The morning should be spent on an early morning shikara ride around Dal Lake, which provides a unique perspective of the lake as the sun rises. Afterward, a visit to the Shalimar Bagh Mughal Garden is a must. The garden is a magnificent example of Mughal architecture and design and has several terraced lawns, waterfalls, and pools. In the afternoon, a visit to the Chashme Shahi Garden is recommended for its stunning view of the Zabarwan Mountains. The evening can be spent exploring the local markets around Dal Lake, which are famous for their handicrafts and traditional Kashmiri products.
The morning can be spent at the Pari Mahal, a beautiful garden built by the Mughals and later used as an observatory by astronomer prince Dara Shikoh. It offers sweeping views of the city and the Dal Lake and is an ideal place for a picnic. In the afternoon, a visit to the Shankaracharya Temple, located on top of a hill is recommended for its stunning views of the city and the mountains. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is the oldest surviving temple in the entire valley. The evening can be spent strolling along the Boulevard Road, which is famous for its street food and local delicacies.
Today, a day trip to the Wular Lake, the largest freshwater lake in India, and the Manasbal Lake, one of the deepest lakes in India, is recommended. The drive to Wular Lake is a scenic one, and the lake is an ideal spot for birdwatching and fishing. Afterward, a visit to the Manasbal Lake can be made, which is famous for its lotus growth and beautiful gardens. The evening can be spent shopping for souvenirs and handicrafts at the local markets in Srinagar.
Other local attractions that can be considered are the Hazratbal Shrine, which is a revered Muslim shrine and the Jama Masjid Mosque, which is the largest mosque in Srinagar. Side trips to Gulmarg, Sonamarg, and Pahalgam can be made for their stunning natural beauty and adventure sports activities. To maximize your fun, try to visit the gardens during the peak bloom season, which is usually in April. Do not forget to try the local delicacies like Rogan Josh, Gushtaba, and Kashmiri Kahwa.