5 Places To Visit In Srinagar This Autumn

Witness the season's gorgeous colours this autumn as you journey through Kashmir's enchanting vistas
Places to visit in Srinagar
View of the Jhelum River in SrinagarShutterstock
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"Gar firdaus bar-rue zameen ast, hami asto, hamin asto, hamin ast."

If there is a heaven on earth, it is here, it is here, it is here.

Poet Amir Khusro's words ring especially true when you visit Kashmir in autumn. Kashmir, often called "Paradise on Earth," is where nature's beauty and charm leave visitors utterly captivated. This magical valley, known for its four distinct seasons, transforms into a mesmerising wonderland during autumn. This season, aptly named "Harud" in Kashmiri, signifying the time of harvest, blankets the region in a breathtaking red, yellow, and orange palette, crafting scenes reminiscent of a fairy tale.

Kashmir University Campus in Srinagar
Kashmir University Campus in SrinagarShutterstock

Autumn, the shortest among the seasons, graces Kashmir from mid-October to mid-November, and it's a time brimming with enchantment. If you seek a scenic vacation, this autumn is the time to plan your visit to this Himalayan gem.

Places To Visit In Srinagar This Autumn

Chinar Bagh

For a photo opportunity amid trees adorned with golden leaves, Chinar Bagh in Dalgate is the perfect destination. Autumn's magic transforms this park into a vibrant canvas, painting the landscape with an array of colours. Stately chinars, wooden bridges, the majestic Jhelum River flowing gracefully nearby, and houseboats quietly moored along the bank create a truly enchanting atmosphere. Make this autumn magical in Srinagar's Chinar Bagh, where pale chinar leaves, glistening with morning dew, decorate benches in the sprawling seating area, providing an ideal setting to lose yourself in a book on a misty autumn day.

Dal Lake

The moment you set foot on the magnificent boulevard bordering the expansive Dal Lake, you'll sense the enchantment in the air. As you stroll along the lakeside, the rustling of fallen chinar leaves underfoot serenades your every step. Autumn ushers in milder sunlight and a cool mist, transforming the surroundings into a magical wonderland. Picture waking up to witness autumn's artistry–dry leaves gently descending onto the lake's surface, shikaras gliding gracefully, and the sky adorned in a myriad of hues.

Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden
Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip GardenShutterstock

Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden

The Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden in Srinagar is one of the most stunning gardens you'll encounter. With over 40 varieties of tulips in perpetual bloom, this garden is a must-visit, especially during autumn. Within the garden's complex, you'll find food kiosks offering local delicacies, making it an excellent spot for a slow afternoon.

Char Chinar

Nestled in the heart of Dal Lake, Char Chinar epitomises the quintessential autumn landscape. Named after the four chinar trees that grace each corner of this iconic island, it becomes a realm of enchantment during the fall season. The cool, gentle breeze from Dal Lake heightens the island's allure. The extensive expanse of the lake, adorned with dry chinar leaves, and the majestic mountain peaks painted in shades of orange create an otherworldly experience.

Shalimar Garden

Nothing quite compares to the grandeur of Shalimar Garden bathed in autumn's colours. While this Mughal garden is a sight to behold throughout the year, the autumn hues add an extra layer of splendour, making it an absolute marvel. With its sprawling chinar trees casting a lovely shade, Shalimar Garden is an ideal destination for a crisp and sunny day this autumn. The thick foliage covering every inch of the garden and its pathways leave visitors utterly mesmerised.

Shalimar Garden
Shalimar GardenShutterstock

Know Before You Go

During autumn, temperatures in Kashmir typically range from highs of around 20°C to lows of approximately 9°C. Although snowfall usually commences in November, some higher-altitude areas like Gulmarg, Sonamarg, or Pahalgam may experience snow even during late autumn. Therefore, you should pack warm clothing that you can layer well.

Getting There

The Srinagar Airport is well-connected to major cities across the country. Upon arrival at the airport, visitors can easily hire taxis to reach various cities and towns within Kashmir.

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