Dal Lake & Srinagar
The City of Lakes & Mughal Gardens
Overview
About Dal Lake & Srinagar
Srinagar, the summer capital of Kashmir, is built around the shimmering Dal Lake — a world of houseboats, floating gardens and gliding shikaras.
Beyond the lake lie the terraced Mughal Gardens of Nishat and Shalimar, the hilltop Shankaracharya Temple, and a vibrant old city famed for handicrafts and wazwan cuisine.
Don’t Miss
Top Attractions
Dal Lake & Shikara Rides
Glide across the lake on a traditional shikara past floating gardens and houseboats.
Mughal Gardens
Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh — terraced 17th-century gardens with fountains and chinar trees.
Shankaracharya Temple
A hilltop Shiva temple offering panoramic views over Srinagar and the lake.
Plan Smart
Best Time to Visit
Suitability by season — 1 (poor) to 5 (excellent)
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
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Getting There
Srinagar International Airport (SXR) is well connected to Delhi, Mumbai and other major cities. From the airport it is a 30–45 minute drive to the Dal Lake area.
Local Tips
Negotiate shikara and houseboat rates in advance, and don't miss an early-morning ride to the floating vegetable market on the lake.
Gallery
Dal Lake & Srinagar in Pictures
Where Is Dal Lake & Srinagar?
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