Begin your day with a serene shikara ride on the vast Dal Lake, which is considered to be one of the main attractions of Srinagar. Experience the floating vegetable market and the mesmerizing view of snow-clad mountains with a backdrop of Mughal gardens on the shore. It will be a 2-hour boat ride, which includes a visit to the Nehru Garden and a peak into the lifestyle of people living in the surrounding areas.
Nishat Bagh is a beautiful Mughal garden located on the eastern side of the Dal Lake. You can enjoy the panoramic views of the lake and the Zabarwan hills from here. The garden has terraced lawns, flower beds, cascading fountains, and a variety of trees, shrubs, and flowers. You can spend an hour exploring the garden and relaxing in the peaceful environment.
Savour some authentic Kashmiri cuisine at Ahdoos which is a renowned restaurant in Srinagar. You can try some of their signature dishes like Gushtaba, Rogan Josh, and Tabak Maaz. The restaurant is known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional cooking methods. Do try their Kahwa, a local green tea prepared with spices and nuts.
The Shankaracharya Temple is situated on top of a hill and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed to be one of the oldest temples in Srinagar and offers a panoramic view of the city. The temple has a steep flight of stairs that you would need to climb up to reach it. You can spend half an hour exploring the temple and enjoying the scenic beauty around.
The Hazratbal Shrine is a Muslim shrine located on the western shore of the Dal Lake. It is one of the most important religious places for Muslims in the Kashmir Valley. The shrine houses a relic, Moi-e-Muqqadas, believed by many to be a hair of the Islamic prophet, Muhammad. Spend an hour here admiring the Islamic architecture and interacting with local people.
End your day with a visit to the Mughal Gardens that offer a perfect blend of nature and architecture. These gardens were built by Mughal emperors in the 16th century and have a distinct Persian influence. The Shalimar Bagh, the Nishat Bagh, and the Chashme Shahi Bagh are the three main Mughal gardens in Srinagar. Spend your last hour relaxing in the lush green gardens and capturing some beautiful moments.
If you have more time, you can explore some other attractions like the Pari Mahal, the Jama Masjid, and the SPS Museum. You can also try some adventure activities like trekking, skiing, and paragliding in the nearby areas. If you have less time, you can skip any of the above-listed places, but do not miss the Dal Lake boat ride and the Mughal Gardens.