisure and business travellers, Srinagar works as the practical gateway to the Kashmir Valley. It combines gardens, lakes and mountain access with hotels, houseboats, conference venues and regional trade links, making it a distinctive Indian destination.