Quick Facts

Quick Facts

 General Overview

• Location: Northern India, in the Kashmir Valley, located on the banks of the Jhelum River
• District: Srinagar
• Significance: Srinagar is the summer capital of Jammu & Kashmir and a famous tourist destination known for its scenic beauty, historic sites, and traditional culture

Tourist Attractions

• Dal Lake: Famous for its houseboats, shikaras (wooden boats), and picturesque views of the surrounding mountains
• Mughal Gardens: Includes the iconic Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, and Chashme Shahi, showcasing Mughal-era architecture and landscaping
• Hazratbal Shrine: A revered Muslim shrine located on the northern banks of Dal Lake, considered one of the holiest sites in Kashmir
• Shankaracharya Temple: Situated on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the city and Dal Lake
• Jama Masjid: An ancient mosque in Srinagar with beautiful Indo-Saracenic architecture
• Old Srinagar Market: A traditional marketplace, offering Kashmiri handicrafts, carpets, and local goods

 Economy

• Tourism: A major contributor to the local economy, attracting visitors for its natural beauty, historical sites, and spiritual significance
• Handicrafts: Srinagar is known for Kashmiri carpets, Pashmina shawls, and other traditional handicrafts
• Agriculture: Famous for its saffron cultivation, as well as the production of apples and walnuts
• Shikaras and Houseboats: A unique feature of the tourism economy, offering visitors a chance to stay on Dal Lake

 Connectivity

• By Air: Sheikh Ul-Alam International Airport (Srinagar Airport) connects Srinagar with major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Chandigarh
• By Rail: Srinagar is connected by rail to other regions in Jammu & Kashmir via the Banihal Railway Station (via the Jammu-Srinagar rail link)
• By Road: Well-connected to cities like Jammu, Delhi, and Leh through national highways, but can be affected by weather conditions in winter

 Climate

• Type: Temperate climate with cold winters and mild summers
• Summer: Pleasant and cool (15–30°C), making it a popular summer destination
• Winter: Cold and snowy (0–10°C), with temperatures often dipping below freezing in the peak winter months (December–February)
• Best Time to Visit: May to October for sightseeing and outdoor activities, December to February for snow sports and winter beauty

 Festivals

• Eid – A major religious festival celebrated by the Muslim population in Srinagar
• Navratri – Celebrated with much enthusiasm, particularly in temples
• Diwali – The Hindu festival of lights is also celebrated by the local Kashmiri Pandit community
• Shikara Festival – A unique celebration on Dal Lake, celebrating the beauty of the lake and Kashmiri culture
• Tulip Festival – Held annually in spring at the famous Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden in Srinagar