Srinagar - Jammu And Kasmir Tour

Srinagar is the capital of the northern most Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. It is situated in Kashmir Valley and lies on the banks of the Jhelum River, a tributary of the Indus. The city is famous for its lakes and houseboats. It is also known for traditional Kashmiri handicrafts and dry fruits. It is called as the Venice of the Himalayas.
 

Summer is beautiful here with many attractions and activities, like Shikara ride, visit to Gardens and Monuments. Summer is verdant with green and beautiful scenaries and gardens, springling lakes and other attractions. Sight-seeing in Srinagar is the greatest attraction to the visitors. Mughal Gardens, Hazaratbal Mosque and other lake side views are some of the wonderful places to visit. Shikara, the houseboats, can be used in Jhelum River to move around the picturesque valleys in the backdrop of Himalayan range hillocks.

Famous Places in Srinagar

 Amarnath Cave(Amarnath Temple)

 Art and Culture in Kashmir

 Bhuteshwara Temple

 Botanical Garden Kokernag, Anantnag

 Burzahom

 Char Chinar(Char Chinari or Ropa Lank or Rupa Lank)

 Chashme Shahi Garden

 Chhatti Padshahi Gurudwara

 Dachigam National Park

 Dal Lake

 Darashikoh Bagh, Bijbehara, Anantnag

 Dastgir Sahib Shrine

 Ganesh Temple

 Garden of Char Minar

 Hari Parbat

 Harwan Garden

 Hazratbal Shrine(Hazratbal Mosque)

 Imambara Zadibal

 Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden

 Jamia(Jama) Masjid

 Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Botanical Garden, Cheshmashahi

 Jharokha Mughal Garden, Manasbal

 Jhelum River

 Jyeshtheshvara Temple

 Kashmir Handicrafts

 Kashmir Houseboat and Shikara

 Kashmiri Carpets

 Kathi Darwaza

 Khanqah of Khwaja Moinuddin Naqsbandi

 Kheer Bhawani Temple

 Loduv Temple, Loduv

 Mamal Shiva Temple, Pahalgam

 Manasbal Temple, Jhelum Valley

 Martand Temple, Anantnag

 Masjid of Akhund Mullah

 Mughal Garden, Achabal, Anantnag

 Mughal Garden, Verinag Anantnag

 Mughal Gardens

 Nagin Lake

 Narayan Temple

 Nasim Bagh

 Nishat Bagh

 Pandrethan Temple

 Pari Mahal (Quntilon)

 Pathar Masjid

 Rainawari

 Rameshwaram Shiva Temple

 Rozabal Shrine

 Sangin Darwaza

 Shah-e-Hamdan(Khanqah of Shah Hamdan) Mosque

 Shalimar Bagh

 Shankaracharya Temple(Jyesteshwara Temple or Pas-Pahar)

 Sharika Devi Temple, Hari Parbat

 Shrine of Hamza Makhdum

 Sri Pratap Singh Museum

 Tomb of Madin Sahib

 Wullar Lake

Amarnath Cave(Amarnath Temple)

It is situated on Mount Amarnath, the Amarnath caves are one of the most famous shrines in Hinduism. Dedicated to the god Shiva, the shrine is said to be over 5,000 years old. The shrine forms an important part of Hindu mythology. Inside the main Amarnath cave lies an ice stalagmite resembling the Shiva Linga, which waxes during May to August and gradually wanes thereafter. This lingam is said to grow and shrink with the phases of the moon, reaching its height during the summer festival. According to Hindu mythology, this is the cave where Shiva explained the secret of life and eternity to his divine consort Parvati. Two other ice formations represent Parvati and Shiva's son, Ganesha.

The cave is situated at an altitude of 3,888 m (12,756 ft), about 141 km (88 mi) from Srinagar, the capital of Jammu and Kashmir. It is a popular pilgrimage destination for Hindus - about 400,000 people visit during the 45-day season around the festival of Shravani Mela in July-August, coinciding with the Hindu holy month of Shraavana.

Art and Culture in Kashmir

Kashmiri Carpets and Handicrafts are the most famous among the arts in kashmir. Some other are Namdas(colourful floor coverings made of woollen and cotton fibre), Chain Stitch And Crewel Furnishings, Shawls, Copper and Silverware, Basketry, Wood Carving, Traditional Folk etc.

Bhuteshwara Temple

Bhuteshwara Temple is one of the principal temples in the locality of Naran Nag, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Also referred to as Nandikshetra or Nandisakshetra, this is a 12th century temple built by King Jayasimha. The mountain spur that extends southeast from Harmukh Mountain denotes the residence of Bhuteshwara. Built using grayish granite, the temple has a dome-shaped ceiling.

Bhuteshwara temple has a gigantic rectangular stonewall with a two-chambered gateway. There are two small shrines to the south of the main temple. The distinctiveness of one of them lies in the fact that it is a colossal rectangular stone depression carved out of a single gigantic block of granite. To the northwestern corner of the colonnade, there is a large spring formed by the fresh water that trickles out of the mountainside. Due to age and neglect, however the Bhuteshwara shrine is now almost in a decrepit state. The temple is accessible from Srinagar city, with Jammu Tawi Railway Station serving as the nearest railhead.

