Eat / Drink
explore all >>
Imran Cafeteria
by
Urbanaut
If you're looking for real local, authentic barbeque meat, locally known as Tujj, head to Imran for the most delicious spread. Their mutton seekh kebab and fikh and chicken tikka, served with 7 kinds of chutneys and lavassa, local roti, are favourites from their limited menu.
Mahatta & Co
by
Urbanaut
For the last century, Mahatta has successfully captured the evolution of Kashmir through remarkable photographs. Visit their cafe on the ground floor for tea and sandwiches, and make your way up the narrow wooden staircase to its studio where decades old photos of Kashmir are displayed with great pride. You can even bring back postcards and framed photographs as souvenirs.
Winterfell Café
by
Urbanaut
Right opposite Ghat 6 of the Dal Lake is located one of the most popular cafes of the city, WInterfell Cafe. As its name might give away, the cafe is themed after the popular TV series Game of Thrones. Its pizzas, burgers and the shakes are some of the most popular on the menu.
Books & Bricks Cafe
by
Urbanaut
Every city has that cultural hubbub of a cafe wherein everyone from 8 to 80 seem to throng. And for Srinagar, Books & Bricks is one of those places. While its name gives away much of its decor theme, it is the excellent service, great food and beverages (the pizzas and pastas is a local favourite) that wins over hearts and makes you want to come back time and again.
Dilshad Restaurant
by
Urbanaut
This unassuming, hole-in-the-wall joint is a household name for the locals during the fall and winter months in the valley when its queen dish – the harissa – is prepared ever so meticulously overnight. Dilshad prides itself on selling “the best harissa” in Srinagar, but that is a claim you must check out for yourself.
Crème Bakery Café
by
Urbanaut
In a city that loves its breads, good old wood-fired bakeries can be found in every corner and alley. But Crème Bakery, as the locals would agree, is a league apart. With the smell of vanilla wafting in its blue-walled space with limited seating, the sweet treats at Crème Bakery by Ahdoo’s defies description. P.S. Come in on an empty stomach because you’ll want to fill up on its cakes, pastries, eclairs, and macarons.
Cafè liberty
by
Urbanaut
Located close to the popular Polo View Market is one the city’s most hip cafes, located on the third floor of an assuming building. When you enter Cafe Liberty, you are welcomed into an unexpected world of unique antiques that are used as decor for the two-storeyed cafe with an indoor-outdoor seating area.
FAT PANDA
by
Urbanaut
Answering the city’s craving for Asian food is Fat Panda on Dal Lake Boulevard. With a menu that encompasses most Asian favourite dishes – from fried rices to soups, noodles to sumptuous chicken – Fat Panda is one of the city’s few good Asian eateries.
Le Delice
by
Urbanaut
What would make the experience of walking by the Dal Lake even better? Coming across a truly sophisticated French bakery for some coffee and the perfectly warm and buttery croissants. Le Delice The French Bakery is Srinagar’s latest gem on its crown.
Chai Jaai
by
Urbanaut
One of the most artsy and Instagrammable cafes in the city, Chai Jaai is a regular joint for locals and tourists alike. Known to be a tea room popular for its kahwa and Kashmiri pink tea or ‘noon chai’, Chai Jaai lives up to its name with its offering of 60 varieties of teas that can be enjoyed sitting on the Bund opposite the Dal Lake with a selection of local breads.
Shamyana Lodge & Restaurant
by
Urbanaut
While the best destination for having Rogan Josh in Kashmir is highly arguable, it is without a doubt that Shamiyana Restaurant is one of the strongest contenders on the list. This old-school family restaurant serves a host of quintessentially Kashmiri dishes like Kashmiri Dum Aloo, Tabak Maaz, Mutton Rista, Chicken and Mutton Kanti, and more, perfect for a food-coma-worthy lunch or dinner.
Lhasa
by
Urbanaut
'Real local' is truly one of the best ways to describe this Chinese restaurant which is a hit and miss for many passing tourists but is a constant for locals. They have a cosy indoor seating as well as a glass house and outdoor seating and is great for family meals.
