The independent Hindu and the Buddhist rule of Srinagar lasted until the 14th century when the Kashmir valley, including the city, came under the control of the several Muslim rulers, including the Mughals. It was also the capital during the reign of Yusuf Shah Chak. Kashmir came under Mughal rule, when it was conquered by the third Mughal badshah (emperor) Akbar in 1586 CE. Akbar established Mughal rule in Srinagar and Kashmir valley.Kashmir was added to Kabul Subah in 1586, until Shah Jahan made it into a separate Kashmir Subah (imperial top-level province) with seat in Srinagar. The treaty inter alia provided British de facto suzerainty over the Kashmir Valley and Maharaja Gulab Singh, a Hindu Dogra from the Jammu region became a semi-independent ruler of the state of Jammu and Kashmir. Srinagar became part of his kingdom and remained until 1947 as one of several princely states in British India. The Maharajas choose Sher Garhi Palace as their main Srinagar residence.
Also known as the Jyesteshwara Temple, this Hindu temple located on Shankaracharya hill is a must-visit in the city. Needless to say, the temple is beautiful and its divine vibes will make you want to stay here for longer than what you planned. Though, the most exquisite thing about it is the stunning view that it offers of the city & the mountains, which makes visiting here amongst the best things to do in Srinagar in January.
This city is not all about gardens and temples, which makes it all the more worth visiting throughout the year. Apart from its adventure-fueling experiences like paragliding, skiing, and horse riding, trekking is one major thing to do in Srinagar for exploring the place like a local. You can trek through the lush green hills, and bask in the tranquil ambience of nature.
The Kashmiri cuisines are world-famous for its flavours and fusions, and why wouldn’t they be. A perfect amalgamation of spices, pepper, vegetables, and color, they rather look like a culinary art. So, treating your taste buds with the same is certainly a top thing to do in Srinagar. You can sample some of the local dishes at Mughal Darbar, Lhasa, Niramish, Alka Salka, and other such popular places.
Pashminas, papièr mâchè bangles, carved wooden boxes, embroidered scarves, wicker baskets, silver jewelry, spices, and Kashmiri carpets are some of the famous things to buy in Srinagar that make shopping here a must-experience for every traveler. Not just they make for a great buy, but also an incredible souvenir. So, you can visit any of the famous markets or stores, and buy everything that your heart desires. Best places to shop in Srinagar: Lal Chowk, Badshah Chowk, Residency Road, Polo View Market, and Raghunath Bazaar.
One of the best things to do in Srinagar in April is to visit the famous Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden and take a romantic or peaceful stroll along the stunningly beautiful tulips. Much like the Keukenhof Gardens in Holland, this place will let you catch the most breathtaking glimpse of the city, which also makes it the paradise that it is.
Situated in the middle of the old city and opposite to the bustling bazaars, the Jamia Masjid Mosque is the most surreal place in the city that you ought to include in your Srinagar sightseeing tour. The beautiful Indo-Saracenic architecture, the spectacular courtyard, and over 350 wooden pillars are some of the attractions inside that will surely leave you spellbound.
In Srinagar, things to do are endless, especially if you’re an experience seeker. One of such impeccable experiences is staying in the famous houseboats of Kashmir. The floating boats are actually like a mini hotel and offer traditional experiences with a modern comfort. You can rejuvenate yourself in the room, and when you’re tired of resting, you can spend your time admiring the natural beauty around from the balcony of the boat.
A city is witnessed best from a height, and what can be better than Paragliding up in the air in Srinagar and having the most blissful Kashmir trip experience ever! The surreal aerial view of the city will let you take a glance at its gorgeous lakes and beautiful gardens all at once, leaving you asking for more. So, irrespective of whether you’re an adventure lover or not, make sure you do not skip this from your list..
The city is known for its famous Mughal Gardens and their breathtaking beauty, which is why visiting them is one of the best things to do in Srinagar. The Chashme Shahi, Shalimar, and Nishat Gardens so blissfully reflect the era gone by that it will make your visit worth it. So if not all, you can visit one of them in the evening and take a stroll amidst the lush green lawns, lovely fountains, and gorgeous flowers.
When in you’re in this summer capital of J&K, believe us, ‘what to do in Srinagar’ will never be your top concern. The gorgeous Dal Lake has just got the most surreal experience in store for you – the shikara ride. While rowing around the lake, you will not just be able to witness the sunset in all its glory, but also the city’s lifestyle at its best. This timeless experience in the city is worth every dime!
ISrinagar became the focus of the insurgency against Indian rule. The area continues to be a highly politicised hotbed of separatist activity with frequent spontaneous protests and strikes ("bandhs" in local parlance). On 19 January 1990, the Gawakadal massacre of at least 50 unarmed protestors by Indian forces, and up to 280 by some estimates from eyewitness accounts, set the stage for bomblasts, shootouts, and curfews that characterised Srinagar throughout the early and mid-1990s
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