Botanical Garden Kokernag, Anantnag

The pleasure garden of serene beauty against the backdrop of high and thick pine forests existed earlier on about 0.8 ha. in front of the famous springs of pure, cool mineral water.In 1969 the garden was extended to an area of about 26 ha. and converted into a' Botanical Garden besides being a pleasure garden. 

New lawns have been laid and about One Lakh ornamental plants, trees, bushes, roses, as well as flora from the wild niches of higher range has been planted. A separate section comprising of wild flora of the valley is mainrained in this garden. 

Modern effects like rosary, Japanese bridges over the gushing water stream, water ponds, live garden seats, topiary work etc. are points of attraction in the garden.

Burzahom

Archaeologically very important place in Srinagar, Burzahom is in the northwest of beautiful Shalimar Gardens. Lying on the cradle of an ancient lake that is dried up now, Burzahom stands for 'place of birch' in local language and has the legacy of the first Neolithic site to be exposed in Jammu and Kashmir.

This excavation site brought out many valuable ancient artifacts supposed to be old more than 5000 years. The archaeologically important materials collected include arrowheads, animal skeletons, implements, tools and pots from the Neolithic age.

Char Chinar(Char Chinari or Ropa Lank or Rupa Lank)

Char Chinar, also sometimes rendered Char Chinari, Ropa Lank, or Rupa Lank, is an island in Dal Lake, Srinagar, India. It is called as Char-Chinar (Four Chinars) because of the presence of four beautiful Chinar trees in this region. 

Chinar trees characteristically grow in Eastern Himalayas. They have been an important part of Kashmiri tradition, in that, a Chinar tree is found in almost every village in Kashmir. These trees have survived for ages, because Chinar is basically a long-living tree. It spreads wide across a region of cool climate with sufficient water. The tree has several properties - leaves and bark are used as medicine, the wood, known as lace wood has been used for delicate furniture and the twigs and roots are used for making dyes.

Chashme Shahi Garden

Chashme Shahi is one of the famous Mughal gardens of Kashmir. The place originally derives its name from the spring which is supposedly discovered by the great female saint of Kashmir, Rupa Bhawani. The family name of Rupa Bhawani was 'Sahib' and the spring was originally called 'Chashme Sahibi'. 

Over the years the name got corrupted and today the place is known as Chashme Shahi (the Royal Spring). Later a garden was created around the spring by the Mughal Governor Ali Mardan. And today it is one of the three major Mughal Gardens in Srinagar.

Chhatti Padshahi Gurudwara

The sixth Sikh guru travelled through Kashmir, stopping to preach occasionally. A gurudwara has been built at the exact site of each of these halts. The most important one among these is Chhatti Padshahi gurudwara, situated near the Kathi Darwaza, in Rainawari, Srinagar, which is held in great reverence by devotees of all faiths.

Dachigam National Park

Spread over an area of 141 sq. km., Dachigam National Park is the best getaway for all animal and nature lovers. Situated just 22 km from Srinagar, the park is not only rich in flora and fauna but also turns out to be great bird watching spot. The parks has been divided into two sectors, the Lower Dachigam and the Upper Dachigam. The altitude difference between the lower and upper section is quite prominent which makes the climate drastically different.

Dachigam has more than 20 species of mammals like Leopard, Himalayan brown bear, Langur, but the prize possession of this park is the Rare Kashmiri Stag called Hangul which is an endangered species of red deer. The place is also great for spotting beautiful birds of more than 150 species. Few of them are Golden Oriole, Golden Eagle, Black Bulbul, Bearded Vulture. The park remains closed between January and April and the best time to visit this park is may to August for Upper Dachigam and September to December for Lower Dachigam.

Dal Lake

The Dal lake, which is the second largest in the state, is integral to tourism and recreation in Kashmir and is nicknamed the "Jewel in the crown of Kashmir" or "Srinagar's Jewel". The lake is also an important source for commercial operations in fishing and water plant harvesting. The shore line of the lake, about 15.5 kilometres (9.6 mi), is encompassed by a boulevard lined with Mughal era gardens, parks, houseboats and hotels.

Scenic views of the lake can be witnessed from the shore line Mughal gardens, such as Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh and from houseboats cruising along the lake in the colourful shikaras. The lake covers an area of 18 square kilometres (6.9 sq mi) and is part of a natural wetland which covers 21.1 square kilometres (8.1 sq mi), including its floating gardens. The floating gardens, known as "Rad" in Kashmiri, blossom with lotus flowers during July and August.

Darashikoh Bagh, Bijbehara, Anantnag

Darashikoh Bagh is situated on the national highway about 45 Km from Srinagar on the bank of River Jehlum.

Dara Shikoh a Mughal Emperor, eldest son of the fifth king of Mughals Shah Jahan built the garden in early 17th century and was opened on 1640 A.D. It served as camping round for Mughal journey. Majestic Chinars add to the beauty of this garden. This garden is spread over an area of 17.15 ha.

Dara Shikoh Garden is a Mughal garden situated on a side of Bijbehara, Pahalgam road which is 45 km away from the capital Srinagar. It is situated on the bank of river Jehlum. It constitutes decas of Chinar trees which were planted by the Mughal emperors which they brought from Iran. Apart from this the town Bijbehara has a lot of chinar trees planted in, and that is why it is also known as Town of Chinars

Dastgir Sahib Shrine

One mosque that is relatively free of external disturbance is the Dastgir Sahib dargah situated in Srinagar in the Kashmir Valley. Communal harmony and syncretism are the features of this mosque for many centuries.

