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Learn About Places Jammu Kashmir > Srinager

Srinager

Srinager Jammu and Kashmir

Genernal Information :: Srinagar district is situated in the centre of Kashmir Valley, is surrounded by five districts.In the north it is flanked by Kargil and Ganderbal in the South by Pulwama,in the north-west by Budgam. The capital city of Srinagar,is located 1585 metres above sea level.The district with a population of around 10.94 Lakh souls(2001- census), is sperad over an area of 294 Sq.Kms.It comprises two tehsils/ towns viz Srinagar North and Srinagar South, one block (Srinagar), besides 136 Revenue villages.According to a popular legend which is mentioned in Kalhana's Rajtaringini Kashmir valley was a vast lake. Kashyap Rishi drained out the water and made it habitable. It is said that originally Yakshas, and Pisacas tribes inhabited the valley at the higher reaches and did not allow the inhabitants of the valley to live in peace. King Ashok brought Budhism to Kashmir which was strenthened by Kanishka. In 6th century Huns came to rule the valley and Mihirkul was one of the infamous Hun ruler. The area attained freedom in 530 AD which was shortlived.According to Sir Aurel Stein the famous interpretor of Kalhana the chronicler of Kashmir the city of Srinagar had big market and mansions made of wood touching the clouds. Hieun-tsang the famous Chinese traveller visited Srinagar and has described it his memoirs.Various capitals were established by the latter kings but ultimately the city of Srinagar was destined to be the capital of the State. These capitals are now found only in ruins or history. Some of the famous capitals are Prvaerpora of Praversen, Prihaspora of Lalitaditya, Jayapida's Jayapora, Avantivarman's Avantipur and cities of Kanishkapura and Juskapura.During muslim rule Sultan Sadar-ud-din founded Rinchenpur and Ala-ud-din founded Alauddinpura near Hariparbat Hill. ZainulAbideen founded Nowshera as the capital while Akbar founded Naagar Nagar and raised 28ft tall wall around it.

Area
105 sq kms
Altitude
1,730 m.
Temperature
Summer    Winter
Max       Min
29.5 C    10.6 C
Rainfall
52.9 cms
Population
930136 (2001 Census)
Best Season
Throughout the year, though the winter
months can be quite cold.

Clothing
Spring and autumn
Light woollens.
Summer :: Cotton/tropical
Winter :: Heavy woollens
Languages
Kashmiri, Urdu, Hindi, Englis

EXCURSIONS SRINAGAR TOURS

Famous Excursions :: Chari Sharif, Yusmarg, Shupian, Aharbal & Aharbal Falls, Kongwatan, Sindh Valley, Dachigam, Anchar Lake, GandarbalChari Sharif / Chrar-e-ShariefSituated on the road to Yusmarg, this is the site of the shrine or Ziarat of Sheik Noor-ud-Din, the patron saint of Kashmir. The valley also has the Ziarats of a number of his followers.YusmargStanding in the Pir Panjal hills, out beyond the airport, at an altitude of 2,700 metres, the meadow of Yusmarg is reputed to have the best spring flowers in Kashmir. The beautiful valley is at the foot of the Sangisafaid valley on the northern slopes of the Pir Panjal range. Near to Yusmarg is the picturesque Nila Nag Lake where there is a forest rest house. Yusmarg has tourist huts and is a good base for treks into the surrounding hills. To reach the Nila Nag one can walk 19-km from Magam, across roads on the way to Gulmarg. The path then follows down from Nila Nag to Yusmarg and from there the road runs to Yus, where a track leads off towards Sangam and Sunset Peak, up the valley of the Khanchi Kol. Sunset peak is the highest mountain in the Pir Panjal range at 4,746 metres. Other popular treks over here include those to Sangisafaid and Dodha Patri.

Shupian :: Lying in the crook of a bend of the Pir Panjal range, at the foot of several passes which lead out on to the plains, this fairly large town is an important centre of trade, the centre of the wool industry of the valley, and is famous for its apples. It lies on the Rembiara River and has several rest houses and a couple of guesthouses. It is also the base for treks to Konsarnag, to Yusmarg and to the Aharbal falls. The first stage on the trek to Konasarnag is the drive to Kongwatan.

Aharbal :: This was another popular resting place for the Mughal emperors when they made the long trip north from Delhi to Kashmir. It's in an area famed for its apples and also has an interesting waterfall. It's also the start of the popular trek to the Konsarnag Lake.

