Located
in the center of the Kashmir valley, the district of Srinagar towers at
a height of 1,730 m above sea level. King Pravarasena-II founded the
Srinagar city over 2000 years ago. The Chinese traveler Hiuen Tsang, who
visited Kashmir in 631 AD, found Srinagar at the same place where it
stands today. The rule of Hindu kings in Kashmir ended in 1339, with the
last ruler being Laltaditya Muktapida. From 1420-1470, the valley came
under the rule of King Zain-ul-Abidin, popularly known as Budshah. Some
time later, Mughal Emperor Akbar annexed Srinagar and included it in his
own territory. Come and explore some more fascinating aspects of
Srinagar with us!
It was during the rule of Akbar only that the district got the striking
mosques and gardens that it now proudly boasts of. The last one of the
Muslim rulers of Srinagar was overthrown by the Sikhs, under the rule of
Maharaja Ranjit Singh in the year 1819. With time, the rule of the Sikhs
ended and the Dogras gained the control of Kashmir from the British
under the Treaty of Amritsar. After India became independent in the year
1947, the state of Jammu and Kashmir became a part of the Indian Union,
with Srinagar as its capital. Since then Srinagar has been a prominent
destination on the tourist map of India.
The district of Srinagar is situated on either sides of the Jhelum
River, making its locales picturesque and beautiful. The major
attractions of Srinagar travel include Dal Lake and Nagin Lake. Most of
the houseboats (Shikaras) in Kashmir will be seen in these lakes only.
The Mughal Gardens set up by various rulers of the Mughal dynasty
further enhance the beauty of Srinagar. Other major draws of Srinagar
are water sports activities, handcrafted souvenirs, amazing resort
nearby etc.