Mughal Darbar Hotel & Restaurant
by
Urbanaut
There never seems to be a quiet minute at Mughal Durbar, a humble bakery set in the center of the city near Polo View Market which sells all kinds of baked goods. Fill up on the different kinds of Kashmiri wood-fired breads they have on offer.
Real local
explore all >>
Imran Cafeteria
by
Urbanaut
If you're looking for real local, authentic barbeque meat, locally known as Tujj, head to Imran for the most delicious spread. Their mutton seekh kebab and fikh and chicken tikka, served with 7 kinds of chutneys and lavassa, local roti, are favourites from their limited menu.
Dilshad Restaurant
by
Urbanaut
This unassuming, hole-in-the-wall joint is a household name for the locals during the fall and winter months in the valley when its queen dish – the harissa – is prepared ever so meticulously overnight. Dilshad prides itself on selling “the best harissa” in Srinagar, but that is a claim you must check out for yourself.
Makhdoom Sahib
by
Urbanaut
Located halfway to Hari Parbat is one of Kashmir’s most important shrines – Makhdoom Sahib. Built as an ode to Hamza Makhdoom, a sufi mystic and polymath, the two-storeyed shrine with a green conical roof is an important pilgrimage site for locals who climb the steep flight of stairs to reach the shrine. On the way up, you’ll pass the ruins of the mid-17th century Akhund Mulla Shah mosque and view Srinagar’s breathtaking aerial view.
Khanqah-e-Moula
by
Urbanaut
Located in Srinagar’s downtown and on the bank of the river Jhelum is one of the city’s most renowned shrines – the Shah-e-Hamdan Mosque, more commonly known as Khanqah. Built in 1935 and dedicated to Muslim preacher Mir Syed Ali Hamdani - who preached Islam in Kashmir, it is one of the first mosques to be built in Kashmi and is a must visit.
Makai Point
by
Urbanaut
A recreational park located on the shores of the Dal lake, Makai Park is ragingly popular amongst the locals for its many stalls of Seekh-tujj – Kashmir’s favourite evening snack made of barbecued meat. So much so that a local’s evening out is incomplete without stopping for it. If you’re driving on Dal Lake Boulevard, you can’t miss Makai Park; the smoke from the barbecue is the only landmark this park needs. During the summer, corn on the cob is also popular.
Kashmir Loom
by
Urbanaut
In Kashmir, ‘pashmina’ is as widely sold as walnuts and saffron, yet few come with the promise of originality and exceptional quality. If you are looking to invest in pashmina that can be turned into a generational heirloom, look no further than Kashmir Loom. Run by a Kashmiri and English couple for decades, Kashmir Loom’s craftsmanship is meticulous and exquisite. Their endeavor is to preserve Kashmir's heritage of cratfsmanship while fostering its progress.
Shamyana Lodge & Restaurant
by
Urbanaut
While the best destination for having Rogan Josh in Kashmir is highly arguable, it is without a doubt that Shamiyana Restaurant is one of the strongest contenders on the list. This old-school family restaurant serves a host of quintessentially Kashmiri dishes like Kashmiri Dum Aloo, Tabak Maaz, Mutton Rista, Chicken and Mutton Kanti, and more, perfect for a food-coma-worthy lunch or dinner.
Moon Light - The Walnut Fudge Shop مون لاںٔٹ
by
Urbanaut
During your visit to the famous Hazratbal Shrine, don’t forget to find your way to the local favourite - Moonlight bakery. It may be unassuming to look at, but it houses Srinagar’s cult favourite walnut fudge that makes for an essential part of every wedding trousseau in the city. Gooey, warm, and crunchy at the same time, this mouthful of sweety goodness is a must-have when in Srinagar.
Lhasa
by
Urbanaut
'Real local' is truly one of the best ways to describe this Chinese restaurant which is a hit and miss for many passing tourists but is a constant for locals. They have a cosy indoor seating as well as a glass house and outdoor seating and is great for family meals.
Harwan Garden
by
Urbanaut
Beyond the Mughal Gardens of Kashmir, make your way to Harwan for its beautiful garden that offers terrific views of the Zabarwan Hills, and of course, ample chinar trees. The garden, which features a canal that originates from a lake behind the garden and flows through the it, lined with flower beds and chinar trees, is the gateway to the Dachigam Wildlife Sanctuary.