Aharbal Falls :: The falls are about 13-km from Shupian, from where there is a motorable road and a trekker's route leading through dense pine forest. The falls are said to be the best in Kashmir. The road leads over a high bridge at Kongwatan from where a magnificent view of the awesome gorge created by the Vishav River can be seen less than 2-km further on are the foot of the falls, where the river drops more than 15 metres over a distance of 3-km. The road continues on here a further 3-km to the top of the falls where from a rock outcrop one can look down around 60 metres to the river rushing below.The road continues a further 6-km to the village of Sedau, where the trek to Konsarnag begins. The first stage is a climb of about four hours to Kongwatan, an upland meadow. From here it is a further 10 to 15 hours walking to Konsarnag.

Kongwatan :: This is a charming meadow just a short distance from the river. Among the pines near the river bank there is a small sulphur spring and also a forest rest hut. The lace is inhabited by nomadic Gujar shepherds, said to be descendants of the biblical Abraham and Isaac, or Gujar Rajputs, who come each summer from the plains with their flocks of cattle and buffalo to spend July and August in the high meadows. They wear black clothes adorned only with a small cap, embroidered and set with 'Kari' shells. The caps of the women project over the neck to protect from sunburn. The women are very agile and seem to do all the work as well as taking care of the children.

Sindh Valley :: North of Srinagar the Sindh valley is an area of mountains, lakes, rivers and glaciers. The Sindh River flows down from the Amarnath and Haramukh glaciers into the Anchar Lake. The Leh road from Srinagar follows this river to beyond Sonamarg. The Zoji La pass marks the boundary from the Sindh valley into Ladakh.

Dachigam National Park :: This wildlife reserve was, at one time, the royal game reserve but animals within its boundaries are now completely protected. There are said to be Panther, Bear and Deer, besides other smaller animals, in the reserve. There is a good chance of seeing the endangered Hangul, Langur Monkeys and perhaps other species. It's very quiet and uncrowded.

Anchar Lake :: Although this large lake is no great distance from Srinagar and easily reached by bus, it is rarely visited. A daily bus leaves Srinagar for the lake early in the morning and returns late in the afternoon. In winter it is home for a wide variety of water birds including Mallard, Pochard, Gadwall Snipe and Teal.

Gandarbal :: Just beyond the Wular and Manasbal lakes turn off from the Leh road, this pleasant little town marks the point where the icy Sindh River leaves the mountains and enters the plains. Gandarbal is the official headquarters of the Sindh valley and was originally called "Doderhom". It has a bazaar, a post office and two hospitals.About 5-km from Gandarbal, in the village of Tullamulla, is the shrine of Khirbhawani, the Goddess Ragni, the Hindu guardian Goddess of Kashmir. The marble temple, built by Maharaja Pratap Singh, stands in a small spring. It is an irregular, seven sided structure and is said to be surrounded by 360 springs, most of which have run dry or been silted up.The village is a floating garden surrounded by swamps. Its many islands are covered with willows, poplars and wildflowers, while the island on which the spring stands is covered with Chinar, Mulberry and Elm trees. The nearby village named after Khirbhawani has almond groves where the best quality almonds in Kashmir are said to grow. Gandarbal can be reached from Srinagar by road or one can go there by boat along the Mar Canal, or take a six hour round trip via the Jhelum River and Anchar Lake. There are many excellent camping places along these routes.

Wullar Lake :: Wullar Lake (lso spelt as Wular) is the largest fresh-water lake in India is 60-km from Srinagar. Spreading over a 125-km area, the lake, by drawing off excess water from the Jhelum, acts as a natural flood reservoir. Interesting ruins in the centre of the lake are the remains of an island created by King Zain-ul-Abidin. With its turbulent waters perpetually wind ruffled, its exciting variety of avian life and the sheer beauty of its setting, Wullar represents nature at her most untamed.

Srinagar Hill Station
Information :: Srinagar is the capital city of Jammu & Kashmir. It is situated at an altitude of 1, 730 m.In the heart of the Kashmir valley, Srinagar spreads out on both sides of the Jhelum river. The valley's beauty has enticed visitors from distant lands. Srinagar bears the hallmark of the Mughals. It's a city full of intriguing alleyways and curious buildings. Srinagar offers the spectacular sights of the lovely lakes and the houseboats on them. The dry fruits and the traditional Kashmiri handicrafts are the other major attractions of the hill resort. If there is a heaven on earth, it's here, it's here, it's here in Srinagar.

Attractions

Hari Parbat Fort :: To the west of Dal Lake and on top of Sharika hill is the fort, which was built during reign of Mughal Emperor Akbar. Most of the present construction dates from 18th century. It is now occupied by Army. To enter the fort, permission from the Archaeological Department in Lal Mandi is required. On the western slope of the hill is a Parvati temple and on the southern face is the muslim shrine of Khwaja Makhdoom Sahib and the mosque of the scholar Akhund Mullah Shah .