This mosque is very special, adorned with colorful panels that are carved intricately and to wrench down the Aytal Kursi, by the devotees, which hang at the door. Stories of any number of families, their hopes and sufferings stand alone brighter by the fuchsia and blue flower patterns and the colorful threads tied to the wooden ledge. This is an attractive shrine, for both the believers and mere tourists.

Ganesh Temple

The Ganesh Temple, located in Srinagar city, is a well-known gothic shrine. The idol of Lord Ganesh that was saved from the attack of the Pathan rulers is established at the outer shrine of the temple, adjoining a Shivalingam (the symbolic phallus representation of Lord Shiva). The central shrine contains two larger idols of Lord Ganesh. The temple is adeptly managed by a local managing committee. Vaisakha Shukla Chaturdashi and a Mahayajna (sacred ritual) performed by the Brahman Maha Mandal organisation are the annual festivals celebrated in the Ganesh temple.

Garden of Char Minar

Built by Mughal Emperor Jehangir in 1616 to display his love to his beautiful wife Nur Jahan, the Char Minar garden offers amazing view of the surroundings, flowers, lakes and shallow terraces. The Shalimar Mughal Gardens, a very well known garden of love, consisting of four terraces, is made such that going up one above the other. The top terrace, the imposing garden, was reserved for the Mughal Emperor and the royal ladies of the court.

There is also a stream wrinkled with fantastically polished stones in the middle of the Garden. The Shalimar garden demonstrates the imaginative and flourishing designing of beautiful places, which includes the channeling of a stream in the midst of the Garden. No tourist can miss this garden while visiting Srinagar.

Hari Parbat

Hari Parbat is a hill overlooking Srinagar, the largest city and summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is the site of a Durrani fort, built in 1808. It has the famous Shakti Temple on the western Slope and Muslim shrines of Khwaja Makhdoom Sahib and Akhund Mullah Shah on the southern slope. On the southern side of the outer wall there is a Gurudwara, which commemorates the visit of Guru Hargobind.

Sharika Temple, Makhdoom Sahib, Gurdwara Chatti Patshahi etc are the religious places situated here.

Harwan Garden

Harwan Garden, an impressive and large, is an admired picnic spot in Srinagar. A canal, beautifully bordered with chinar trees and blossoming flower beds, starting from a lake just behind the garden, flows through the middle of the garden.

The major draw of the Harwan garden is its natural loveliness and charm. Lusting with greenery in the backdrop of snowy environment, this garden has big green grass lawns and attracts visitors virtually towards this place. A perfect place for picnics and excursions, Harwan is the ideal place for natures walk. It is the gateway to Dachi Gam Wildlife sanctuary and a beginning point of a Mahadev Mountain trek.

Hazratbal Shrine(Hazratbal Mosque)

The Hazratbal Shrine is a Muslim shrine in Srinagar, India. It contains a relic believed by many Muslims of Kashmir to be a hair of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. The name of the shrine comes from the Arabic word Hazrat, meaning holy or majestic, and the Kashmiri word bal, (bal is a corrupted form of Sanskrit Vala which means an enclosure) meaning place.

The shrine is situated on the left bank of the Dal Lake, Srinagar and is considered to be Kashmir's holiest Muslim shrine. The Moi-e-Muqqadas (the sacred hair) of Mohammed is believed to be preserved here. The shrine is known by many names including Hazratbal, Assar-e-Sharief, Madinat-us-Sani, or simply Dargah Sharif.

Imambara Zadibal

Located in the Zadibal locality of Srinagar to the west side of the Fort, Immabara Zadibal was constructed by Kaji Chek, Minister of Sultan Mohammed Shah (1517-25 AD) around 1518-28 AD. The Immabara got desecrated by fires eleven times right from the period of Sultan Nazuk Shah by Mirza Douglat in 1548 AD till the period of Maharaja Ranbir Sing in 1872 AD. The two-storeyed structure of Imamabara has been in the oriental bricks, Maharaji bricks, over 75 square meter area with sideways floor raisings (Gulam Gardish), central zero level floor (Pokhr), gallery and four gates. Recently, the reconstruction of this historic Immambara has been takenup and is likely to be built on the pattern of Persian architecture.

Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden

Tulip garden previously named as Model Floriculture Centre, Sirajbagh, Cheshmashahi Srinagar, is spread over an area of about 30 ha situated On the foothills of Zabarwan Hills with an overview of picturesque world famous Dal Lake. This garden was conceived, conceptualized and created by Mr. Gh. Nabi Azad, the then Chief Minister, Jand K in the year 2006-07. Main aim of this garden is to boost floriculture and advance tourism in Kashmir Valley. Over 12 Lakh tulip bulbs of 68 varieties of different colours sown during Nov-Dec, 2007 presented a breathtaking view.

The Tulip festival is held annualy in the month of April when tulips are in full bloom. The sprawling tulips of varied colours make the garden look like a silken carpet with intricate designs. The scene is simply captivating with floral charm and is a memorable delight for a visitor.