Mughal Darbar Hotel & Restaurant
by
Urbanaut
There never seems to be a quiet minute at Mughal Durbar, a humble bakery set in the center of the city near Polo View Market which sells all kinds of baked goods. Fill up on the different kinds of Kashmiri wood-fired breads they have on offer.
Buy
explore all >>
Mahatta & Co
by
Urbanaut
For the last century, Mahatta has successfully captured the evolution of Kashmir through remarkable photographs. Visit their cafe on the ground floor for tea and sandwiches, and make your way up the narrow wooden staircase to its studio where decades old photos of Kashmir are displayed with great pride. You can even bring back postcards and framed photographs as souvenirs.
Makai Point
by
Urbanaut
A recreational park located on the shores of the Dal lake, Makai Park is ragingly popular amongst the locals for its many stalls of Seekh-tujj – Kashmir’s favourite evening snack made of barbecued meat. So much so that a local’s evening out is incomplete without stopping for it. If you’re driving on Dal Lake Boulevard, you can’t miss Makai Park; the smoke from the barbecue is the only landmark this park needs. During the summer, corn on the cob is also popular.
Kashmir Loom
by
Urbanaut
In Kashmir, ‘pashmina’ is as widely sold as walnuts and saffron, yet few come with the promise of originality and exceptional quality. If you are looking to invest in pashmina that can be turned into a generational heirloom, look no further than Kashmir Loom. Run by a Kashmiri and English couple for decades, Kashmir Loom’s craftsmanship is meticulous and exquisite. Their endeavor is to preserve Kashmir's heritage of cratfsmanship while fostering its progress.
Moon Light - The Walnut Fudge Shop مون لاںٔٹ
by
Urbanaut
During your visit to the famous Hazratbal Shrine, don’t forget to find your way to the local favourite - Moonlight bakery. It may be unassuming to look at, but it houses Srinagar’s cult favourite walnut fudge that makes for an essential part of every wedding trousseau in the city. Gooey, warm, and crunchy at the same time, this mouthful of sweety goodness is a must-have when in Srinagar.
k salama
by
Urbanaut
With a history of a over 150 years, K. Salama is more of a landmark in Srinagar than a shopping destination. Visit for quintessential as well as modern renditions of pherans with exquisite embroidery and the knowledge of the craft from its owners.
Meena Bazar Dal Lake
by
Urbanaut
Dal Lake is a self-sustaining eco-system with houses, vegetation, shops, and a whole floating market selling shawls, pashmina suits, papier mache, and spices by a row of shops in the unmissable Meena Bazar. Shop for some walnut wood and papier mache trinkets to take away as souvenirs from your trip.
Amin-Bin-Khalik (ABK)
by
Urbanaut
General rule of thumb: If the locals trust it, so can you! And when it comes to dry fruits and good quality saffron in a city where it seems to floating everywhere, Amin Bin Khalik is the only address you need to know to get your hands on a variety of dry fruits and the liquid gold of the world – saffron.
Mughal Darbar Hotel & Restaurant
by
Urbanaut
There never seems to be a quiet minute at Mughal Durbar, a humble bakery set in the center of the city near Polo View Market which sells all kinds of baked goods. Fill up on the different kinds of Kashmiri wood-fired breads they have on offer.
Suffering Moses
by
Urbanaut
If you’re already intrigued by the name of this place, wait until you visit it. Suffering Moses is a wonderland for lovers of art and craft. From meticulous wood carved furniture to the most minute papier mache artistry on boxes, vases, and even tables and chairs - it’s hard to come out empty-handed from here. Even if you do, you would have relished the crafts that have survived in Kashmir.
M. Shah Leather Shop
by
Urbanaut
The valley'd oldest leather store, M. Shah, established in 1952, is an authority when it comes to archiving antique leather goods. Besides being a museum of leather in itself, they also sell all kinds of handcrafted leather goods like jackets and bags.