Chatti Padshahi :: It is an historic sikh Gurudwara, which commemorates the visit of Guru Hargobind to Kashmir.Tomb of Zain-ul-Abidin: This tomb of King Zain-ul-Abidin situated between the Zaina Kadal and Ali Kadal bridges, shows a clear Persian influence in it's domed construction and glazed tiles.

Shankaracharya Hill :: This hill was once known as Takht-i-Sulaiman, the throne of Solomon. A temple is a said to have first built here by Ashoka's son around 200 BC, but the present Hindu temple dates from Jehangir's time. From the top, one can have a fine view of Dal Lake. The Srinagar TV tower is also here.

Pandrethan Temple :: This small Siva temple dates from 900 AD and is in military cantonment area on the Jammu road out of Srinagar.

Shah-i-Hamdan Mosque :: The original mosque which was built in 1395, was destroyed by a fire in 1479 and again in 1731. The present mosque is situated on one bank of the Jhelum, shaped like a cube with a pyramidal roof rising to a spire. Access to non-muslims and women is limited.

Pather Masjid :: Situated on opposite bank of Jhelum river is the unused Pather Masjid. It was built by Nur Jahan, wife of emperor Jahangir, in 1623.

Razabal Tomb :: It is believed to be the grave of Yuz Asaf or Jesus Christ who, according to legend, is supposed to have survived the cross and come to Kashmir, identified as the home of the lost tribe of Israel.

Jama Masjid :: This is one of the largest mosques in Kashmir. This wooden mosque has 300 plus pillars supporting the roof and each of them made from a single deodar trunk. It had to be rebuilt time and again due to destruction caused by fire at different point of times.

Shri Pratap Singh Museum :: Museum situated just south of Jhelum river in Lal Mandi has an good collection of exhibits relevant to state's Buddhist and Hindu past as well as 200-year old textiles and carpets. It's open everyday from 10.30 am to 4 pm, except on Monday and on Friday it's open between 1 and 2.30 pm. Entry is free. The museum is closed on Wednesdays.

Hazratbal Mosque :: This mosque is situated on the north-west shore of Dal Lake and enshrines a hair of the prophet. The mosque is set very beautifully on shores of the lake with snowcapped peaks as backdrop.

Razabal Tomb :: It is believed to be the grave of Yuz Asaf or Jesus Christ who, according to legend, is supposed to have survived the cross and come to Kashmir, identified as the home of the lost tribe of Israel.

Shri Pratap Singh Museum :: Museum situated just south of Jhelum river in Lal Mandi has an good collection of exhibits relevant to state's Buddhist and Hindu past as well as 200-year old textiles and carpets. It's open everyday from 10.30 am to 4 pm, except on Monday and on Friday it's open between 1 and 2.30 pm. Entry is free. The museum is closed on Wednesdays.

Chasma Shahi :: smallest of mughal gardens at Srinagar, it is situated above the Nehru Memorial Park. The gardens were laid out in 1632 but have been recently extended. These are the only gardens with an admission charge.

Nishat Bagh (Garden of Gladness) :: These gardens offers superb views of Pir Panjal mountains. Designed in 1633 by Nur Jahan's brother, these are the largest of Mughals Gardens. The gardens on either side of the water course are planted with tall chinar trees, which are at its best in autumn.

Shalimar Bagh :: These gardens were built for Nur Jahan by her husband, the emperor Jahangir in 1616. These are 15 km away from Srinagar. This garden is most secluded, reached by a tree-lined canal. The central black marble pavilion in the "Zenana" or ladies' garden is surrounded by water and looks out in four directions. Be;ow, in the "Diwan-i-Am", the Hall of Public Audience, the emperor used to sit on a black marble throne above the water. Every evening from May to October there is a Sound & Light show which describes Jahangir's court. As the nearest taxi stand is five kms away it's best to keep a waiting taxi.

Nasim Bagh :: Situated 8 km from Srinagar, these gardens were built by Akbar in 1586 and are the oldest of Kashmir's Mughals Gardens.

Shikara Rides :: Shikaras are long boats which crowd the Srinagar lakes. They are used for getting back and forth from the houseboats or for longer tours. It is worth to take a pleasure ride around the lake in shikara.

Dal Lake :: The lake is 6.4 km long and 4 km wide and is divided into 3 parts by manmade causeways. Within the lake, are two islands which are popular picnic spots. Around the edges of lake are groves of chinar, poplar and willow.

