Many visit Kashmir for its world-famous Dal Lake and heavenly offerings such as breathtaking vistas and a pleasant stay on houseboats. Ask anybody upon your arrival in Srinagar, and they will direct you to take the most popular Shikara ride in a blink. While those are most certainly something to look forward to, however, the celebrated wonder always comes with a crowd.
Though these famous destinations are great escapades to make memories worth cherishing. Nonetheless, an experience, odd and unusual, usually stays etched in the memory forever. Offbeat Travel offers a unique adventure of the lifetime – the one away from the commotion and more into the cultural aspects of a city.
If you are planning your stay in this summer capital of J&K, know that there is more to the city than meets the eye. For a change, connect with nature in an offbeat style, for Srinagar has much more to offer than its famed Dal Lake and adjoining Mughal Gardens.
1. Visit an Apple Orchard Farm or Saffron Field
The fertile land of the fruit farm, Srinagar boasts the best variety of Red Delicious Apples. The most premium variety is that of Kashmir Golden Apple. Famous for supplying around 70-80 % of apples in and around India, the yield from these orchards is the region’s primary source of income. You can easily spot large tracts of land used for apple orchards in the region and get a glimpse into the resident’s life. And while you are on your way, look out for the Saffron field too. They are characterised by their delicate long silky threads, dark red colour and fragrant aroma. Saffron, the most excellent & expensive spice in the world, is locally known as Kashmiri Kesar.
2. Watch the Floating Vegetable & Fruit Market
A Shikara ride is known all too well but not the floating market carrying fruits and vegetables early in the morning at Dal Lake. If you are not a morning person, become one for a day to witness the market come alive, floating amidst the second largest Lake in Jammu & Kashmir. You will not find any permanent shops but the Sabzi Bazaar, which has been the custom for as long as one can remember. Their day usually starts at 4 a.m; as they pluck and sell fresh cultivated veggies and row along the Lake to reach the centre of the Lake.
3. Visit Roza Bal – The Resting point of Jesus Christ.
Travelling to stop by Roza Bal means finding out whether Jesus Christ travelled to Kashmir or not? You may come across many temples and shrines, but Roza Bal carries an unusual historical account to it. Situated in downtown Srinagar, you may not stumble upon the site at first as it is located in the middle of the locality. Bustling with people, the shrine in the lanes of Khanyar is believed to be that of Jesus. The tomb of Yuz Asaf indicates the last resting point of Jesus Christ after he survived the crucifixion. Though debatable, Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, the founder of the Ahmadiyya sect, first indicated that this structure was home to Jesus Christ after he died on Earth.
4. Walk across the Zero Bridge
Zero Bridge is an old wooden bridge located two km from Lal Chowk in Srinagar. This historic bridge built across the River Jhelum collapsed years ago, due to which vehicular crossings are not allowed. Later, it was rebuilt using Deodar and Walnut wood and reflected the skilled architecture of Kashmiri artisans. Only allowed for pedestrians now, the bridge is also where you can take a walk and shop from the nearby stores and shops. It doesn’t matter if you miss visiting the bridge during the day, for the view at night is equally spectacular to marvel at with your partner.
5. Meet the Crafters of the Silk-weaving Factory
Consider taking a heritage walk to one of India’s oldest surviving silk factories. Government Silk Filatures Solina in Rambagh, Srinagar, established in 1897, was in an obsolete state for more than a decade when it was again revived for the people’s good. Generating employment and livelihoods for locals, the silk factory produces the best quality of silk with the help of modern equipment. A visit to the site will allow you to understand the history, heritage and hopes of the local weavers, who are more than happy to carry on with their profession.
6. Spend Quality Time at Gulshan Books & Café
A perfect haven for bibliophiles, this offbeat destination is accessible only via Shikara ride. But that is not the best part. Upon your arrival here, you will find that the place is a bookstore and a café. So, you can pick any range of books from classics, Sufism, and Urdu verses while sipping a hot cup of coffee. With a large selection of more than 80k books, this bookstore-cum-café has even made it to the 2018 Limca Book Of Records. The open-air venue is perfect for those who prefer an undisturbed reading while having delectable desserts such as bread puddings.
7. Explore the Abode of Fairies: Pari Mahal
Living to its name, arriving here means looking at a fabled place. As per the local legends, the palace attributes its mythical origin and existence to the lore of beautiful princesses who were kept here in prison against their wishes by evil sorcerers. This seven-terraced garden is a must-visit if you are after offbeat experiences in Srinagar. A captivating view awaits those who visit this place with the backdrop of Zabarwan Mountain. Walking through the garden feels like stepping into another time – perhaps even an enchanted one where fairies and princesses reside.
Author is a student who loves to explore new corners of learning. He likes writing and travelling while taking challenges that question his abilities and skills. His hobbies are helping people and spending time in nature.