How to Find the Best of Nature in Srinagar, India

[Shruti Sharma]

Srinagar has it all – beauty, natural balance and wonderful monuments of ancient times. The best of nature can be found in Srinagar and asking the locals will help you explore further. Many of the valleys in the city can be scouted in advance and you can choose the kind of experience that you desire. From local cuisines to bird-watching, the beauty of Srinagar can be captured in more ways than one.

Indira Gandhi Tulip Garden

Being Asia’s largest tulip garden, it attracts thousands of travellers to witness its glory. During the festival season conducting a Srinagar hotel booking becomes an impossible task. The garden houses some rare species of tulips and the local indigenous varieties that spring to life when the season comes. The garden also has a wonderful nature walk for families and couples. The best part about the garden? – It spans across 30 acres of beautiful natural life, with more than 15 lakh tulips blooming in sync.

Dal Lake

Taking a Shikara ride across Dal Lake is a gorgeous experience that transforms the mind and the soul. The quiet waters of the lake make for the perfect backdrop to the riding experience. The “crown of Kashmir” overlooks the Pir Panjal mountains and has some of the most iconic floating flower and vegetable markets. Some of the top 5 star hotels in Kashmir, like The LaLiT Grand Palace Srinagar, are all minutes away from the iconic lake. While being the most popular tourist attraction here, it continues to charm visitors every time.

Nigeen Lake

Being more of a hidden gem, Nigeen is the perfect place to explore the best of nature in Srinagar. It is surrounded by willow trees and remains the perfect place for a relaxing boat ride. It is at the foothills of the Zabarwan Mountain and continues to be one of the best places to visit on an off-beat adventure. You can explore Hazratbal, which is a beautiful mosque with ancient roots in the city. When it comes to adventuring in nature’s abundance, Nigeen is the place to be.

Pro-Tip: If you really want to explore the bounty of winter fall, then adding Sonamarg to your itinerary is a great idea. It’s known as a second home for many in Srinagar, and has an incredible number of mountains, forests and peaks.