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Srinagar is the summer capital of the state
of Jammu and Kashmir and is the ‘Jewel in the Crown’ of the
beautiful valley of Kashmir. Bounded by dramatic mountains
soaring majestically skyward, the valley is softened by the
shimmering waters of the Dal Lakes where generations have come
to find peace and relax in the beauty of the sounding
countryside. Here you find the timeless gardens of the Mughal
Emperors built for sheer beauty and love. The historic city also
boasts many ancient shrines and mosques. The most important
being the Habba Kadal and Fateh Kadal. Shah-i-Hamdan, who came
from Persia in the 13th century, spread the Word of Islam in
Kashmir. Khanqah-i-Mualla, on the banks of the Jhelum, where he
used to offer prayers, is now a shrine to his memory and is
ornately decorated with papier-mâché. Makhdoom Sahib, Patthar
Masjid, Jama Masjid and Pir Dastagir are also significant
mosques and shrines in the old city.
A Heritage Walk
The Old Srinagar City
4 days/3 nights
Highlights: Come with us on a journey of exploration – a
journey of discovery – a journey of hidden corners and
magnificent vistas. This tour is a delightful extension to any
holiday to taste the real Kashmir – the real Srinagar - and to
explore a heritage rich and diverse in culture
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Day 1 To Srinagar.
Morning depart Delhi Domestic Airport for Srinagar. Upon
arrival transfer to deluxe Houseboat or Hotel for three
nights stay. (Please state preference on the booking form)
After lunch relaxing ride on a traditional ‘Shikara’. Visit
the floating gardens and glimpse the unique lifestyle of the
Lake people.
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Day 2 Srinagar
Delightful morning visit to the famous Mughal Gardens
including the ‘Shalimar’ built by Shah Jehangir for his
Empress Nur Jahan. After lunch visit a carpet factory to see
the ancient craft. Evening special Wazwan dinner – a
mouth-watering Kashmiri cuisine .
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Day 3 Srinagar
Morning walking tour of the old city visiting the many
mosques and shrines of this ancient capital. Places to visit
include the shrine of Shah-i-Hamdan, Budshah Tomb , Patthar
Masjid, and the Jama Masjid.
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Day 4 To Delhi
After breakfast transfer to the airport for return
flight to Delhi.
The essence of Old Srinagar lies in its
Medieval heritage – a timeless scene still lingers – the city is
dissected by a labyrinth of roads lined with burnt brick
coloured buildings - their russet hues mellow in the evening
light. Bustling bazaars line the way – many dedicated to
traditional arts and crafts. Local people, dressed in their
traditional garb scurry about their daily life – perhaps
lingering to talk to a friend, shop or go to the Mosque for
prayer. The old city has many moods – and all are a
photographer’s delight! The River Jhelum is spanned by nine
bridges and was the catalyst that brought the city to greatness.
It was the thoroughfare for commerce and linked the myriad of
waterways that brought the lifeblood of trade to all.
This tour will take you to see the
highlights of Srinagar and will include the following:
The old city also boasts of Kashmir’s many
ancient shrines and mosques of which the shrine of Shah-i-Hamdan
is the
most important. Shah-i-Hamdan, who came from Persia in the 13th
C. was responsible for the spread of Islam in Kashmir.
Khanqah-i-Mualla, on the banks of the Jhelum, was the very spot
where Shah-i-Hamdan used to offer prayers. Upon his death, a
shrine, ornately decorated with papier-mache on the walls and
ceiling, was built in his memory. Makhdoom Sahib, Patthar Masjid,
Jama Masjid and Pir Dastagir are the major mosques and shrines
in the old city The view from any of the old city's bridges is
wholly and unmistakably Kashmiri. Old brick buildings line the
banks and in the muddy water of the River Jhelum ancient doongas
are moored along its banks. These boats, with their shingled
roofs, are the prototype of Srinagar’s houseboat.
In a lane off Nowhatta Chowk, there are several copper shops –
copper tableware is a necessity for every Kashmiri household.
Some pieces are simple and plain whilst others are quite exotic
with intricate bas-relief and engraving on them. Well appointed
shops sell the famous tapestries, shawls and rugs that are
famous throughout the world. Kashmiri colours are subtle, almost
earthy and reflecting the mellow brickwork and the magnificent
colours of the valley in autumn when leaves turn to reds, gold
and oranges in a blaze of natures glory. |
