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Fast Facts
| Languages |
Hindi, Urdu, Kashmiri, |
| Population |
725,000 |
| Best time to visit |
April-October |
| STD Code |
0194 |
Srinagar-Introduction
A paradise on earth is what aptly describes Srinagar. Poets and philosophers were so enamoured by the beauty of Kashmir that they said, "If there is paradise on earth, it is here, here, here…" Located on the bank of the Jehlum, Srinagar is a treasure trove of beauty that is well complimented by the snow-capped peaks in the backdrop and beautiful gardens around. Hill Resorts in India presents a brief profile of one of the most beautiful hill stations in India. 
Srinagar- Location
Located in the Kashmir Valley, Srinagar is the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir. The hill station is located at an altitude of 1,730 m above sea level. Srinagar is at a distance of about 295 kilometres from Jammu.
Srinagar- History
Once the part of the Mauryan Empire, Kashmir valley was under several rulers before coming of the Mughals. With the decline of the Mughal Empire, the state came under the Sikh ruler Ranjit Singh, who was later defeated by the British. The British installed Gulab Singh as independent ruler of Kashmir. Till the independence, the descendents of Gulab Singh ruled the state.
Srinagar- Sites to Visit
Traveling to Srinagar is quite an experience in itself. The beautiful lakes and wonderful gardens are the major draw in Srinagar. In the foothills of the Zabarwan Mountains, Dal Lake is the star attraction in Srinagar. It is a wonderful sight to see decorated house boats float on the serene waters of the lake with majestic mountains providing the picture perfect backdrop. The lake is divided into four smaller lakes. Nagin Lake one of the four lakes is the quietest and the loveliest part of the Dal Lake. A shikara ride or stay in the cozy houseboat is a wonderful experience.
Hazratbal Shrine located on the north-western shore of the Dal Lake is one of the most beautiful and holiest Muslim shrines in the country. The other places you can visit on your tour to Srinagar include Hari Parbat Fort, Shankaracharya Temple, Jama Masjid, Chatti Padshahi and Mughal Gardens. 
Srinagar- Sites Nearby
There are a number of tourist places near Srinagar that you can include in your tour itinerary. Gulmarg, about 52 kilometres from Srinagar is one of picturesque spot around Srinagar that is popular for its lush carpeted meadows. During summer it is one of the most popular tourist destinations around Srinagar. Gulmarg presents a beautiful sight when the meadows here are laden with flowers. Sonamarg is another beautiful destination that can be visited. Sonamarg is about 80 kilometres from Srinagar.
Srinagar- Adventure
Srinagar also serves as an exciting adventure sport destination. Adventure lovers can head to Dachigam National Park, which is about 22 kilometres from Srinagar. Dachigam is home to a number of wild animals. Adventure lover can head to Pahalgam, about 95 kilometres from Srinagar. It is an ideal destination for hiking, trekking and fishing.
Srinagar- Shopping
Srinagar is home to traditional Kashmiri handicrafts and thus handicrafts form a major shopping item. Carpets are other popular item that you can shop for. The other things that you would love to shop include the papier-mache boxes, flower vases, Pashmina shawls and walnut woodcarvings. Saffron, shah zira, Kashmiri chillies walnuts, almonds, and honey are good buys for the gourmet. 
Srinagar- How to Reach
Srinagar is well connected by air and road transport. Srinagar has its own airport and you can reach Srinagar via Jammu. The nearest railhead to Srinagar is Jammu, which is about 300 kilometres away. Srinagar is well connected to other parts of the country by road.
Srinagar- Where to Stay
Hotels in Srinagar offer warm hospitality and other facilities to make your tour to Srinagar a comfortable and memorable affair. Hotels in Srinagar are well equipped with all the modern facilities. Srinagar has a number of hotels that include premium hotels, good quality hotels, lodges and budget hotels. Houseboats are also an ideal option to spend your holidays in Srinagar. Hill Resorts in India offers online booking for hotels in Srinagar that include houseboats as well.
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