Srinagar in January – Places To Visit and Things To Do

As the calendar turns over to a fresh new year, the picturesque valley of Srinagar emerges from its slumber, draped in a glistening blanket of snow and surrounded by a serene stillness that is truly captivating. January transforms Srinagar into a mesmerizing winter wonderland, casting a spell of enchantment upon all who venture into its embrace. Nestled amidst the Himalayan ranges, Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, dons a completely different persona during this frosty month, inviting travellers to indulge in a unique and unforgettable experience.

( Decorative fountain in Mughal Garden. Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India. )

The allure of Srinagar in January lies in its ability to offer a distinct perspective of its natural beauty, as snow-kissed landscapes blend seamlessly with the city’s rich cultural heritage. From the frozen Dal Lake reflecting the surrounding snow-capped peaks to the quaint streets adorned with intricately designed wooden houses, every corner exudes an air of ethereal charm.

If you are planning a trip to Srinagar in January then this comprehensive Srinagar guide for January is for you. It covers everything from the weather in Srinagar in January to road conditions in Srinagar in January , places to visit in Srinagar in January , things to do in Srinagar in January , and tips for planning a trip to Srinagar in January.

So let us get started!

Srinagar Weather in January

Winter in Srinagar is one of the most beautiful times. The weather in Srinagar in January is very cold and it is freezing most of the time. It is usually considered the coldest month of the year. The average temperature in Srinagar in January ranges between 15 degrees high to -4 degrees low. If you are visiting Srinagar in January , make sure you pack enough warm clothes to keep yourself cozy.

Srinagar also experiences moderate snowfall in January usually for 5 to 8 days. It is the ideal time to experience the pearly-white snow-capped mountain ranges and build snowmen and have a snowball fight.

You may even experience light rainfall for 3 to 8 days in January. It is advisable to carry an umbrella during this time for an uninterrupted expedition.

Road Conditions in Srinagar in January

The road conditions in Srinagar in January can be significantly affected by the prevailing winter weather. The city experiences moderate snowfall during this time. As a result, the roads become inaccessible. Some routes such as the Jammu-Srinagar highway and Srinagar-Leh highway might be temporarily closed or restricted due to snowfall. Hence, it is recommended to check local weather and road condition updates before embarking on a journey in Srinagar during January.

How to Reach Srinagar in January

By Air

Srinagar has its own airport which is located at an easy distance of 15 km from the city. Sheikh-ul-Alam Airport in Srinagar is well-connected to domestic and international destinations and has regular flights from all the major cities.
By Train

Srinagar Railway Station, the main rail hub in the city, is positioned 13 km away from the city center; however, it lacks connectivity to any place outside Kashmir.

Having said that, Srinagar Railway Station is connected to Banihal Railway Station in Kashmir which is the nearest railway station to Srinagar and located at a distance of 92 km from Srinagar. If you plan to come by road, it takes around 4 hours to reach Srinagar from Banihal Railway Station. Other nearby stations to Srinagar are Udhampur Station (200 km from Srinagar) and Jammu Tawi Station (271 km from Srinagar).
By Road

Srinagar is well-connected by road to other cities like Delhi, Jammu, and Chandigarh. You can either hire a taxi or take a JKSRTC bus to travel to and from the city.

Places to Visit in Srinagar in January

Dal Lake

( A view of Dal Lake in winter, and the beautiful mountain range in the background in the city of Srinagar, Kashmir, India )

Nestled like a precious gem within the heart of Srinagar, the Dal Lake emerges as an ethereal masterpiece, particularly enchanting during January month. While its sapphire-blue waters captivate visitors throughout the year, the contrast against the pristine snow-clad peaks of the Himalayas during the colder season elevates its allure to sublime heights. As winter’s grip tightens, the Dal Lake dons a new identity, its surface transforming into a radiant expanse of white, glistening serenely amidst the landscape.
Nigeen Lake

( Morning scene of Nigeen lake with the native boat man and the small town behind the mountain range. )

