Introduction:
Srinagar, the summer capital
of Jammu and Kashmir, is a picturesque city located in the heart of the Kashmir
Valley. Renowned for its mesmerizing beauty and serene ambience, Srinagar
offers a delightful experience for travellers. This article will delve into the
rich history of the city, its geographical features, climate, safety after the
removal of Section 370, and the top places to visit. Additionally, we will
provide information on how to reach Srinagar and a list of luxury, moderate,
and affordable hotels to suit every budget.
History: Mughal, Afghan &
Sikh rule, Dogra rule:
Srinagar has a fascinating
history that dates back centuries. The city has witnessed various rulers and
dynasties. During the Mughal era, Srinagar flourished as a centre of art, culture,
and trade. Emperors such as Akbar, Jahangir, and Shah Jahan made significant
contributions to the city's architecture, including the famous Mughal Gardens.
In the early 19th century, the
city was briefly under Afghan rule before it came under the Sikh Empire. The
Sikh rulers, including Maharaja Ranjit Singh, left their mark on the city with
the construction of several gurdwaras and forts.
Later, Srinagar became part of
the Dogra Kingdom under the rule of Maharaja Gulab Singh and his successors.
The Dogra rule contributed to the development of infrastructure, including the
iconic Dal Lake and the Shankaracharya Temple.
Partition and Independence:
During the partition of India
in 1947, the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir faced challenges due to its
location between India and Pakistan. The Maharaja of Jammu and Kashmir
initially chose to remain independent, but soon after, faced an invasion from tribesmen
supported by Pakistan. This led to the signing of the Instrument of Accession,
integrating Jammu and Kashmir into the Indian Union.
Geography:
Srinagar is located in the
western part of the Kashmir Valley, situated on the banks of the Jhelum River.
The city is surrounded by the majestic Himalayan mountain ranges, offering breathtaking
views and a serene atmosphere. Its strategic location makes it a gateway to the
larger Kashmir region.
Climate: Weather and Month
wise temperature:
Srinagar experiences a
temperate climate with four distinct seasons. The summers (April to June) are
pleasant with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). The
monsoon season (July to September) brings moderate rainfall, enhancing the
city's natural beauty. Autumn (October and November) showcases the mesmerizing Colours
of the Chinar trees, and the temperature ranges from 5°C to 25°C (41°F to
77°F). Winters (December to March) are cold, with temperatures often dropping
below freezing, and the city experiences snowfall. The temperature during this
period ranges from -2°C to 10°C (28°F to 50°F).
Safety in visiting Srinagar
after the removal of Section 370:
After the abrogation of
Article 370, Srinagar has seen significant improvements in terms of safety and
stability. The government has taken measures to ensure the safety of tourists,
and the tourism industry is gradually flourishing. However, it is always
advisable to stay updated with the latest travel advisories and maintain
caution while visiting any destination.
The Beauty of Srinagar:
Weather-wise Color Change in Srinagar:
Srinagar's beauty lies in its
breathtaking landscapes, picturesque gardens, serene lakes, and majestic
mountains. The city's charm is further enhanced by the changing Colours with
each season. From the vibrant blossoms of spring to the lush greenery of
summers, the golden hues of autumn, and the snow-covered landscapes of winter,
Srinagar offers a captivating experience throughout the year.
Top Places to Visit in
Srinagar:
Dal Lake: Explore the iconic
Dal Lake by taking a Shikara ride and witnessing the floating gardens and
houseboats.
Mughal Gardens: Visit
the beautiful Mughal Gardens, including Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, and Chashme
Shahi, known for their stunning terraced lawns, fountains, and vibrant
flowerbeds.
Shankaracharya Temple: Pay
a visit to the Shankaracharya Temple, perched on a hilltop, offering panoramic
views of the city and its surroundings.
Hazratbal Shrine:
Explore the revered Hazratbal Shrine, an important Muslim pilgrimage site,
located on the banks of Dal Lake.
Pari Mahal:
Discover the historic Pari Mahal, known for its beautiful architecture and
stunning views of the city.
Nearby Places to Visit:
Gulmarg:
Experience the snow-capped peaks and thrilling adventure activities in Gulmarg,
located just a few hours away from Srinagar.
Sonamarg:
Embark on a scenic drive to Sonamarg, known as the "Meadow of Gold,"
and enjoy breathtaking views of glaciers and picturesque landscapes.
Pahalgam: Visit
the enchanting town of Pahalgam, surrounded by pine forests, gushing rivers,
and the majestic Lidder Valley.
How to Reach Srinagar By Air,
Train & Road:
By Air:
Srinagar has its own airport, Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport, which is well-connected
to major cities in India. Regular flights operate from cities like Delhi,
Mumbai, and Jammu.
By Train: The
nearest railway station to Srinagar is Jammu Tawi Railway Station, which is
well-connected to major cities across India. From Jammu, one can hire a taxi or
take a bus to reach Srinagar.
By Road:
Srinagar is well-connected by road to major cities like Delhi and Jammu.
Regular bus services operate from neighbouring states, and taxis can be hired
for a comfortable journey.
List of Luxury, Moderate &
Affordable Hotels with their Seasonable Price List:
Luxury Hotels:
The Lalit Grand Palace:
Starting from INR 8,000 per night
Vivanta Dal View:
Starting from INR 7,500 per night
The Khyber Himalayan Resort
& Spa: Starting from INR 12,000 per night
Moderate Hotels:
Hotel Grand Mumtaz:
Starting from INR 4,000 per night
The Pride Inn:
Starting from INR 3,500 per night
Hotel Pine Spring:
Starting from INR 3,000 per night
Affordable Hotels:
Hotel Royal Batoo:
Starting from INR 2,500 per night
Hotel Silver Star:
Starting from INR 2,000 per night
Hotel Heaven Canal:
Starting from INR 1,500 per night
Srinagar offers a wide range
of accommodations to suit every budget, ranging from luxury resorts to
guesthouses and budget hotels.