Jamia(Jama) Masjid

Jamia Masjid is a mosque in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India. The Jamia Masjid of Srinagar is situated at Nowhatta, in the middle of the old city. An important mosque in Srinagar, it was built by Sultan Sikandar in 1400 AD. The attractions of the Jamia Masjid of Srinagar, Kashmir include beautiful Indo-Saracenic architecture, a magnificent courtyard and 370 wooden pillars. Another feature of the mosque is the peace and tranquility inside it, standing out against the hustle of the old bazaars around it. Thousands of Indian Muslims assemble at the mosque every Friday to offer their prayers.

Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Botanical Garden, Cheshmashahi

This beautiful landscape garden took birth in the year 1969 on the enchanting Zabarwan mountain slopes near famous Mughal Garden Cheshmashahi, over looking the panorama of Dal-Lake. This pleasure garden complex extends over an area of about 80 hectares and consists of several styles of gardens with unending joy for seekers of solace on informal and undulated landscape. It comprises of four components- Recreational Garden, Botanical Garden, Research Section, and Plant Introduction Centre.

A beautiful lake spread over an area of 17 hectares with joy riding boats is also the attraction of the garden. The garden provides a 3.5 Kilometer joyride, a pleasant water garden, inspiring colour feast of spring, fragrance and colour pageantry of roses, riot of colours in summer, changing autumn colours and captivating twitter of water falls. Over 1.5 Lakh ornamental plants, representing about 300 plant species have been planted in the garden.

Jharokha Mughal Garden, Manasbal

The little known Jarogabal garden is located on the steep North Eastern Bank of loveliest and loneliest Manasbal Lake. The name in all probability is the distorted version of "Daroga Bagh" also known as "Lalla Rookh's Garden". This royal palace was built for the Empress Noar Jahan. The garden which was in ruins till recently, commands a captivating view of the lake and its environs-serene and calm. It covers an area of about 3.50 ha.

Jhelum River

Jehlum River or Jhelum River is a river that flows through both India and Pakistan. It has a total length of about 505 miles (813 kilometers). Srinagar lies on the banks of the Jhelum River. Considered to be the source of the River Jhelum, often termed as the lifeline of the province of Jammu and Kashmir, the beautiful region of Verinag is indeed one of the best options of a weekend getaway from Srinagar. A tour to Verinag reveals the secret of the source of the River Jhelum, a spring after which the region itself has been named.

Jyeshtheshvara Temple

An inspirational religious place, one that no visitor can miss during the visit in Srinagar, Jyeshtheshvara Temple has many myths associated with it. One of them relates the temple to the Pandavas in the 5th century, another gives the credit to King Gopaditya built during 6th century and a third claim is that it was Ashoka's 'son' Jaluka who first built this temple.

Later King Lalitaditya renovated the existing shrine in the 8th century and much remodeling has been done on it further. This is an ancient place to understand the style of architecture and erstwhile culture and heritage.

Kashmir Handicrafts

From the amusing trinket to a collector's item, you'll find it all in Srinagar. Row upon row of shops filled with handicrafts line the streets. The array is awesome. There are objects to suit every pocket, for the variety within each craft is wide.

Kashmiri handicrafts are prized everywhere for their exquisite craftsmanship. Kashmir carpets, in both wool and silk with their Persian design, are a lifetime investment and the shoppers' selection range from the simple to the most extraordinarily intricate patterns handed down the generations. Then there are papier-m?ch? items ranging from jewellery boxes to mirror frames, a range of intricately carved walnut wood furniture and accessories, stone jewellery boxes, beautiful woollen shawls, crewel embroidery on furnishing material sold by the meter and more.

Kashmir Houseboat and Shikara

Houseboats and the Dal Lake are widely associated with Srinigar and are nicknamed "floating palaces", built according to British customs. The houseboats are generally made from local cedar-wood and measure 24-38 metres (79-125 ft) in length and 3-6 metres (9.8-20 ft) in width and are graded in a similar fashion to hotels according to level of comfort. Many of them have lavishly furnished rooms, with verandas and a terrace to serve as a sun-deck or to serve evening cocktails. They are mainly moored along the western periphery of the lake, close to the lakeside boulevard in the vicinity of the Dal gate and on small islands in the lake.

The shikara is a type of wooden boat found on Dal Lake and other water bodies of Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India. Shikaras are of varied sizes and are used for multiple purposes, including transportation of people. Drivers use oars having a unique spade-shaped bottom to row the shikara. A usual shikara seats half-a-dozen people, with the driver sitting at the lower end. Like the Venetian gondolas, they are a cultural symbol of Kashmir. Some shikaras are still used for fishing, harvesting aquatic vegetation (usually for fodder), and transport in the deeper parts of Dal Lake, while most are covered with tarpaulins and are used by tourists.

Kashmiri Carpets

A carpet may well be the most expensive purchase from your trip to Kashmir but it is a lifelong investment. Kashmiri carpets are known the world over for two things - they are handmade, never machine made, and they are always knotted, never tufted. The yarn used normally is silk, wool or both. Staple carpets are made to fill a slot in the market - customers demand carpets, which are not unlike silk in appearance so as to blend with the decor of their houses. One important difference between silk and staple though is that pure silk is far lighter than staple per unit area.

Carpet weaving in Kashmir was not originally indigenous but is thought to have come in by way of Persia. Till today, most designs are distinctly Persian with local variations.The knotting of carpet is the most important aspect, determining its durability and value, in addition to its design. Basically, the more knots per square inch, the greater its value and durability. Count the number of knots on the reverse of carpet in any one square inch, and it should be roughly the same as the dealer tells you, give or take 10 knots.