Nigeen Lake is a nature lovers’ paradise. It is a popular tourist place to visit in Srinagar and is an extension of the popular Dal Lake. Encircled by beautiful willow and poplar trees, this charming petite lake presents a delightful pathway, creating an idyllic promenade that easily secures its spot as one of the most romantically appealing destinations to explore during Srinagar’s winter season. You can even plan a houseboat stay at Nigeen Lake that offers a unique stay experience.
Char Chinar

( The snow coverd mountains behind the char chinar in Dal Lake in winter season.Srinagar, Kashmir, India )

Char Chinar is a conglomerate of three islands on Dal Lake in Srinagar that is encircled on all four sides by long-lived and stunningly beautiful Chinar trees. The brother of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, Murad Baksh built this island. Nestled within Bod Dal, an island known as Rupa Lank graces the landscape, while the adjacent Son Lanka, commanding a view of the Hazratbal Shrine, forms the second island. A shikara ride on the Dal Lake offers a pleasant view of the Char Chinar.
Pari Mahal

( Unidentified people relax in the grounds of the Pari Mahal, a Mughal terraced garden palace on the banks of Dal Lake. SRINAGAR KASHMIR )

Pari Mahal is beautifully perched on the Zabarwan mountain ranges. It is seven terraced gardens offering a panoramic view of the city of Srinagar. Mirroring the prevailing Mughal architectural aesthetics, these gardens provided a sanctuary for Prince Dara Shikoh, who frequently sought solace here for his scholarly pursuits. The stone enclosures enveloping the gardens from every angle have been impeccably conserved, retaining their authentic essence and proudly showcasing their Islamic legacy.
Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Botanical Garden

( Jawaharlal Nehru memorial Botanical Garden, this is a vast and beautiful garden. Situated around the foothill of Zabarwan mountain . )

Nestled at the heart of Srinagar, the Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Gardens is Kashmir’s largest botanical garden. It offers a breathtaking retreat and stands as a testament to Kashmir’s natural beauty. Adjacent to the serene Dal Lake, these gardens burst into vibrant bloom, showcasing around 15,000 ornamental varieties and rare Kashmiri species. Meandering walkways invite leisurely strolls, making it a romantic haven. While spring unveils its full glory, the gardens’ winter charm remains undeniable, making it a must-visit destination in Srinagar in January.
The Hari Parbat

( Hari Parbat, also called Koh-i-Maran, is a hill overlooking Srinagar, the largest city and the capital of the Jammu and Kashmir )

Hari Parbat is a fascinating small hill alongside Dal Lake that offers splendid views of the entire city. It is a melting pot of history and culture. It is a revered place of worship for Pandits, Muslims and Sikhs owing to the presence of Sharika Temple, Makhdoom Sahab Shrine and Chatti Patshahi Gurudwara. Durrani Fort established by Mughal Emperor Akbar in the 16th century is a famous attraction here.
Hazratbal Masjid

( The white Hazratbal Mosque situated near the Dal Lake stands out as a grand monument . its very calm and peaceful inside )

Situated at the edge of Dal Lake, Hazratbal Masjid also known as Dargah Sharif is the holiest Muslim shrine in Kashmir. The Mosque is widely popular for its unique architecture and is one of the best places to visit in Srinagar. The unique domed mosque combines local and Islamic styles and is a marvel to behold.
Dachigam National Park

( Dachigam National Park is a national park located, 22 kilometres (14 mi) from Srinagar
)

Situated at a short distance from Srinagar, Dachigam National Park stands as one of Kashmir’s prominent wildlife hubs. It is the exclusive habitat of the endangered Kashmiri stag globally. It is also home to several other Himalayan wildlife species such as musk deer, leopard, Himalayan black bear and Himalayan brown bear. A winter visit presents the enchanting spectacle of the park covered in snow.

