The jewel of Srinagar, the Dal lake is synonymous to a visit to Srinagar and almost a visual definition to the town. Spread over a straggling 26 sq.kms, it is the most photogenic stretch of this instance of paradise on earth and undoubtedly also the most sought after of attractions. Built in the Mughal era, donning its majestic architecture, are the Mughal gardens. The garden is a combination of the Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Gardens & Chashm-e-Shahi. The most prominent feature of the gardens its long stretches of cascading fountains makes this a must see for every traveler. Laid out in 1633, the Nishant Bagh fondly known as the Garden of Joy. Its beauty is enhanced by the well-manicured landscapes, long avenues of Chinar & cypress trees, rare flowering plants,
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terraces & several bubbling fountains that's cover the whole expanse of the
garden. Shalimar Bagh is one of a beautifully laid garden by Mughal emperor
Jahangir. Exhibiting the exemplary craftsmanship of Mughals in horticulture,
the place is quite popular with tourists from all over the world. The paramount
reason why people come to Srinagar is for the relaxing and memorable Shikara
rides. Taking the ride across the scenic Dal Lake at the backdrop of the
majestic slow clad Himalaya's is indeed an experience in itself both enjoyable
and unparallel. Hazratbal Mosque, situated on the western shore of the pristine
Dal Lake, is a very sacred Muslim shrine in Hazratbal.
Hazratbal's
special significance is derived from the fact that it houses a heir of the
prophet Muhammad, a relic, titled Moi-e-Muqqadas. Lines of tulip cultivation in
every possible colour with a backdrop of the majestic Zabarwan Hills, is the
Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden and a view which one must not miss while in
Srinagar. Dal Lake is marked by an island which houses ancient and beautiful
Chinar trees. Don't forget to ask your Shikara to be steered in this direction
to catch a view of this island.
Visit
this effulgent, age old temple in Srinagar to feel closer to the gods. Situated
at a height of about 1100 feet on the south-east of the city, this sacred
temple offers splendid views of the valley and the snow clad mountains of the
Pir Panjal range. The famed Wular lake is India's largest freshwater lake and
serves as a natural reservoir by drawing the excess water from the River
Jhelum. An experience unparalleled, this unexplored and untouched lake is home
to several species of birds and thus haven for bird watchers.
