2. Trekking and Hiking
Surrounded by majestic Himalayas and green hills, Srinagar offers some amazing hiking and trekking opportunities. The region’s diverse terrain offers all types of hiking trails, from beginners to experts. Here are the popular trips and tour options in and around Srinagar:
Tarsar Marsar Trek is a wonderful 6-7 days trek in the heart of Kashmir. Starting from Aru village near Pahalgam, this trek takes travelers through a variety of terrains including lush meadows, dense forests and high ground
The main attractions are the two Alpine lakes: Tarser and Marser. At 12,000 feet, Tarsar is known for its almonds and turquoise water. Marcer is slightly higher and harder to handle, offering equally spectacular views.The trek offers an opportunity to see the local wildlife and experience the Gujjar culture. The weather can be unpredictable, with sudden changes possible even in winter.
Done right from July to September, this hike offers a good balance of challenge and natural beauty. It is ideal for those who want to immerse themselves in the pristine wilderness of Kashmir, while putting their trekking skills to the test.
The Mamneth Trail is a scenic trekking route in the picturesque Kashmir Valley, near Srinagar. Known for its lush green meadows and panoramic views, this trail offers a moderate trek through alpine landscapes, dense pine forests, and vibrant flower-covered fields. The path provides stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains and offers a peaceful escape into nature. It’s an ideal choice for trekkers looking for a mix of natural beauty and adventure, with opportunities to spot local wildlife and enjoy the tranquility of the area. The Mamneth Trail is perfect for those seeking a serene and less-traveled trekking experience.
The Pathlipora Trail is a captivating trekking route located in the serene Kashmir Valley, near Srinagar. This moderate trail takes you through lush green meadows, dense forests, and charming rural landscapes. The trek offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it a picturesque journey for nature enthusiasts. As you hike along the trail, you’ll encounter traditional Kashmiri villages and experience local culture. The Pathlipora Trail is known for its tranquil ambiance and diverse scenery, making it an ideal choice for those seeking both adventure and a peaceful escape into the natural beauty of the region.
A snow trek to Harnag Lake near Srinagar is a pleasant winter trek. This hike takes you through snow-capped meadows and pine forests to the spectacular alpine Harnag Lake. This trail offers spectacular views of snow-capped mountains and serene landscapes, providing an enjoyable experience for travelers. The Harnag Lake Glacier Trail is ideal for winter thrill seekers, it combines rugged terrain with the pristine beauty of the winter wonderland of Kashmir
The best seasons for trekking in Srinagar are:
Summer (May to September): Ideal for clear trails and pleasant weather (15°C to 25°C).
Autumn (October to November): Offers crisp weather, stunning fall colors, and fewer crowds (5°C to 20°C).
Winter (December to February): Perfect for snow trekking, though conditions are challenging and temperatures are below freezing.
Spring (March to April) also offers mild weather and blooming landscapes, with some snow on higher trails.
The Mohan Marg Meadow Trek is a fascinating trek in the Valley of Kashmir, where one can escape into the serenity of nature. This tour showcases the natural beauty of the region through green meadows, rich landscapes and dense forests. Along the way you will see vibrant wildflowers, a calm river and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. The moderate difficulty makes it easier for most hikers, allowing for scenic views and better exploration of the outdoors. Ideal for nature lovers, the Mohan Marg desert trek promises a journey that will rejuvenate and enchant.
Zabarwan Range Trekking Area
The Zabarwan Range Trekking Area offers stunning views of the Kashmir Valley, with lush forests, alpine meadows, and rugged terrain. Located near Srinagar, this area provides diverse trekking routes that showcase the region’s natural beauty and panoramic vistas, ideal for adventurous hikers seeking scenic landscapes and tranquility.
New Theed – Dachigam Trail
The New Theed – Dachigam Trail is a scenic trek near Srinagar, leading through lush forests and wildlife-rich areas of Dachigam National Park. This trail offers picturesque views of verdant landscapes and opportunities to spot local wildlife, including the rare Hangul deer, making it a rewarding adventure for nature enthusiasts.
Nishat Bagh – Dal Lake Trail
The Nishat Bagh – Dal Lake Trail is a charming walk connecting Srinagar’s Nishat Bagh to the serene Dal Lake. This easy trail takes you through beautifully landscaped Mughal gardens and offers stunning lake views, making it a perfect stroll for appreciating the natural beauty and historic gardens of Kashmir.