Stay
explore all >>
Noor Jehan
by
Knowhere Travel Co
This brick-red cottage is an amalgamation of Indian and French aesthetics, and the warm proprietors grow their own vegetables and fruits. The food here is straight from the garden while sitting by the glorious, raging river will provide enough distraction from all the stresses of life (we promise). There are a total of 6 large rooms and ample verandah space for endless view finding. The attention to every little detail will give you the feel of being in a mahal from yesteryear.
Kashmiriyat
by
Knowhere Travel Co
Kashmiriyat is a cottage beautifully constructed in the traditional vernacular and sits right in the heart of an upscale neighbourhood in Srinagar. The bungalow is an independent unit with a sprawling garden and offers complete privacy.
Qayaam Gah
by
Urbanaut
Set above the sprawling Dal Lake against the towering Zabarwan Hills, Qayaam Gah Retreat is seven-key property spread over three acres, located 40 minutes away from the city of Srinagar. Inspired by the spiritual symbolism of Sufism, “qayaam signifies the highest mystical state”, reads its official website, Qayaam Gah is luxury personified.
Vivanta Dal View, Srinagar
by
Urbanaut
Vivanta Dal View in Srinagar not only boasts the most majestic views of the valley but also the only infinity pool in the city. Its 84 rooms are accented in copper and local timber carvings. Enjoy your cup of kahwa on its deck while basking in the glory of the Kralsangri hill of the Zabarwan range.
Karan Mahal
by
Urbanaut
On the foot of the Shankaracharya Hill on Gupkar Road is Karan Mahal, a 19th century European style villa that used to be the residence of Kashmir’s erstwhile ruler, surrounded by mountains and acres of fruit orchards. Step into its exquisite interiors flanked by handwoven vintage Kashmiri carpets, handcrafted wooden ceilings, crystal chandeliers, art deco furniture and exquisite artefacts.
The LaLiT Grand Palace Srinagar
by
Urbanaut
Overlooking the shimmering Dal Lake but devoid of the hubbub of the city, The Lalit grand Palace is a sanctuary of calm. Situated in the palace of Maharaja Pratap SIngh built and designed by him back in 1910, The Lalit boats 113 guest rooms and 10 cottages, a sprawling bouquet on its lush green frontyard, banqueting space, conferencing facilities and more
Cabin Fever
by
Knowhere Travel Co
Cabin Fever is perfectly located, away from the hustle-bustle of mainstream Pahalgam and is the perfect getaway to find yourself amidst nature and enjoy all the beautiful sights that Pahalgam is famous for. Landscape painters: take note. This quaint pair of ‘70s-era cottages (pictured above) is the perfect subject for your next masterpiece. This place was built by the owner's grandfather and has since been restored to suit the needs of future guests.
Hope Floats
by
Knowhere Travel Co
Hope Floats is an opulent three-bedroom houseboat complete with decorative Khatambhad ceilings, twinkling silver objects, and intricate, carpeted flooring. It is moored at the corner of Dal Lake. Your trip to Kashmir is not complete without a languorous stay on a houseboat. Enjoy a sumptuous multi-course wazwan here as well.
Nadis
by
Urbanaut
Set a little away from the crowds but perfectly located to explore Srinagar, Nadis is a handcrafted boutique hotel that will enhance your local experience. Simple food, warm and attentive staff, a great location, and affordable for the quality and comfort you’ll be getting.
Do
explore all >>
Hari Parbat
by
Urbanaut
Hari Parbat, also known as Kooh-e-Maran, lies on the west of Dal Lake in Srinagar. This Mughal structure was built by an Afghan Governor Atta Mohammed Khan in the 18th century. The fort is maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and still stands impressive with old apartments and tall pillars. Hari Parbat provides a bird's eye view of Makhdoom Sahib shrine and Srinagar.
Jamia Masjid Srinagar
by
Urbanaut
Situated at Nowhatta in the middle of the downtown Srinagar, Jamia Masjid is regarded as one of the most important mosques in Kashmir. The structure of the mosque is heavily influenced by Persian architecture, with similarities to Buddhist pagodas. Thronged by locals every Friday, the mosque is a must-visit in the city.
