Srinagar, located in the heart of the Kashmir valley is the summer state capital of Jammu and Kashmir. This spectacular hill station is at an altitude of 1,730 m above sea level. The river Jhelum passes through Srinagar city.The shimmering Dal Lake, Anchar Lake and Nagin Lakes and the charming rows of houseboats floating on them enhance the picturesque setting of Srinagar. The blossoming gardens, aquatic sports activities such as kayaking, canoeing, water surfing and angling, exquisite handcrafted souvenirs and the nearby resorts make Srinagar a cherished spot for tourists.
Srinagar's largest and famous lake, Dal Lake, has the maximum number of houseboats. These houseboats are of all categories, from deluxe to the D class. These houseboats are accessible by smaller boats called shikaras . While staying in a houseboat one can even shop from the tiny wooded shops on shikaras that carry vegetables and fruits, flowers, tailors, doctors, bakers, etc.
There are woods of fir and chinar , pastures of flowers, mustard and saffron, fruit orchards, gardens and parks, and ancient monuments that add to the charm and magnificence of Srinagar. Srinagar is in itself a tourist center and also the take-off point for excursions to other places of interest.
