2 Days in Srinagar for a Solo Trip

Srinagar is the kind of place that stays with you long after you leave. As someone who’s wandered its streets and floated on its lakes, I can tell you it’s perfect for solo travelers looking for peace and beauty. The houseboats, the gardens, and the old city’s charm make it easy to lose yourself in the best way possible. It’s safe, welcoming, and full of little surprises around every corner.

Jammu and Kashmir, jammu-and-kashmir
2 Days
Solo
Custom Trip

Trip Highlights

A quiet shikara ride on Dal Lake at sunrise, when the water is still and the world feels brand new
Walking through the Mughal Gardens, especially Nishat Bagh, with its perfect views of the lake and mountains
Exploring the old city’s narrow lanes and stopping for kahwa (Kashmiri tea) at a tiny shop
Watching the sunset from a houseboat porch with the sound of water gently lapping against the wood

Best Time to Visit

AprilMaySeptemberOctober

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Day 1

Day 1 in Srinagar

Start your Srinagar adventure with the city's most iconic sights, from serene lakes to vibrant gardens and historic sites.

Activities

Shikara Ride on Dal Lake

Begin your day with a peaceful shikara ride on Dal Lake, the heart of Srinagar. Glide past floating gardens, houseboats, and local vendors selling flowers and snacks. The early morning light makes the water shimmer, and you might even spot kingfishers diving for fish.

Dal Lake, near Boulevard Road6:30 AM - 8:30 AM (best for calm waters and fewer crowds)INR 500-1000 (negotiable)
Tips:
  • Bargain politely for the shikara ride; prices can vary.
  • Carry a light jacket—mornings can be chilly even in summer.
Explore Mughal Gardens
Explore Mughal Gardens

Head to the stunning Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh, two of Srinagar's most famous Mughal gardens. Nishat Bagh, with its terraced lawns and fountains, offers panoramic views of the lake. Shalimar Bagh, built by Emperor Jahangir, feels like stepping into a Persian poem with its intricate water channels and fragrant flowerbeds.

Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh, along Dal Lake's eastern shore9:30 AM - 12:30 PM (before the midday sun gets too strong)INR 20-30 per garden
Tips:
  • Wear comfortable shoes—the gardens are sprawling.
  • Visit Nishat first, then Shalimar, as they’re along the same route.
Lunch at Ahdoos

Refuel with a hearty Kashmiri meal at Ahdoos, a beloved local restaurant since 1918. Try their signature dishes like rogan josh (slow-cooked lamb in spices) and dum aloo (potatoes in yogurt gravy), served with fluffy Kashmiri bread. The walnut chutney is a must-try.

Ahdoos, Residency Road1:00 PM - 2:00 PMINR 500-800 per person
Tips:
  • Ask for the 'Wazwan' platter if you want a sampler of Kashmiri dishes.
  • Their kahwa (saffron tea) is the perfect post-meal drink.

Must Try Foods

Rogan Josh
Dum Aloo
Kahwa
Gushtaba (minced meatballs in yogurt gravy)
Sheermal (saffron-infused bread)

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Srinagar Railway Station (15 km from Dal Lake, 30-40 mins by cab)
Nearest Bus Stop
Lal Chowk Bus Stand (frequent local buses to Dal Lake and Mughal Gardens)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Cabs and auto-rickshaws are easily available; use prepaid taxi stands or apps like Uber/Ola for better rates.

No destinations found for this itinerary

Day 2

Day 2 in Srinagar

A mix of history, local markets, and serene spots to round off your Srinagar visit

Activities

Visit Shankaracharya Temple
Visit Shankaracharya Temple

Start your day with a peaceful climb to this ancient temple perched on a hill. The 243 steps might be a bit of a workout, but the panoramic views of Srinagar and Dal Lake are worth it. The temple itself is a quiet spiritual spot with a rich history dating back to 371 BC.

Shankaracharya Hill, SrinagarMorning, around 8 AM to avoid crowds and heatFree
Tips:
  • Wear comfortable shoes for the climb
  • Carry water as there are no shops nearby
Explore Old City & Jamia Masjid
Explore Old City & Jamia Masjid

Head to the heart of Srinagar’s Old City to see the stunning Jamia Masjid, a wooden mosque with 370 pillars. Wander through the narrow lanes lined with spice shops, bakeries, and handicraft stores. Don’t miss the local bakeries selling fresh ‘Kandur’ bread—it’s a must-try.

Nowhatta, Old City, SrinagarLate morning, around 10:30 AMFree (small donations welcome at the mosque)
Tips:
  • Dress modestly for the mosque
  • Bargain politely in the local markets
Relax at Nigeen Lake
Relax at Nigeen Lake

Skip the crowded Dal Lake and head to its quieter cousin, Nigeen Lake. Rent a shikara for a serene ride or just sit by the shore with a cup of Kahwa (local saffron tea). The lake is less touristy, so you’ll get a more authentic vibe.

Nigeen Lake, SrinagarLate afternoon, around 4 PM for golden lightINR 500-800 for a shikara ride
Tips:
  • Try the floating bakery from a shikara
  • Bring a light jacket—it gets breezy

Must Try Foods

Rogan Josh (slow-cooked lamb curry)
Gushtaba (velvety meatballs in yogurt gravy)
Sheermal (saffron-infused flatbread)

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Srinagar Railway Station (under construction, nearest functional station is Jammu Tawi, 290 km away)
Nearest Bus Stop
Lal Chowk Bus Stand (frequent local buses and shared taxis)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Easy to find; use prepaid cabs or apps like Uber/Ola (less reliable, better to negotiate with local drivers)

Travel Tips

Bargain politely for shikara rides—locals appreciate it when you engage but don’t push too hard
Dress modestly, especially in the old city, to respect local customs
Try the local bread (like bakarkhani) with your morning tea—it’s a small joy you won’t forget
Carry cash; many smaller places don’t accept cards

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