Kathi Darwaza

The Hari Parbat or the Mughal Fort, located on the banks of the world renowned Dal Lake, has two gates known as Kathi Darwaza and Sangin Darwaza. The Kathi Darwaza, assumed to be the main entrance of the Hari Parbat Fort, is a very simple structure with a domed chamber in the center and two recesses in the sides.

Kathi Darwaza has some Persian commemorative inscriptions in the walls and ceilings. These inscriptions point light to the Persian beliefs and culture. The beautiful external decorations include arched and rectangular panels and two good-looking medallions, on the spandrels of the simple arch.

Khanqah of Khwaja Moinuddin Naqsbandi

Khanqah of Khwaja Moinuddin Naqsbandi, also known as Naqshband Shrine, is a renowned shrine located in the heart of Srinagar. This is a very important Muslim religious attraction. This mosque is famed for the fact that the sacred hair (Moi-e-Muqaddas) of the Prophet Mohammed was kept initially here in this holy place, before moving it to the Hazratbal Mosque.

This shrine, built during the time of Shah Jahan, receives lot of attractions for the astonishing khatamband ceilings including archaeologically important inscriptions with ancient architectural beauty.

Kheer Bhawani Temple

Kheer Bhawani is a temple dedicated to the goddess Kheer Bhawani (originally just Bhawani) constructed over a sacred spring .The worship of Kheer Bhawani is universal among the Hindus of Kashmir. The temple is situated at a distance of 14 miles east of Srinagar near the village of Tula Mula. The term kheer refers to the food used to propitiate the goddess, which became part of the name. As is the custom with Hindu deities, she has many names: Maharagya Devi, Ragnya Devi, Rajni, Ragnya Bhagwati, and so on.

Around the temple is an area covered with smooth and beautiful stones. In it are large, antique chinar trees beneath which the pilgrims sit or sleep on mats of grass. While most of the colours do not have any particular significance, the colour of the spring changes.the colour black is taken as an indication for inauspicious times for Kashmir.

Khir Bhawani Festival is annually held in June at Kheer Bhawani Shrine, Tulmulla, Ganderbal, in which Hindu devotees participate in scores with reverence to participate in "Maha Yagna", a traditional offering.

Loduv Temple, Loduv

Erected on a hillock in Loduv village, the Loduv Temple is an ancient architecture dating back to the 8th century. It is about 4 miles away from Barus in Srinagar district. Built in a distinguishable manner from the other Kashmiri temples, this piece is quite uncomplicated in its structure. The interior of the temple is circular in arrangement whereas the external portion is square in shape. The entrance is on the southwestern corner and there is a hemispherical arch on the top. Constructed using relatively small sized stones, the temple roof are sharp and straight.

Externally the walls are devoid of beautification, reaching a height of 10feet from the ground level. There is a moulding at the corner between the ceiling and the top of a wall. It consists of three rows of stone ornamented with projecting fillets. The corner pillars are rather bare and protrude only very faintly from the walls. The dome resembles the ceiling of the larger temples at Wangat and was built of protruding courses of Kanjur in lime. The Loduv Temple bears similarity with the Shankaracharya Temple on the Takht-e-Sulaiman Hill (Shankaracharya Hill). 

Other attractions comprise a mosque and a small temple on the hilltop.

Mamal Shiva Temple, Pahalgam

Mamal Shiva Temple is located just opposite to the Rest House in Pahalgam in Srinagar district. It is an ancient temple dating back to the 5th century on the banks of the Lidder River. Understandably, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. 

A Shivalingam (a symbolic phallus representation of the Lord) is established inside the sanctum. Even though a major portion of the temple is in wreckings, despite that devotees throng this temple in huge numbers. It is believed that Mamal Shiva Temple is the oldest existing temple in Kashmir. The enarest railhead is Jammu Tawi railway station; Pahalgam is well connected by road to Srinagar.

Manasbal Temple, Jhelum Valley

Manasbal Temple is moderately submerged in the Manasbal Lake during the larger part of the year. This charming temple is roofed like a quadrangular prism. It has two pyramidal roofs. A moulding at the corner between the ceiling and the top of a wall, and the horizontal band are festooned with series of dentils. 

The entrance to the temple faces west. The Shakful Canal and the ruins of a terraced Mughal Garden are the nearby draws. Manasbal Temple can be reached by travelling a distance of approximately 32km from Srinagar via Shadipor and about 27km via Nasim-Ganderbal Road.

Martand Temple, Anantnag

Martand temple is situated near the town of Anantnag in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. It has been built on a plateau encircled by a range of eternal snows, this temple represents an architectural expressiveness of the highest order, and forms the supreme model of a style to which a great number of later temples subscribed. 

It is also significant in that it marks a departure from the Buddhist influence and the acceptance of the Brahmanical creed by the people. Seen here, instead of the Buddhist assembly hall, where congregational worship was held, the central structure here is a sanctuary for the divine symbol.

It is a gothic temple, dedicated to Bhaskar, the Sun God. King Lalitaditya, a Kshatriya of Surya (Solar) dynasty, built the Sun temple to memorialise Lord Surya. Built with 84 columns, the temple offers a magnificent view of the Kashmir Valley. The shrine stands within an immense courtyard surrounded by a pillared arcade and a series of cells. Certain features in the surface decoration of the Martand temple are of unique interest.

