Srinagar

Geography
Srinagar district is situated in the center of Kashmir Valley, is surrounded by five districts. In the north it is flanked by Kargil,in the South by Pulwama,in the north-west by Budgam. The capital city of Srinagar,is located 1730 meters above sea level. The district with a population of around 9,00,000 souls(1991- census), is spread over an area of 2228 Sq.Kms.It comprises three tehsils/ towns viz Srinagar, Ganderbal and Kangan, four blocks (Srinagar, Ganderbal, Kangan and Leh), besides 175 villages.

Its Beauty
Srinagar is a city of great antiquity. Particularly the old city of Srinagar with its almost medieval charm has sights, smells and sounds to enchant the most jaded traveler. Its beautiful surroundings tells the story of the love of the Mughal emperors for this paradise vale; deep green rice fields and river bridges, of gardens in bloom and lakes rimmed by houseboats. It is the summer capital of the state as well as a business center and holiday resort.

Distinct Culture
Srinagar has the distinction of having multifaceted and unique cultural blend, making it exclusive from the rest of the country, not only from the different cultural forms and heritage, but from geographical, demographically, ethical, social entities, which forms a distinct spectrum of diversity.

Holy Places

Shankaracharya Temple
It is located at 1100ft.above surface level of the main city on the Shankaracharya hill, also known as Takht-e-Suleiman. The Shiva temple, besides being a prominent religious place of Hindus, is of great archaeological importance. The temple commands a magnificent panoramic view of the Srinagar city.

Hazratbal Shirne
The Hazrathalbal Shrine, is situated on the left bank of the famous Dal Lake in Srinagar. This was built in the love and respect for the Prophet Mohammad, whose sacred hair is preserved here.

Jama Masjid
It is one of the oldest and the most spacious of all the mosques in Kashmir, situated in the heart of the city. The foundation of the mosque, an architectural wonder was laid by Sultan Sikander in 1398 A.D.

Places Of Interest

Cheshma Shahi and Pari Mahal
Cheshma Shahi or the Royal Spring was laid by Shah Jahan in 1632 A.D and two kilometers uphill from Cheshma Shahi is situated the Pari Mahal,a school of astrology founded by Prince Dara Shikoh,Emperor Shah Jahan's eldest son.

Mughal Gardens
Situated on the banks of the Dal Lake, in the backdrop of the majestic hills, these beautiful gardens commands a magnificent view of the lake. . The Mughal gardens include Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh and Chashmeshahi Bagh.

Dal Lake
The world famous water body described by Sir Walter Lawerence as the "Lake par-excellence",half a kilometers from the city, is the jewel in the crown of Kashmir. Nagin is the most lovely part of the Dal Lake separated by a causeway. The lake of course is popular for its Houseboats ,Shikaras and promenades and it is undoubtedly a bird watchers paradise.