Things To Do in Srinagar in January

Paragliding at Astanmarg

( Amazing view of paragliding activity)

Astanmarg is a lush green meadow on top of the Zabarwaan range. It is a scenic destination to enjoy the sunset and panoramic views of the entire city. But, if you are visiting Srinagar in January , paragliding at Astanmarg is an exhilarating activity not to be missed. Overlooking the picturesque views of the valley down below, which includes the snow-capped mountain ranges, Dal Lake, Dachigam National Park, the Golf Course, Mahadev Peak, Hariparbat Fort and Mughal Gardens, this experience offers a unique perspective of Srinagar’s winter charm from the skies.
Leisurely stroll along the Dal Lake

( Beautiful picture of leisurely stroll lady. )

Embrace the serene beauty of Srinagar’s Dal Lake by taking a leisurely stroll along its frozen shores during the January months. As the sun sets, the tranquil waters and the surrounding snow-covered scenery create a magical atmosphere that is perfect for a peaceful evening walk. Witnessing the sunset over the frozen lake adds an enchanting touch to this experience, allowing you to savour the quietude and natural splendour of the season. You can even go shopping in the nearby area.
Enjoy the snowfall

( The snowfall paints the valleys of Srinagar in white )

Srinagar’s January charm beckons those seeking an authentic winter experience. Revel in the joy of snowfall and enjoy the panoramic views of snow-clad Himalayan peaks surrounding the capital city. As soft flakes descend from the sky, the city transforms into a picturesque landscape blanketed in pristine white. Stroll through the charming streets or simply gaze out from a cozy spot, experiencing the magic of snowfall in Srinagar during winter is a truly memorable and heart-warming experience.
Go bird watching at Manasbal Lake

( A beautiful picture of a bird at Srinagar)

January is the best time to visit Manasbal Lake to catch a glimpse of the thousands of migratory birds that flock here during winter making it a birdwatcher’s paradise. The lake is one of the largest natural grounds for aquatic birds in Kashmir. One can spot several species of birds on the shore of this lake. Besides, the lush green hills surrounding the lake and crystal clear water add to the beauty of this lake. Boating and fishing are popular activities at the lake.
Trek to Shankaracharya Hill

( Shankaracharya Hill, also called Takht-i-Sulaiman, is a hill overlooking the Dal Lake and Srinagar. )

One of the popular things to do in Srinagar in January is embarking on an exciting and short trek to Shankaracharya Hill and paying your respects at the revered Shankaracharya Temple. The temple is perched at the top of the hill and offers panoramic views of Srinagar’s breathtaking landscape covered in winter’s embrace. Upon reaching the temple, partake in a spiritual experience, seeking blessings and tranquility in this sacred site.
Go on a shopping spree

( Sringar market view )

Apart from being a traveller’s paradise, Srinagar is also a great destination for shopaholics. Srinagar boasts many bustling local markets selling authentic Kashmiri products such as Pashmina, carpet, Kashmiri tea, dry fruits, saffron, handicraft items and more. You can visit Lal Chowk, Badshah Chowk, Residency Road, Polo View Market, and Raghunath Bazaar for a great shopping experience.

Basic Guidelines for Travellers Planning a Trip to Srinagar in January

If you are planning to travel to Srinagar in January , you will need to keep in mind a few things:

It is advisable to bring an umbrella along as it may rain anytime.
Since this is peak winter season, you must carry heavy woollens, sweaters, scarves, gloves, and socks to keep you warm. Don’t underestimate the weather of Srinagar in January .
Pack cold cream, lip balm, and moisturizer if you are planning for a winter trip.
Ensure that you book a hotel that has proper room heating facility.
Be prepared the delay in flights because of extreme weather.
When crafting your itinerary, factor in extra time as a buffer for potential travel delays caused by inclement weather conditions and road blocks
Enquire about the roads and weather forecast well in advance.
You might find Dal Lake frozen during January month. Do not walk on the frozen lake, it can prove to be extremely risky.
Carry basic medicines for common ailments such as flu, fever, vomiting, upset stomach, and painkillers.
While you will be able to pay by your credit or debit card in Srinagar, it is still recommended to carry sufficient cash for local shopping.

Conclusion

Srinagar in January is a symphony of contrasts – where snow-laden landscapes harmonize with a rich cultural tapestry and where the chill in the air is met with warm hospitality. This winter wonderland promises a unique experience to travellers that is as enchanting as it is unforgettable. So bundle up and embark on this winter escapade to Srinagar.

Experience the beauty of Srinagar like never before with a personalized itinerary from eKashmirTourism. Contact us today and let the enchanting landscapes of Srinagar await your exploration!