Masjid of Akhund Mullah

The masjid of Akhund Mulla or Akhoon Mulla is considered as the mosque within a mosque, as the main sanctuary is a separate and detached building, placed within a courtyard surrounding the mosque. The little mosque built by Dara Shikoh in attractive glossy grey limestone, son of Shah Jahan to honor his tutor Akhun Mulla Shah is located below the Makhdum Sahib mosque. The stone lotus erected over the podium is the only model of its type existing in Kashmir and has an inscription dated back to 1649. The main feature of the mosque is the specially constructed prayer chamber.

Mughal Garden, Achabal, Anantnag

This garden is believed to be laid by Nur Jahan wife of Jahangir in 1620 A.D. It is situated about 62 Km south of Srinagar. It is watered by an ancient and once sacred spring from the adjacent hillside. All its pavilions are Kashmiri in character. Fountains in water channels spray and splash and cascades tumble presenting a romantic view. The garden covers an area of about 6.20 ha. Achabal is located at the foot of a forested hill, 8 km from Anantnag and 56 km from Srinagar.

Resting at the foot of a hill with a row of majestic chinars framing it, the garden of Achabal is a visual delight. They embody all that goes to make a Mughal Garden- stepped terraces, formal elegance , ornamental shrubs, sparkling fountains and falling water.

Mughal Garden, Verinag Anantnag

The present name Verinag is probably the deformed version of Virah-Nag in Sanskrit. It is located about 61 Kilometers south of Srinagar at the foot of Banihal hill range. The gushing spring of Verinag is the source of the river Jehlum in Kashmir. Mughal Emperor Jhangir was highly impressed by the natural beauty of this irregular spring and its surroundings and built an octagonal tank of sculptured stones around it in 1620 A.D. 

Seven years later his son Shah Jahan constructed cascades and fountains in straight lines in front of the spring and also hot and cold baths (Hamams) of which only ruins are now left. Its bountiful gushing water, open lawns, mighty chinars, colour and fragrance of flowers against the backdrop of a green forest are the bounties of nature one can be proud of The garden covers an area of about 5.30 ha.

Mughal Gardens

Mughal Gardens, as the name suggests, built in the Mughal period is a marvel located in Srinagar. These gardens are the major attractions of the tourists to Jammu and Kashmir. These gardens are the nice example of the Mughal style of constructing attractive places.

The name Mughal Gardens is given for the combination of three renowned gardens namely the Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Gardens and Chashmashahi. These gardens are tourists' paradise and are beautifully decorated with bright flowerbeds, terraced lawns and well maintained cascading fountains. No tourist can miss these three nice marvelous gardens.

Nagin Lake

Nagin Lake, with its name derived out of the name of the trees surrounding the lake, is popular as the 'Jewel in the Ring' and is considered as one of the impressive lakes in Srinagar. This is a small lake looking pretty in deep blue. This lake is separated from the Dal lake by a thin causeway and is an exciting tourist spot with number of houseboats dwindling in the calm water.

Nagin is a perfect place to go for swimming as it is less crowded and deeper. Water Skiing is another water sports one can venture out in this lake, skiing facilities and fiberglass sailing boats are available for hire.

Narayan Temple

Narayan Temple is located at Bulbul Lanker in Srinagar district of Jand K. Its constructional time dates back to more than 70 years. Sadly, a part of the temple was damaged in a fire some years back. The temple is a living proof of the amiable relationship that existed between Hindus and Muslims, as the reformation work was covered by the Kashmiri Muslims of the area. The temple bears ample historic interest for the inscriptions on its walls. By road Narayan temple can be approached from Srinagar. The nearest railhead is Jammu Tawi railway Station.

Nasim Bagh

One of the beautiful Mughal Gardens, Nasim bagh is constructed in 1586 AD by Great Mughal Emperor Akbar. This garden serves as a brilliant example of natural beauty merged with the man made marvelous designs. This is the oldest Mughal garden and has camping facilities in the enchanting lawns of the Gardens.

Visitors can spent their holidays here under the nature's gifts and in seclusion, away from the day to day stress and strains. It is most sought tourist spot and the garden provides a marvelous panoramic view of the Dal Lake.

Nishat Bagh

Nishat Bagh, is a Mughal garden built on the eastern side of the Dal Lake, close to the Srinagar city in the state of Jammu and Kashmir in India. It is the second largest Mughal garden in the Kashmir Valley. The largest in size is the Shalimar Bagh, which is also located on the bank of the Dal Lake. 'Nishat Bagh' is a Hindustani word, which means "Garden of Joy," "Garden of Gladness" and "Garden of Delight." Nishat Bagh as laid out now is a broad cascade of terraces lined with avenues of chinar and cypress trees, which starts from the lakeshore and reaches up to an artificial fa?ade at the hill end. Rising from the edge of the Dal Lake, it has twelve 12 terraces representing twelve Zodiacal signs.

The central canal, which runs through the garden from the top end, is 4 metres (13 ft) wide and has a water depth of 20 centimetres (7.9 in). Water flows down in a cascade from the top to the first terrace at the road level, which could be also approached from the Dal Lake through a shikara ride. The water flow from one terrace to the next is over stepped stone ramps that provide the sparkle to the flow. At all the terraces fountains with pools are provided, along the water channel. At channel crossings, benches are provided for people to sit and enjoy the beauty of the garden and the cascading flows and fountain jets.

