Srinagar Travel Guide: Best Places to Explore and Where to Find the Best Hotels in Srinagar

Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, is known for its natural beauty, pleasant climate, traditional hospitality, and peaceful surroundings. Whether you are planning a family trip, a romantic vacation, or a solo travel experience, choosing the right hotels in Srinagar can make your stay even more memorable. This guide covers the best places to visit in Srinagar along with suggestions to help you pick the most suitable hotels in Srinagar based on your travel style.

Srinagar is popular for its charming lakes, Mughal gardens, local Kashmiri dishes, colourful markets, and scenic mountain views. While planning your travel itinerary, it is smart to book hotels in Srinagar that are located close to the main attractions so that you can save time on travel. The city offers hotels in Srinagar ranging from luxury houseboats, premium resorts, boutique hotels, and budget-friendly stays.

Dal Lake – Heart of Srinagar

Dal Lake is the first place you must visit in Srinagar. Known as the Jewel of the City, this lake is famous for Shikara rides, floating gardens, vibrant markets, and beautiful houseboats. Many travellers prefer staying in houseboat-style hotels in Srinagar near Dal Lake to get a unique experience of Kashmiri culture and hospitality. Waking up to the sight of snow-covered mountains and calm water is a one-of-a-kind experience.

If you enjoy peaceful evenings, a Shikara ride during sunset is recommended. The area around Dal Lake also offers some of the finest hotels in Srinagar with lake views, making it a great place to stay for couples and families.

Mughal Gardens – Experience Nature and Heritage

Your trip to the city is incomplete without exploring the Mughal Gardens such as Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, and Chashme Shahi. These gardens reflect Persian architecture, beautiful fountains, and colourful flowerbeds. Booking hotels in Srinagar that are located near Mughal Gardens helps you cover multiple tourist spots in a day and enjoy relaxed travel. These lush green landscapes and scenic backdrops are also perfect for photography.

Many travellers choose hotels in Srinagar close to Mughal Gardens because of easy connectivity, cleanliness, and peaceful surroundings. It is a suitable location for tourists who want to explore the heritage side of the city.

Shankaracharya Temple – Spiritual Viewpoint

Situated on Shankaracharya Hill, this ancient temple offers a panoramic view of Srinagar. It is a popular spiritual and tourist attraction. The climb to the temple gives you a refreshing experience, and once at the top, you can enjoy peaceful surroundings along with a stunning view of the city and Dal Lake. Staying in hotels in Srinagar located near Boulevard Road gives you quick access to this attraction and other key sightseeing places.

Hazratbal Shrine – A Place of Faith and Peace

Hazratbal Shrine, located on the banks of Dal Lake, holds great religious significance and is known for its calm and serene atmosphere. It reflects Kashmiri architecture and attracts visitors from across India. Many travellers choose hotels in Srinagar near Hazratbal Shrine because the area is quiet, safe, and suitable for families.

Local Markets – Shop the Real Kashmir

If you love shopping, head to Lal Chowk and Polo View Market. These markets offer Pashmina shawls, handmade carpets, Kashmiri dry fruits, spices, and wooden crafts. While exploring markets, travellers often prefer centrally-located hotels in Srinagar for easier access to shopping areas and food joints. Do try authentic Kashmiri dishes such as Rogan Josh, Yakhni, and Kahwa during your stay.

How to Choose the Right Hotels in Srinagar

There are various types of hotels in Srinagar suitable for different kinds of travellers. If you want a royal and luxurious stay, you can choose premium resorts or houseboats near Dal Lake. For nature lovers, hotels in Srinagar near Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh offer scenic mountain and lake views. Budget travellers can find affordable hotels in Srinagar near Lal Chowk, Rajbagh, or Dalgate with basic yet comfortable facilities.

Before booking any hotels in Srinagar, check reviews, location, amenities, and nearby tourist attractions. Early booking is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons and holidays.

Final Thoughts

Srinagar is a perfect destination for travellers who want natural beauty, cultural experiences, and peaceful surroundings. Along with the best places to visit, selecting the right hotels in Srinagar helps in planning a comfortable, convenient, and value-for-money stay. Whether you are here for sightseeing, shopping, or a relaxing holiday, Srinagar promises a memorable travel experience with its scenic landscapes, hospitality, and unique charm.