Area : 20.36 Sqkm
Population : 725,000
Best time to visit : April - Octomber
Srinagar : The City of House Boats Kashmir most well known city, Srinagar, stands by the clear waters of the Dal Lake, and the rushing Jhelum. During the days of the Raj, the ruler of Kashmir let the British come to Srinagar but did not allow them to build. So they took to the water and lived in houseboats on the lovely Lake! And the houseboats stayed on to become a symbol of the beautiful valley and famous hill station.
A houseboat holiday is a delightful experience. Just stepping on board transports you to a different world, away from the hustle and bustle and noise of the city. There are different categories of house boat, from deluxe to D class. And they could be situated either on the banks of the lake or river, or in the interior of the lake. So while selecting one you should consider this factor. If you are with your family and young children, it would be advantageous to take one which is on the banks or overlooking the Boulevard, so that you can get ashore in a few minutes. If honeymooning, you may prefer to be in the interior, all by yourselves.
History of Srinagar
Once the part of the Mauryan Empire, Kashmir valley was under several rulers before coming of the Mughals. With the decline of the Mughal Empire, the state came under the Sikh ruler Ranjit Singh, who was later defeated by the British. The British installed Gulab Singh as independent ruler of Kashmir. Till the independence, the descendents of Gulab Singh ruled the state.
Accessibility
By Air - In terms of air transport, the Srinagar Airport is connected to Delhi, Amritsar, Chandigarh, Jammu and Leh by regular flights.
By Rail - Jammu Railway Station is the nearest railhead and is connected to all the major towns and cities of the country including Delhi, Calcutta, Chandigarh, Amritsar, Pune, Mumbai and Kanyakumari.
By Road - An excellent road network links the city with other parts of north India by frequent bus services of government and private operators. Private coaches and taxis are available from Jammu to reach Srinagar.
Places to Visit
Lakes - Also known as the city of lakes, Srinagar has a number of beautiful lakes, which are offering boat ride on the traditional houseboats. A boat trip on this lake by a houseboat provides a soothing and relaxing experience. The most prominent among them are the Dal Lake and Nagin Lake.
Dal Lake - The prime feature of the lake is the trading of flower and fruits grown on the islands in the lake. The lake also offers facilities for kayaking, angling and water surfing.
Nagin Lake is believed to have been a part of Dal Lake. This small and beautiful blue lake is known also known as the “Jewel in the Ring”.
Houseboats - The houseboats on the lakes of Srinagar have well appointed rooms and are equipped with all the basic facilities one required for luxurious houseboat holiday.
Mughal Gardens - There are several well laid out gardens designed in Mughal Style, which are other important tourist attractions of the city. These gorgeous green gardens attracts tourists on a large scale for their numerous flowering plant species and water fountains running down its centre.