Pandrethan Temple

Pandrethan is about 4 miles from Srinagar. It was originally an old capital of Kashmir, founded by Emperor Ashoka. The word is a corrupt form of `Purana`, meaning `old` and `adhishthan` meaning `capital`. There is now a military cantonment in the place. The chief attraction for tourists, is however a handsome stone temple, located not far from the road in a very low spring. The roof of the Pandrethan temple has been chiselled out from a single piece of stone, inventively carved.

The Pandrethan temple was built by Meru, minister to King Partha who ruled Kashmir from 921-931. The temple was dedicated to Lord Vishnu and was named Meru Vardhana Swami. The design and evidences illustrate that the temple must have been a popular seat of pilgrimage in ancient times. Pandrethan finds proud mention in the Amar Nath Mahatmva, but now has lost its sacred associations.

Pari Mahal (Quntilon)

The name Pari Mahal (Quntilon) appears to be a distorted version of "Peer Mahal" built by Prince Dara Shikoh, eldest son of Emperor Shah ]ahan in the year 1640 A.D. for his tutor Peer Mullah Shah. Once the royal observatory, it is a seven terraced garden located on the base of Zabarvan mountain range over-looking city of Srinagar and Dal-Lake. 

The Mahal Built for the meditation and summer residence of Peer Mullah Shah is a replica of typical Mughal architecture in garden layout, water now been restored to its glory with captivating terraced gardens, motorable road up to the garden and wonderful lighring effects which look marvelous and captivating at night. It covers an area of about 3.20 ha.

Pathar Masjid

Enthusiastic archaeologists and historians are welcomed to this mosque. Pathar Masjid, the biggest surviving Mughal structure in the state of Jammu and Kashmir, is located across the Jhelum river and faces the Shah Hamdan mosque. The mosque, built by Noor Jahan in 1623 AD, consists of nine arches in the style of horizontal construction.

It is believed that the construction was supervised by the renowned architect and a known Mughal historian Malik Hyder Chaudhary. The masjid is in ruins, but visitors can get the blessed feeling of devotion. This is good place to have a closer look at the Mughal architectural styles.

Rainawari

Rainawari is the holy place where the most important gurudwara in Srinagar is situated. The Gurudwara is built by the sixth guru of Sikhism who traveled through Kashmir. The guru halted in this place and a gurudwara, known as Chatti Padshahi Gurudwara was constructed.

Rainawari has historical and religious importance. This place has all the beauty of any other place in Srinagar, ranging from picturesque surroundings, cool and nice weather and calm, quiet environment. Visitors can mix up with locals and have a close look at their lifestyle and culture.

Rameshwaram Shiva Temple

Rameshwaram Shiva Temple is located in Jawahar Nagar in Srinagar district of Jammu and Kashmir. The temple is devoted to Lord Shiva. Due to certain inexplicable reasons, the temple was closed a few years back, only to reopen its doors in 1990. The importance of the temple lies in the fact that it shares the same wall with a Gurdwara. 

There are several mosques nearby. Shivratri is the key festival celebrated here. Rameshwaram Shiva Temple can be easily accessed from Srinagar by road. The nearest railhead is Jammu.

Rozabal Shrine

Rozabal Shrine, located in Khanyar Srinagar, has the distinction of being claimed by Muslims as well as Christians. While Muslims believe that Rozabal shrine is the tomb of a Muslim saint known as Yuza Asaf, many researchers bet that it encloses the holy body of Jesus Christ. Ziarati Hazrati Youza Asouph, another name of Rozabal in the Khanyar area, is hence under the controversy.

This spot has been made very much known by the recent claims in books saying that Jesus Lived in India until the age of 100 and buried here in Rozabal shrine. This is indeed a very attractive religious place whether belonging to Christians or Muslims.

Sangin Darwaza

Apart from the Kathi Darwaza, Hari Prabat Fort has a second entrance names Sangin Darwaza. This entrance does not have any inscriptions where Kathi Darwaza has Persian inscriptions at the entrance. These are structural evidence of Mughal invasion in the valley, mainly built by brick or stone masonry.

The two Darwazas, Sangin Darwaza and Kathi Darwaza, and the shrine of Akhun Mulla Shah are worth enough to have a visit. Most of the tourists visit here to have a close look at the architectural style during Mughal period.

Shah-e-Hamdan(Khanqah of Shah Hamdan) Mosque

Situated on the banks of the river Jhelum, between the third and fourth bridge, it is the first mosque ever built in Srinagar. The original one was built in 1395.Shah Hamadan's full name was Mir Sayed Ali Hamadani, the surname being derived from the city of Hamadan in Persia. 

Shah-i-Hamdan, who came from Persia in the 13th century, was responsible for the spread of Islam in Kashmir. Khanqah-i-Mualla, on the banks of the Jhelum, was the very spot where Shah-i-Hamdan used to offer prayers. After staying in Kashmir for many years, he left for Central Asia via Ladakh. 

A mosque established by him at Shey (near Leh) attracts devotees from far and wide.

