Srinagar

One can never run out of things to do or see in Srinagar. If you are going to Srinagar, the first place on your Go-To list has to be Dal Lake. Dal Lake is the biggest attraction of Jammu and Kashmir and one of the biggest attractions of India as well. The lake is occupied by beautiful wooden houseboats and is surrounded by the gorgeous Pir Panjal mountain range. On an average day you will find a number of quaint little Shikaras (Taxi boats) rowing on the lake. The lake shines throughout the year and is the home ground of sellers, who row on boats and sell goods to travellers. Most of the people coming to Srinagar stay on the houseboats for days. In winters, Dal Lake freezes over and is like a glimmering slate of ice. When you are done enjoying the magnificent lake next up is Khanqah of Shah-i-Hamadan. Even though entry is restricted strictly to Muslims only, it is a beautiful sight nevertheless and should not be missed. With richly carved inlays and papier-mâché reliefs, this 18t century mosque is one of the most visited places in Srinagar. Do visit if you are fond of exquisite architecture and rich, colourful wood work. One of the many marvels left behind by the Mughals in India is the Mughal Gardens. As the name suggests these beautiful gardens were created during the Mughal era and include Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh and Chashma Shahi. These gardens are a major attraction of the city and pull a lot of travellers to it. Another beautiful site worth a visit is the Hazratbal Shrine. This ancient mosque is revered throughout the world since it claims to have preserved within its confines a strand of hair of the Prophet Muhammad. It is on display for the public on special occasions. It is the only domed mosque in the city. Made out of white marble and stones, it stands out like a glittering crown at night. Rich in unique fragrant spices, the Kashmiri cuisine is popular all across the globe. So you should try out the local Kashmiri delicacies. Kashmir is also famous for Kashmiri Shawls, Kashmiri apples, Handicraft items and dry fruits. As such, do not forget to collect these items as memoirs. You must stay at the houseboats and travel by shikaras, so do hire these to get the experience of a life time.