Nagin Lake :: There are a number of houseboats on this quieter, cleaner lake.
Best time to visit: Between May and September.

Travel Information

By Air :: Civil airport Humhama is 15 km from the city centre. Flights connects Srinagar witJammu,Delhi, and Leh.
By Rail :: The nearest rail head is Jammu Tawi.
By Road :: Srinagar is situated on National Highway-1A, which connects to all parts of the country. Buses of Jammu & Kashmir Road State Road Transport Corporation (J&KSRTC) and STRCs of Punjab, Haryana, Delhi and Himachal Pradesh run to Jammu from major northern cities like Delhi, Chandigarh and Amritsar. Some continue to Srinagar, while there are many connections from Jammu.Situated in a narrow gorge at the farther end of Lidder valley, Amarnath stands at 3888 mtrs and 46 Kms from Pahalgam and 141 Kms from Srinagar. Though the original pilgrimage subscribe that Yatra be undertaken from Srinagar , the more common practice is to begin journey from Chandanwari and cover the distance to Amarnath and back in 5 days. Pahalgam is 96 Kms from Srinagar. the trek from Chandanwari to Cave is on an ancient peregerine route. pilgrims camp at Pahalgam or Chandanwari on the first night out.The first day's trek of 12 Kms from Chandanwari is through spectacular primeval country side and the main centre of attraction is Sheshnag a mountain which derves its name from seven peaks resembling the head of mythical snake. A cascading stream accompanies you with wild scenery untouched by modern civilzation. The second night camp at Wavjan overlooks the deep blue waters of Sheshnag lake and glaciers beyond it. The tales of love and revenge associated
with Sheshnag are recounted by campfires to the stillnes of pine scented Himalyan night.The second day 12 km trek steadily gains height winding across Mahagunas Pass at 4600 mtrs and then descendeing to the meadow land of Panchtarni the last camp enroute to Amarnath Cave.From Panchtarni to Amarnath the distance is 6kms and an early morning start is recommended for there is long queue awaitning entry at the cave. The same day devotees after darshans can return to Panchtarni in time for lunch and continue upto Sheshnag for night halt.For those who journey with faith it is a rewarding experience.The second approach to Amarnath is from Sonamarg via Baltal alt. 3000 mtrs. . Sonamarg is situated on Srinagar-Leh road north east from Srinagar. About 15 kms ahead lies Baltal which is charming little valley lying in the foothills of Zojila Pass. The holy cave is just a days journey from here. At domail 2 kms from Baltal free langar(community Kitchen) facility is available. The trek from here is very steep and therefore needs great caution and care. Some teastalls are available at Brarimarg and Sangam top. Several snow bridges on the fast flwing streams are to be crossedand during rains the road becomes slippery. At sangam top the road meets Pahalgam route. At Baltal Ponies/Dandies/Pack ponies /porters are available on Govt. approved rates.The nearest Airport is away in Badgam Distt. This Airport is connected with major cities of India. The nearest Rail Head is at Jammu which is 300 Kms away and from there National Highway NH1A connects the Kashmir valley with country.Every sort of transport to suit every budget from Buses to Taxis ply on this Highway. It Takes around 10 to 12 hours to cross this mountaineous road which crosses some beautiful spots andthe famous Jawahar Tunnel linking Kashmir Valley with country.

1.Please ensure that you are physically and mentally fit to perform the journey as the Yatra involves trekking at an altitude of 14000ft. Get yourself medically examined and certified fit for the journey and forward the certificate to the registerin authority designated for your area of residence.
2.Do carry sufficient heavy wollens including sweaters, wollen thermal body warmers, trousers, monkey caps, muffelers and any other cold fighting apparels. Other items needed to be carried are wind cheaters,raincoats, sleeping bags, blankets,water proof shoes with sufficient grips,small water proof tents, torch with sufficient batteries and walking sticks. Ladies are advised to avoid sarees. Instead body hussging clothing like salwar Kamiz, pants etc are advised.
3.Carry dry eatable stocks with you viz. biscuits, sugar,candies, chocolates, milk powder, assorted dry fruits,pickles, honey,lemons and tinned foods and other items suiting your palates. Water bottle, spoons,tumblers,saucers and plates may also be carried.
4.Ration and firewood quota is also made available enroute and can be purchased.
5.Registered ponywalla,porter,dandyman may only be hired. They are available for prefixed tarrifs.
6.Ponies carrying luggage and eatables should remain with you all the time. At no point of time should you get out of touch with them. This is to avoid inconvinience.
7.Move slowly and steadily as this is a ardous pilgrimage and maintain discipline. Instructions of Yatra officer should be adhered to.Various officials are deployed by the Govt. for your help.
8.Carry sufficient money to pay for your accomodation at Pahalgam and meeting your other requirements.
9.All medical facilities during yatra are free. It is advisable to carry your own personal medical kit and First aid box.
10.Alcohol is strictly prohibited.
11.Don't overstarin on steep gradients.
12.Don't realx at places where warning signes are fixed.
13.Don't break traffic discipline.
14.Do not pay more to any of the hired services for which the prices are fixed.
15.Yatries without registration card, Aged,infirm, ailing and ill clad persons will not be allowed to proceed beyond Pahalgam and Baltal.

