Srinagar is located in the heart of the Kashmir valley at an altitude of 1,730 m above sea level, spread on both sides of the river Jhelum. Srinagar is the summer capital of the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir and the largest city in the Kashmir region. Ringed by an arc of green mountains, Srinagar’s greatest drawcard is mesmerizingly placid Dal Lake, on which a bright array of stationary houseboats and shikara (gondola-like boats) add a splash of colour and a unique opportunity for romantic chill-outs. Charming Mughal gardens dot the lake’s less urbanised eastern shore; while the old town bustles with fascinating Central Asian–style bazaars and a collection of soulful Sufi shrines, as well as a fortress and many historic wooden mosques. Add in a mild summer climate, feisty Kashmiri cuisine and famous local apples, walnuts and almonds, and you have one of India’s top tourist draws. If there is a heaven on earth, it’s here, it’s here, and it’s here in Kashmir.

And if mountains, hills, and rivers weren’t enough, Srinagar finds itself blessed with several lakes – more than enough to earn it the title of the ‘Venice of the East’! No surprises why Srinagar made it to the top of my list of places to travel in India.
And in spite of a past that’s been largely marred by war, bloodshed, and misfortune, you’ll get to meet the most wonderful, welcoming, and warm locals who only want peace and a simple life.