The Khanqah is a wooden structure whose chief aesthetic feature is its beautifully carved eaves and hanging bells. The interiors are richly carved and painted, and the antique chandeliers give it an air of opulence.

Shalimar Bagh

Shalimar Bagh, is a Mughal garden linked through a channel to the northeast of Dal Lake. Its other names are Shalamar Garden, Shalamar Bagh, Farah Baksh and Faiz Baksh, and the other famous shore line garden in the vicinity is Nishat Bagh. 

The Bagh was built by Mughal Emperor Jahangir for his wife Nur Jahan, in 1619. The Bagh is considered the high point of Mughal horticulture. It is now public park.

The architectural details of the three terraces of the garden are elaborate. The first terrace is a public garden or the outer garden ending in the Diwan-e-Aam (public audience hall). In this hall, a small black marble throne was installed over the waterfall. The second terrace garden along the axial canal, slightly broader, has two shallow terraces. 

The Diwan-i-Khas (the Hall of Private Audience), which was accessible only to the noblemen or guests of the court, now derelict, is in its centre. In the third terrace, the axial water channel flows through the Zenana garden, which is flanked by the Diwan-i-Khas and chinar trees. At the entrance to this terrace, there are two small pavilions or guard rooms (built in Kashmir style on stone plinth) that is the restricted and controlled entry zone of the royal harem.

Shankaracharya Temple(Jyesteshwara Temple or Pas-Pahar)

The Shankaracharya Temple, also known as the Jyesteshwara temple or Pas-Pahar, is located in Srinagar, India. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is located on the summit of the same name, and is overlooking the town of Srinagar. The temple dates back to 200 BC, although the present structure probably dates back to the 9th century AD. 

The temple was visited by the Adishankaracharya and has ever since been associated with him. Furthermore, it is regarded as being sacred by Buddhists, who call the mandir "Pas-Pahar."

Sharika Devi Temple, Hari Parbat

Hari Parbat is situated at the fringe of Srinagar city; it is the most ancient and one of the holiest places in Kashmir. The 18-armed goddess Sharika is regarded as the presiding deity (`isht`-Devi) of Srinagar city. 

The goddess is represented by a Swyambhu Shrichakra (Mahamaha Shrichakra), also called Mahashriyantra, which consists of circular mystic impressions and triangular patterns with a dot (bindu) at the center. The hill is considered extremely holy due to the presence of the temple of Sharika Devi, especially by the Kashmiri Pundits.

The shrine of Sharika Devi can be neared from Deviangan by a flight of chiseled stone steps, numbering 108. Then number 108 has mysterious implications in Hindu mythology. It is perhaps due to the Shrichakra that the capital city of Kahsmir is said to have derived its name of Srinagar (Shrinagra). 

On this day of Sharika Jayanti, devotees make sacrificial offering of `Teher-charvan` (rice boiled with turmeric powder and mixed with oil, salt and cooked liver of goat) to the Almighty Goddess. This ritual is locally known as `Chout Kharoun`. 

On `Navreh`, (the New Year Day of Kashmiri Pundits) during the month of Magh and throughout Navratri, devotees regularly visit the Hari Parbat for special prayers and worship.

Shrine of Hamza Makhdum

Hamza Makhdum (died 1563), also called Mehboob-Ul-Alam, and Sultan-Ul-Arifeen, and popularly known as "Makdoom Sahib", was a sage born to Baba Usman, of the Chandra-Vanshi Raina family, (Hindu Pandits or Brahmins in the region of India-held Kashmir). 

He was a hereditary landlord, a scholar and a mystic Sufi Muslim saint of high order. In his memory Shrine of Hamza Makhdum is formed in srinagar.

Sri Pratap Singh Museum

Sri Pratap Singh Museum, erstwhile summer palace of Kashmir Kings, is a historically important museum in Srinagar established in 1898. The museum has valuable ancient terracotta heads of 3rd century from the Buddhist site at Ushkur and molded terracotta plaques of 4th and 5th century from Harwan. These attract many to this museum. 

An ancient brass model of Lokeshvara, copper image of Lord Buddha in 5th century Gandhara-style and the green stone structures of Lord Vishnu pretty sitting on Garuda are added attractions here.

Tomb of Madin Sahib

Tomb of Madin Sahib, one of the most attractive tombs in Srinagar, was constructed in memory of the saint Madin Sahib and is situated to the north of the Madin Sahib mosque at Zadibal. The exterior of the walls is ornamented with glossy tiles, an attractive style of architecture of Kashmir in the 15th century.

There are many inscriptions on the walls and lintel of the mosque, highlighting its period of construction and religiously important sermons. A carving showing a beast with the body of a leopard is adorned at the entrance. The tile work seen usually on masonry buildings in Kashmir is visible in the archway jambs. The tomb is attracts many devotees of Madin Sahib.

Wullar Lake

Wullar Lake, the largest fresh-water lake in India, is serving as a natural reservoir by drawing the excess water from the River Jhelum. Remains of a wonderful island built by King Zain-ul-abidin are seen in the midst of the lake. This lake, unexplored and untamed by any reason, is home for many bird species.

This is a most sought tourist destination. Many streams, Pohru, Harbuji, Erin and the Aarah, flow into the vastness of Wullar Lake. Tour to the scenic beautiful Wullar Lake is a memorable experience. One can visit the nearby Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary, which itself is a tourist destination.