Beyond the well-known images of houseboats, snow-capped mountains, and shikaras cruising Dal Lake, I wanted to see more of Srinagar. The city’s older areas, with their wooden structures and winding streets that evoke memories of bygone eras, piqued my interest. Locals come to sit, stroll, and take in the view in the charming gardens. Discovering these facets of Srinagar made me realise how much the city offers outside of its most iconic vistas.
I started my exploration in the old city in Srinagar
The neighbourhoods surrounding the bustling roadways felt different from Srinagar’s historic quarters. Houses were closer together, the streets were narrower, and I was drawn to the carved decorations on many older buildings. While some buildings showed ageing, others had beautifully maintained traditional doors. I slowed down to notice the balconies, windows and small architectural details I might have missed in a passing car.
I was intrigued by the surroundings around Nowhatta’s Jamia Masjid. The mosque is one of the most outstanding structures in the ancient city. It has a large courtyard, wooden pillars, and a unique style. Its serene ambience was a welcome diversion from the bustle outside.
The Shah-e-Hamdan Mosque was another place I wanted to explore. It is renowned for its elaborate decorative work and traditional Kashmiri architecture. The structure is close to the Jhelum River and reflects the area’s rich cultural and religious legacy. I could understand Srinagar’s past better by strolling through these neighbourhoods rather than just travelling between well-known tourist destinations.
I discovered that the lakes in Srinagar have different personalities
Dal Lake was an obvious stop. Spending time beside it still made the experience more enjoyable. It was better than treating it as a quick photo opportunity. I watched shikaras move across the water and noticed the surrounding hills and their changing reflections. The view was stunning as the light shifted. The lake was busy and quiet in places.
I was intrigued by Nigeen Lake. It felt more secluded in many stretches, with willow trees and houseboats adding to the scenery. The surroundings felt calmer than the busier parts of Dal Lake. I could understand why someone looking for a slower stay might prefer spending time here.
I spent an afternoon among the gardens of Srinagar
I also did not want to miss the Mughal gardens in Srinagar. Nishat Bagh offered beautiful views of Dal Lake with its terraces and lengthy water canals. It was nice observing the trees, flowers, fountains, and the neighbouring mountains.
Shalimar Bagh was unusually appealing. The royal life connected to these gardens is reflected in the formal design and history. I took pauses to explore and take in the view.
I also considered Chashme Shahi, a smaller garden known for its spring and terraced layout. I visited these gardens. The care that went into shaping the landscape was evident. The appeal changes with the seasons, so the flowers, foliage and overall atmosphere can look quite different depending on the time of year.
I made comfort part of my Srinagar journey
I wanted to arrive in Srinagar feeling rested, especially because I planned to spend plenty of time walking through the old city and exploring the gardens. However, I did something different. I booked business class flight tickets to Delhi for a more comfortable experience before flying to Srinagar. I appreciated having extra space, a comfortable seat and a little more time to settle in. The added attention and convenience made the journey feel less tiring, and I arrived with more energy for the trip ahead. For me, this flight was about making the travel day more comfortable so I could enjoy the destination from the moment I arrived.
I discovered that it helped to be flexible with my plans once I was in Srinagar. Reaching the gardens and parts of the lakes requires transportation. The old city is best explored on foot in appropriate areas, though. Giving myself more time between trips was a good idea.
I left room for the quieter moments in Srinagar
Looking back, some of my favourite parts of Srinagar were the simplest ones. One can watch the water from the lakeside, notice the details on an old wooden building and take a break beneath the trees in a garden. These moments helped me see the city as more than a collection of famous landmarks.
The old city, lakes and gardens each offered something different. The historic neighbourhoods brought me closer to Srinagar’s architectural heritage, the lakes gave me space to slow down, and the gardens provided a peaceful setting to enjoy the landscape. I would do it in the same way: choose a few places each day, leave time for unexpected discoveries and let the city reveal itself at its own pace.