Shankaracharya temple, Srinagar
by
Urbanaut
Overlooking Dal Lake and the city of Srinagar, the Shankaracharya temple, also known as the Jyeshteshwara Temple is located on the top of the Shankaracharya Hill. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is one of the top religious destinations in Kashmir.
Makhdoom Sahib
by
Urbanaut
Located halfway to Hari Parbat is one of Kashmir’s most important shrines – Makhdoom Sahib. Built as an ode to Hamza Makhdoom, a sufi mystic and polymath, the two-storeyed shrine with a green conical roof is an important pilgrimage site for locals who climb the steep flight of stairs to reach the shrine. On the way up, you’ll pass the ruins of the mid-17th century Akhund Mulla Shah mosque and view Srinagar’s breathtaking aerial view.
Tulip garden Srinagar
by
Urbanaut
The Tulip garden of Srinagar is almost synonymous with the city’s name. This kaleidoscopic seasonal garden blooms to life during its annual festival which takes place in April-May. The garden is spread across 30 hectares and is the largest tulip garden in Asia.
Khanqah-e-Moula
by
Urbanaut
Located in Srinagar’s downtown and on the bank of the river Jhelum is one of the city’s most renowned shrines – the Shah-e-Hamdan Mosque, more commonly known as Khanqah. Built in 1935 and dedicated to Muslim preacher Mir Syed Ali Hamdani - who preached Islam in Kashmir, it is one of the first mosques to be built in Kashmi and is a must visit.
Makai Point
by
Urbanaut
A recreational park located on the shores of the Dal lake, Makai Park is ragingly popular amongst the locals for its many stalls of Seekh-tujj – Kashmir’s favourite evening snack made of barbecued meat. So much so that a local’s evening out is incomplete without stopping for it. If you’re driving on Dal Lake Boulevard, you can’t miss Makai Park; the smoke from the barbecue is the only landmark this park needs. During the summer, corn on the cob is also popular.
Pari Mahal
by
Urbanaut
A seven-terraced garden at the top of Zabarwan mountain range overlooking the city of Srinagar and Dal Lake, Pari Mahal is one of those places you simply can’t miss out on when in Srinagar. Built by Prince Dara Shikoh back in the mid-1600s as a library and his abode, it was also used an observatory for teaching astrology and astronomy.
Chashma Shahi Garden چشمہ شاہی باغ
by
Urbanaut
Chashm-i-Shahi or “the royal spring” garden is one of the Mughal Gardens of Srinagar built in 1632 AD for Shah Jahan’s son Prince Dara Shikoh. Located near Raj Bhawan against the Zabarwan Range and opposite the Dal Lake, Chashm-i-Shahi Garden is built around a fresh water spring - its architectural focus - which flows through its center in terraces. It is said that Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru used to get the water of the spring – believed to have medicinal values – to Delhi.
Hazratbal Masjid
by
Urbanaut
Located on the left back of the Dal Lake, Hazratbal is considered to be the holiest Muslim shrine in Kashmir. Built in 1968 over a span of 11 years, the grand white structure with a dome is believed to contain the Moi-e-Muqqadas, the hair of the Prophet Muhammad.
Harwan Garden
by
Urbanaut
Beyond the Mughal Gardens of Kashmir, make your way to Harwan for its beautiful garden that offers terrific views of the Zabarwan Hills, and of course, ample chinar trees. The garden, which features a canal that originates from a lake behind the garden and flows through the it, lined with flower beds and chinar trees, is the gateway to the Dachigam Wildlife Sanctuary.
Meena Bazar Dal Lake
by
Urbanaut
Dal Lake is a self-sustaining eco-system with houses, vegetation, shops, and a whole floating market selling shawls, pashmina suits, papier mache, and spices by a row of shops in the unmissable Meena Bazar. Shop for some walnut wood and papier mache trinkets to take away as souvenirs from your trip.
Suffering Moses
by
Urbanaut
If you’re already intrigued by the name of this place, wait until you visit it. Suffering Moses is a wonderland for lovers of art and craft. From meticulous wood carved furniture to the most minute papier mache artistry on boxes, vases, and even tables and chairs - it’s hard to come out empty-handed from here. Even if you do, you would have relished the crafts that have survived in Kashmir.