Amarnath Cave :: One of the holy Trinity, Shiva is a living God. the most sacred and the most ancient book of India, the Rigveda evokes his presence in its hymns. Vedic myths, rituals and even astronomy testify to his existence from the dawn of time. But Shiva, Destroyer, the mendicant, is undefinable : He is a great yogi. Legend has it that Shiva recounted to Parvati the secret of creation in a Cave in Amarnath. Unkown to them a pair of mating doves eavesdropped on this conversation and having learned the secret, are reborn again and again, and have made the cave their eternal abode. Many pilgrims report seeing the doves pair when they trek the ardous route to pay obeisance before the ice-lingam.According to an ancient tale, there was once a Muslim Shepherd named Buta Malik who was given a sack of coal by a sadhu. Upon reaching home he discovered that the sack, in fact, contained Gold. Overjoyed and overcome, Buta Malik rushed back to look for sadhu and thank him.But on the spot of their meeting discovered a cave, and eventually this became a place of pilgrimage for all believers. To date , a percentage of the donations made by pilgrims are given to the descendents of Malik, and the remaining to trust which manages the shrine.
Ye another legend has it that when Kashyap Rishi drined the Kashmir valley of water the cave and lingam were discovered by Bregeish Rishi who was travelling the Himalays. When people heard of lingam Amarnath for the became Shiva's abode and a centre of pilgrimage.

How to Reach

From Pahalgam Situated in a narrow gorge at the farther end of Lidder valley, Amarnath stands at 3888 mtrs and 46 Kms from Pahalgam and 141 Kms from Srinagar. Though the original pilgrimage subscribe that Yatra be undertaken from Srinagar , the more common practice is to begin journey from Chandanwari and cover the distance to Amarnath and back in 5 days. Pahalgam is 96 Kms from Srinagar. the trek from Chandanwari to Cave is on an ancient peregerine route. pilgrims camp at Pahalgam or Chandanwari on the first night out.The first day's trek of 12 Kms from Chandanwari is through spectacular primeval country side and the main centre of attraction is Sheshnag a mountain which derves its name from seven peaks resembling the head of mythical snake. A cascading stream accompanies you with wild scenery untouched by modern civilzation. The second night camp at Wavjan overlooks the deep blue waters of Sheshnag lake and glaciers beyond it. The tales of love and revenge associatedwith Sheshnag are recounted by campfires to the stillnes of pine scented Himalyan night.The second day 12 km trek steadily gains height winding across Mahagunas Pass at 4600 mtrs and then descendeing to the meadow land of Panchtarni the last camp enroute to Amarnath Cave.
From Panchtarni to Amarnath the distance is 6kms and an early morning start is recommended for there is long queue awaitning entry at the cave. The same day devotees after darshans can return to Panchtarni in time for lunch and continue upto Sheshnag for night halt.For those who journey with faith it is a rewarding experience.The second approach to Amarnath is from Sonamarg via Baltal alt. 3000 mtrs. . Sonamarg is situated on Srinagar-Leh road north east from Srinagar. About 15 kms ahead lies Baltal which is charming little valley lying in the foothills of Zojila Pass. The holy cave is just a days journey from here. At domail 2 kms from Baltal free langar(community Kitchen) facility is available. The trek from here is very steep and therefore needs great caution and care. Some teastalls are available at Brarimarg and Sangam top. Several snow bridges on the fast flwing streams are to be crossedand during rains the road becomes slippery. At sangam top the road meets Pahalgam route. At Baltal Ponies/Dandies/Pack ponies /porters are available on Govt. approved rates.
The nearest Airport is away in Badgam Distt. This Airport is connected with major cities of India. The nearest Rail Head is at Jammu which is 300 Kms away and from there National Highway NH1A connects the Kashmir valley with country.Every sort of transport to suit every budget from Buses to Taxis ply on this Highway. It Takes around 10 to 12 hours to cross this mountaineous road which crosses some beautiful spots andthe famous Jawahar Tunnel linking Kashmir Valley with country.