Srinagar, rightly termed a paradise on earth, remains so the year round. Every season dresses Srinagar in its own unique colours. If spring melts away the snows to drench the valley in vibrant colours, summer and autumn bring with them more sober shades. In winter the valley transforms into a picture perfect white beauty. Hari Parbat, Srinagar's 'Takht-i- Sulaiman,' hill forms the backdrop to the city. The placid Jhelum flows through the heart of this paradise. A shikara cruise on the Dal Lake is a must for exploring Srinagar in its varied hues. A shikara ride uncovers the true essence of this town as you glide past willow-shaded channels and canals, through water lilies and lotus, under bridges, across rice fields, on to the splendid Mughal gardens. As it serves a major artery for the locals, the river has landing stations at various places that lead up to narrow lanes connecting with the streets beyond.
Srinagar is also ideal for aquatic sports enthusiasts with its offer of kayaking, canoeing, water surfing and angling.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
April – June, October
HOW TO GET THERE
BY AIR: Srinagar airport has regular flights to Delhi and Mumbai.
BY ROAD: Srinagar is very well connected by road to Chandigarh (630 km), Delhi (876 km), Jammu (290 km), Leh (434 km), Gulmarg (48 km), Sonamarg (88 km) and Pahalgam (96 km).
BY RAIL: Jammu, at a distance of 290 km, is the closest railhead from Srinagar. There are regular express trains to Jammu from cities like Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata.