Naranag Gangabal Lake Trek From Srinaga
The Naranag Gangabal Lake Trek is a mesmerizing adventure starting from Srinagar, taking trekkers through the picturesque landscapes of the Kashmir Valley. This moderate trek spans around 72 km, offering breathtaking views of lush meadows, dense pine forests, and the majestic Harmukh peak. The trail leads to the serene Gangabal Lake, nestled at the base of the Harmukh mountain, known for its pristine waters and trout fishing. Trekkers can experience the vibrant local culture and hospitality in Naranag village. The trek is perfect for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts seeking a tranquil escape amidst the Himalayas.
Fast Facts
Vacation Type : Honeymoon, Adventure, Family, Groups
Location : 258 km (160 miles) North of Jammu on NH1 A
Activities: Trekking, Camping, Mount Climbing, Boating, Bird Watching
3. Mountain Biking
Mountain biking in Srinagar offers amazing experiences. Popular routes include the scenic drive from Gulmarg to Khilan Marg, with its lush meadows and varied terrain, and the challenging route from Sona Marg to Thajiwas Glacier, with steep trails is steep and spectacular views of Srinagar to Pahalgam offer a mixture of smooth and challenging trails. Rentals are available at local stores and tour companies offer guided tours to ensure a safe and customized experience. Whether you want a thrilling descent or a peaceful ride in nature, Srinagar’s trails cater to mountain bike enthusiasts of all levels
Best Routes and Terrain
Srinagar and its surrounding areas offer diverse terrain for mountain biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the best routes:
A relatively easy ride around 15-20 km around the magnificent Dal Lake. This trail combines beautiful lake views with a mix of paved trails and smooth dirt roads. Ideal for beginners and casual riders, the circuit offers beautiful scenery and relaxed cycling with views of houseboats, floating gardens and the Himalayas majestic mountains in the background
A 25–30 mile trail that crosses the Zabarwan Hills is moderate to difficult. Expect exhilarating descents, sharp ascents, and breath-taking sweeping views of Dal Lake and Srinagar. The track offers an exciting ride with wonderful views and a genuine mountain biking experience because of its varied terrain, which includes both rough trails and forested areas.
Dachigam National Park Route:
A demanding 40-50 km route through Dachigam National Park, featuring a mix of forested trails, rocky paths, and diverse terrain. This challenging route offers opportunities to spot local wildlife, including the rare Hangul deer. Riders will experience the park’s rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes, making it a rewarding and immersive biking adventure.
Located approximately 50 km from Srinagar, this moderate to difficult 30-35 km trail showcases a blend of lush meadows, dense pine forests, and serene mountain streams. The route provides a diverse biking experience with varying terrain and stunning natural beauty, making it perfect for those seeking both challenge and tranquility amidst the scenic landscape.
This adjacent trail is worth mentioning for its high-altitude bike experience, even if it’s not located in Srinagar. It is reachable via the Gulmarg Gondola and provides thrilling rides with expansive Himalayan vistas. The trail is a great option for daring cyclists because of its high elevation, which offers an exhilarating bike experience with breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and alpine meadows.
Rental Options and Guided Tours
Several shops in Srinagar offer mountain bike rentals
Typical rental rates range from 500-1500 INR per day, depending on the bike quality
Most shops require a security deposit and valid ID
It’s advisable to check the bike’s condition before renting.
4. Paragliding in Srinagar
Paragliding in Srinagar offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Kashmir Valley. Popular launch sites include Gulmarg with its snow-capped mountains and lush meadows, and Sonamarg with its spectacular glaciers. Safety is paramount: Always use certified equipment, fly with experienced instructors, and make sure the weather is good. Participants must be in good health and meet age and weight. Paragliding in these scenic spots offers a thrilling experience, showcasing the natural beauty of the valley from a unique and exciting perspective
Astanmarg
Located 12 km from Srinagar, Astan Marg is a prime spot for paragliding shots offering panoramic views of the Dal Lake and the city. From this vantage point you can see the tranquil lake, the surrounding lush landscapes and the bustling city below. The altitude and location of the place gives us a unique view of Srinagar’s natural beauty, making it a popular destination for a thrilling paragliding experience
The best time for paragliding in Srinagar is during summer (May to September) and early autumn (October). These periods offer clear skies, stable weather, and pleasant temperatures, ideal for a safe and enjoyable paragliding experience.
Gulmarg
Located about 50 km from Srinagar, Gulmarg is renowned for its paragliding opportunities. The main launch site is near the Gulmarg Golf Course or the top station of the Gulmarg Gondola. From here, you can enjoy stunning aerial views of the snow-capped Himalayas, lush meadows, and the beautiful town of Gulmarg. The high altitude and panoramic scenery make it a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts.
Sonamarg
Approximately 80 km from Srinagar, offering spectacular views of the Thajiwas Glacier and the surrounding valley. The launch sites are typically located near the glacier or nearby hilltops.
