Srinagar: From flowing water to flowing flowers

The second largest touristic attraction after Dal Lake is the Tulip Garden

Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden

Lotus - the floating beauty

Carved wooden balconies of the houseboats and the misty peaks of the mountains are a sight to behold

The traditional houseboats on the lake are inspired by originals from the Raj era

Paddle to the floating flower and vegetable market

A vast sheet of water, Dal Lake is Srinagar's jewel

The Shikara is a traditional boat, used by the locals for transportation and loved by the tourists as an activity

Traditional boats docked nearby

A boat gliding along the Dal Lake in Srinagar, Kashmir

India is full of spectacular places and Srinagar cradled in the heart of Kashmir Valley, is one of them. Located in the northern Indian state of Jammu & Kashmir, the city boasts of snow clad mountain peaks, colourful flower gardens, waterfalls, lakes, shrines and monuments.

Srinagar is known as the city of wealth and attracts nature lovers and travel enthusiasts from all over the world. Not only tourists but the destination has also enticed many Bollywood directors who have showcased the beauty of this stretch on 70 mm in movies like Kabhi Kabhi (1976), Silsila (1981), Jab Tak hai Jaan (2012), and Highway (2012), amongst many others.

A floating paradise

While stationary house boats located on the lake are a perfect choice of accommodation to truly experience its breathtaking beauty, small boats unique to Jammu & Kashmir, colloquially known as Shikara, give tourists the opportunity to explore the Dal Lake in local style. The lake has a plethora of options for adventure enthusiasts, including water sports like rafting; hot air balloon rides and skiing.

Along the soothing Dal Lake, on the slopes of the mighty Zabarwan Hills, lies the mesmerising Indira Gandhi Tulip Garden, which is a treat for the eyes. If you happen to be around the place in April, the multiple rows of tulips running parallel to each other, are worth a visit.