Dal Lake

If it’s your first time in Srinagar, you’ll be mesmerised by the length and width of this beautiful lake, which is not only the ‘jewel in the Crown of Kashmir’ but is also a source of income and mode of transportation of natives. Chock-full of decked up shikaras, taking tourists through the narrow waterways of Dal and getting them accustomed with the culture of real Kashmir is a daily routine of ferrymen here. It’s a whole world out there, children rowing the shikaras to school, vegetable sellers neatly stocking their products and ferries selling kahwa, chai and noodles afresh on the boats. There are proper on-the-lake shops that sell some beautiful handicrafts, including wood, brass and silver products. Shikara ride on Dal is one of the most amazing feelings you’ll ever have in Kashmir, so do experience it.