Srinagar is a city that
encapsulates the beauty of the Kashmir Valley. With its rich history, stunning
landscapes, and warm hospitality, it is a destination that will leave a lasting
impression on every visitor. Whether you wish to indulge in the beauty of the
Dal Lake, explore the Mughal Gardens, or embark on an adventurous journey to
nearby destinations, Srinagar offers a perfect blend of tranquillity and
excitement for all types of travellers.
Dos and Don'ts While Visiting
Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir in 2023
Dos:
·
Do check the latest travel advisories: Stay
updated with the current situation and any travel advisories issued by the
government or relevant authorities before planning your visit to Srinagar. It
is essential to have the latest information regarding safety and security.
·
Do respect local customs and traditions: Jammu
and Kashmir has a rich cultural heritage, and it is important to respect the
local customs and traditions. Dress modestly, especially when visiting
religious sites, and be mindful of local sensitivities.
·
Do carry appropriate clothing: Depending on the
time of the year, Srinagar's weather can vary significantly. Carry appropriate
clothing to suit the season, including warm layers during winters and light
cotton clothes during summers. It is advisable to carry a good pair of walking
shoes or boots for exploring the city's attractions.
·
Do explore the local cuisine: Srinagar offers a
delectable range of Kashmiri cuisine. Don't miss the opportunity to savour local
dishes such as Rogan Josh (a Kashmiri lamb curry), Kashmiri Pulao, and Kahwa (a
traditional Kashmiri green tea). Also, try the local bread called Kashmiri naan
and the famous street food snack, Gol Gappa.
·
Do indulge in local experiences: Engage with
the local culture by taking a shikara ride on Dal Lake, visiting the bustling
markets of Srinagar, and interacting with the friendly locals. Explore the
craftsmanship of local artisans by purchasing traditional Kashmiri handicrafts
such as Pashmina shawls, carpets, and paper-mâché artefacts.
Don'ts:
·
Don't venture into restricted areas: There may
be certain areas in Srinagar that are restricted due to security reasons. It is
important to adhere to the guidelines and avoid venturing into such areas
without proper authorization.
·
Don't disregard security measures: Srinagar has
undergone security improvements, but it is still advisable to exercise caution
and follow the security measures provided by the local authorities. Be vigilant
of your surroundings and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
·
Don't engage in political discussions: Jammu
and Kashmir's political situation can be sensitive, and it is best to avoid
engaging in political discussions or expressing personal opinions on such
matters. Respect the local sentiments and maintain a neutral stance.
·
Don't litter or harm the environment:
Srinagar's natural beauty is one of its major attractions. It is important to
be responsible travellers and avoid littering. Dispose of waste in designated
bins and contribute to the preservation of the environment.
·
Don't disregard photography restrictions: Some
areas, particularly military installations or sensitive sites, may have
restrictions on photography. Respect these restrictions and refrain from taking
photographs in prohibited areas. Always seek permission before photographing
individuals, especially locals.
By following these dos and
don'ts, you can ensure a safe and respectful visit to Srinagar, Jammu &
Kashmir, and enjoy the beauty and cultural richness that the region has to
offer.
Here are a few notable
celebrities who have visited Srinagar:
Amitabh Bachchan: The
legendary Bollywood actor and host of the TV show "Kaun Banega
Crorepati" visited Srinagar for film shoots and promotional events.
Shah Rukh Khan: Known
as the "King of Bollywood," Shah Rukh Khan has visited Srinagar for
film shoots and other personal engagements.
Aamir Khan: The
renowned Bollywood actor has visited Srinagar for film promotions and as part
of his involvement in social causes.
Katrina Kaif: The
popular Bollywood actress has visited Srinagar for film shoots and promotional
events.
Sonam Kapoor: The
Bollywood actress and fashion icon has visited Srinagar for film shoots and to
explore the scenic beauty of the region.
Ranbir Kapoor: Being
of Kashmiri origin, Ranbir Kapoor has a close connection to Srinagar. He has
visited the city for personal visits and to spend time with family.
Manoj Bajpayee: The
acclaimed Bollywood actor has visited Srinagar for film shoots and to support
local artistic initiatives.
Randeep Hooda: The
versatile Bollywood actor has visited Srinagar for film shoots and to support
various causes, including environmental conservation.
Dia Mirza: The
actress and environmental activist has visited Srinagar to promote sustainable
tourism and raise awareness about conservation efforts in the region.
Farhan Akhtar: The
multi-talented actor, filmmaker, and singer has visited Srinagar for film
shoots and performances.
Please note that this list is
not exhaustive, and there may be other celebrities who have visited Srinagar in
recent years.
Here is a list of 25 popular
Hindi movies that have been shot in Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir:
·
Kashmir Ki Kali (1964)
·
Jab Jab Phool Khile (1965)
·
Kabhie Kabhie (1976)
·
Silsila (1981)
·
Henna (1991)
·
Roja (1992)
·
Mission Kashmir (2000)
·
Fanaa (2006)
·
Yahaan (2005)
·
Lamhaa (2010)
·
Haider (2014)
·
Highway (2014)
·
Bajrangi Bhaijaan (2015)
·
Ae Dil Hai Mushkil (2016)
·
Raazi (2018)
·
Manmarziyaan (2018)
·
Uri: The Surgical Strike (2019)
·
Kalank (2019)
·
Shikara (2020)
·
Ludo (2020)
·
Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl (2020)
·
Raat Akeli Hai (2020)
·
Shershaah (2021)
·
Bhuj: The Pride of India (2021)
·
Laal Singh Chaddha (upcoming)
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